July 28

Summer Squall: Tuesday’s weather featured a bit of everything, including hot, hazy and humid conditions and thunderstorms The storm clouds are pictured approaching in Ocean City, above, and Berlin

See Page 38 • File Photo

See Page 13 • File Photo

See Page 6 • Photo by Campos Media

See Pages 33 73 • Photo by Bethany Hooper

Photos by Jen McCracken, above, and Tony Weeg

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

New Plan Submitted For Margaritaville Resort Development

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While they are seeking the council’s reconsideration of a right-of-way conveyance, the connections of the Margaritaville development have concurrently submitted new plans that include fewer amenities and less conference space.

Last week, new plans were submitted for Margaritaville, a resort hotel and convention center to be developed between 13th and 14th streets in Ocean City. Hugh Cropper, attorney for the developer, said the submission features significant changes to square footage and layout.

“Margaritaville originally applied for a project designed as a planned overlay district, or POD,” he said. “The rightof-way issue at this time prevents them from moving forward on the POD. They have now submitted for review to the planning commission a new plan that does not require a POD.”

In May, Cropper came before the Mayor and Council on behalf of his client with a request to hold a public hearing for the purchase of the easternmost 20 feet of right-of-way along Baltimore Avenue. The additional land, he said, would allow the developer to meet the 90,000-square-foot site requirements for the project to qualify for a POD designation.

“We’re not asking for a yes vote,” Cropper told the council in May. “All we’re asking for is that you set a public hearing, so you can take public comments on this request.”

During that meeting, however, the council voted 4-3 to deny the public hearing request, with those in opposition sharing concerns that a potential conveyance of right-of-way would impact the eventual redevelopment of the Baltimore Avenue corridor. The project calls for undergrounding utilities, widening sidewalks and improving the overall streetscape.

“The issue for me is you are asking us to take a hunk out of the Baltimore Avenue project for the future …,” Councilman Will Savage said at the time. “If we give it away now, a council 50 years from now isn’t going to have that opportunity and we don’t know what the town’s needs will be then.”

In an interview last week, Cropper said his client has since submitted a new plan for the Margaritaville project, which will go before the technical review committee and then the planning commission for site plan review.

“It’s a great project, but it just doesn’t have as many amenities or as much conference space,” he said. “The pool configuration is different – the original

A new rendering showing what the Margaritaville project would look like if built under the height-by-right statute is pictured from the vantage point of the Boardwalk. Rendering courtesy of Becker Morgan Group

Right-Of-Way Conveyance Still Eyed For Planned Overlay Concept

design had it overlooking the ocean – everything is different.”

At the same time, Cropper said he has also asked the Mayor and Council to reconsider the conveyance issue. He said the developer has not yet given up on the POD master design.

“The comprehensive plan encourages PODs,” he explained. “The code itself encourages PODs. PODs are considered a better form of development because it is a single, unified plan.”

When asked how the new site plan submission would impact the air rights the developer secured over Washington Lane, the alley that bisects the property, Cropper said he was hopeful the town would modify its previous approval to apply to the new plan.

“We are optimistic and hopeful they will reconvey the air rights,” he said.

As proposed, the Margaritaville resort will take the place of the old Phillips Beach Plaza property. The new development will feature hotel rooms, conference space, restau-

rants and retail, which the developer says will bring roughly 250 new jobs and millions in annual tax revenue.

In a statement issued Monday, the Margaritaville development team said the resort could be built under the height-by-right statute if a POD designation is not secured.

“We look forward to continued conversations with local officials about our plans to align with their vision to expand cultural activities, spur new investments and increase visitor spending in Ocean City,” the statement reads. “The community deserves something monumental, and our desire remains to secure a planned overlay district for development of this project, which will support more amenity space to extend the shoulder season in Ocean City.”

The statement continues, “The room count and amenity space are key in attracting this shoulder season business and increasing tax revenues for the City. If we are unable to advance a POD plan, we believe our height by-right plan provides a pathway forward, just not as beneficial to the City.”

BLC Approves Oceans Calling License

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Officials this week approved the promoter’s license that will allow alcohol sales at Oceans Calling this fall.

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) voted unanimously on Wednesday to approve the promoter’s license application submitted by Spectrum Catering, Concessions and Events, the company that will provide hospitality services during Oceans Calling.

The three-day music festival, set for Sept. 29-Oct. 1, is expected to be the largest event Ocean City’s ever hosted. Festival officials assured the board they’d do everything necessary to ensure alcohol sales at the event were handled properly.

“We understand the severity,” said Tim Sweetwood of C3 Presents, the festival promoter. “It’s not something we take light-

ly.”

In June, resort officials and festival organizers met with the board to outline their plans for Oceans Calling.

This week, attorney Mark Cropper told the board nothing had changed since that initial meeting with the BLC but that organizers were seeking official approval of the promoter’s license that would allow the event to proceed as planned.

Cropper reiterated that the main change with this year’s festival footprint was the inclusion of the Boardwalk and 64 businesses on it. He noted the footprint will also include the pier. While attendees can carry their drinks there, no alcohol will be sold on the pier and drinks will not be able to be taken on rides.

He said that event security had been a key focus throughout the festival planning process.

“There was a great deal of discussion as to how the arena would be secured,” he said.

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

“There’s security to make sure these violations don’t take place,” he said.

Cropper stressed that all of the merchants included in the festival footprint had agreed to operate during the same hours as Oceans Calling, which will be from noon until 10:30 p.m. every day.

Sweetwood, whose company has produced the NFL draft, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and Sea Hear Now, said there would be two entrances to the festival grounds, which run from the Inlet to North Division Street and include the Inlet parking lot, the beach, the Boardwalk and the businesses in that area. He said that everyone attending, including, employees, had to go through one of those two designated entrances.

Cropper pointed out that the expansion of the festival grounds to include the Boardwalk would mean there was a larger footprint to accommodate the thousands of people who would attend.

“It’s much easier for them to traverse that area if the Boardwalk’s included,” he said.

Board member Marty Pusey asked how the public would be notified that a key section of the Boardwalk would only be open to concertgoers during Oceans Calling.

Mayor Rick Meehan said the town would be working with the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association and the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and that those organizations would share the message with their members. He added that there would also be information online, on television and in the newspaper.

“We’re going to use all the same outlets we currently use,” Meehan said.

Cropper noted that the event was in late September.

“This event’s not taking place on a July Fourth weekend,” he said.

Zach Bankert, executive director of the Ocean City Development Corporation, told

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners voted to approve a promoter’s license that will allow alcohol sales at the Oceans Calling Festival this fall. Above, crews are pictured setting up the stage ahead of last year’s planned event. File Photo

Fenwick Committee Outlines Safety Efforts

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Members of a Fenwick Island committee have agreed to meet with the planning commission chair, the new police chief and other officials to discuss ways for implementing pedestrian safety measures in town.

On Wednesday, members of the Fenwick Island Pedestrian Safety Committee held a discussion on safety issues in town and projects that should be prioritized in the coming months. With the town’s comprehensive planning process nearly complete, Councilman Ed Bishop, committee chair, said officials should start working on ways to implement stated safety goals.

“I think the focus needs to be on the implementation plan,” he said.

Last month, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted to approve a draft compre-

hensive plan and send it to the state for approval. The planning document outlines issues, goals and recommendations for topics such as community character and development, coastal flooding and safe streets.

In Wednesday’s meeting, Vicki Carmean, committee co-chair, said the committee should start aligning its priorities with the recommendations found in the town’s new comprehensive plan. She recommended the group start working alongside representatives from the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and the Fenwick Island Police Department on issues such as traffic safety.

“We want to connect not only with the comprehensive plan and DelDOT but also the new police chief to see what he would recommend,” she said.

Bishop agreed, noted the committee should begin working on projects that could

… Festival Organizers Talk Security, Access

be done in the coming months. He said top safety concerns included speeding, intersections and U-turns along Coastal Highway, as well as the lack of crosswalks at certain streets.

“What we want to do is prioritize the most dangerous places to cross Coastal Highway …,” he said. “One goal should be to have a crosswalk at every street.”

Officials agreed that sidewalks should also be prioritized. While the town has recently installed sidewalks along five bayside blocks, DelDOT has included another sidewalk project in its capital transportation plan.

“From a dollars and cents perspective, I can say I’ve seen hundreds of people use the sidewalks we’ve put in …,” Bishop said.

Lastly, the committee agreed to reduce some of the signage along the town’s streets in the coming months.

the board he had spoken with every business owner whose establishment was being included in the footprint.

“They feel like it’s much more beneficial to be included in the footprint than excluded from the footprint,” he said.

Ocean City resident Vince Gisriel told the board he had several concerns about the Oceans Calling event. His primary worry is the amount of alcohol that will be sold at the event.

“When you have 50,000 people available to drink from noon until 10:30 p.m., that is a situation that is ripe for trouble and I’m very concerned about it,” he said.

Gisriel said that if the weather went sour during the event, dealing with that number of attendees, many of whom would have been drinking, could be difficult.

“There’s a situation that might be hard to contain and deal with…,” he said. “I’m concerned about the liability the town has taken on with this kind of event.”

Gisriel went on to add that festival attendees would disrupt the thousands of resort residents who used public transportation on a regular basis. He suggested that if the board approved the event that limitations be added.

Cropper said that the event as proposed took into account all of the board’s rules regarding alcohol.

“Everything included in the application is in furtherance of meeting those requirements,” Cropper said.

Sweetwood said there would be free water stations set up throughout the festival.

Dave Smalley of Spectrum Catering said attendees could only purchase two drinks at a time. He said his staff was trained to identify issues related to alcohol and had a protocol in place to handle situations that might come up.

Sweetwood added that C3 hosted extremely large events throughout the country. While he wasn’t looking at the exact numbers for Oceans Calling, he said there would be about 300 security employees as well as Ocean City Police Department officers in the vicinity. He said there would also be about 75 EMTs and 11 representatives of a security management team.

Smalley added that they had four retired alcoholic beverage control agents working for them to ensure no underage drinking occurred.

“They’re very effective,” he said.

Pusey said she empathized with Gisriel’s position and understood his concern about people who’d potentially been drinking for 10 hours being released onto area roads.

“We’re pushing public transportation,” Sweetwood said, adding that not all attendees stayed the full day and not all attendees consumed alcohol.

William Esham, chair of the BLC, acknowledged that it was a large event but pointed out that the legislation that created the promoter’s license had passed and that for the Oceans Calling hearing, Gisriel was the only member of the public in attendance to voice concerns.

“It makes me nervous as well,” Esham said, adding that the organizers had done their best to address the concerns. “They’ve covered all the bases they can.”

Camp Store Fined, Suspended For Alcohol Sale To Minors

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Officials handed down a fine and a suspension to a local store after clerks sold alcohol to minors twice within a month.

The camp store at Frontier Town was fined $1,500 and received a four-day suspension from the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) this week. The suspension, which started Immediately after Wednesday's hearing, means the store won't be able to sell alcohol again until Sunday, July 30. Frontier

Town representatives apologized to the board and said they’d implemented changes to ensure sales to minors didn’t occur in the future.

“This was an absolute lapse in judgement on leadership’s part,” said Todd Burbage, CEO of Blue Water Development, the company that manages the campground for Sun RV Resorts. “We have taken significant steps to make sure this never happens again.”

In a hearing Wednesday afternoon, Burbage was quick to apologize for the two sales to minors that occurred at Frontier Town’s camp store in June. He said

that as CEO of Blue Water Development, he took the incidents very seriously, particularly since the company held 23 liquor licenses across the country. Burbage said he was hiring a TAM (Techniques of Alcohol Management) instructor to train employees and had also purchased a new point-of-sale system that will require identification to be scanned for alcohol purchases.

“I expect you to treat me harsher than anybody else because I’m a leader in this community,” Burbage said.

He also apologized to the law enforcement officers in attendance for having to deal with the situation.

“I brought money with me today because I expect to be fined,” he said.

William Esham, chair of the BLC, said the board still needed to conduct the hearing and review the incident report.

Officers with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office told the board they’d conducted an alcohol compliance check at the camp store and the minor they’d sent in had not been carded by the clerk, who was a J-1 student who’d been in the country for just 10 days.

Concerned that the store would sell to a minor again, officers returned later in June to check again. This time, they said the minor they sent in was asked to show ID, which was one of the vertical IDs issued to those under 21, and was sold alcohol anyway.

Worcester County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Bissman noted that all interactions with

law enforcement were captured on their body-worn cameras.

Board member Marty Pusey asked about what measures were in place to prevent sales. Staff said there were numerous signs posted advising that people had to be 21 to purchase alcohol and that new workers were typically shadowed by more experienced workers for their first few days. A manager acknowledged that having an international student dealing with language barriers at the cash register was a bad judgment call.

“We’re here to take our punishment,” Burbage said.

He reiterated that the TAM instructor would be able to train all of Frontier Town’s staff regarding alcohol sales and that the new sales system would help.

“I take this incredibly personal, as the head that wears the crown, I’m here to make it right,” he said.

Bissman said that if the point-of-sale system required ID, that should help prevent sales to minors.

“That would solve a lot of problems,” he said. “We want to prevent the sale to the young kids that stay there.”

After closing the meeting to deliberate, the board announced that two violations had occurred. In the first violation, they issued a $1,500 fine. For the second violation, they issued a four-day suspension, beginning Wednesday evening. They advised that the camp store would be able to sell alcohol again on Sunday, July 30.

Special Use Request Eyed For Boat Ramp

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials will consider a local boat captain’s request to use the South Point boat ramp for his charter business next week.

On Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners are expected to consider a special use permit request from Marc Spagnola, who wants to launch his boat from the South Point ramp. Spagnola submitted the request in the wake of the commissioners’ decision last week to delay approval of updated boat ramp regulations, which staff said need further review.

“We need more time to investigate how other counties handle it and what is a fair and equitable response,” Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said this week.

Last Tuesday, the commissioners hosted a public hearing regarding new boat ramp regulations that would allow limited commercial activity at county boat ramps. The proposed bill would allow commercial use as long as it didn’t create conflict with recreational boaters or damage county property. Commercial users would also be prohibited from using more than one parking space in the boat landing lot.

Commissioners voiced various concerns with the proposal and voted 4-2 to deliberate further.

As a result, attorney Mark Cropper submitted a special use permit request on behalf of Spagnola the next day. Spagnola’s previous permit expired in February of 2023 and while many commercial entities, including crabbers and boat dealers, use the ramps, Cropper said there had been complaints from South Point residents about Spagnola using the ramp.

“To my knowledge, all such commercial businesses are knowingly, intentionally and openly violating the law, but only Marc Spagnola is under threat of receiving a citation…,” Cropper wrote in a July 19 letter to the commissioners. “Should the Commissioners pass legislation that makes this special use permit moot, it will be withdrawn. However, my client should not be under threat of citation for using county owned boat ramps for his commercial purposes when others are being allowed by the county to do the same, but without such a threat.”

Young said that the boat ramp legislation discussed last week was still being reviewed and the bill would not be reconsidered at the commissioners’ Aug. 1 meeting. As a result, they’ll be entertaining the special use permit request.

Young said staff were currently reviewing how other counties handled commercial usage of recreational boat ramps.

“We’re trying to untangle the commercial use of our boat ramps, as we have commercial entities that utilize our boat ramps, which within our current laws is illegal…,” he said. “At the end of the day these ramps are for the public and we do not want that impeded.”

He said the bill could potentially be reconsidered at the commissioners’ second meeting in August.

The Worcester County Commissioners are expected to consider a boat operator’s request to use the South Point boat ramp, pictured above, for his charter business.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Berlin Reduces Park Sale Scope

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Elected officials agreed to update an appraisal for the portion of Heron Park property they have not ruled out selling yet.

The Berlin Town Council on Monday voted 4-1, with Councilman Steve Green opposed, to update an appraisal for parcel 57, the lot that features the old processing plant next to the railroad tracks. As officials continue to explore the possibility of selling that portion of the park, Palmer Gillis, the potential purchaser, says he’s still interested despite the fact his initial proposal was to purchase three pieces of municipal land.

“We’re going to wait and see,” Gillis said, adding the elected officials clearly had a variety of opinions about selling parcel 57. “It’s taken a turn in my opinion for the worse because there’s six different voices

now.”

On Monday, the town hosted a work session regarding Heron Park that included reports from both the Berlin Planning Commission and the Berlin Parks Commission. Neither entity supported selling the park property as proposed.

“The commission suggests if any parcel is sold it be 57,” said Mike Wiley, chair of the parks commission.

Chris Denny, chair of the planning commission, said the general consensus among members of the group was to stop negotiations. Ron Cascio, another member of the planning commission, said the group also wanted to see a committee of Berlin residents with land and development experience established to consider the future use of Heron Park.

“They’re here,” he said. “They’re ready to help.”

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Developers Palmer and Sandy Gillis are pictures before the Berlin Mayor and Council earlier this month.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

… Council Seeking Updated Appraisal

FROM PAGE 13

Commission member Matt Stoehr questioned if the town had the bandwidth to accomplish the demolition of the old processing plant if Gillis wasn’t involved, as its grant was $500,000, about $50,000 of which will be used for pre-engineering services.

“Are we going to open a can of worms we don’t know how to handle?” he said.

When the meeting was opened up to public comments, Gillis told the council he would be interested in parcel 57 if that was all the town decided to sell but noted that wouldn’t give him space for the garden center, the most popular aspect of his development plan.

When council members asked if there was potential for art space, Gillis said that was a possibility but stressed a portion of the property had to generate revenue.

Councilman Jay Knerr asked what a reappraisal of parcel 57, which was previously appraised as residential, with a commercial designation would mean for Gillis.

“That’s a problem,” Gillis said.

Gillis explained the price he’d offered for the three parcels, $1.7 million, took into account the fact that he had to demolish a building and work within development restrictions the town put in the contract as far as potential uses and length of contracts.

“This has to make economic sense,” Gillis said.

Knerr said there was an overwhelming feeling the town was selling the property for a price too low.

“If you think it’s worth more show me how it’s worth more,” Gillis said.

Green said the majority of the council clearly didn’t support selling multiple parcels of the park but asked if there was interest in selling just parcel 57. He encouraged the council to be productive as there were at least three council members who have clearly stated they are against moving forward with the contract for the three parcels.

“I don’t think we should be rushing into a quick rewrite of the contract,” Knerr said, suggesting instead the committee Cascio recommended be formed.

Knerr said the council could also update the appraisal for parcel 57 based on commercial zoning, as that was a concern residents have shared in recent weeks.

Gillis said that if that was to be done, the appraisal needed to take into account the uses the town would allow on the property. He said he’d heard from residents opposed to every use he'd suggested.

“There’s nothing left,” he said. “What we’re hearing is no one wants anything there.”

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said the park had been discussed numerous times in recent weeks and she wanted to see some sort of decision made. Councilman Dean Burrell, however, said he didn’t want to rush.

“This is valuable land we’ll never get back,” Knerr said.

Resident Gina Velong told the council she’d visited the old processing plant and thought it could be repurposed.

“The building itself has good bones,” she said.

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Berlin Cleared In Meetings Inquiry

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The Maryland Open Meetings Compliance Board found the Town of Berlin did not violate the Open Meetings Act when it closed three meetings related to the development of Heron Park.

While resident Edward Hammond believes the town used the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for Heron Park to evade the Open Meetings Act, the state board issued an opinion July 24 finding no violations by the town.

“Having reviewed the minutes for these closed sessions, we are satisfied that the Council’s decision to close these three sessions was reasonably grounded in a concern for safeguarding its ‘ability to participate in the competitive proposal process,’” the opinion reads.

Following Town of Berlin Open Meetings Act violations identified by the Open Meetings Compliance Board in March and June of 2023, Hammond asked the board to weigh in on closed session meetings held by the Berlin Town Council that occurred on March 21, 2022, July 25, 2022, and March 23, 2023. Hammond asserted that the council’s plans for the possible development of Heron Park were not specific enough to warrant closed meetings. He also shared concern that Mayor Zack Tyndall started negotiating with Palmer Gillis, one of two respondents to the town’s RFP for Heron Park, before the RFP was issued.

“But whatever the Mayor’s pre-RFP contacts with the developer, it appears to us that the proposal process that the RFP initiated was, in fact, competitive,” the opinion reads. “As we often remind parties, the Board is not a fact-finding body; we do not investigate factual allegations.”

Hammond said this week the board’s review of what occurred in Berlin was limited.

“Nothing in the ruling changes the fact that the mayor tried to negotiate the chicken plant deal in secret when there was no compelling reason to do so,” Hammond said. “The Board's Opinion does not say that the RFP complied with procurement law nor does it identify any strategy of the mayor's that would have been adversely impacted by open discussion. As the Board does not establish facts, the scope of its review was far more limited than a court, and the Board's conclusion that the Open Meetings Act was not violated is limited to its view of the outward appearances of the matter from the Western Shore.”

Hammond said there was currently little agreement in town about what to do with the Heron Park property because not enough of the discussion had been open to the public.

“There has been widespread disagreement among the Town's citizens with the mayor's sophomoric attempts at a deal with the developer, beginning with the Town Council members who favor ending the negotiation, and numerous public comments, an unenthusiastic discussion at the Parks Commission, and

most recently a unanimous opinion of the Planning Commission that the talks should end,” he said. “To this day, there is little agreement in Berlin as to what to do with the property because of a lack of public engagement and public process by town officials. For that reason, a time limited committee of local experts to develop a clean sheet plan for Heron Park has been proposed, and this plan has been recommended to the Council by the entire Planning Commission.”

He added that most of the public discussion in Berlin about the park had been about using the property as a park, not regarding its sale as developable land.

“Thus there is little agreement in Berlin about disposing of some or all of the property because there has been little public engagement and public process by Town officials on that subject,” he said. “That is one important reason why a time limited committee of local experts to develop a clean sheet plan for Heron Park has been proposed, and this plan has been recommended to the Council by the entire Planning Commission.”

State Announces Two Bridge Projects

BERLIN –The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will begin a project to clean and paint the structural steel beams on several bridges in Worcester County next week.

Beginning Monday, July 31, work will start on both the Route 90 bridge over Worcester Highway in Berlin and the Bishopville Road bridge over the Bishopville Prong in Bishopville. The projects are expected to be complete by mid-August, weather permitting.

At the Route 90 bridge location, cleaning and painting equipment will be staged on the shoulders of the road, requiring single-lane closures during work hours. Portable message signs and automated flagging operations will be in place seven days a week, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Full traffic will be restored at the end of each workday.

At the Bishopville Road bridge over the Bishopville Prong location, drivers can expect single-lane closures Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Motorists will be guided through the work zone with a flagging operation and portable message signs.

These projects are a part of the State Highway Administration’s bridge preservation program and will help to preserve and extend the service life of State Highway Administration bridges. Cleaning and painting the bridges preserves existing steel sections and protects them from corrosion which could cause expensive and time-consuming repairs and bridge closures in the future.

Wheelchair Access Concerns Shared

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ASSATEAGUE – A local family is seeking a way to make beach wheelchairs more accessible at Assateague Island National Seashore.

Deal Island resident Michelle Cawood said she is hoping something can be done to address accessibility on Assateague after encountering an issue with the park’s beach wheelchairs. Last Tuesday, while joining a local homeschool group for an evening bonfire at Assateague Island National Seashore, she had to carry her 13-year-old son, George, who has spina bifida, on and off the beach.

“It’s actually not the first time this has happened,” she explained in an interview this week. “They lock the wheelchairs up at a certain time each day.”

Berlin resident Bronwyn Betz, a member of the homeschool group, said she arrived at the park around 5 p.m. last Tuesday when she noticed Cawood carrying her son to the bonfire site. That’s when she learned the wheelchairs were locked during the evening hours.

“It’s an accessibility issue,” she said. “I feel there should be better accommodations.”

Betz said she had contacted Assateague Island National Seashore the next morning, only to be told beach wheelchairs were available during business hours.

“I explained to them that I don’t find that acceptable,” she said.

Cawood said the group returned to Assateague this week, and a ranger was able to provide a beach wheelchair after hours. However, she argued that a better system, such as a key code or sign-out sheet, could be implemented.

“It should be accessible at all times people are allowed to be on the beach,” she said. “We shouldn’t be excluded just because it’s after 5 p.m.”

Betz said she has also shared her concerns with Congressman Andy Harris.

“The problem isn’t solved,” she said. “If we go there today it will be the same situation … I don’t know how to change it, but I am exploring opportunities to change it.”

In a statement this week, Assateague Island National Seashore Interpretation and Education Chief Liz Davis said beach wheelchairs may be signed out at the Beach Hut, located at North Ocean Beach, during the summer months.

“The Beach Hut is convenient and centrally located to the beach access boardwalks at North Ocean Beach,” she said. “The Beach Hut is operated by the park concessioner, Assateague Outfitters, and is open 9am - 5pm 7 days a week. Visitors may sign out a beach wheelchair for 2 hours. If a visitor would like to keep the wheelchair longer, they may check to see if it is available and sign it out for an additional 2 hours.”

Davis noted that beach wheelchairs are expensive and require regular maintenance. To that end, they are kept in locked wheelchair huts near the beach boardwalks and available for sign out during business hours.

“I am told a visitor called several times regarding ‘reserving’ the beach wheelchair,” she added. “The visitor was told of the first-come/first-serve sign out policy and where to sign out each time. The visitors arrived at the ranger station twice in 2 weeks on weekdays at 5:55 p.m. and 5:45 p.m., respectively. The ranger station staff reminded the visitors of the sign out policy each time. On the 2nd occasion, a Law Enforcement Ranger intervened to diffuse the situation and offered to sign out the beach wheelchair for 2 hours as the office closed at 6:00 p.m.”

In a Facebook post shared this week, Assateague Island National Seashore detailed the park’s accessibility system. Assateague Island National Seashore reports the park offers mobi-mats, which provide a flat, stable surface over the dunes, as well as beach wheelchairs, which can be borrowed for limited time intervals.

A local family is looking to address accessibility issues involving beach wheelchairs at Assateague Island National Park. Above, a beach wheelchair is pictured on the Assateague beach.

Photo by National Park Service/K. Sloan

OCDC Seeks Md. Artists For Skate Park Mural

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A downtown organization is seeking artists for a mural project at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park.

Last week, the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) opened its call to artists interested in designing a new mural at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park. Executive Director Zach Bankert said the organization has issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) from Maryland artists who can capture the spirit of skate culture.

“We’re really excited about the project because we believe it will be a well-funded project,” he said. “We’re hoping to get a high-caliber artist to come in and celebrate the history that the park has.”

In late May, 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 the Ocean Bowl Skate Park wall near the corner of St. Louis Avenue and 3rd Street.

“There’s a lot of visibility and traffic there, and with a renovation taking place at that complex, this mural will have a lot of eyes on it,” Bankert said.

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, references, a resume and a letter of interest, among other things. After considering all submitted RFQs, a selection committee – consisting of representatives from OCDC, the DTA Public Art Committee, the Art League of Ocean City, Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department, and professional artists – will choose three artists to design a mural, with each artist receiving a design fee of $2,500.

“We are looking for something that’s a contemporary style and something that celebrates the history of the skate park or skate culture,” Bankert said. “We are thinking of place with this mural … We want the style and theme of the mural to fit where it’s going.”

Bankert said the project will be completed in stages. During the second phase, a selected design will be used to apply for further funding with the Maryland State Arts Council.

“This is a state grant,” he said. “Once we get to the second stage, there’s a significant amount of money for the artists … We are excited to actually pay the artists … I don’t like artists to do things for free.”

Officials say deadline for submissions is Aug. 13. Details can be found at ocdc.org/oceanbowlmural.

“We’ve had a really good response so far, but most of the response as not been from local artists,” Bankert explained. “While it’s open to the state level, we want to make sure we get some locals that apply as well.”

The Ocean City Development Corporation is seeking artists to complete a mural project at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park, pictured above. The selected design will be placed on a wall near St. Louis Avenue and 3rd Street. Photo by Bethany Hooper

NEWARK – Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) announced this week the school system will receive over $2.6 million from the competitive Stronger Connections grant program under Title IV, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA).

The competitive grant, which spans the next three academic years, provides funding to increase the school system’s capacity to provide students with safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments.

The grant enables the school system to hire five additional positions for the duration of the grant period. The positions will include a certified health education teacher to support WCPS’ integrated Health Literacy Program at Pocomoke Middle and Snow Hill Middle schools; a certified music and movement teacher at Pocomoke Elementary School; two pupil personnel workers will be added to the Office of Student, Family, and Community Connections to increase family engagement and offer case management and wraparound services for students and families; and an early childhood education coach to support the enhancement of early childhood education across the school system through guiding the implementation of play-based learning strategies during instructional centers.

In addition to personnel, the grant provides for additional wraparound services in the form of sensory integration training for school system occupational therapists as well as contracted services for Board Certified Behavior Analysis for students who display extreme behavioral challenges. The grant also targets identified programming inequities in the school system’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program and will allow for the development of a teacher training cohort in the implementation of play-based learning activities during instructional centers.

“We are incredibly proud to have secured this multi-million dollar competitive grant, which will have a direct impact on so many of our students,” Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said. “While Worcester County is a high performing school system, we are also identified as high-need by the state, and bringing these funds to our students helps us to continue to put programs and staff in place to ensure every student can succeed in school.”

The Stronger Connections competitive grant program was available to school systems identified as “high need” as defined by the following criteria: a high number or percentage of students living in poverty (e.g., at least 40 %); a high student-to-mental health professional ratio; high rates of chronic absenteeism, exclusionary discipline, referrals to the juvenile justice system, bullying/harassment, community and school violence, or substance abuse; or where students recently experienced a natural disaster or traumatic event.

… Council Narrows Focus Of Potential Park Property Sale

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used as the public works space the town needed. She also brought up the negotiations that occurred with Gillis during the past year.

“I think all of this should have been discussed openly, then we wouldn’t be here now,” she said.

Stoehr said he thought the redevelopment of parcel 57 could be a homerun for Gillis while it could prove to be a liability for the town if it wasn’t sold.

Jack Burbage, who owns property in Berlin, told the council he thought the property could be addressed with a design charette. He also stressed the need for businesses that wouldn’t compete with those downtown if the property was developed. Burbage reported previous charettes he had funded privately cost about $25,000.

When asked if there were any items they wanted to take action on following the work session, council members shared a variety of concerns. While Knerr brought up the idea of voting to abandon the contract that had been developed with Gillis, Mayor Zack Tyndall said the motion that should be made would be to do the updated appraisal.

“We have to determine what that is and where that money’s going to come from,” Tyndall said.

Natalie Saleh, the town’s finance director, said the council needed to consider what the goal was in selling the property, as doing so would not eliminate the debt associated with the park. Knerr spoke in support of an updated appraisal.

“If we’re going to continue talks with Palmer we need to do our due diligence,” he said. “If we’re not, then we need to start moving on demolition.”

He asked if Velong’s suggestion to use the old processing plant as a public works building was feasible.

“I don’t know if you’d have enough funding to refurbish the building.,” said Jimmy Charles, the town’s public works director.

Tyndall added the concept would not add to the property tax base.

Nichols also spoke in favor of refreshing the appraisal, as that could be useful in talks with any buyer, not just Gillis.

“At this stage I feel the developer knows far more than we do,” she said.

Green said the council had an idea of the parcel’s appraised value because the lot next door had sold recently.

“I really wonder, if we go through all this, are the votes even there to proceed with the parcel 57 sale?” Green said. “I don’t think they are. I guess that’s a concern to me, that we’re spending money that we don’t have on an appraisal, and I think it’s going to come back higher than the developer is willing to pay. That seemed clear tonight.”

Tyndall said his worry was that demolition would cost far more than the $500,000 grant the town had could cover.

“My concern is it’s going to cost us way more money when we start demoing,” he said. “And what I’ve said since day one is where is that money going to come from…. we just built up our reserves. Are we going to take it to demo the building?”

Staff said it wasn’t likely much of the building could be demolished with the grant.

“What’s the end result?” he said. “You still have a building and it’s still a big blemish entering a parcel that’s supposed to be a park or development.”

Jamey Latchum, the town’s director of water resources, said the interior of the building would have to be checked before any of it was demolished.

“The building also does have some asbestos and lead paint,” he said. “I don’t want you all to forget about that … You will not be able to demo the building until that is removed.”

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said that could be covered by the grant.

“But it all adds expense,” she said.

Green said Stoehr had made a great point about the risk of keeping the buildings versus the reward.

“I’d like for it to be somebody else’s problem,” he said.

Knerr said both the parks and planning commissions had said not to sell.

“We’ve been dealing with this for a while,” Tyndall replied. “I value their opinions, I value their feedback, but this is the first bite of the apple they’ve had. We’ve chewed on it for years.”

The council voted 4-1, with Green opposed, to have the parcel 57 appraisal updated based on the land being zoned commercial.

ocean pines announces new police chief

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Association has announced Tim Robinson as its new police chief.

On Friday, the association announced it had hired Robinson as the new chief of police for the Ocean Pines Police Department. In his new role, Robinson will be responsible for overseeing and managing the police department's operations, ensuring the safety and security of Ocean Pines homeowners and residents, and fostering positive relationships within the community.

“We are excited to welcome Tim as our new chief of police,” said General Manager John Viola. “His extensive background in law enforcement, leadership skills, and dedication to public safety makes him the ideal candidate for this important role. We have full confidence in his ability to lead our police department with professionalism, in-

tegrity, and a strong focus on community involvement.”

Robinson brings more than 30 years of experience in law enforcement, having served in various leadership positions throughout his career, including most recently with the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, the association reports.

who had been on administrative leave since Jan. 1. That month, the association shared that Ehrisman has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation of a burglary that occurred at the police department’s storage shed.

TIM ROBINSON

“I have been able to serve my community for over 30 years and I cannot imagine a better place to continue that service than Ocean Pines,” Robinson said. “The Association of Ocean Pines is a vibrant and exciting community to work with, and I am both incredibly honored and excited to have been selected to lead the Ocean Pines Police Department.”

The hiring of a new police chief comes nearly two months after the association announced the retirement of Leo Ehrisman,

“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 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 …”

Fenwick Names New Police Chief

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – The Town of Fenwick Island has named its new police chief.

On Monday, the Town of Fenwick Island announced that Michael Morrissey has accepted the offer to become Fenwick Island’s next police chief, effective Sept. 1. The town reports Morrissey brings more than 33 years of policing experience at both the community and national levels to his new role.

“The council is very happy,” Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said. “we had the assistance of three local police chiefs during the interview process and they were extremely helpful. We had some terrific candidates and Mr. Morrissey came into the interview with some observations and a plan for our town that made us excited. He has a background in good policing and an emphasis on Route 1.”

trol and criminal investigations divisions, serving in Wilmington, Del., Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Morrissey has extensive experience in interagency partnership, traffic safety and grant management, the town reports.

Morrissey earned his B.S. in criminal justice and a master’s degree in justice administration from Wilmington University. Morrissey is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command Class #479 and has completed several supervisory training programs at the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville.

Morrissey and his family have been part-time residents in the Fenwick Island area for the past 20 years and recently became full-time residents of Dagsboro, Del. Morrissey has been married to his wife Kelly, a nurse, for 26 years. The Morrisseys have two children who are attending college in southern California and Alabama.

MICHAEL MORRISSEY

Morrissey began his police career in 1989 with the City of Wilmington Police Department (WPD). During his early career, he earned numerous commendations, including the Kiwanis Club Officer of the Year in 1991. During his tenure, he served in the patrol, internal affairs and community policing divisions. Morrissey also served as the department’s liaison with the Delaware Office of Highway Safety, writing grants and managing traffic safety programs, which included Click It or Ticket, Check Point Strike Force, and child safety seat and aggressive driving enforcement.

While working as a supervisor in the community policing unit, Morrissey managed the federal Weed and Seed Program, obtaining grant funding to modernize the WPD bicycle unit. He also served on the Fugitive Safe Surrender Program led by the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. and Delaware attorney generals’ offices.

Upon his retirement from the Wilmington Police Department in November 2009, Morrissey began his career with the Amtrak Police Department (APD) a federallevel policing organization. During his tenure with APD, he has served in supervisory and management roles in the pa-

“So that Morrissey’s transition to Police Chief will be seamless, after wrapping up his duties for Amtrak, Morrissey will begin serving Fenwick Island as a public safety liaison to the Town Council in advance of taking the position as Police Chief on September 1, 2023,” a press release reads. “The Town Council believes Mr. Morrissey’s extensive background and experience in Wilmington and a nationwide organization will be instrumental in addressing all aspects of our town’s policing priorities including Route 1 safety concerns regarding speed enforcement and crosswalk safety.”

The release continues, “During his interview, Morrissey offered a 90-day plan for addressing those issues and we are looking forward to seeing his plan put into action to benefit the Fenwick Island community. Please join us in welcoming Mr. Morrissey to the Town of Fenwick Island’s family.”

Monday’s announcement comes more than two months after the town shared it would not be renewing its employment agreement with the current chief, John Devlin, and weeks after allegations of a security breach within the Fenwick Island Police Department came to light.

In June, Devlin hired an attorney in an attempt to be reinstated and have his contract be restored through Aug. 31, 2025.

Berlin Scores Grant Support For Arts Projects

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Nearly $40,000 in grant funding is expected to help the Town of Berlin pursue a variety of local art initiatives.

Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, reported this week that the town would be receiving nearly $40,000 in funding through a trio of arts-related grants.

“Grant funding helps us pay for the things we would like, things that benefit the community beyond what we need,” Wells said. “We’re fortunate because it supplements the town’s budget.”

Wells said that an Arts Relief General Operating Support grant of about $18,000 would be paying for the restoration of historic signs on Pitts Street. Last year, members of the Berlin Historic District Commission voiced their support for restoring two antique advertisements painted on the sides of the building at 11 Pitts St. A similar project was completed in Snow Hill in 2022, as artists restored the “ghost sign” advertising the G.M. Dryden General Merchandise store.

With receipt of the grant funds, Wells is now spearheading an effort to restore the two advertisements on the Pitts Street building in Berlin.

“People were very excited about the idea,” Wells said, adding that there was a local interest in preserving history through art. “It means just as much to the community as the buildings themselves. It’s part of our heritage.”

She plans to approach the historic district commission this fall to seek approval to move forward with the project.

“The artist would probably start in the spring,” she said.

On top of that grant funding, the town also just received a $17,800 Maryland State Arts Council Operating Grant. Wells said it would be used for entertainment, marketing and operations for Berlin’s Arts and Entertainment District. She said the funding would be helpful in creating marketing materials featuring local shops that feature art and live music.

“We’re really fortunate to be an Arts and Entertainment District,” Wells said. “The benefits that come with it, specifically grant funding, allow us to do a lot.”

Wells added that the town was also the recipient of funding from the Worcester County Arts Council. The nonprofit has provided the town with $1,200 to use for music at the Berlin Farmers Market as well as $2,500 to use for Oktoberfest. The latter will be used to secure The Edelweiss Band for the popular October event.

Grant funds will be used to restore a former advertising message at a building off Pitts Street.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Nonprofit Seeks Grant To Begin Henry Hotel Restoration Effort

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A local nonprofit is seeking grant funding to begin a restoration of Ocean City’s historic Henry Hotel.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week agreed to send a letter of support to the Maryland Historical Trust as a nonprofit dedicated to the restoration of the Henry Hotel seeks funding for restoration. Nancy Howard of the nonprofit Henry Hotel Foundation said the $250,000 grant would be the first step in bringing the historic hotel back to its former glory.

“There are several people who have said to me ‘if there’s any structure in Ocean City I want to see restored it’s the Henry Hotel,’” Howard said.

She said she’s received letters of support from numerous local agencies as the foundation moves forward with seeking grant funding. The nonprofit is asking for a $250,000 African American Heritage Preservation Program Grant from the Maryland Historical Trust. The funding would help the nonprofit arrange for a foundation to be added to the 19th century building.

“The building will have to be lifted, a foundation built, and the building put back down on it,” she said, adding that she’d discussed the project with the same company that moved the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum and the Tarry-A-While Guest House.

Eventually, the nonprofit hopes to turn the structure into a museum/learning center highlighting African American history in Ocean City.

“There isn’t anything like that in Ocean City,” Howard said.

It’s no secret the historic building has fallen into disrepair in recent years.

“The family still owns it but hasn’t used it since the 1990s,” Howard said. “The upper two floors are gutted. The first floor is not habitable.”

Because it’s a key part of Ocean City’s history, however, the Henry Hotel Foundation was created and is now working to identify grant funding to help in the restoration.

Howard noted that though African Americans weren’t allowed to stay in Ocean City, they were responsible for many of the jobs that made Ocean City the vacation resort it was.

“Formerly known as ‘Henry's Colored Hotel,’ the three-story, wood-shingled structure, was erected in the last decade of the 19th century and remains one of the oldest hotels in the city,” the letter of support from the Worcester County Commissioners reads. “More importantly, the Henry Hotel is the last remaining hotel that served black visitors to the ocean resort during the early to mid-20th century. Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Count Basie and Louis Armstrong were guests of the Henry Hotel in the days

when black entertainers could perform in major hotel ballrooms, yet could not sleep in the hotels.”

According to local history provided by Howard, Charles T. Henry, a Black businessman from Berlin, opened “Henry’s Colored Hotel” in 1927 in a building he’d purchased from local fisherman Thomas Savage. The Henry Hotel and Charles’ other boarding house on Somerset Street were two of five establishments in Ocean City at that time catering exclusively to Black seasonal workers and occasional Black visitors.

Of the five buildings, only two, the Henry Hotel and a smaller boarding house on Somerset Street, are still standing.

While Henry’s widow continued operating the hotel after his death, it was eventually sold in the 1950s. Its last owner was Pearl Bonner, who operated the hotel until the 1990s. She died in 2003 and the hotel passed to her children.

The site was named an African American Heritage site on the Lower Eastern Shore in 2007.

For more information about the Henry Hotel Foundation’s efforts, email Howard at neffiehoward@gmail.com.

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Berlin Officials Seek Meeting On Tattoo Shops

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The town will once again try to work with Worcester County to create a way for tattoo establishments to operate within Berlin.

The town council on Monday voted unanimously to send the Worcester County Commissioners a letter seeking a meeting with county and health department officials to discuss tattoo establishments. The request comes about two years after the town last tried to work with county officials to establish regulations for tattoo shops in town. Mayor Zack Tyndall told the council the Berlin Tattoo Advisory Committee was ready to renew its efforts.

“We met last month,” he said.

Initially, the town approved a moratorium on tattoo establishments in 2017 when officials realized there were no regulations in place for the businesses. An advisory committee was created to study the issue and the moratorium was extended in 2020.

While little has happened since then, the advisory committee met last month and agreed to continue efforts to come up with reasonable regulations for the town.

The letter the council agreed to send to Worcester County requests a meeting with the commissioners and Worcester County Health Department officials to talk about the advisory committee’s research and draft regulations for tattoo shops in Berlin.

“Over the past several years, the Town of Berlin has taken meaningful steps through a tattoo advisory committee to create a safe and equitable path forward for tattoo establishments within town limits…,” the letter reads. “Through many meetings and a great deal of research and discussion, the committee has developed a comprehensive set of regulations and specific zoning requirements for tattoo establishments.”

The town wants to work with the Worcester County Health Department to set up health and safety inspections similar to those already done by the department for body piercing studios.

“The committee modeled their health and safety inspections based on the current standards within the state of Delaware since no guidelines currently exist within the State of Maryland,” the letter reads.

When the town extended the moratorium on tattoo shops in 2020, attorney David Gaskill told officials at the time that the health department was not interested in taking on inspections for the town.

“They would have to amend their ordinance to allow or authorize the county health department to perform inspections of tattoo parlors in the Town of Berlin,” he said at the time. “They were not interested.”

School Supply Drive: The Ocean City Jeep Club held his fourth annual school supply run along with representatives from Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services. The club donated many school supplies to help families in need to have a great start for the 2023 school year.

Submitted Photo

IS ALWAYS

Fenwick Bridge Workshop Planned

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Another public workshop will be held as design and planning moves forward for a bridge replacement project near Fenwick Island.

The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is inviting community members to a public workshop on Aug. 15 regarding the replacement of Bridge 3-437 on Lighthouse Road. The agency reports the primary purpose of the meeting is to gain feedback from the public on architectural enhancements being considered for the bridge replacement project.

“The workshop will also include a brief presentation providing updates on the planned construction method for the bridge replacement project,” a notice reads. “Presentations will begin at 4:15 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. and will be followed by an open forum allowing the public to ask questions and provide feedback on the project.”

In February, DelDOT held its first public workshop to present plans and timelines for a bridge replacement project along Route 54. While work is expected to take place over the course of two years, officials say travelers should expect minimal disruptions.

“The way we’re going to handle it is instead of full detours, we’re going to build it in phases …,” Project Manager Nick Dean said at the time. “So in theory, you won’t feel the effects too much.”

The existing bridge, located next to Catch 54 and Harpoon Hanna’s, is nearing the end of its useful service life. And with several large cracks and exposed reinforcement, officials are looking to replace the bridge entirely.

To that end, DelDOT representatives in February presented community members with plans for a construction project that would start in the fall of 2024 and end in May of 2026. Dean reported that construction would pause during the summer months.

“We’re going to eliminate half the spans and double the span length, so it’s going to go from 40 feet to 80 feet,” he said in February. “It will open up that waterway a little bit, so it should be better for navigation and recreation.”

During the first phase of construction, Dean said crews will construct a temporary sidewalk and modify the existing layout to support two lanes of traffic before starting demolition and construction of the first half of the bridge. During the second phase, traffic will shift to the newly built portion of the bridge while the second half is demolished and rebuilt.

The upcoming workshop will be held Tuesday, Aug. 15 from 4-7 p.m. at the Roxana Volunteer Fire Company. The location is accessible to persons having disabilities. Persons who require auxiliary aids and services such as qualified interpreters are requested to contact DelDOT by phone or mail one week in advance.

Jolly Roger Hosts Christmas In July

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Jolly Roger Amusement Parks celebrated Christmas in July this week with a Toys for Tots drive to benefit local families.

On Tuesday, Jolly Roger Amusement Parks partnered with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to collect new, unwrapped toys and monetary donations in celebration of Christmas in July. In addition to the toy collection, guests who brought in a $20 donation received a discount on any park purchase.

“Thank you Jolly Roger for having us again this year,” said Sharon Ruest, Toys for Tots coordinator. “This is actually year number six, so we are excited to be here again and for the tremendous support you provide to the local Toys for Tots campaigns. Last year, our campaign distributed over 10,000 toys to over 4,400 kids. So it was an amazing year for us, and part of that is because of what Jolly Roger does to kick us off in July.”

Each year, on July 24 and 25, Jolly Roger Amusement Parks celebrates Christmas in July with Christmas-themed festivities throughout its parks. This year’s annual celebration included free pictures with Santa, holiday-themed shows and circus performances, and a toy drive, which took place at the 30th Street park on Tuesday.

“It’s nice to be at Jolly Roger again as we celebrate Christmas in July in Ocean City,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “I want to

thank everybody for participating and Jolly Roger, of course, for bringing this event forward. It’s all for a good cause, not to just celebrate Christmas in July, but for Toys for Tots, and how important it is to so many people throughout our country.”

On Tuesday, Jolly Roger Amusement Park officials joined with elected leaders, representatives of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and Ocean City Jeep Club, and the First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League to kick off the park’s Toys for Tots campaign.

The toy drive featured a color guard presentation by the First State Detachment, a check presentation from Jolly Roger and speeches from park staff and local officials.

“What a perfect place to do this,” Meehan said. “This is where all the kids in Ocean City come to enjoy time with their families. So it’s really the perfect venue to hold Christmas in July.”

Chamber representative Colby Noble also recognized Jolly Roger for their efforts.

“You are a big part of the community, so everything you guys put back into it is amazing,” she said. “We know everything you’ve done for Toys for Tots is going to help all the kids.”

Over the years, Jolly Roger Amusement Parks has collected hundreds of toys and thousands of dollars in donations as part of its participation in the Toys for Tots campaign. For more information, visit jollyrogerpark.com/christmas-in-july.

Representatives with Toys for Tots and the First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League are pictured collecting toys as part of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks’ annual Christmas in July celebration.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Fee Waived For Town Contractors

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Berlin officials agreed to waive business license fees for contractors hired by the town.

On Monday, the Berlin Town Council voted 4-1, with Councilman Dean Burrell opposed, to refrain from charging business license fees to companies working directly for the town.

“There would not be any sense in charging them the license fee because they would simply pass that cost back to the town,” Town Administrator Mary Bohl-

en said.

Last month, the council updated the code to give the town the ability to charge business license fees to any businesses that operated in town, not just those with physical locations in Berlin. Bohlen told the council this week that as a follow-up to that ordinance, she was asking the council to waive those fees for contractors who worked for the town.

“This was an oversight on my part,” she said.

Bohlen said that the town hired contractors throughout the year and under the new ordinance, those companies would have to pay the business license fee to do work in Berlin. Because the fee is typically passed on to the customer, Bohlen said the companies would charge the town for the cost. As a result she said she was asking the council to waive that fee when companies were hired directly by the town.

“This would provide us with the ability to waive the fee in those cases, for outside contractors hired for town projects,” she said. “However, if those contractors do work for other customers within the town, they would need to pay the fee.”

Burrell said he wasn’t comfortable with the idea.

“If the cost is going to be passed on to the public, it needs to be handled the same way for the town,” he said.

Bohlen said what was proposed was similar to the way the town would handle a building permit, as it would not charge itself. She added that if the contractor did work for anyone else in Berlin, they would then have to pay the business license fee.

“The town is not issuing them a free license to work here,” said David Gaskill, the town’s attorney.

The council voted 4-1, with Burrell opposed, to approve waiving the fee. When Councilman Steve Green asked how the fee in general was being received, Planning Director Dave Engelhart said numerous contractors had already paid. Engelhart said his office had emailed contractors alerting them of the need for a business license prior to the July 1 effective date.

“They’re used to it,” Engelhart said. “We got a lot of them. Our regular home improvement guys that we see all the time, same thing. We didn’t have a complaint from anybody. For the region, it’s common.”

Flying North: A pod of pelicans are pictured in flight over the Atlantic Ocean on Monday morning.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Q&A With Fenwick Island’s Town Council Candidates

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Fenwick Island voters will have much to consider next week when they head to the polls for this year’s town council election.

On Saturday, Aug. 5, the Town of Fenwick Island will hold its municipal election for the offices of town council.

This year, eight candidates – Janice Bortner, John Gary Burch, Kristina Clark, Natalie Magdeburger, Bernie Merritt, Jacque Napolitano, James Simpson and Kurt Zanelotti – will vie for four seats currently held by Bortner, Magdeburger, Napolitano and outgoing Councilman Paul Breger.

Ahead of next week’s election, The Dispatch asked each candidate to answer a series of questions. The following highlights the responses of all eight participants.

Q: Why are you running as a candidate for the Fenwick Island Town Council?

Bortner: Two years ago, Fenwick voters' mandate was clear - those elected to Fenwick Island Town Council must protect Fenwick's quiet, family friendly community for future generations. I am running for a second term on the Fenwick Island Town Council because I want to continue the positive initiatives this current Council and dedicated, talented committee members have accomplished

towards this mandate. If reelected I, along with my like-minded Council members, will continue to protect the Town from self-serving outside interests attempting to advance infrastructure and zoning changes with reckless or no regard for the Town's capacity limitations or adverse impact on resident quality of life within the Fenwick community.

Burch: I have been a property owner since Nov. 1993 and recently my wife Tracey and I became full time residents in Fenwick. It appears that the current

council is forgetting the importance of our businesses and what they bring to our town. No one wants another “Dewey” here in Fenwick! We just want to able to enjoy our restaurants and shops as well as our beaches. We want to be able to walk our streets safely. We need to look at all options in mitigating the flooding from the bay. We need to come together and get our job done without all the controversy and drama within the council, so we can keep Fenwick a place we can call home for our families.

Clark: I am running for Town Council because I am tired of the negative publicity our current Council has brought to the forefront over the last two years. In addition, we need to stop implementing initiatives that have caused the excessive lawsuits and limits renovations in the business sector. Moreover, with the termination of Chief Devlin, it has left our town with a lack of staff and reduced police coverage. It is time for a positive change!

Magdeburger: I was elected two years ago; I have also had the honor to serve as Fenwick’s Mayor. For a list of what we accomplished, please see: www.votetoprotectFenwick.com. Developers and their investors have sought to change our community character by seeking outdoor bars and shuttles as well as other changes to our Town’s culture that benefit them financially but jeopardize our uncrowded beaches and quiet community. I promise to safeguard and promote the quiet family-friendly character of Fenwick by working FOR Fenwick so that Fenwick remains unique among the Delaware coastal communities.

Merritt: I decided to return to the council after serving from 2016-21 because the existing Council seems to have lost their way. Their continuous interest in pushing a punitive agenda and passing ordinances that are in the selfinterest of a small minority has given the people of Fenwick concern about the direction of our town. The last two years there has been a Neighbor vs Neighbor mentality. People want our elected officials to make logical and reasonable de-

cisions and not look for problems where there are none.

Napolitano: I decided to run for Town Council to protect this Quiet Resort. Since being elected I have been a member of the C&O Committee, Budget and Finance Committee and Chairman of the Beach Committee. Much of my efforts while serving on Town Council are focused on organizing events that bring our Town together such as the Fenwick Freeze and the Town Bonfire as well as beach enhancements. I have been unwavering in my love for Fenwick and maintaining its quiet charm and character. If re-elected, I will continue to work hard to keep Fenwick the family-oriented community we all have been drawn to and love.

Simpson: The council needs a reset. Too many council actions are based on personal vendettas and perceived slights. The council should be about doing things for people not to people. Acting on the needs and wants of the larger community has been replaced with listening to a vocal few. Transparency is an absolute necessity. The entire community deserves to be heard, whether you like it or not. Too much use of executive sessions and closed-door meetings are prevalent. Every council vote is unanimous. That is not the real world. Sunlight is the best disinfectant.

Zanelotti: My wife and I chose Fenwick Island because we loved the character of the town and all that it stood for – a little slice of Americana on the ocean. I am running for Fenwick Town Council to preserve and protect what we found in 2005 so that future generations can find what we found, a caring and neighborly community. Building on the gains that have been made by the current council, I intend to continue to address Coastal Highway safety and the completion of dredging our channels. Shuttles from out of town need to be directed to the state beaches.

Q: The town recently completed its draft comprehensive plan, which will guide future growth in Fenwick Island. What do you think are some of the biggest issues identified in the planning document, and do you agree with the goals and recommendations?

Bortner: The Vision Statement of Fenwick's Comprehensive Plan reads, "To be a quiet, family-oriented and walkable community, which protects its natural beach and bay environment while including a desirable and sustainable primary residential area as well as a vibrant commercial area." I believe all decisions implemented by the Town should support this Vision Statement. This Vision Statement continues to ring true with Fenwick residents as well. In a recent survey sent to them by the Planning Commission to Fenwick residents, 80% of respondents indicated that the their #1 priority was to maintain Fenwick's quiet, family-oriented community.

Burch: I believe there are several issues described in the Plan that are very important to all within the Town. 1) Pedestrian safety thru the crosswalks as

Pictured, from top left, are candidates Janice Bortner, John Gary Burch, Kristina Clark, Natalie Magdeburger, Bernie Merritt, Jacque Napolitano, James Simpson and Kurt Zanelotti. Submitted Photos

Municipal Election Set For Next Saturday, Aug 5

well as Bicyclists safety. This is paramount and needs to be addressed much sooner than later. 2) Speed controls on SR1 thru Fenwick – collaborate with DelDot and their recommendations for traffic calming measures at all cross walks. 3) Tidal Flooding on our Bay Side - this is a lurking problem for us all and needs to be investigated thru all options on how to mitigate this issue.

Clark: Essential for any community, the Comprehensive Plan indicates a robust demand for redevelopment. Yet, the latest actions of the Town Council contradict this. They've enacted initiatives, like the recent parking ratio ordinance, which curbs the redevelopment potential in the commercial sector. Such steps seem misaligned with the Comprehensive Plan's core objectives.

Magdeburger: I served on the Planning Commission and was assigned as primary author of two chapters, including “Safe Streets for All” and the “Bay.” See: https://fenwickisland.delaware.gov/files/ 2023/06/COMPPLAN2023.pdf. Coastal Highway safety and bayside flooding are the biggest issues in the near-term. However, long-range resiliency planning against sea-level rise is our greatest risk over the long-term. I agree with the goals and recommendations outlined in the implementation portion of the plan and the specific action items with timetables to ensure Fenwick’s future will have a healthy bay and ocean, safe streets for all as well as being resilient to the bayside flooding and projected sea level rise.

Merritt: The plan has always been a road map to discuss and protect current issues that face the town. Prioritizing Tidal Flooding is critical. Continuing to work with State and other Municipalities will be critical for developing a plan to minimize flooding in the future. Dredging should continue to be a top priority. Residents need to have safe access to Assawoman Bay. Building creative solutions to keep our businesses strong an attract others that enhance our resident and visitor experiences in Fenwick is critical.

Napolitano: I attended a number of Planning Commission meetings (the group met almost once a week) and I was very impressed with the final product. It was a very easy decision for me to vote to approve it; I very much agree with the goals and recommendations of the Plan and encourage everyone to read it. The two biggest issues confronting the Town are improving Route 1 safety and creating a long-term plan to create resiliency against sea level rise and bayside flooding. I believe the Comprehensive Plans gives us a clear pathway to achieve the goals outlined to do so.

Simpson: As drafted, the plan is an aspirational document. Our geographical boundaries are such that we are confined as to land. The biggest issue we face is the bay flooding. No one I have ever met favors height & density increases and neither am I. Since everyone seems to be sync on these issues, it’s time that we look to the future and address flooding, traffic on Coastal High-

way, address parking issues in a logical manner, stem the thousands spent on self-inflicted lawsuits and of utmost importance address the out-of-control deficit spending by the current council. $500 thousand deficits are simply unacceptable.

Zanelotti: The Fenwick Island Comprehensive Plan is a valuable blueprint for Fenwick’s future. Our biggest threat is resiliency (frequency of flooding). DNREC & DELDOT’s default position is to seawall the west side of Coastal Highway and a “managed retreat”. This means forfeiting our homes over the next 30 to 40 years through condemnation! Our number one concern is pedestrian safety. We simply cannot be the “end drop” for every development west of us due to Sussex planning. DNREC needs to expand the public beach parking at the State beaches north of us. I support our businesses and want their continued success.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish if elected to the town council?

Bortner: If given the honor to serve again on Town Council, I will:

• work to mitigate the negative impact the rapid commercial and residential development along Rt. 54 has had on the quality of life in Fenwick Island;

• prioritize pedestrian safety for our community;

• continue to advocate to protect our environment for future generation;

• support the efforts to mitigate bayside flooding alongside our talented Committee members and partners; and

• continue to advocate for resident concerns and initiatives as chair of the Residential Committee.

I humbly ask for your vote and support to protect the heritage and values that make Fenwick Island a treasured coastline community.

Burch: If I am elected, I hope we can come together without any hidden agendas and work together on the real issues that have been outlined in the 2023 Comp. Plan. We need to make sure that our pedestrians are safe when crossing SR1. We need to bring a working relationship with our business partners and listen to everyone in the town. Exhaust all options to mitigate the Bay flooding. Revisit our parking polices with a commonsense approach! Listen to the everyone in Fenwick with common courtesy and put a sincere effort to bring back the town where it once was.

Clark: If elected to Town Council, I wish to bring back a sense of community, instead of divisiveness, between the residential area and the commercial district. The commercial district is an integral part of our community, as they pay more in tax revenue in addition to room rental fees for the 3 hotels in Town. I'm eager to rebuild our revered reputation and cease being the subject of mockery on the Eastern Shore.

Magdeburger: Because Route 1 safety remains an immediate priority, I will seek engineering changes to make the highway corridor safer, work with our police department to educate drivers of the need to slow down and stop at our

crosswalks and enforce our laws to ensure that they do. Regarding resiliency planning, I will foster a community-wide discussion on what engineering recommendations we should undertake as well as advocate to the appropriate agencies for funding. My priority will be to ensure that “managed retreat” is not an option and that our bayside businesses and homes are resilient against projected sea level rise.

Merritt: If I am elected, I hope to bring back a sense of community and stop the cloud of turmoil that sits over our town. Our residents should be our priority. Pitting neighbors against each other has to stop. We need to listen and be transparent. I would like to work on the aesthetics of our commercial district, develop logical solutions to our parking by allowing people to park at places like Town Hall, protecting pedestrian safety as well as to work and push for the completion of dredging our channels.

Napolitano: I will continue to work toward protecting and preserving the quiet family-friendly character of Fenwick. It is important that Fenwick keeps the charm that brought us here in the first place and to help plan for Fenwick’s future so we can be resilient against sea level rise and increasing pressure from developers and their investors. I also look forward to continuing to create and promote community-wide events that help bring our Town together. I have met so

many loving Fenwick families through the events that we have hosted and look forward to meeting many more. https://www.votetoprotectfenwick.com.

Simpson: Transparency, transparency, transparency. The current chaos & turmoil needs to end. Open government and inclusiveness are paramount. Most of our issues can be resolved by listening to the stakeholders and having an open dialogue. Budget deficits, bay flooding, parking, meaningful traffic, and speed issues will be my priorities. The appearance of Coastal Highway needs a fluff as well. I will work to involve the Barefoot Garden Club and the property owners along Coastal to identify and initiate improvements. I will listen to the community and consider all viewpoints. Stifling resident input does not serve the community well.

Zanelotti: If elected, my goal is to be a conduit for both residents and businesses to have a voice in committee hearings and to make those venues accessible and well publicized. I will do everything in my power to preserve and protect the integrity of Fenwick Island and to keep it a quiet family friendly community. We all came to Fenwick Island for the same reason; to enjoy our beautiful beaches, bay and way of life. I pledge to listen and respect all viewpoints, business and residents alike, and to govern in the best interests of our community.

Monday: History of our Surfmen

Tuesday: Beach Safety (OC Beach Patrol)

Wednesday: Knot Tying (Coast Guard)

Thursday: All About Sharks

Friday: Land, Sky, & Sea

Saturday: Aquarium Feeding

Daily Aquarium Feeding

Through August 31, 2023 At 11:30 a.m.

People in Society

by Charlene Sharpe

Featuring Those

Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Volunteers with Town Cats are pictured at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market.

Volunteers from the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department sell raffle tickets at the farmers market.

Brandon and Megan Cater host a theatre camp at Stephen Decatur High School.

Erika Holecheck sells Lyon Rum at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market.

Terry Jordan of Longridge Gardens was one of numerous vendors at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market.

Brycen and Tristan Pendleton attend theatre camp at Stephen Decatur High School.

Dave Landis represents the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City at the farmers market.

Bob Capece stands with a piece of his artwork at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market.

Coty Wisseman and Heather Hall of The Ugly Pie are pictured at the market.

Members of the Pine’eer Craft Club staffed the gift shop at White Horse Park.

Planners Eye Code Changes For Garage Parking, Attics

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Code amendments pertaining to garage parking, habitable attic space and building height highlighted a lengthy discussion at the committee level last week.

Last week, staff presented the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission with three code amendments involving enclosed parking spaces, habitable attics and downtown building heights. After a lengthy discussion, the commission agreed to schedule a public hearing to gather feedback on the proposed changes.

“I think we’re ready to schedule,” said Chair Joe Wilson, “so anybody who wasn’t here tonight can add their two cents during the public hearing.”

Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville told commission members last week members of staff were bringing forward three code amendments talked about at length during previous commission meetings. The first, he said, would amend the town’s off-street parking code design standards to require minimum dimensions for enclosed garage parking spaces. He said while the town code established minimum dimensions for parking spaces, he suggested one- and two-car garage parking include additional footage to length and width.

“We know we’ve documented the concern about lack of storage and a concern about the size of vehicles and being able

to open doors,” he said. “There’s also a new issue we are starting to consider, which is the state is promoting the idea that a state-level requirement may be coming our way to require that EV charging stations be included in everybody’s residential construction … At this point, we don’t know what that means dimension wise. But to me, it helps support the idea that the extra foot on the front and back probably makes sense because we will start to see those features added.”

Simply put, Neville said staff was proposing parking space dimensions that were larger than those required for outside parking.

“We are going beyond what is a typical parking space dimension,” he explained.

“I think the national standard, the standard in other codes and ordinances, is the same for both inside and outside. What we’re saying is once you build inside of a garage, it needs to be different.”

Commissioners questioned what impact the change would have on current projects that have yet to start construction.

“Anything that has made it through at least site plan approval has to build according to those standards,” Neville replied. “If the site plan needs to be revised, there’s a chance to update it.”

He noted, however, that the proposed code change did not make it clear if the new dimensions would apply to commercial properties.

“Does it apply to a hotel that has a

whole floor that’s a parking garage?” he asked.

Wilson said it shouldn’t.

“I would say no, personally,” he replied. “I think we’re talking about a more residential garage … I would add some clarity to that. I don’t think a hotel garage should meet this standard.”

After further discussion, the commission agreed to move forward with the proposed code change.

“I think this is a huge step in the right direction,” Wilson said.

The commission last week also considered a proposed code amendment regarding habitable attics. While habitable attics may be used in mobile home districts, Neville said the code does not allow it in other areas of town.

“We had a planning commission meeting about this …,” he explained. “I think most people agreed in today’s day and age there’s a desire to have an extra bedroom for family or for rentals or everything else, that it seemed to be something we wanted to encourage rather than restrict.”

Neville said he was recommending that dormers not exceed 75% of the roof and that there be setback requirements. When asked if there had been requests to convert attics, Neville said there had.

“We’ve had requests for units that have open lofts that wanted to close them in, and we’ve had requests for infrastructure that propose any variety of living space with balconies and all kinds of things,” he replied.

Wilson said he supported the change, so long as it addressed parking.

“If they are going to have that as living space – whether it’s a living room or bedroom – I think the consensus I remember was we wanted it to be parked, meaning there’s parking associated with that space,” he said.

Staff last week also presented the commission with a proposed code amendment allowing building height for structures located within flood zones in the downtown and upper downtown overlay districts to be measured from above ground level parking underneath a building.

“The intent was two things,” Neville said. “One is to encourage any new construction to be elevated with parking underneath so additional parking was provided in the downtown area. And secondly, that it would improve the safety of the building for flood risk, even more than what our current regulations do, which is to measure from the base flood height.”

Instead of amending the building height definition, Neville suggested changing the zoning requirement to allow for additional elevation.

“If the goal is to provide additional development potential as an incentive to make sure the building type provides parking underneath, then let’s just call it what it is, granting any property – existing or proposed – the ability to go higher than what the zoning regulations allow,” he said.

GUARDING THE BEACH

Storm Safety Message: ‘When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors’

BY DAMIEN SANZOTTI SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

OCEAN CITY –I think we all know that lightning is extremely dangerous, and the beach may be one of the worst places to be during a lightning storm. The beach patrol’s goal is to make beach-goers aware of the dangers of lightning, as well as how the Ocean City Beach Patrol operates to keep you and your family safe during a lightning storm.

It often seems that vacationers are more

concerned with shark attacks (partly thanks to the Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week”) than the possibility of a lightning strike. However, in reality, statistics show that the concern should be the opposite. Lightning is nearly 50 times more dangerous than sharks. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates that lightning kills 49 people a year in the U.S. Shark fatalities average less than one fatality a year. Hundreds of people are injured every year from lightning strikes. Some of the injuries sustained are life-al-

tering and debilitating. Unfortunately, when people hear these types of statistics, they often ignore them thinking it won’t happen here or to me. In reality, there have been over a dozen people hit by lightning on or near Ocean City beaches and for five of these victims it was fatal.

The Ocean City Beach Patrol has specific procedures it follows when thunder is heard, lightning is spotted or when a severe weather warning is issued. When one of our lifeguards hears thunder, they immediately clear all swimmers from the water. The lifeguard then begins warning people about the impending danger of being near the water during an electrical storm. Many scientists believe (and the NWS includes it in warnings) that if you can hear thunder you are close enough to the storm to be struck. That means if you hear thunder when you are on the beach, it would be a good idea to begin to pack up your belongings and head indoors.

Once lightning is spotted, the beach is cleared immediately. Leave your belongings behind and get to safety, you may return after the danger passes to get your items. At this point our guards are told to take their own safety into account, clear the beach of all patrons, and take cover off the beach as quickly as possible. Another safety concern is that items on the beach become dangerous projectiles when these storm cells hit with high winds and

the only safe location is off the beach. Another statistic to consider is that NOAA estimates that 25% of fatal lightning strikes happen near water. Other dangerous areas include wide-open spaces, such as a sports field, a golf course or a BEACH. That is why our guards take the action of getting people off the beach during a storm so seriously. Generally, people can expect to wait 30 minutes after each rumble of thunder or visual of lightning before guards will begin allowing people back onto the beach. When the guards get back up in their stands it is safe to come onto the beach and play in the water.

The bottom line is during any type of storm with thunder or lightning, people should stop all activities and take cover indoors. It really is the only safe place. Please obey the directives of the beach patrol to keep you and your loved ones safe and so that our SRTs do not need to leave a place of safety to “remind” you to stay off the beach. NOAA continues to promote a slogan that is easy to remember, “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.”

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

DAMIEN SANZOTTI

OPA Opens Drop Box As Ballot Delays Continue

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Association has established a drop box location to ensure ballots are received ahead of the election deadline.

In response to the recent delay in members receiving election ballots, the association reports the Ocean Pines Elections Committee is taking action to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the voting process.

Committee Chair Tom Piatti said the lateness is not associated with the U.S. Postal Service and that ballots should arrive this week.

“Homeowners should immediately return their ballot by USPS mail, as stated in the enclosed voting instructions,” he said in a news release.

To provide expedited local service, Piatti said the association has set up a secure drop box at the police station, allowing members to drop off their completed ballots.

Those ballots will be shipped to the elections contractor via overnight express mail.

“We recognize the importance of providing our members with a seamless voting experience,” Piatti said. “In light of the ballot delay, we are proactively implementing a drop box solution to allow our members to submit their ballots with ease.”

Earlier this year, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors selected Election Trust, a Washington-based company, as the association’s new elections contractor.

The company’s bid included an agreement to handle all printing, mailing, receipt and counting of votes for the 2023 board election at a cost of $15,944.

“I think this is one of the things we need to do moving forward with the technology we have,” Director Rick Farr, board liaison for the Ocean Pines Elections Committee, said in May. “And I think it’s one of the things that would be best for the association.”

In June, officials announced ballots would be mailed to property owners the week of July 11, with ballots due back to Election Trust by close of business on Aug. 8.

In an effort to help association members meet that deadline, a drop box became operational on Monday, July 24.

Piatti added that the ballot receipt deadline to the Washington state elections contractor is still Tuesday, Aug. 8.

Members seeking further information are asked to contact the elections committee at elections@oceanpines.org.

This year’s ballot count will be held on Aug. 10, with the association’s annual meeting set for Aug. 12.

For more information, visit oceanpines.org and click on the “2023 OPA Board Election” banner at the top of the page.

New Clinical Officer

SALISBURY – Coastal Hospice has appointed, Ann Lovely, RN, BSN, CHPN, as chief clinical officer.

Lovely is a certified hospice and palliative care nurse with more than 20 years of experience in end-of-life care.

“Ann is one of our most experienced clinical leaders,” said Coastal Hospice President & CEO Monica Escalante. “Her well-rounded knowledge of the organization, along with her extensive hands-on experience in care will propel Coastal Hospice to the next level.”

Lovely began her hospice career in 1999 as a certified nursing assistant at Coastal Hospice while attending Wor-Wic Community College, pursuing a nursing degree. She became a registered nurse case manager, mentoring new hires and student interns. After completing her Bachelors in Nursing, Lovely rose quickly to the ranks of clinical leadership, becoming education coordinator, bringing end-of-life education to healthcare professionals in the community and later becoming manager of quality and education.

Lovely mentioned that it was because of the care that Coastal Hospice provided to a loved one, that she decided to work for Coastal Hospice.

“I was impressed with the care that my family member received in the early 90s, so much so that I make it my goal to continue to ensure the same kind of care, by mentoring staff to uphold the high standards of care set so many years ago,” said Lovely.

During the past 24 years, Lovely has been involved in almost all aspects of the organization and has served as director of quality assurance, compliance, infection control, education, medical records, and access services.

She has been instrumental in the continued quality care high scores obtained by our organization, along with the accreditations that ensure the high standards of our care for our patients and families.

Appointment Announced

ANNAPOLIS – Delegate Wayne Hartman has officially been appointed to the Maryland Tourism Development Board

by House of Delegates Speaker Adrienne Jones.

The mission of this board is to guide activities to develop and market the state as a destination for tourism.

“I am pleased to appoint Delegate Wayne Hartman to serve as a House of Delegates representative on the Maryland Tourism Development Board,” said Jones. “I am confident that Delegate Hartman will share his extensive experience and leadership skills with the Maryland Tourism Development Board and that his expertise will benefit the tasks of the Board.”

In addition, the Maryland Free Enterprise Foundation, a statewide, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, has released the 2023 edition of its annual publication, Roll Call, now available online.

Hartman scored 100% on this year’s Roll Call, indicating a strong pro-business and pro-job growth position. Delegate Hartman also tied for the highest cumulative score (99%) amongst all veteran legislators in the Maryland House of Delegates (minimum 4 years’ service).

“I am honored to be appointed to the Maryland Tourism Development Board as District 38C plays a huge role in our state’s economy,” Hartman said. “I look forward to working with the Board to increase Maryland’s tourism rates and overall competitiveness. My business score from the Maryland Free Enterprise Foundation reflects my voting record during session in Annapolis. I will always remain committed to supporting economic development, job creation, and a strong business climate throughout Maryland.”

Executive Chef Welcomed

REHOBOTH BEACH – Dianna Barr has worked in restaurants in Florida, Georgia and Maryland. But when she began working at The Cottage Café in Bethany Beach, she found her home in Delaware.

Recently, Barr was promoted to executive chef of the iconic restaurant, which has become as much of the Southern Delaware experience as a stroll on the Bethany Beach Boardwalk or a snapshot by the signature totem pole.

The café is famous for Delmarva favorites — such as crab cakes and three

crab soups — and comfort classics, including pot roast.

“Dianna understands our loyal fan base and the importance of The Cottage Café to the community,” said Ronnie Burkle, the restaurant’s corporate chef. “What’s more, she’s a hard worker respected by her staff. She truly loves what she does, and I look forward to watching her grow as a chef and leader.”

Barr grew up in southeast Georgia and moved to Delaware for a degree in human services from Delaware Technical Community College.

However, she was drawn to the hospitality industry — and no wonder. She was just 13 when she got a job as a dishwasher at a Jekyll Island, Ga., restaurant. Barr worked her way up to serving and helped prep and cook.

While pursuing a degree in psychology, she fell in love with The Cottage Café and decided to pursue her culinary career, a job that plays to her southern roots.

“Southerners want to make sure that people are fed, happy and enjoying themselves,” she explains. “Personally, I love the everyday smells and sounds of the kitchen and the camaraderie of working with a team.”

The chef credits her mother and her daughter as her biggest inspirations. She lives in Frankford, Del., with her brother and daughter.

The Cottage Café is at 33034 Coastal Highway in Southern Bethany Beach. Visit cottagecafe.com for more information.

National Recognition

SALISBURY – Becker Morgan Group is honored to be recognized by Engineering News Record as a 2022 Mid-Atlantic Top Design Firm for the ninth year in a row.

Ranking No. 64 represents a four-point climb up the list from the prior year. Projects contributing to this success include Wor-Wic Community College’s Patricia and Alan Guerrieri Applied Technology Center, Milford Police Station, Milford Wellness Village, and Margaritaville Hotel & Resort.

“We are proud of our talented staff and thankful for our devoted clients who have made this achievement possible,” said Founder and President W. Ronald Morgan, AIA.

CEO Transition

SALISBURY – Perdue Farms announced today that Kevin McAdams, COO and president, will transition to the role of chief executive officer, as part of a planned succession announced in April 2023. McAdams brings 30 years of successful leadership in the food and beverage industry to the vertically integrated food and agriculture company and fourth-largest producer of chicken products in the United States.

Randy Day, who held the CEO position since April 2017, will be staying on as an advisor to Perdue through 2024.

“After 43 years with Perdue, and the last six as CEO, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family. I appreciate the opportunity to serve this wonderful organization for my entire career,” said Day. “I know that I am leaving our company in good hands with Kevin, who possesses the values and leadership qualities to continue driving the business toward our vision to be the most trusted name in food and agricultural products.”

“As a 103-year-old, family-owned company, we have been very deliberate in our succession planning and believe Kevin is the right person to lead the next chapter of our company’s history,” said Perdue Farms Chairman Jim Perdue. “I am personally grateful to Randy for his four decades of service to our business, his leadership, friendship, and contributions to our growth and success, and wish him the best in his retirement.”

“The opportunity to lead such a wellestablished, values-based company is the professional honor of a lifetime,” said McAdams. “I am grateful to the leadership team, including Randy and Jim, for their support and confidence, and the committed team of 21,000 associates producing high-quality, trusted food for families nationwide, our network of family farmers, and our customers and consumers.”

McAdams joined Perdue in July of 2022. He has a proven track record of achieving profitable, sustainable growth and driving operational excellence for top performing food and beverage companies.

DIANNE BARR

ANN LOVELY

KEVIN MCADAMS

COMMUNITY News In Photos

Michelle Nelson-Schmidt, author and illustrator of 33 books, spoke about finding joy to dozens of children and adults at Caprichos Books in Ocean Pines on July 22.

The Knights of Columbus recently donated $400 to the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health to support Aid and Support After Pregnancy (ASAP). Pictured Joann Manole, executive director of the Grace Center, accepting the Knights of Columbus ASAP check from Sir Knight Tom Anderson of OC Council #9053.

Amberlina’s Adventures performed July 18 at the Ocean Pines library as part of the All Together Now Summer Reading Program. The interactive show featured a variety of games, dances and stories for local children. Submitted Photos

The Germantown School Community Heritage Center hosted its “An Evening of Reggae” fundraiser on July 15. Attendees enjoyed live reggae music and jerk chicken platters.

Greg Cathell is the 2023 - 2024 OC Lions president. Pictured, back from left, are Director John Topher, Food Drive Chair Jeff Facello, Directors Ken Robertson and Doug Parks, Membership and Scholarship Chair Sean Williams, 2nd Vice President Mike Hooper and outgoing President Norm Cathell. Seated are 1st Vice President Scott Stark, Secretary Steve McMillan, and President Greg Cathell.

On July 8, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City held its second pancake breakfast of the year. Pictured left to right are Kiwanians "Kitchen Krew" head and pancake chef Mike Castoro, servers Dick Clagett, Tony Winter, Lyle Dillon and volunteer Angelina Li.

OC Art League

OCEAN CITY –The Art League of Ocean City is offering a series of free pre-recorded online “Business of Art” classes with the support of a grant from the Worcester County Arts Council.

Designed for artists who want to learn more about the business side of art, these pre-recorded classes cover a variety of topics, including marketing and promotion, pricing strategies, legal issues, and financial management. Each class is taught by a professional artist or business expert who has experience in the art world and can offer valuable insights and advice.

The three classes were pre-recorded by the instructors, so viewers can access them with an internet connection from anywhere at any time. They are open to artists of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to professionals, and are free to view.

David Baxter leads an “Intro to Etsy” course, geared toward anyone considering opening an online store to market and sell their work and who doesn’t know where to start.

Scholarship Donation: Wor-Wic Community College recently received a $6,240 donation in memory of Deputy 1st Class Brian K. Heller for the endowed scholarship in his name. Pictured, from left, Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, along with Heller’s mother Connie Widmann and her husband, Dave, of Parsonsburg, presented the donation to Stefanie K. Rider, executive director of the Wor-Wic Foundation and director of development, Heather Trader, development specialist, and Dr. Ray Hoy, president of Wor-Wic. The gift represents proceeds from a recent trap shooting contest. The scholarship fund was created in 2004 for criminal justice students from Worcester, Wicomico or Somerset Counties in memory of Heller, who died in the line of duty in 2000. Submitted Photo

Abbi Custis teaches “Branding and Marketing for Artists.” Lack of marketing is a common reason why talented artists don’t generate income, and Custis reviews what’s needed in promotional tool-

kits.

Liz Kauffman discusses “Best Practices for Creative Professionals,” covering how to connect with an audience and where to find opportunities for making

money from art.

The free pre-recorded online classes are available to access at OCart.org. Additional information is available by calling 410-524-9433.

Berlin Library Branch Featuring Local Artwork This Summer

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Artwork from two local artists is now featured in the gallery at the Berlin library.

Worcester County Arts Council artists Beth Cooper and Carol Gentes both have paintings displayed in the second-floor gallery at the Berlin branch of the Worcester County Library.

“The Worcester County Arts Council is proud to provide additional opportunities for local artists to showcase their creative talents at the library gallery,” said Anna Mullis, executive director of the Worcester County Arts Council. “We are fortunate to live in a county where the arts are thriving, valued and appreciated.”

Cooper, always a lover of art, has been painting seriously slightly more than 20 years. She started with watercolors and has expanded to acrylics, oils and gouache. She enjoys painting Eastern Shore landscapes and for the past 10 years has produced the popular Shorescapes calendar. Some of the paintings that have been featured in the calendar are on display at the library. In the upstairs gallery, visitors can see a variety of Cooper’s work, including several seascapes and other paintings inspired by nature.

“I can’t replicate God’s creation but I can at least show what I enjoy,” she said.

Her favorite pieces on display include a portrait of a rooster—one she recalls getting lost in the detail on—and another of a lighthouse that brings to mind fond memories of a family trip.

“I learn a little with each project,” she said.

The other featured artist in the gallery this month is Gentes, who moved to the Eastern Shore more than 20 years ago. Gentes said she enjoys painting birds, animals and ocean creatures, often inspired by her own photographs.

Cooper and Gentes will have their paintings on display at the gallery in the library until September. Mullis said the Worcester County Arts Council was grateful for its partnership with the library, as being able to use exhibit space there increases the public’s access to local art.

“It's our role as the designated leading arts organization to support the arts and artists and to provide accessible venues to various art experiences to our local community,” Mullis said. “The partnership with the Worcester County libraries and library foundation allow us to strengthen and maximize our impact through the arts in the communities we serve.”

Tickets Available For Chamber Music Festival Fundraiser

BERLIN – The annual Chamber Music

By The Sea festival has been delighting Maryland’s Eastern Shore audiences for the past seven years and for its upcoming eighth season, it has new treats in store.

The 2023 festival, which runs from Aug. 13-19, welcomes some of the world’s most acclaimed young musicians and branches out to new venues in both Berlin and Snow Hill. Additionally, this year’s festival welcomes the public for a behind-the-scenes peek at how the musical magic is made.

Violinist Elena Urioste, founder and artistic director of Chamber Music by the Sea, is grateful for the support the festival has received through the years and is eager to keep audiences coming back for more.

“I wanted to reinvigorate things this year so that newcomers, as well as our friends who have been with us all along, will have something fresh and exciting to look forward to,” she said.

Along with new venues like Berlin’s iconic Atlantic Hotel and Snow Hill’s Bishop’s Stock gallery that join returning events at Temple Bat Yam and All Hallows Episcopal Church, this summer’s festival also includes an open-air rehearsal on South Point that is open to the public, a free family concert at the Berlin library, and an informal outdoor performance on the lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum.

Urioste is joined this summer by several returning festival favorites: violinists Grace Park and Melissa White and cellists Guy Johnston and Brook Speltz. Completing the musical roster is violist Kyle Armbrust in his Chamber Music by the Sea debut.

The festival is under the sponsorship of the Worcester County Education Foundation, generously funded by the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, and with continuing support from the Ocean City Lioness Club.

The 2023 festival schedule includes:

Sunday, Aug. 13, 3 p.m.: ticketed salon concert and reception at a private Snow Hill home (seating limited).

Monday, Aug. 14, 11 a.m.: open-air rehearsal on South Point.

Tuesday, Aug. 15, 7 p.m.: ticketed salon concert and reception at Bishop’s Stock Gallery, Snow Hill (seating limited).

Wednesday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m.: ticketed concert and reception at Temple Bat Yam, Berlin.

Thursday, Aug. 17, 10:30 a.m.: Free family concert at the Berlin Public Library. Student workshop (open to the public) to follow at noon.

Thursday, Aug. 17, 7 p.m.: ticketed concert at the Atlantic Hotel, Berlin

Friday, Aug. 18, 7 p.m: ticketed concert at All Hallows Episcopal Church, Snow Hill.

Saturday, Aug. 19, 11 a.m.: free openair informal performance on the lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, Berlin.

Tickets at chambermusicbythesea.com.

Kennard River Run Donates Over $14K Back To Community

SALISBURY –As the result of a successful 2023 race, the Tim Kennard River Run donated more than $14,000 back to the community this month.

The 18th annual event was held March 19 at Salisbury Bible Fellowship, with Rob’s Run for Kids held the prior day at the Evolution Craft Brewing Co. Public House. More than 300 runners participated in the 10-mile and 5K races.

Since its inception, the Tim Kennard River Run has benefited children and animals, as race namesake Kennard requested before he died of kidney cancer in 2004.

“We are so proud to carry on Tim Kennard’s legacy by supporting these wonderful community organizations,” said Race Director Harlan Eagle. “Thanks to all who participated in this year’s event, as well as to our sponsors who make the Tim Kennard River Run possible.”

The Tim Kennard River Run, presented by Pohanka of Salisbury, donated $5,000 to Coalition of Caring, a fund for animals in need; $3,000 to TEAM 360, which helps people of different abilities participate in mainstream athletic events; and $3,000 to the Eastern Shore Running Club Scholarship Fund, which funds college scholarships for local high school seniors.

Salisbury Bible Fellowship stepped up when a location was needed for the 2022 race and continued as the host for 2023. In appreciation for the church’s kindness and support, the race committee also awarded the church $3,000 for a second year.

Salisbury Bible Fellowship will again host the Tim Kennard River Run in 2024. The race committee decided to move the Tim Kennard River Run up by two weeks, back to its former race weekend, and next year’s race will be held Sunday, March 3, 2024.

Rob’s Run for Kids raised $515 for a scholarship in Rob Schultheis’ name at the Salisbury University Foundation. Schultheis was a local runner and community advocate.

The race would like to thank the following 2023 sponsors, in addition to Pohanka of Salisbury: The Gaudreau Law Firm, Geiger Pump & Equipment, Vernon Powell Shoes, Avery Hall, Brad and Kim Gillis, Bernstein Family, Camp Odyssey, Carey Chiropractic, Chiamulera Family, Culling Innovations Photography, DIY Marine & Auto Detailing, Driven Physiotherapy, Eastern Shore Running Club, Evolution Craft Brewing Co. Public House, Excelsia Injury Care, Fixer Upper Health Club, Hampton Inn & Suites Salisbury/Fruitland, Jan and Jim Perdue, King Kone, Krometis Family, Pemberton Appliance, Pepsi, Pete Richardson Family, Rise Up Coffee, Salisbury Bible Fellowship, Sharp Energy, Signs by Andrea, Sysco and Whitehead Real Estate.

Proceeds from this year’s event helped to support several local organizations, including Coalition of Caring, above.

Photo by Culling Innovations Photography

with Scott Lenox

Hello everyone and welcome to late July when humid weather sets in with plenty of fishable days out there.

The Ocean City Marlin Club held its Kid’s Classic Tournament last weekend and it was a huge success. There were 73 boats participating with hundreds of junior anglers and lots of bent rods and smiling faces. The kids checked in everything from spot to marlin releases and everyone had a great time at the awards banquet on Sunday night. Congratulations to the youth anglers and to the OC Marlin Club on an awesome event.

There are some bigeye and yellowfin tuna in the Washington Canyon, but unfortunately there are a lot of sharks there, too. Anglers are patiently waiting to get a few bites on trolled spreader bars and ballyhoo and then feverishly cranking the fish to the boat and hoping that they don’t get “sharked”. I had the pleasure of fishing on board the Spring Mix II last week with Captain Chris Watkowski and Bobby, Mel and Lloyd from Harborside Bar and Grill and we were lucky enough to get one out of three bites. We hooked three bigeye all at once then lost two and got one big fish to the boat. The big “eyeball” would have been over 200 pounds had a shark not taken some bites, but it still weighed in at

an impressive 192.8 pounds. The action should make a great new episode of Hooked on OC.

Sea bass fishing over ocean structure continues to slow slightly with warming water temperatures, but at the same time flounder fishing in the ocean is improving. Ocean bottom anglers are having to weed through lots of short sea bass, when a keeper does show up it’s usually well over the 13” minimum size limit. The keeper to throwback for flounder in the ocean is much higher with most fish coming from the ocean being over the 16” minimum size with a few jumbos in the mix up to 7.5 pounds. The ocean party boats are seeing plenty of keeper flounder on their trips and targeted flounder trips are seeing lots of keepers with some boat limits.

This weekend is the 10th Anniversary of the Big Fish Classic, an awesome event where any big fish can place in the tournament and anglers can fish one of two 32hour windows from lines in at 7 a.m. one day until 3 p.m. the next. Scales action will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday July 28-30 at the Talbot Street Pier next to M.R. Ducks and I’ll be the emcee for the entire weekend. If you can’t get there you can watch our live broadcast at www.BigFishClassic.com. Until next week, tight lines.

SEE PAGES 54-55

Captain Chris Little of the Talkin’ Trash put this group on an epic day that ended with four bigeye tuna and four stud yellowfin tuna. Submitted Photos

(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.)

this group had a great time on board the Judith M during the Wish-A-Fish trip associated with the OC Marlin Club’s Kid’s Classic Tournament. Opposite page, middle right, David Moore is back in the Assateague Surf and is back catching and releasing big bull red drum. Opposite page, bottom left, this snakehead was taken by bow and arrow on board Dusk to Dawn Bowfishing with Captain Marc Spagnola. Opposite page, bottom right, this big keeper flounder was caught on the Miss Ocean City fishing out of the Shark on the Harbor.

Above top left, Jacob Fitzimmons landed three keeper flounder up to 20.5” fishing live bunker with Mike G. Above left, measuring over 5’, this cutlassfish was the largest Captain Monty Hawkins has seen on the Morning Star. Above top right, Ben, Michael, Gary and Carter caught swordfish while fishing with Captain Jeff Landis on board Jacked Up. Above right, middle, Blake Gunther and the Yobst boys had a limit of flounder and a couple of triggerfish while fishing over ocean structure. Above right, bottom, Captain Chris Mizurak of the Angler put this lucky angler over top of his limit of nice keeper flounder on flat calm seas. Opposite page, top left, this 192.8-pound bigeye caught on board the Spring Mix II with Captain Chris Watkowski would have been over 200 if a shark hadn’t taken a snack. Opposite page, top right, the crew of the Reel Chaos with Captain Anthony Matarese had a great day with a bunch of mahi and a wahoo. Opposite page, middle left,

Easterseals Names Ambassador For September Walk

SALISBURY – Today, Scarlett Ward, of Parsonsburg, and her older brothers Jackson and Ryder race around the playground exploring every area together. Their parents, Kelsey and Jonathan, beam with pride because they know that one year ago, these cherished moments would not have been possible.

One year ago, Scarlett was not able to stand, let alone run, but now thanks to the help of Easterseals physical therapy, Scarlett can keep up with her brothers.

Due to weakened muscles, especially in her legs, and multiple hospital visits, Scarlett was falling behind developmentally. When Scarlett started receiving physical therapy with Easterseals, she was unable to crawl. Since then, she has learned to walk and run, which is a huge milestone since she really enjoys playing with her big brothers. Following a recent surgery, Scarlett also started feeding therapy to help her tolerate more textures and expand her food palette.

“When we first got the diagnosis, it was overwhelming. We felt like we were barely keeping our heads above water,” Kelsey said. “Easterseals has been there for us, not just physically but emotionally. Michelle, the therapist, always has the pa-

tience to work with her whether it is a great day or a bad day. She is always willing to change her plans accordingly. She is always encouraging and motivating. Scarlett loves going to therapy.”

Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore has announced that Scarlett will serve as this year’s ambassador for their second annual “Walk With Me & 5K Fun Run Salisbury” event. It will be held on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 9 a.m., at the Salisbury Elks Lodge #817 located at 401 Churchill Avenue, Salisbury.

“Easterseals is such a game changer. There is a world of difference in Scarlett. Her growth is eye opening,” Kelsey says. “Her brothers are so helpful. They love her and want to help her. Her victories are their victories. They have a bond like no other.”

A trusted provider of children’s therapy services for 75 years, Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore specializes in treating children ages birth through eighteen years with a variety of challenges. Easterseals specializes in meeting the needs of children and their families through creative, playful activities that go beyond traditional services. For Scarlett, that means continuing to work on

more independent steps and gaining strength in her legs.

“Everyone at Easterseals is excited about her milestones. Everyone cares and it truly shows. We are grateful for everyone at Easterseals,” Kelsey says. “It takes

a village. It is a hard journey to walk, but you are not alone. Keep going knowing tomorrow is a new day.”

Registration for this year’s Walk With Me Salisbury event is available at www.walkwithme.org/salisbury.

Scarlett Ward is pictured during a physical therapy training session at Easterseals. Submitted

Parypa’s Photo Of

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 82

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): A change that you hoped for is coming down the line, but you still need to be patient until more explanations are forthcoming. Continue to keep your enthusiasm in check.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Your social life expands as new friends come into your life. But while you're having fun, your practical side also sees some positive business potential within your new circle.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Your workplace situation continues to improve, but look for advantages you might have missed while changes were going on around you. A trusted colleague can help.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Resist the urge to hunker down in your bunker until things ease up. Instead, get rid of that woe-is-me attitude by getting up and getting out to meet old friends and make new ones.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Now that you're back enjoying the spotlight again, you should feel re-energized and ready to take on the challenge of bringing those big, bold plans of yours to completion.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A former friend would like to repair a relationship you two once enjoyed. Your positive response could have an equally positive impact on your life. Think about it.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Resist making impulsive decisions. Stay

on that steady course as you continue to work out workplace problems. Be patient. All will soon be back in balance.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21):

You might feel confident about taking a promising offer but continue to be alert for what you're not being told about it. Don't fret. Time is on your side.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): People dear to you might be planning a way to show appreciation for all that you've done for them. Accept the honor graciously. Remember, you deserve it.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Congratulations. Your self-confidence is on the rise. This could be a good time to tackle those bothersome situations you've avoided both at home and at work.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): You feel obligated to return a favor. (Of course, you do.) But heed advice from those close to you, and do nothing until you know for sure what's being asked of you.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Your loving reassurance helped revive a once-moribund relationship. But be wary of someone who might try to do something negative to reverse this positive turn of events.

BORN THIS WEEK: You are a wonderful leader who can foster community and bring people together to form long-lasting relationships.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

A cold beer in hand whenever I grill

Lamb chops

Locals doing well in fishing tourneys

The view from the Verrazano Bridge

Beach days so long multiple meals are involved

A quick summer storm

Messi’s debut in the MLS

The movie, “Good Will Hunting”

My son’s passion for the LeBron Vs. Jordan debate

Being busy, but not chaotic

A work day with no meetings

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITYWITH BUNK

MANN

The Carousel opened in July 1962 after the original ribbon cutting had been delayed several months due to damage from the famous March Storm of 1962.

At the time of its construction, it was far north of the existing city limits and stood virtually alone with only sand dunes and a few small cottages nearby. The Carousel had a reputation for luxury springing from its association with Senate aide Bobby Baker and the Washington, D.C., political crowd.

The original Carousel was four stories tall. The high-rise section that exists today was built in 1974.

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

Photo by A. Aubrey Bodine

The Dispatch Legal Notices

Fourth Insertion

Town of Fenwick Island Notice of Election

August 5, 2023, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Town Hall, 800 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE19944

There are four (4) Council seats available. Each seat is for a 2-year term. The candidates are:

Janice Bortner

John Gary Burch

Kristina Clark

Natalie Carmean Magdeburger

Bernie Merritt

Jacqueline Napolitano

James C. Simpson III

Kurt Zanelotti

Absentee ballots are available for any registered voter who is not able to vote on election day at Town Hall. Any Town of Fenwick Island eligible registered voter who needs to obtain an absentee ballot by mail should call the Town Hall at 302-539-3011, ext. 1, and a form will be mailed to you. The request form to receive the absentee ballot must be filed with the Town no later than 12:00 p.m. on August 4, 2023. Absentee ballots must be received prior to the close of the election, 5:00 p.m., on August 5, 2023.

To vote in Fenwick Island election, you must be qualified either as a “resident” or as a “non-resident”.

Resident: Every natural person, who is a citizen of the State of Delaware and the United States, age 18 on or before the date of the election, a bona fide resident of the Town prior to the annual municipal election, and registered to vote thirty (30) or more days prior to the annual municipal election, if provided by ordinance, shall have one vote. A bona fide resident means a permanent, fulltime resident of the Town.

Non-resident: Every property owner as of March 1 prior to the annual municipal election, whether a natural person or artificial entity, including but not limited to corporations, partnerships, trusts, and limited liability companies, and who is registered to vote, if provided by ordinance, shall have one vote. A natural person shall be a citizen of the United States and age 18 on or before the date of the election. An artificial entity shall be a domestic entity in the State of Delaware.

The above voter qualification provisions shall be construed in accordance with the principle of "oneperson/entity, one vote." Where a voter is entitled to vote by virtue of being both a resident and as an owner of real property, that voter shall be entitled to only one vote; where a voter is entitled to vote by ownership of two or more parcels of real property, that voter shall be entitled to only one vote.

Any legal entity, other than a natural person entitled to vote, must cast its vote by a duly executed and notarized power of attorney from the legal entity granting the authority to cast its vote to its designated attorney-in-fact. Such power of attorney shall be surrendered to the election officials who shall file the same in the office of the Town. Such power of attorney so filed shall constitute conclusive evidence of the right of said person to vote in the election on behalf of the legal entity granting the power. The person casting the ballot for such entity shall be age 18 on or before the date of the election and a citizen of the United States.

For more information on election procedures, or to download the request form for the absentee ballot, please visit www.fenwickisland.delaware.gov/election

Third Insertion

To all persons interested in CARMELA ESKIEWICZ,Estate No. 19803. Notice is given that WALTER ESKIEWICZ, JR., 922 STEEL POND ROAD, STOCKTON, MD 21864, was on JULY 5, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CARMELA ESKIEWICZ who died on MAY 28, 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 5TH day of JANUARY, 2024.

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 JULY 14, 2023

WALTER ESKIEWICZ, JR. Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT,

Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 7-14, 7-21, 7-28

COATES, COATES & COATES, PA

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19807

Notice is given that the SURROGATE’S COURT of MONMOUTH COUNTY, NEW JERSEY, appointed RICHARD W. WOODWARD, 99 SOUTHVIEW TERRACE, NORTH, MIDDLETOWN, NJ 07748 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of GLORIA A. WOODWARD, who died on MARCH 18, 2023, domiciled in NEW JERSEY, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is RAYMOND D. COATES, JR, whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY, SUITE 300,OCEAN CITY, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

JULY 14, 2023

RICHARD W. WOODWARD

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 7-14, 7-21, 7-28

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19466

To all persons interested in the estate of ELSIE MAE HARMON,Estate No. 19466. Notice is given that ESTHER BLOCKER, 3 RUDLOFF COURT, NEWARK, DE 19702 and EILEEN COOPER HICKS, 8243 NEW SECOND STREET, ELKINS PARK, PA 19027, was on JULY 13, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ELSIE MAE HARMON who died on OCTOBER 17, 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 13TH day of JANUARY, 2024.

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 pre-

sented 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 JULY 21, 2023

ESTHER BLOCKER EILEEN COOPER HICKS 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 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

COLIN L. DOLAN STOUFFER LEGAL, LLC 658 KENILWORTH DR. SUITE 203 TOWSON, MD 21204

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19817

To all persons interested in the estate of ANNE KELLY DAVIS,Estate No. 19817. Notice is given that JAIME KELLY HEDRICK, 2901 HILLCREST AVENUE, PARKVILLE, MD 21234, was on JULY 14, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANNE KELLY DAVIS, who died on MAY 7, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14TH day of JANUARY, 2024.

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 follow-

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.

ing 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 JULY 21, 2023

JAIME KELLY HEDRICK

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 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

JOHN P. CUSTIS, ESQ. LONG, BADGER AND SHELLER, LLP 124 E. MAIN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19821

To all persons interested in the estate of WILLARD D. STEVENSON, AKA: WILLARD DAWSON STEVENSON,Estate No.

19821. Notice is given that J. MICHAEL STEVENSON, 4342 JONES ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851, was on JULY 17, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLARD D. STEVENSON, who died on OCTOBER 21, 2021, 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 repre-

sentative 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 JANUARY, 2024.

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

JULY 21, 2023

J. MICHAEL STEVENSON 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

7-21, 7-28, 8-4

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 17th day of JULY, 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 14th day of August, 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 7th day of August, 2023

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

BC=Bay Club Time Share Owners Associates, Inc.

PCP=Palmetto Coastal Properties

Defendants

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 17th day of JULY, 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 14th day of August, 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 7th day of August, 2023

The 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 interval:

BC=BAY CLUB TIME SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

LJCH=LEMONJUICE CAPITAL HOLDINGS, LLC

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 17th day of JULY, 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 21st day of August, 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 14th day of August, 2023

The 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 interval:

BC=BAY CLUB TIME SHARE OWNERSASSOCIATES, INC. DBC=DELMARVA BEACH CLUB, LLC

Maryland this 17th day of July, 2023, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be RATIFTED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary there of be shown on or before the 14th day of August, 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 7th day of August, 2023

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:

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. P.O. Box 3307 Ocean City, Maryland 21842-3307

Plaintiff v. David Skinner LLC, et al. Defendants

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD

3x 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE N0.

C-23-CV-21-000180

BAY CLUB

TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. Box 3307

Ocean City, Maryland

21842-3307

Plaintiff

v.

Steven C. Phoebus, et al

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD 3x 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE N0. C-23-CV-22-000280

BAY CLUB

TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. P.O. Box 3307 Ocean City, Maryland 21842-3307 Plaintiff v. Poorman Timeshare Services, LLC et al. Defendants

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD 3x 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE N0. C-23-CV-22-000055

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. P.O. Box 3307 Ocean City, Maryland 21842-3307 Plaintiff v. MILDRED BUTT, ET AL.

Defendant

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County,

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD 3x 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19824

To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE E. TEST, AKA: GEORGE EARL TEST, Estate 19824. Notice is given that EARLE MCKINN TEST, 16 DUTCHER STREET, HOPEDALE, MA 01747, was on JULY 18, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE E. TEST, who died on

2023, with a

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.

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 JANUARY, 2024.

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

JULY 21, 2023

EARLE MCKINN TEST

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 7-21, 7-28, 8-4

JAMES A. LIST, ESQ.

THE LAW OFFICES OF JAMES A. LIST

5700 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 100

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

HEIRS ESTATE 19827

To all persons interested in the estate of FRANCES SUZANNE VAN DER VALK, Estate No. 19827. Notice is given that H.G. UBBO VAN DER VALK, 616 OSPREY ROAD, UNIT A, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on JULY 20, 2023, appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of FRANCES SUZANNE VAN DER VALK who died on MAY 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 20TH day of JANUARY, 2024.

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 JULY 28, 2023 H.G.

CONTACT INFORMATION

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

JULY 28, 2023

be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

JULY 28, 2023

TERESA ADAMS

Personal Representative True Test Copy

creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

JULY 28, 2023

GAIL H. BACON

BONNIE H. CRAWFORD Personal Representative True Test Copy

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY SUITE 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19830

To all persons interested in the estate of GUY ANTHONY TOPPER, Estate No. 19830. Notice is given that DONNA LEE TOPPER, 2 PINE CONE WAY, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811, was on JULY 25, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL estate of GUY ANTHONY TOPPER, who died on May 20, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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

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

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

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

DONNA LEE TOPPER Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

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

1x 7-28

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19825

To all persons interested in the estate of SHIRLEY ANN REEVES, Estate No. 19825. Notice is given that TERESA ADAMS, whose address is 2341 MCMASTER ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851, was on JULY 21, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL estate of SHIRLEY ANN REEVES, who died on JUNE 4, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 1x 7-28

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 1x 7-28

KIRK J. SIMPKINS, ESQ. SIMPKINS & SIMPKINS, PA PO BOX 550 PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19832

To all persons interested in the estate of GLADYS T HOLLAND Estate No. 19832. Notice is given that GAIL H. BACON, whose address is 305 FORDS LANDING LANE, MILLINGTON, MD 21651 and BONNIE H. CRAWFORD, whose address is 1915 DIVIDING CREEK ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 were on JULY 25, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of GLADYS T. HOLLAND who died on JUNE 23, 2023 with a will.

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

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

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

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

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

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE N0. C-23-CV-22-000005

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. Box 3307 Ocean City, Maryland 21842-3307

Plaintiff v. SANDRA M. ANDERSONBROWN, et al Defendants

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 19th day of JULY, 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 21st day of August, 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 14th day of August, 2023

The 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 interval:

BC=BAY CLUB TIME SHARE OWNERSASSOCIATES, INC.

DBC=DELMARVA BEACH CLUB, LLC

SPORTS In The News

Kid’s Classic Tournament Results

The Ocean City Marlin Club’s 19th Annual Kid’s Classic Tournament attracted 73 boats to last weekend’s event. The following is a look at complete results in order of finish:

White marlin release: First place, Reel Chaos, above, three releases; second place, Max Bet, three releases; and third place, Kilo Charlie, two releases.

Yellowfin tuna: First place, Absolut Pleasure, 58.5 pounds; second place, Game Over, 47 pounds; and third place, Still Lucky, 46 pounds.

Dolphin: First place, Bet Sea, below with some catches, 23 pounds; second place, Wigg One, 20 pounds; and third place tie, Absolute Pleasure and Lit Up, 17.5 pounds.

Bluefish: First place tie, Delicious and Partnership, 2.5 pounds; second place, Lit Up, 1.5 pounds.

Seabass: First place, Marli, 8 pounds; second place, Alternating Current, 7 pounds; and third place, Fish Bound, 6.5 pounds.

Croaker: First place, Partnership, 2 pounds, and second place, Partnership, 1 pound.

Flounder: First place, Fish Bound, left middle, 15 pounds; second place tie, Four Eights and Double Trouble, 10.5 pounds; and third place, Tighten Up, 9 pounds.

Wahoo: First place tie, Piper Blunt, Lit Up, 17.5 pounds.

Spot: First place, Partnership, 2 pounds; second place, nine-way tie; and third place tie, Delicious and JEB.

Spanish Mackerel: First place tie, Grande Pez and Partnership, 5 pounds; second place tie, Skeets, Allen Crew, Spring Mix II and Knot Woke, 4.5 pounds; and third place, Skipjack, 4 pounds.

King Mackerel: First place, Mahki, 15.5 pounds; second place, Spring Mix II, 14 pounds; and third place, Mahki, 13 pounds.

Golden Tile: First place, Marli, left bottom, 26 pounds; second place, Marli, 24.5 pounds; and third place, Buckshot II, 13 pounds, at left top.

Blueline Tile: First place, Still Lucky, 17.5 pounds; second place, Amanda Mayhem, 17 pounds; and third place, Buckshot I, 13 pounds. Photos Courtesy Of Ocean City Marlin Club

Local Captain Honored With Achievement Award

OCEAN CITY – The Maryland Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission and Maryland Department of Natural Resources have announced Captain Monty Hawkins as the 2023 recipient of the annual Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award.

The Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award was established by the commission in 2019 to honor individuals who have provided sustained efforts in habitat management, conservation, education, research or other meaningful contributions that benefit recreational fishing in Maryland.

In the Maryland coastal fishing scene, few have made more contributions than Monty Hawkins, known as “Captain Monty” of the Morning Star based in Ocean City. In addition to his charter business, Hawkins was instrumental in forming the Ocean City Reef Foundation in 1997, to which he has volunteered countless hours. He has also volunteered as a member of the Coastal Conservation Association and as a member and chairman of the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative.

The commission and department recognize Hawkins for having the best interest of the fishery in mind and for his strong stewardship of the region’s aquatic resources. He serves not only as a charter captain but an educator on the benefits of habitat creation for the overall fishery.

Hawkins will be honored during a presentation later in the year.

Dec. 1, 2023

The commission will begin accepting nominations beginning

for the 2024 award with a deadline of Jan. 31, 2024.

Captain Monty Hawkins is pictured on his Morning Star boat with two sea bass. Submitted Photo

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S/DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Saturday, July 29: Aaron Howell Duo

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, July 28: Darin Engh, Zion Reggae Band

Saturday, July 29: Kevin Poole & Joe

Mama, The Big Laird Band

Sunday, July 30: Top Shelf Duo, Old School

Monday, July 31: Nate Clendenen, Remy & Lyons

Tuesday, Aug. 1: Carley Twigg, Full Circle

Wednesday, Aug. 2: Chris Diller, Colossal Fossil Sauce

Thursday, Aug. 3: Kevin Poole, Bell Bottom Blues

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, July 28: Dust N Bones

Saturday, July 29: Jim Long & Rockoholics

Wednesdays: DJ Wax

CORK BAR

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Saturday, July 29: Marco

Sunday, July 30: Dickson Duo

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE

Sunday, July 30: TBA

Wednesday, Aug. 2: Jack Bannon

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, July 28: Caleb Folks

Saturday, July 29: Funk Shué

Thursday, Aug. 3: DJ Magellan

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St. In The Bay

Friday, July 28: DJ RobCee, Sons Of Pirates, Bad w/Names

Saturday, July 29: DJ Dnial, The John Frase Project, Under The Covers

Sunday, July 30:

DJ Willoughby, The 1974

Monday, July 31: DJ Dnial, The 1974, The Rockets

Tuesday, Aug. 1: DJ Hook, DJ RobCee

Wednesday, Aug. 2: Latin Night w/DJ Patana

Thursday, Aug. 3: DJ Groove, Josh Christina

410-289-0990 22nd St. & Bay Friday & Saturday, July 28 & 29: TBA

Best Beats On The Beach

611, West O.C. Saturday, July 29: TBA

Who’s Where When

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Friday, July 28: DJ Rupe

Saturday, July 29:

The Dunehounds, DJ Bigler

Sunday, July 30:

Pickin’ Party

Thursday, Aug. 3:

Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By Deogee

Saturday, July 29: Tranzfusion

Sunday, July 30: 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, July 28: Lime Green Duo

Saturday, July 29: Rick & Regina

Sunday, July 30: Bryan Russo

Monday, July 31: Carley Twigg

Tuesday, Aug. 1: Bell Bottom Blues Duo

Wednesday, Aug. 2: Lime Green Duo

Thursday, Aug. 3: Full Circle

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, July 28 & 29 Vertigo Red

Sunday & Monday, July 30 & 31:

Social

Tuesdays: DJ Madame Dutchess

Wednesdays: DJ Papi Roisterous

Thursday, Aug. 3: High Voltage (AC/DC Tribute)

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, July 28: DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Full Circle, Cheezy & The Crackers, Crash The Party

Saturday, July 29: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, DJ Tuff, Crash The Party, Cheezy & The Crackers, Screaming Monkeys, Cherry Crush

Sunday, July 30: DJ Davie, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Triple Rail Turn, Cheezy & The Crackers, The Reagan Years

Monday, July 31: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Blake Haley, Cheezy & The Crackers, Turning The Tide

Tuesday, Aug. 1: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Opposite Directions, Spokey Speaky

Wednesday, Aug. 2: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Connair, Full Circle Duo, Spokey Speaky, Kono Nation

Thursday, Aug. 3: DJ Davie, DJ Cruz, DJ Bobby O, John McNutt Band, STORM

THE ORIGINAL

GREENE TURTLE

410-723-2120

116th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, July 28: DJ Brian K. Hall

Saturday, July 29: DJ Cuban Fire

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. 410289-4725.

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup

Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m. yearround. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

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

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

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

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting

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

July 28: Vacation Bible School

Stevenson United Methodist, Buckingham Presbyterian, Friendship United Methodist, St. Paul’s Episcopal and St. Paul United Methodist are partnering on a Vacation Bible School at Stevenson United Methodist Church from 6-8 p.m. Register online by July 1 and receive a free T-shirt at www.stevensonchurch.org/VBS. Call 410-6411137 for more information.

July 28-Aug. 19: Furnace Town Music

Get ready to groove this summer at Furnace Town, showcasing a lineup of talented musicians and artists from around the shore. Enjoy live performances in a stunning outdoor venue. Bring your friends, family and loved ones for

Things To Do

an evening filled with music, food, drinks, and fun. Cost is $10/adults, $5/kids 515. The schedule is:

Aug. 5: 5-8 p.m., Hoedown with DJ Kay Aug. 19: 5-8 p.m., Ampersand – Traditional American Music.

July 28-30: OP Library Book Sale

The Annual Ocean Pines Library Book Sale, sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean Pines Library (FOPL), will take place. All proceeds go to the Ocean Pines Library for events, equipment, projects and special needs.

The sale of over 20,000 books, CD's, DVD's and audio books that are in good to new condition will begin on Friday, July 28 from 6-8 p.m. and is for FOPL members only. If you are not a member, you can join at the door for $5 for an individual membership, $10 for a family or $25 as a business or patron. Dealers, collectors and book store owners are more than welcome. More details can be found on the web at Book Sale Finder.

The sale will continue on Saturday, July 29 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and open to all at no cost. Books will range from 50 cents to $2.50 each with no limits. Cash or checks with ID only, no credit cards. On Monday, July 31, the sale continues from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with all remaining books at half price.

July 29: Chicken Platters To Go

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

July 29: Public Reading

Snow Hill Christian Church will host a public Reading of the Word of God at 1 p.m. All are welcome. Selected readings from Scripture will be read by members of the church with prayers preceding and following each reading. Snow Hill Christian Church is at 300 Park Row just before entering Snow Hill's downtown neighbor hood. Street parking is available.

July 30: Church Concert

St. Matthew’s by the Sea Church in Fenwick Island will host Graceway (formerly Dixie Melody Boys) for three shows – 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Aug. 1-3: Science Event At Library

At 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Berlin branch from Aug. 1-3, join the Science Guys of Baltimore and explore the laws of attraction and repulsion, what brings us together and what keeps us apart, through electromagnetism. Test your strength with an electromagnetic tug of war, launch rings into the air with an electromagnetic pulse generator and so much more. For ages 8 plus. 410-641-0650.

Aug. 4: Book Signing, Exhibit

As part of the Art League of Ocean City's "Block Party" event, from 5-7 p.m., local author and artist Joanne K. Guilfoil will be signing her latest book “Chickens on Delmarva: 100 Years of Backyard Flocks, Farms and Friends,” and she will also be displaying her White Marlin Open paintings of bill fish and game fish. Guilfoil will be seated on "Author's Row" selling her books. She will also be ready to tell some of the captivating stories from the chicken book, including an illegal liquor stash in a Bethany chicken house, Perdue chicken in Baghdad, Frank and Mitzi Perdue at the White House. She will also be on hand in the Spotlight Gallery where her field-guide style gouache paintings of the game fish and bill fish will be displayed. In addition, two artist friends will join her in the gallery -- Jim Motsko, founder of the WMO, will display his fish photographs, and Lisa Marie Penn will display her fish painted screens, a long-time Baltimore art-form.

Aug. 5: Flounder Tourney

The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce will host their 16th Annual Flounder Tournament and Auction on Saturday, August 5, 2023, with the weigh in and auction at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club and Marina from noon-430 p.m. This is the largest Maryland coastal flounder tournament and will feature an expected purse of over $8,000. “Our region gets tournament fever every summer, especially the first week in August. We are the little guy tournament. A great day on the water and a chance to win big without breaking your bank to enter,” said Ocean Pines Chamber President Kerrie Bunting. Registration is $55 per angler or $50 each when registering more than one. Calcuttas are available for $20 per angler. The longest flounder brought in by any angler 13 or under wins $100 and is also eligible for the main cash prizes. Make sure to register before noon on August 4. Collectable T-shirts are free for the first 250 registered. Sponsorships are available and we are seeking donations for the auction which is held during the weigh in. For tournament rules or to register as sponsor or angler go to:https://business.oceanpineschamber.org/events/details/16th-annualflounder-tournament-14865.

Aug. 5: Berlin Peach Festival

Calvin B. Taylor House Museum Satuday, Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 410641-1019 for more information.

Aug. 5: Blessing Of Combines

For the 23rd year the Snow Hill Blessing of the Combines will be held in downtown Snow Hill from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This signature event brings the local farm community together along with locals and visitors from far and wide to honor the agricultural roots of the Snow Hill area. Led by the Snow Hill Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corp, Color Guard, antique

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

tractors, the Shore Fun Garden Tractor club and the highly anticipated combines will parade through the downtown at 11 a.m. The larger-than-life combines will then park along Green Street for spectators to view and even tour during the event. Kids of all ages will enjoy the petting zoo, free pony rides, a bounce house and gigantic corn maze, games, and other activities throughout the event. Local businesses will welcome visitors with sales and specials that will keep you coming back to Snow Hill for your shopping and dining needs.

Aug. 6: Special Music

Bowen United Methodist Church in Newark will having special music at 10 a.m. with The Beasey from Dagsboro, Del. performing. All are welcome.

Aug. 6: Church Concerts

St. Matthew’s by the Sea Church in Fenwick Island will host the Rivenbark Ministries at 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. and The Hyssongs at 7 p.m.

Aug. 7: Quarter Auction

The Church of the Holy Spirit is having a Quarter Auction. For those of you who have never been to a quarter auction, you are missing a lot of fun. You buy a paddle (or two, or more) and then bid on items offered at one, two, three or four quarters, based on the value of the item. The committee is collecting a lot of great prizes, including gift certificates, home décor items, wine baskets, and some just for fun. The doors will open at 6 p.m., and the games start at 7. Food will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10 and include a paddle. Additional paddles are $2 each, or three for $5. They are limited, so get yours now. The church is located at 100th Street and Coastal Highway in Ocean City. Call Jackie at 443-735-4275 for further information and for tickets.

Aug. 13-17: Chamber Music By Sea Chamber Music by the Sea festival will present its eighth season with new treats in store. The 2023 festival, which runs from August 13-19, welcomes some of the world’s most acclaimed young musicians and branches out to new venues in both Berlin and Snow Hill. Additionally, this year’s festival welcomes the public for a behind-the-scenes peek at how the musical magic is made.

The 2023 festival schedule includes:

Sunday, Aug. 13, 3 p.m.: ticketed salon concert and reception at a private Snow Hill home (seating limited)

Monday, Aug. 14, 11 a.m.: open-air rehearsal on South Point

Tuesday, Aug. 15, 7 p.m.: ticketed salon concert and reception at Bishop’s Stock Gallery, Snow Hill (seating limited)

Wednesday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m.: ticketed concert and reception at Temple Bat Yam, Berlin Thursday, August 17, 10:30 a.m.: Free family concert at the Berlin Public Library. Student workshop (open to the public) to follow at noon at the Berlin Public Library

Thursday, Aug. 17, 7 p.m.: ticketed concert at the Atlantic Hotel, Berlin Friday, Aug. 18, 7 p.m: ticketed concert at All Hallows Episcopal Church, Snow Hill Saturday, Aug. 19, 11 a.m.: free open-air informal performance on the lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, Berlin. Events benefit the Worcester County Education Foundation. Tickets at chambermusicbythesea.com.

fish tales Goes all out for charity, christmas in july

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Onlookers cheered this week as Santa arrived by boat to make an appearance at Fish Tales for Christmas in July.

On Tuesday, July 25, Fish Tales welcomed Saint Nick to the dock as the bayside restaurant marked July 25, also known as Christmas in July. The establishment has been hosting the annual celebration for the past 23 years.

“All the toys are donated to Toys for Tots and we usually have hundreds each year for donation,” said Manager India Bandorick.

Since 2000, Fish Tales has been celebrating Christmas in July. Patrons who arrived Tuesday afternoon found the bar and dock decked out in stockings, adorned with inflatable Santas and covered in red and green décor. Staff, recognizable by their Santa hats, wore their favorite holiday attire.

Bandorick said Fish Tales employees enjoy the decorating.

“It starts when we close at 2 a.m. and continues until we open at 11 a.m.,” she said. “We add a little something different every year so it’s always exciting to see the faces on the kids and the big kids too. It’s a fun day – we serve Christmas Dinner all day and night.”

Popular holiday tunes emanated from the speakers as patrons waited eagerly on the dock to catch sight of Santa arriving by tiki boat. Dozens of children waited in line to get their photo taken with Santa, who in a nod to the weather wore shorts.

“Santa talks to each child and gives them a small gift,” Bandorick said.

The event includes the collection of toys to be donated to Toys for Tots, a program that collects new and unwrapped toys to distribute to less fortunate children. Bandorick said the event yields a significant number of toys.

“We do not have many financial donations, but when we do, the staff usually goes and buy more toys with what is donated,” she said.

Bandorick added that employees loved the annual event.

“We have a staff costume contest, secret Santa and we have a staff prize raffle, where the top prize is an electric bike. Our staff is the best, the front of the house buys tickets for our J-1s so that everyone is in the raffle,” she said.

Santa Claus and his elf were brought to shore to greet guests at Fish Tales at the Bahia Marina by owner Shawn Harman.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Road Closures Possible Around OP

BERLIN –Ocean Pines motorists should expect slight delays for the next few weeks because of infrastructure work by Verizon contractors.

Construction is expected to last through Aug. 8 and focus on the area of Ocean Parkway, from Terns Landing to Route 90. The work is related to micro-cell towers along Route 90.

Drivers are asked to be aware of work zones and obey flaggers, as some temporary road closures may occur. A Verizon representative said traffic delays should be minimal and flaggers will be on site during each day of work.

For questions, email info@oceanpines.org or call 410-641-7717.

Volunteers Sought For Joint Beach Cleanup Effort In Resort

OCEAN CITY – The public is invited to participate in a first-time collaborative beach and street cleanup Tuesday, Aug. 1 at 4th Street and the Boardwalk, from 8 until 10 a.m.

Assateague Coastal Trust, Beach Heros-OC, Maryland Coastal Bays Program, Ocean City Surf Club, OC Go Green, Restore the Shore, Surfrider Foundation and the Town of Ocean City through the Ocean City Green Team are banding together on a united front for a community beach cleanup. All respective groups coordinate cleanups and other environmentally focused events throughout the year not only directly in Ocean City, but throughout the region.

All are welcome and encouraged to take part. Representatives from each group are setting up an area on the beach at 4th Street and the Boardwalk for volunteers to register, pick up supplies and provide an opportunity for people to learn a little more about the initiatives of the respective groups. A waiver will need to be signed upon arrival.

The Town of Ocean City is providing free parking for cleanup participants at the municipal parking lot on 4th Street from 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

Volunteers are asked to bring their collection back to 4h Street and the beach by 9:30 a.m. to celebrate all their hard work and weigh all the trash. The town will take care of disposing of the trash properly.

Those interested in collecting trash beyond these walkable areas are welcome and encouraged to do so and can bring their bounty to the weigh-in site.

You do not have to register in advance; however, if you are planning on attending, please consider filling out this form so coordinators can have an estimate of how many participants plan on attending, https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSc2NhGxQrUECW.../viewform.

If you cannot attend the event, but would like to participate in a cleanup, please check out the Adopt Your Beach/Street Program at either site https://mdcoastalbays.org/adopt-your-beachregistration/.

Dates Announced For Wicomico Fair

SALISBURY –The Wicomico Farm & Home Show and Wicomico County announced this week the return of the Wicomico County Fair, set for Aug. 1820 at WinterPlace Park in Salisbury.

The event is produced by Wicomico Farm & Home Show and Wicomico County, and it is presented by Perdue, Toyota, Pohanka of Salisbury and Piedmont.

The fair serves to showcase the importance of agriculture on the shore in a family-friendly atmosphere.

The premium book for 4-H and FFA competitions is posted online at www.WicomicoFair.com. Hard copies are available at Farmers & Planters Too, Johnson's Seed & Feed, Bryan & Brittingham, University of Maryland Extension and the Wicomico Civic Center. Categories include cooking, gardening, woodworking, the arts, livestock, agriculture and more. Entries must be preregistered by Aug. 7.

Returning fair events include the Maryland High School Rodeo; Mason Dixon Deputies Mounted Shooters; livestock shows; watermelon, pie and hot wing eating contests; petting farm; car and Jeep shows; fair queen pageant; rodeo games; pony rides; Hebron Train Depot rides; inflatables; axe throwing; and fireworks on Friday.

New attractions include demonstrations from Mid-Atlantic Disc Dogs; duck races; and the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Unit on Saturday.

Admission and parking at the Fair are free. For more information, visit www.WicomicoFair.com.

Scott T. Grant

BERLIN – Scott Taylor Grant, age 73, passed away May, 22, 2023 at Health First Viera Hospital in Viera, Fla. following a short illness.

Born in Annapolis, he was the son of the late Clarence Hubert Grant and Lois Katherine Haas Grant. In addition to his parents, Scott was preceded in death by his late wife Betty Jean Grant.

Scott is survived by his wife, Martha Robertson Grant of Viera, Fla.; sons Mr. and Mrs. David Parsons of Ocean Pines, Maryland and Shane Grant of Olney, Md.; grandchildren Rafe and Kendahl Parsons; and best friend, Dave Merritt of Willards.

Scott moved to Salisbury at the age of 16. He had a career with Showell Farms where he worked his way to the position of Assistant Manager of Data Processing. Scott enjoyed golf, camping and traveling.

Cremation followed his death. Services are private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the ALS Association. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Jim Adcock

BERLIN – Heaven must have wanted a little more color and joy because on July 19, at age 75, renowned local artist and benefactor, Jim Adcock, passed peacefully over, in the arms of his loving wife.

Jim was born and raised in Dundalk, Md., the youngest child and only son of Bentley and Florence (née Reckline) Adcock. He is survived by his wife, Karen Adcock; sisters Betty Pyfer and Rose Adcock; brother-in-law Darel Patrick; daughter Jessica Dziemburski (Robert); son Jason, stepdaughters Amy Brennan Ohringer (Ron) and Nikkole McClure; and grandchildren Makenna and Kara Dziemburski, Alice and Derek Ohringer, and Bohdi McClure. He was also a dear father figure to nieces Marilyn Wellington (Mark), Amber Burgess (Randy) and Trina McDonald. He had too many other relatives to name, but was especially close to his cousin, Delana Wisnauskas, of Ocean Pines.

Jim said he could not remember a time when he didn’t want to be an artist. Though he had the brains and heart to conquer any discipline, he had scores of stories about the trouble he got into in school because he didn’t care about learning anything but art. The prestigious Maryland Institute College of Art apparently agreed, enthusiastically accepting him as a student and ultimately awarding him a degree in art education, which he used initially to teach art to middle schoolers in the Baltimore school system. By then married with a young family, he left teaching, partly to make more money and because he felt he wasn’t having much of an impact on the kids. If only he had known then how many working artists today credit “Mr. Adcock” for fueling their passion for self-expression and imbuing them with

the confidence to be true to their own visions.

Before moving to Delmarva in the 1990’s, Jim worked as a commercial artist, a liquor distributor and a railroad brakeman, a job that provided him with enough amazing stories he was frequently urged to write a book, though he couldn’t put down his paint brushes long enough to do it.

Jim found his true home and career in Delmarva, a place he adored, with people he made it his business to know and befriend. Jim was a local icon. He left a huge catalog of artwork celebrating the people, landscapes, architecture, and attractions in the area. Countless local residents commissioned him to paint their homes, pets, or favorite locations. Jim was always moved to see how happy people were when they came to vacation in the area. He made it his mission to paint the things that would remind folks of the memories they made here.

In addition to painting, Jim had many passions. He and his former wife, Edie Brennan, herself a well-known and accomplished real estate broker, helped to begin the Wines in the Pines club, where he could share his encyclopedic knowledge of and appreciation for good wines. Edie also used his love of theater to wheedle him into performing with and designing sets for the Ocean Pines Players, a tactic also successfully employed by his current wife, Karen. Jim loved music and it was always playing in the studio. He was an avid reader and moviegoer, and Sunday could not begin until he finished the New York Times crossword puzzle.

After moving to Delmarva, Jim held several jobs before working full time as a painter. While working in publishing, he decided Ocean Pines deserved a better newspaper, so he created the Ocean Pines Gazette. The paper grew quickly and in 2004, Jim sold it to Flag Publications, which renamed it the Bayside Gazette. From then until his death, Jim published a humorous editorial cartoon in the Gazette every week that won him an entirely new set of fans.

Jim’s greatest talent of all was as a human, a mensch. He was a gentle giant, whose empathy and compassion knew no bounds. He adored his family and loved nothing more than spending time with them, especially the little ones. He was the truest of friends and was unfailingly gracious, generous, and kind to acquaintances and strangers alike. No matter what was going on inside him at a given time, the people he was with saw only attention, patience, and caring. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The Art League of Ocean City, of which Jim was an enthusiastic member and contributor, is working with the family to establish an annual scholarship in Jim’s name. To support that cause, donations in his name can be sent via Art League of Ocean City’s website. Though he rarely mentioned it, Jim was a proud member of the Monacan Indian

Nation and a generous supporter of their efforts on behalf of Native American welfare. Those who wish to remember Jim in this way can donate to the tribe at Monacan Indian Nation, 111 Highview Drive, Madison Heights, Va. 24572.

Jim chose to be cremated. There will be Celebration of Life at Community Church of Ocean Pines on Sept. 23, details to be announced later. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home.

Lacie Marie Elza

BERLIN – Lacie Marie Elza, 33, of Berlin, passed away on July 3, 2023.

Lacie was born on Oct. 25, 1989. After Lacie graduated from Dundalk High School in 2007, she pursued higher education, ultimately leading her to find her true passion. Lacie worked for Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, but she would tell you she worked for the patients. Lacie dedicated her time, and more importantly, her heart, to countless amounts of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) patients, and she was overjoyed to do so.

When Lacie was not devoting her time working, she loved watching Spanish television, listening to stand-up comedy, sunbathing on a beach, and spending quality time with family.

Lacie was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Beverly Dowell; maternal grandfather, Earl Elza, and paternal grandfather, R.L. Price. Lacie is survived by her mother, Barbara Elza; father, Timothy Price; and stepfather, Anthony Dacre. She is also survived by her siblings, Sierra Dacre, Mason Price, Anthony Dacre II, and Michael Dacre. Lacie had two nephews and a niece, Julian Dacre, Dakota Dacre, and Giada Dacre. Lacie also leaves behind her best friend, Ashleigh Vergara-Hurt and husband Tim Hurt, and their children, who Lacie was a godmother to. Lacie’s godchildren include Jadyn, Ethyn, Evelyn and Adalyn. Lacie is also survived by her paternal uncle, Earl Comegys; paternal aunt, Barb Comegys; maternal aunt, Susan Howell; paternal aunt, Linda Price; paternal uncle, Dan Price; and paternal grandmother, Mary K. Price.

Funeral services were privately held, but a Celebration of Life to remember Lacie will be held, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, on the beach, at the Inlet in Ocean City. The celebration will begin at four in the afternoon. The celebration is open to anyone and everyone who wishes to honor Lacie.

While flowers are appreciated and more than welcome, the family requests donations be made to the ALS Association, or the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, as Lacie would have desired.

Dolores Sees Strawbridge

BERLIN – Dolores Sees Strawbridge passed away on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born on Jan. 18, 1928, in Camden, N.J., she was the daughter of the late Raymond Charles Sees and Anna Louise Pyle Sees.

She attended Marion College of Virginia, earning a degree in Liberal Arts in 1947 and subsequently worked in Baltimore and Sykesville before retiring to Melbourne, Fla. in 1975. Following the death of her husband in 1987, she returned to Sykesville in 2006 and moved to Berlin in 2020 to be near family.

She is survived by sons, Robert of Ocean City and Carl Strawbridge of York Bridge of York Beach, Maine; brother Raymond Sees of Roseburg, Ore.; grandchildren, Patrick of North Yarmouth, Maine, Kevin of Lee, N.H., Dean of Ocean City, Raymond of Virginia Beach, Va. and John of Sykesville; and great-grandchildren, Don, Nora, Henry and William. She was a steadfast friend, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and resilient in meeting the challenges of life over nine decades.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Neilson Strawbridge, and daughters, Kristen Greene and Laura Jeffries.

A family graveside service will be held at a later date. She was a longterm supporter of Wesley Freedom United Methodist Church in Eldersberg. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home, Berlin.

Glenn Arthur Mumbauer

OCEAN CITY – Glenn Arthur Mumbauer: A Life Lived with Passion, Laughter and the Spirit of "Captain Pipe."

Glenn Arthur Mumbauer, born on Jan. 14, 1955, in the City of Philadelphia, Pa., set sail on his final journey on July 19, 2023, in the coastal paradise of Ocean City.

Glenn's life was a symphony of laughter and love and he leaves behind a cherished family. His heart was captured by Marjorie Malcolm Harms, his beloved fiancé, and together they built a beautiful life filled with joy. Glenn was proud of Marjie’s daughters Julie, Stefanie, and Kirsten and the seven grandchildren brought him boundless joy, each one a unique and cherished treasure.

When Glenn first became a boat captain, he earned the nickname "Captain Pipe," a title that stuck with him through the years as he navigated the ocean waves with skill and a twinkle in his eye. He set sail with a fearless spirit, embodying the essence of a true cap-

LACIE ELZA

DOLORES STAWBRIDGE

GLENN MUMBAUER

JIM ADCOCK

tain, guiding his crew through uncharted waters and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

As a child, Glenn's summers were filled with memories spent on Long Beach Island with his grandparents. It was there that he discovered his lifelong passion for fishing, under the patient guidance of his grandfather. Glenn's adventurous spirit took him to the waters of Ocean City, the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and exotic locales like Isla Mujeres and Cabo Mexico, Galapagos Islands and Venezuela, chasing after the majestic Marlin.

In addition to his passion for fishing, Glenn was also known as Mr. Fixit among friends and family. There was nothing he couldn’t repair, tinker with or improve, making him the go-to person for any home project.

In his leisure hours, you would find him sharing warm moments with his feline companions, Gabby, Stripey, and Spooky, who had the privilege of basking in his loving care.

Glenn's community spirit shone brightly through his involvement as a board member of Surf's Edge Condominium. He was a past president of the Marlin Club, where his passion for fishing found a fitting home. For 15 years, he served as a White Marlin Open Tournament judge, leaving a legacy that will forever be cherished.

Glenn Arthur Mumbauer will be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit, and the ability to make anyone smile He had a knack for finding joy in the simplest of moments and an uncanny talent for sharing laughter with friends, old and new. He found camaraderie and adventure in the company of his close friends Constantine, Carlos, Mark, Jimmy, and Mike, and together they crafted memories that will be treasured forever.

As we bid farewell to Glenn, we find comfort in knowing that he would want us to remember him with smiles on our faces, casting off our worries like a wellaimed fishing line. Let us honor him by living our lives with the same passion, joy, and love for the ocean and its mysteries. Glenn's spirit will forever dance upon the waves, guiding us through storms and calm waters alike.

He is survived by his fiancé Marjorie Malcolm Harms; her daughters Julie Galbraith (Richard), Stefanie Matranga (Nicholas), Kirsten Siravo (Dominic); and seven grandchildren, Carter, Declan, Brynn, Austin, Casey, Montana and Jackson. He is also survived by his closest friends, Constantine ‘Gus’ Mitsopoulos, Carlos Bentos, Mark Hardt (Paula), Jimmy Motsko, and Mike Koontz (Jenny).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Worcester County Humane Society, a cause close to Glenn’s heart.

Glenn’s celebration of life will be held at a later date, giving us time to come together and celebrate his life.

In the words of Glenn himself, "Life is an adventure, and I'm just grateful I

had a fishing rod in hand." Until we meet again, fair winds and following seas.

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.

Robert William Jackson, Jr.

OCEAN CITY – Robert William Jackson, Jr., age 63, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2023, at Salisbury Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Born in Havre de Grace, he was the son of the late Robert William Jackson, Sr. and Mary Louise Etien Jackson.

Robert W. Jackson Jr., or as many affectionately knew him as Bobby, sadly passed away at the age of 62 on July 17, 2023. Bob was born on Nov. 13, 1959, at Harford Memorial Hospital to Mary and Robert Jackson. Growing up in Perry Point, Md., he attended Perryville high school, graduating in the class of 1978, then attended Cecil Community College. In the summer months, Bob made his way to Ocean City, working various jobs, until he found his second home at the 13th Street parking lot. Bob never had any children of his own, but he had the parking lot guys who he treated like his kids. Anyone who worked for him will tell you that he wasn't like any other boss, Bob would treat you like family. Family was very important to Bobby. He was a brother to three sisters, Suzanne, Lisa and Michelle (Shelly), an uncle to two, Jordan and Adrienne, and a great uncle to three, Landon, Logan and Liam.

There is simply not enough ink to print out the seemingly never-ending list of friends Bob gathered over the years, so instead there will be two celebrations of life for Bobby where all can gather to swap stories and laugh as he would have wanted. Dates and locations for these gatherings are still to be announced. Cremation followed his death. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bob's favorite charity "Believe in Tomorrow Children's Foundation" Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Lawrence Joseph McCarty

BERLIN – Lawrence Joseph McCarty, age 92, of Berlin, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 22, 2023 in Silver Spring.

Born in Camden, N.J., he was the son of the late Lawrence Joseph McCarty Sr. and Helen (McKeone) McCarty. He was the husband of the late Dolores McCarty.

Lawrence is survived by his children, Michael McCarty and wife JoAnne, Larry McCarty and wife Cindy, Sharon Morrone and husband Patrick Morrone, Ja-

nine Fortes and husband Tom Fortes, Edward McCarty and wife Kelly, Thomas McCarty, Nancy Corle and husband Dennis Corle. In addition to his children, he is survived by his siblings Marie Ellis and Patrick McCarty as well as his 21 grandchildren and 22 greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Adams and his sister Helen Ellis and brothers James, John, Daniel and Joseph.

Lawrence was a 1949 graduate of Camden Catholic High School in Camden, N.J. He joined the apprenticeship of IBEW LU#98 in Philadelphia in 1950. During his apprenticeship, he was drafted into the army for the Korean War and served as an x-ray tech. When he came back from serving, he finished his apprenticeship and later became the Director of Apprenticeship Training for Local #98 which he served until 1970. During his time as Apprentice Training Director, he matriculated to Drexel University for the night Electrical Engineering curriculum. He graduated with a BS in Electrical Engineering. In 1976, he moved with his family to Rockville, where he began working for IBEW International Office in Washington, DC. After a few years he was promoted to the Director of Computer Services for the IO until his retirement in 1993. Lawrence was a 72 year member of IBEW Local #98.

Upon retirement he moved to Ocean Pines and lived there until his passing. Lawrence lived a life of love of family, faith, and integrity. Lawrence was a member of the St. John Neumann church and choir. He was also a member of the Pinetones and Worcester Chorale. He was also a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He most enjoyed his time as a husband, dad, Popop and Poppoppop.

Visitation will be held at The Burbage Funeral Home 108 William St., Berlin, on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023 from 24 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and on Monday Aug. 7, 2023 from 9-10 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 11211 Beauchamp Rd., Berlin, Maryland on Monday Aug. 7, 2023 at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 13801 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, Md. on Tuesday Aug. 8, 2023 at noon. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland. Condolences can be shared with the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Ruth S. Widdowson

BERLIN – With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our dear mother, Ruth S. Widdowson. Ruth, age 96, passed away at her home in Ocean Pines on July 11, 2023. She was born on Nov. 7, 1926, to the late Clayton and Esther Simpkins of Mt. Vernon, Md. After graduating from Washington High School in 1943, Ruth was successful in various positions involving office management. Her longest, and most important career, how-

ever, was homemaker, housewife, wife and mother.

Ruth's life was a testament to the power of love. At the center of her world was her beloved husband of over 50 years, Kenneth. Their union was one of an extraordinary, unwavering commitment, which served as an inspiration to all who witnessed it. Ruth and Kenneth's bond guided them through many joys and sorrows, and their love was the foundation of their family and lives together.

After Kenneth's death, family and friends became the heart and soul of her existence. She treasured every moment spent in the company of her loved ones. Ruth's ability to make others feel valued and loved will forever be etched in the memories of those who experienced her affection.

She possessed a gentle spirit and a kind heart. Her genuine concern for others, her words of wisdom, and her empathetic ear provided comfort and reassurance. Her kind smile had the power to brighten anyone's day, and her grace and humility were a testament to the beautiful soul she embodied.

Though she has left this earthly realm, her legacy of love and faith will continue to guide and comfort us.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Widdowson; by her two sons Gary and Glen Widdowson; two sisters, Audrey Simpkins Jones and Rebecca Simpkins Messick; and nephew Edmund (Eddie) Widdowson, Jr.

Ruth is survived by two daughters, Jean Mahew and husband Tom of Ocean Pines and Marie Hansin and husband Morris of Suffolk, Va. Ruth has six grandchildren, Carrie (Dustin) Arant, Sara (Bijorn) Hubbard, Chris (Travis), Michael (Shawn), David (Christy), and Robert (Kristy) Hansin, and 12 great grandchildren, Degan and Ryder Arant, Sabastian and Matilda Hubbard, Kenneth, Carter, Tyler, Alana, Madeleine, Alexandra (Alex), Kaya and Korbin Hansin. She is survived by four nieces, Joann Larkin, Eve Kolodner, Shelia Darrah, and Ellen Udovich, and two nephews, Norman (Jonesy) Jones and Jay Udovich. She is also survived by the many people whose lives she has touched.

Graveside services will be held at Beechwood Memorial Cemetery on Aug. 6, 2023, at 11 a.m. Friends and family are invited to gather and honor the extraordinary life of Ruth Widdowson. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Living Sent Ministries Inc., PO Box 134, Princess Anne, Md. 21853 or Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Md. 21802.

As we mourn her loss, let us also remember the following scripture: "Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." - John 16:22

Arrangements are in the care of Hinman Funeral Home, P.A. of Princess Anne. To express condolences to the family, visit www.hinmanfuneralhome.com.

BOBBY JACKSON

LAWRENCE MCCARTY

RUTH WIDDOWSON

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Over the course of four weeks this summer, more than 100 local students took part in the Skilled Trades, Agriculture, Tourism and Technology Program (STATT Camp) at Worcester Technical High School.

While summer is thought of as quiet times in most schools, Worcester Tech hosted two camp sessions this summer for a total of four weeks. Each session features various pathways and students have the chance to pursue what matches their interest. Opportunities include laser cutting, culinary arts, 3D printing, carpentry, digital media, forensic science, welding, robotics and agriculture. While agriculture students talked about seed identification and goat handling, teenagers in robotics learned to fly drones and coding provided students with ability to program movements in objects. In carpentry, campers were building while forensic science students took fingerprints and talked about blood spatter. In culinary arts, dishes were prepared for taking home, and specific skills were taught in

Summer Camp Provides Valuable Opportunities

the kitchen by experienced leaders.

This program is an example of what can happen when the county and school officials work together in a spirit of partnership. The program serves as a stark contrast to recent months when budget decisions have led to animosity and division between county and school officials. The program provides an opportunity to look beyond the politics and realize the difference a respectful partnership can achieve when the greater good is sought.

The program is broken into two, two-week camps and is funded by the Worcester County Commissioners and the Rural Maryland Council. Teachers on hand providing instruction are employed through Worcester County Public Schools with a majority working at the tech school in the various fields of focus.

There are numerous positives to this unique opportunity provided to local students, but one we observed is beyond the obvious learning and mastering of new skills. The program al-

How We See It Letters To The Editor

Offshore Wind An Environmental Disaster

Editor: Facts vs. emotion.

1.Turbines kill whales and birds.

2.They have a 17-year life at best.

3.Require expensive maintenance.

4.Mechanically they are unreliable and problematic.

5.This is NOT renewable energy.

6.The bigger, the less reliable.

7.Moving complicated parts operating in salt water…use your imagination.

8.The most expensive form of all energy.

9.Produce only 1 kwh/sq. meter. Lowest power density.

10.Huge space footprint.

11.Heavy carbon footprint to produce and install.

12.Cost of dismantling and scrap at the end of life undetermined.

Companies that build them are only after ridiculous tax credits. “Renewable is not always Green”. Look for the documentary “Juice” this fall.

John Fager Ocean City

Electronic Signs A Waste, Visual Blight

Editor:

The Mayor & City Council (M&CC) of Ocean City continue to waste money. Now they want to spend nearly $550,000 for 14 double-sided electronic signs. That's 28 new signs that will create more visual blight along the Board-

walk.

The problem stems from taking in more revenue from the room tax than the M&CC need for advertising. Instead of applying the newfound revenue for infrastructure needs, and items such as better wages for the Beach Patrol and seasonal police officers, they continue to waste money on advertising. When is it enough?

At the last election, the voters narrowly approved a petitioned ordinance that gave the M&CC the authority to increase advertising. By a slim vote of 1,039 to 991, the voters gave the M&CC the green light to spend more on advertising. However, with that voter approval, which is hardly a mandate, came additional fiscal responsibility.

Thank you, Councilman Peter Buas for being the lone voice of dissent on this issue.

Vincent dePaul Gisriel, Jr. Ocean City

Too Much Wind Rhetoric Editor:

I am often one of the biggest cheerleaders for the Mayor and Town Council. I recognize they have an important job and one that is often under appreciated. I believe in giving credit where credit is due. However, it is equally important to question them when they go down the wrong path. We have reached that point with the latest questionable actions against the proposed offshore wind development.

Like the Mayor and Council, I have reservations of the changing of the landscape that we all know and love. There

so serves as an introduction for many to the wonders of the tech school, which is a true gem for our county. The school’s mission is to offer high school students high-quality career education and training programs in the fields of health care, hospitality, construction, manufacturing, engineering, agriculture, culinary, cosmetology and more.

For many students, the summer camp sessions provided a first introduction to the tech school. For many learners who might not see college as the best career choice, the school provides an alternative and productive pathway to an immediate work career. Funds used on the STATT Camp are well allocated in many ways, especially if the instruction clears the way for students who need to chart a unique course. The tech school provides these alternative options, and it’s a valuable community resource. Many families in this county already know the value of the school, but for others unaware the summer camp program educates and informs of different paths available.

is no doubt what has been described as a thumbnail size object on the horizon, would be a huge change. The question is whether or not these thumbnails that would be visible on clear days are worth the added clean energy that is promised. The discussion seems like it should be a rational one and decisions could be made by educated folks looking to do the right thing. Sadly, discussions regarding wind have digressed to the absurd. It is time we get back to the basics and start listening to each other and to science.

Many of the letters to this column have been so extreme, they lack any credibility. This is true for those on both sides of the issue. Hey, anti-wind folks: those who want the windmills DO happen to care if whales die. And you prowind folks need to realize that everyone who expresses a concern with the changing of the “viewshed” is not some climate change denying Luddite who lives under a rock. As is normally the case, removing the extremes on both sides, usually ends up with some commonsense resolutions that are beneficial to all.

The concern for me on the issue has been the Town’s latest move to spend $175,000 to SLR International, a European based outfit that the Town hopes will substantiate their claims about the detrimental effects of the proposed wind farm. At first glance, one may say that the Town is doing its due diligence on the matter and fully investigating the effects the wind farm would have on Ocean City. However, digging a tad deeper and by listening to Town Officials, it is

Letters To The Editor

just another attempt to halt the wind farm by any means necessary. And this latest move is costing the tax-payers in Ocean City $175,000.

To support giving $175,000 in tax payer dollars to SLR, Council Member Tony DeLuca is quoted as saying “There’s no amount of money that I wouldn’t approve not to see wind farms in Ocean City.” I am certainly not comfortable with Mr. DeLuca stating that the Town has unlimited funds to offer to any operation that will tell him what he wants to hear. And worse yet, the price of any future studies just went up astronomically because Mr. DeLuca is on record for saying we have endless funds to spend. This was really disappointing, especially from Mr. DeLuca who likes to consider himself a fiscal conservative.

Further disappointing are the statements made by City Manager Terry McGean, who I have always thought does an incredible job for the people of Ocean City. While supporting the $175,000 expense and mentioning some possible credible concerns of effects on the local horseshoe crab population, Mr. McGean really let the residents of the Town down with his final summation of the situation. He stated that if the $175,000 study were to show that the effects of a wind farm were not detrimental to Ocean City that the Town would be able to ignore the findings and just not share the results of the study with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management or the public.

This is unacceptable. It appears the Town is shopping for any entity that will back their claims of wind farms being harmful. The Town had to commit to spending $175,000 in taxpayer dollars and go all the way to England to find SLR who they hope will conclude that wind farms are bad. In life you usually get what you pay for, so there is no reason to assume that SLR will not come up with a few bad things to say about wind. $175,000 can buy a lot of doubt.

Let’s please stick to the facts and make informed decisions. Let’s spend taxpayer money wisely and let’s not substantiate our actions with the “ends justify the means” mentality. There is no excuse for spending unlimited taxpayer money on anything and the public cer-

Between The Lines

tainly has a right to see the results of a $175,000 study even if those results do not meet the narrative of the anti-wind folks on the Council.

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

As more details become known, it’s clear an apt word to describe this fall’s Oceans Calling Festival would be unprecedented.

City

M. Scott Chismar Ocean

More Wind Studies Unnecessary

Editor:

I was surprised when I learned that the Ocean City Council had voted to spend $175,000.00 on a study by SLR Consulting for review of the US Wind Construction and Operations Plan for the offshore wind farm to be located off the coast of Ocean City. My surprise comes from the fact that there are already studies (by the OSW Industry itself - including US Wind) regarding the impacts to the environment, sea life, commercial fishing, tourism, etc., of these wind farms. The studies clearly show a range of negative impacts (from minor to major) in all of these areas.

The studies are entitled:

1. Visual Impact Assessment May, 2022 Maryland Offshore Wind Project Prepared for US Wind, and

2. Ocean Wind I Offshore Wind Farm Draft Environmental Impact Statement June, 2022 authored by Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Office of Renewable Energy Programs

If I have access to these, then surely the Town of Ocean City does, too.

In addition, another foreign wind company, Orsted, has included in its literature reference to another study, The Effect of Offshore Wind Projects on Recreational Beach Use on the East Coast of the United States: Evidence from Contingent- Behavior Data, Elsevier, September, 2020, that reaches conclusions that would indicate that Cape May, N.J. may see a 15% decrease in tourism as a result of Orsted’s Ocean Wind projects.

Of course, as anyone can tell from my previous letters, in my opinion most of the negative impacts of OSW farms are just common sense. It hardly needs another study by another OSW connected entity.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

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It’s been interesting to observe the early planning that is currently taking place in advance of the late September event. In fact, it appears city officials have been working with festival promoters for many months on logistics. Last year’s event was canceled the day before the festival was to open due to a coastal storm bringing high winds, rain and flooding.

A primary concern with 50,000 people attending the concerts each day is what happens at the end of the festival. With the band performances scattered throughout the day, guests will likely be arriving at different times. Once the headliner wraps up at the end of each day, however, all 50,000 concert-goers will be leaving at the same time. The hope is some will be staying within walking distance, but the reality is a great majority will be driving, opting for ride-share or cabs or needing public transportation. Aware of the demands on the bus system, Ocean City is looking to offer an express bus service throughout that weekend that would reduce the bus stops from about 60 normally to 18. It was learned earlier this month a transit consultant is working with the promoter and the city on travel concepts.

This week the new plan to include a portion of the Boardwalk in the festival grounds was approved as part of the promoter’s license application review through the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners. The festival’s footprint will include 64 businesses including the Pier. Alcohol will be permitted on the Pier but not allowed on rides. A key piece to the approval was ensuring drinks bought inside a bar or restaurant would not be taken out into the festival grounds. On the flip side, beers or cocktails purchased from a festival bar cannot be taken into a private bar or restaurant. It appears the promoter will be bringing in about 300 security employees who will partner with the police department for enforcement. Additionally, the promoter will bring in about 75 EMTs to assist.

Yes, it’s safe to say this is an unprecedented event for Ocean City.

It never ceases to amaze me what makes news outside the area and what does not. This week, some headlines popped up around the mid-Atlantic about PETA putting out word about a $5,000 reward in return, “for information leading to the arrest and conviction of five men who were recorded abusing koi fish in a privately owned pond,” according to the press release.

In the early morning hours of July 1, security camera footage shows five men – who appeared to be intoxicated – reach into a residence’s small pond on 77th Street and grab fish. The video shows them throwing the fish around and one individual slammed at least one fish into the ground. At some point, another individual started using a shovel in the pond while others recorded the weirdness on their cell phones, of course. Throughout the course of the incident, the men are seen on video laughing hysterically. Police describe the suspects as five males between the ages of 18 and 25.

In the press release, PETA Senior Vice President Colleen O’Brien said, “Fish feel pain and fear just as cats, dogs, and these young misfits do, yet the men laughed as they tormented these animals who were slowly suffocating in their hands. PETA urges anyone with information to come forward immediately before more animals are hurt or killed.”

The case has evidently gone cold without leads, according to PETA. Anyone with any information or who can identify any of the suspects in the video should email erhode@oceancitymd.gov or the Ocean City Police Department at 410-723-6610. Anonymous tips may be left by calling 410-520-5136 or by electronic submission at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/crime-tips (reference case number 2023-00-2813.)

One of the more anticipated concerts of the summer at the Freeman Arts Pavilion was cancelled Tuesday due to thunderstorms. The concert, featuring Dashboard Confessional and Counting Crows, was canceled about 7:10 p.m. after the gates were delayed initially due to the torrential rains, thunder and lightning.

I was among the thousands planning to attend on Tuesday and anxiously waiting to learn whether the show would indeed go on. While awaiting official word on the pavilion’s Facebook page, I was amused by some of the social media comments and the anxiety over the wait. Here’s a handful of my favorites, while ignoring the nasty ones critical of the decision and the wait time.

•Send the taco truck to the parking lot.

•Don’t mind me, just sitting here eating Chipotle constantly refreshing this page,

•Any updates? Trying to decide if we should drive over or put my pajamas back on.

•Should I put in a reservation for 350 people at Fox's Pizza Den Fenwick West?

•Just call the show I have left over spaghetti in the fridge and I am hungry.

•I don’t give a crap what the outcome is, but give us an update. At least acknowledge you don’t know and let us know a new update time. Open the bars and toilets in the meantime.

Puzzle Answers

The Adventures of

by Steve Green

Aguilty pleasure of mine continues to be reading the website, raisingteenstoday.com. This fun little nugget popped up this week.

It was a listing, titled “Things No One Tells You About Raising Teenagers.”

1.You’ll go broke paying for groceries, braces, car insurance and new cell phones

2.That your teen’s favorite responses will be, “I’ll do it later,” “I’m too tired,” “oh … I forgot,” and “Good.”

3.That you’ll start missing them long before they move out.

4.That they’ll be too freaking tired to do anything during the day, but too wired to sleep at night.

5.You’ll spend 86% of your time driving them and their friends to Timbuktu.

6.That they’ll develop a major hoodie and foodie obsession.

7.That your mere existence could annoy or embarrass them.

8.That you can’t use proper punctuation when texting them or they’ll think you’re nagging or being salty.

9.How sweet, funny and kind they are ... when they want to be.

10.That even though they drive you bonkers at times, one day you’ll wake up and realize they’re one of your very best friends.

I have some more to add to the list, so here goes.

11.The answer is always “yes,” to is your room clean, but the reality is always far different until coercion.

12.No matter how exhausted, they refuse to go to bed early in the summertime because they do not have school.

13.Showering immediately after working out and getting off a shift at a

restaurant is out of the question.

14.Despite the rude treatment given to parents, you will hear constantly how well-mannered and polite they are to other people.

15.Cursing one time around them will result in them thinking they have full license to do so anytime. This, I heard from a friend.

16.Under absolutely no circumstances will they ever stand next to you at a concert. You may even see them standing by themselves across the way.

17.A surefire way to get teens and their friends out of the pool is to lay on a lounge chair nearby.

18.Discrimination is rampant when it comes to vegetables.

19.When talk of leaving the house comes around, it’s best to ask a simple question: “are you ready to walk out the door right now?” If the answer is yes, don’t believe it.

20.Normal times to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner are not important.

21.Some conversations take a turn to the ugly without any warning.

22.Silence should not be reason for concern.

23.When they are looking at their phones, there’s no reason to try and start a conversation.

24.A breath test will truly determine if the teeth have been brushed.

25.They will not want their pictures taken now, but they will later be glad to see how much they have changed over time.

26.Boy/girl teen relationships are complicated and can change drastically from morning to night.

27.Phone calls are the fastest way to get a hold of them, followed by text messages. Most teens don’t know how to reply to an email evidently.

28.They are far more likely to try a new food for a stranger.

29.You can never be prepared for exactly how uncool they can make you feel.

30.Rides to and from wherever they want to go are more expected than appreciated.

31.They hide their love.

32.Teen siblings will pummel each other for no reason at all, but will stand up for each other no matter what.

33.Showers will average about 10 minutes depending on the level of their perceived exhaustion.

34.Taking an Uber alone is a goal, but not paying for it.

35.Manual labor around the yard is expected to be rewarded.

36.Knocking and waiting a few seconds before opening a closed door is best for all.

37.Relaxing at home involves pajama pants and no shirt.

38.Giving advice is a surefire way to get the opposite choice chosen.

39.If let on their own, packing for a trip will only involve clothes for one day.

40.Nine times out of 10 you will just do it after getting so tired of waiting for the clothes in the dryer to get folded.

41.Clothes will disappear every single day.

42.Biking somewhere is always cooler than walking.

43.Always empty pockets from their clothes because there could be surprises.

44.It’s more likely than not they will not flush the toilet.

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

PUZZLE ON PAGE 59