2/9/2024 OC Today/Dispatch

OC Today/Dispaatch FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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— Page 8

PRICELESS

PHOTO COURTESY ALAN SKLAR

SNOWY OWL A snowy owl looks out over its winter hunting territory on Assateague Island after migrating down from its arctic breeding grounds in Canada and possibly Greenland. This migration doesn’t always happen every year, but photographer Alan Sklar came across this one recently.

Citizen comment? No. County commissioners vote to keep residents from podium at meetings A measure that would create a citizen comment period during commissioner meetings is rejected by a four-member majority, with two of them saying their

opposition was because the staff’s recommendations on the matter weren’t as clear as they would have liked.

—PAGE 11

Workforce housing improves, but ...

The new employee lodging projects set to come on line before summer won’t be anywhere near enough to meet the

needs of seasonal workers. Much more has to be done, say the people working on them. — PAGE 3

YOUR COMMUNITY Inside a classroom: In a new weekly column, a local school teacher shares an inside look at her typical day as a county educator.– PAGE 62

New board members: Four residents have joined the Art League of Ocean City’s Board of Directors. — PAGE 36

Playoffs near: The winter sports season at Stephen Decatur High School is wrapping up with playoffs starting soon — PAGE 76

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OC Today/Dispatch

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OC Today/Dispatch

Workforce housing Gains made but still not enough to meet demand

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) On a quiet February afternoon, in the midst of Ocean City’s offseason, Mike Ramadan is hard at work.

Sitting in his office on the third floor of the old Phillips Crab House property, he spends his day taking calls, overseeing construction work and doing whatever else is needed to make his workforce housing project a reality. While just one of many projects taking place in Ocean City, Ramadan says he hopes his redevelopment will show both the city and its businesses what can be done to provide for seasonal employees who work in the resort each summer.

“We want people to live happily so they can work happily,” he said.

Last September, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission approved Ramadan’s plans for a workforce housing project at the old Phillips Crab House property on 21st Street. And in late November, work officially began on what will eventually be a 300-bed facility featuring three- and four-bed-

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For Ramadan, a local businessman, the project will address what he sees as a shortage of quality workforce housing in Ocean City. Utilizing an existing building, he said he hopes to transform the entire block into a centralized location that offers seasonal employees access to nearby businesses and public transportation.

“There’s a need,” he said, “and we’re fulfilling that need.”

In downtown Ocean City, similar efforts are taking place at the Ocean Manor Hotel. The Dough Roller’s Kevin Gibbs said his company recently purchased the property to secure workforce housing for its J-1 visa student workers. He noted that while the state department requires J-1 students to have their housing secured before their visit, the town has an estimated shortage of roughly 3,000 beds.

“So it’s a lot better for business owners to have their own housing …,” he explained.

“More and more businesses are doing that

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now because they have to.”

Gibbs said it is also an effective recruitment tool for businesses looking to secure seasonal employees. By offering a place to stay, he said a business can keep its workers from finding employment elsewhere.

“I think the turnover in staff is why people are pushing for this,” he said.

At the See RESORT Page 8

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Mayor of Berlin wants unified grant request Towns’ commitment seems unlikely due to different types of needs from county

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor (Feb. 8, 2024) Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall asked his peers throughout the county to consider a unified funding request as local municipalities prepare to seek grants from Worcester County.

Tyndall last week approached the mayors of Snow Hill, Pocomoke and Ocean City as well as the president of the Ocean Pines Association to ask them to consider a unified funding request to Worcester County. The towns typically submit annual grant requests to Worcester County each February.

“I think it says a lot more if we come at it together,” Tyndall said in an interview this week.

On Jan. 31, Tyndall emailed the other mayors and the Ocean Pines Association. His email pointed out that the Worcester County Commissioners had flat funded the municipalities in fiscal year 2024 but that there had recently been an increase in property assessments. He suggested the municipalities consider a unified funding request of $500,000 each.

“It’s not uncommon to reach out to colleagues in Worcester County and even across the state,” Tyndall said.

He said the Town of Berlin received an unrestricted grant of $400,000 from the county in fiscal year 2013. From fiscal year 20142017, the town received an unrestricted grant of $450,000. In fiscal

year 2018, the town received $455,000. In fiscal year 2019, the county provided the town with $465,000. The grant hasn’t changed since.

Tyndall said the town used the funding to support police, fire and EMS needs.

“We’re down to one K-9 unit,” he said. “We’ll be looking to onboard another. We’ve got three cadets in the academy. We’ve got increased costs across the board.”

He’s hopeful that the commissioners will increase the grant this year, especially since the county’s property tax revenues are up. In Worcester County, Group 3 residential values increased from $7,837,587,900 in 2021 to $11,576,277,100 in 2024, a 47.7% increase. Commercial values jumped

from $926,276,300 in 2021 to $1,227,132,100, a 32.5% increase.

Tyndall said if the county provided the town with an unrestricted grant of $500,000, that would be a 7.5% increase over what the town received last year.

Snow Hill Mayor Mike Pruitt said he’d received Tyndall’s email but that he hadn’t yet met with the town’s department heads regarding funding needs for the coming year and couldn’t say whether the town would be cooperating with Berlin as far as a unified request.

When asked about Tyndall’s request, Ocean Pines officials indicated they’d be working with the county going forward.

“As in prior years, Ocean Pines will continue to work with Worcester County on our annual budget request,” General Manager John Viola said.

Pocomoke City Mayor Todd Nock acknowledged Tyndall’s request but said he felt the towns each had different needs.

“I hold the belief that Pocomoke, Snow Hill, Berlin, Ocean Pines, and Ocean City each possess distinct priorities,” Nock said. “Although I advocate for collaborative efforts to enhance Worcester as a whole, I do not deem this particular endeavor as the appropriate means to achieve unity. While I am eager to align my vision with fellow mayors, I am not inclined to prioritize monetary aspects at this stage.”

Inside thiss we ee k Calendar ..............................46 Classifieds ..........................49 Crossword ............................26 Dining Guide ........................42 Editoral/Letters....................68 Entertainment ......................34 Horoscope ............................27 Obituaries ............................72 Police/Crime........................23 Public Notices ......................53 Sports ..................................76 NEWS INQUIRIES: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES INQUIRIES: sales@oceancitytoday.net CLASSIFIEDS: classifieds@oceancitytoday.net 410-723-6397 Published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City Md 21842

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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OC Today/Dispatch

OVER $46.6 MILLION IN SETTLED REAL ESTATE IN 2023 12207 Coastal Hwy. Suite D • Ocean City, MD 21842 • 410-524-1203

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121 81ST ST UNIT 706 OCEAN CITY • $815,000 Stunning three-bedroom 3.5 bath condo at the Rivendell hits the market! This beautiful condo is being sold furnished and it's ready for your immediate enjoyment. You’ll be mesmerized by the waterfront views. You can actually watch both the sunrise and the sunset without ever leaving this condo. The kitchen is sure to delight the chef in your family with its granite countertops, custom cabinets and plenty of workspace. Off the kitchen is the family room and dining area where you will enjoy family meals and make memories that last a lifetime. The family room is great for entertaining and has a gas fireplace for chilly times in fall and winter. There’s also a wet bar for relaxing and having cocktails with friends. You can see the Ocean and Bay from the primary bedroom suite and the primary bath is luxurious with a tile Jacuzzi tub, shower and double vanities. The other two bedrooms are spacious as well and each have their own en suite bathroom. There is also a half bath off the family room. There’s a separate laundry room with washer and dryer and plenty of storage. Privacy is ensured with good separation between the primary bedroom and the other two bedrooms. There are large balconies where you can enjoy your morning coffee and a cold drink in the evening. The Rivendell has an indoor pool, outdoor pool and a fitness center, and the Hobbit restaurant is located in the building as well. This condo is located in Midtown on 81st St. and there is a traffic light at the intersection so crossing the street is very easy.

There are plenty of stores, restaurants and shops in the area. There is a parking garage and secure access to the building.

Come take a look today and make this beautiful property yours. This is a non-rental building so you will make friends and know your neighbors. MLS MDWO2017698

733 BRADLEY ROAD • OCEAN CITY • $3,200,000 Luxury 5BR/6BA/2HBA Bayfront home with pool hits the market!

This luxury home has 145 feet of water frontage with direct bay views and offers southern exposure. As you walk in the front door of this lovely home you will immediately fall in love with the attention to details and upgrades throughout. An elegant foyer with marble flooring greets you as you enter with your eyes drawn to the beautiful Bayfront views and the swimming pool in the courtyard. On the first level you will find a kitchen designed for access in and out to the pool area with plenty of seating and room for entertaining family and friends. Also on the first floor, you will find a Bay front office or playroom for the kids. This home is complete with a home elevator so either take the spiraling stairs to the second level or take the elevator up to the second level.You will be mesmerized by the amazing Bayfront views and endless sunsets this home offers. There are 6 decks off the home for privacy. On the second level you will find a professional chef’s kitchen complete with large center island, high end appliances and plenty of cabinet space adjoining a beautiful, spacious dining room overlooking the bay. The family room is also complete with a gas fireplace for chilly winter nights, making this the perfect home for year-round living or a vacation home. Also, on this floor, you will find a second office, home theater room, or game room. On the third level you will enjoy waking up to the endless water views from your primary bedroom. The primary bath has custom finishes throughout with extensive tile work. The primary bedroom also has a fireplace for romantic evenings and relaxing. Also on this floor are three additional bedrooms, which are spacious and separated nicely from the primary bedroom. This home is over 6000 ft.² and is one of the few Bayfront homes available on the market. So, if you’re looking for a home at the beach, also offering all the thrill of the day with attention to detail look no further. Come take a look at 733 Bradley Rd. today before it’s sold!

MDWO2014714

NORTH OC CONDO with DEEDED BOAT SLIP

WATERFRONT HOME AT REFUGE DERRICKSON CREEK OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 12:30-2:30PM

204 N HERON DR #2048C OCEAN CITY • $425,000 This beautiful 2BR/2BA condo with deeded boat slip #23 is in Seascape in the fabulous community of Heron Harbour. This larger corner model is rarely available for sale. It has two primary bedrooms each with its own full bath. This condo comes furnished ready for your immediate enjoyment. When you walk in you will fall in love with the floor plan with a townhouse feel. There is an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, subway tile backsplash, and white kitchen cabinets. The dining room is directly off the kitchen that flows into a spacious living area. The family room has vaulted ceilings and is a great place for family time and entertaining with friends. This condo has an oversized primary bedroom. The second bedroom is on the next level and has a full bath and oversized closet. There is a full deck off the family room, perfect to enjoy an outdoor meal. There is also an outdoor storage closet off the deck. You will love the deeded boat slip that conveys with the property. Offered with a oneyear AHS warranty. Heron Harbour is amenity rich with two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a kiddie pool, fitness center, social room, sauna, locker room, two Har-Tru tennis courts, sidewalks, and piers. Enjoy your boat, fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and paddle boarding all directly out your back door. You are very close to shopping, restaurants, and the beach. Come take a look before it's SOLD! MDWO2018196

36939 CREEKHAVEN DR • SELBYVILLE, DE 19975 • $835,000 Stunning 4BR/4.5 bath home in the Refuge at Derickson Creek hits the market! This meticulously maintained home backs up to the pond, has peek of the Bay and is located approximately three miles from Fenwick Island beach. As you walk through the front door you will immediately see the attention to detail. There is an upgraded kitchen with breakfast bar, Quartz countertops, beautiful tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and plenty of cabinet space. The kitchen opens into the dining area.

Friends and family will enjoy meals there together and will make memories that last a lifetime. The spacious family room, with a beautiful gas fireplace, is off the dining area and is a perfect gathering place for entertaining family and friends. There’s a wonderful, enclosed sunroom with a glass slider to the paver patio deck and beautiful back yard. There’s also a flex room on the first floor that could be used as an office. The primary bedroom suite is located on the first floor and is oversized and has a beautiful full en suite bath. You will enjoy the water views from your primary bedroom. The laundry room is also on the first floor. You will love the first-floor hardwood floors, tile, woodworking, upgraded lighting and upgraded carpet throughout. The hardwood floors continue to the second level. There is a spacious second family room on this level and there are three additional bedrooms all with en suite baths. This is the perfect home for everyone to enjoy. There is a two-car garage, covered front porch, and outside shower. Every room in this house has a view of the pond and a peek of the Bay. The Refuge is an amenity rich community with a large inviting outdoor pool w/separate wading pool for kids, a clubhouse with an exercise/workout room, tennis courts, basketball court, volleyball court and playground. In the Refuge you get to enjoy the scenic views and native wildfowl of Derickson Creek and the Delaware Inland bays. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! DESU2052970

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301 14TH STREET #302 • OCEAN CITY • $695,000

1 66TH ST UNIT 101 • OCEAN CITY • $499,900 Stunning 2BR/2BA condo one back from the beach hits the market! This condo is located on 66th street in an ocean block building. The sellers have made many recent upgrades, installing luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, new microwave, new refrigerator, new stove, new dishwasher, new exterior HVAC unit, toilets and kitchen faucet within the last three years. The decks also were tiled in 2019 and the glass sliders leading to the deck were also replaced within the last five years. This would make a great second home or investment property and is being sold fully furnished and ready for your immediate enjoyment. This is one of the best values at the beach - fully furnished and only one back from the ocean. As you walk through the front door, you will see an inviting living room for entertaining family and friends. There is a dining area off the kitchen with glass sliders leading to a huge covered deck with recently tiled floor. You can hear the waves break from the deck. This is a first floor unit but it's an elevated building so the height off the street is equivalent to a second floor unit. This condo has two large bedrooms and two full baths so there's plenty of room for family and friends. The condo is in walking distance to many restaurants, stores, shops and a supermarket, so once you're here you don’t have to move your car, but the condo is conveniently located to the route 90 bridge, making coming and going a joy. Come take a look today before this amazing property is sold. This condo association is well managed by Mann Properties. MLS MDWO2016172

RESIDENTIAL LOT

WATERSIDE DRIVE BERLIN • $475,000 Are you looking to build your dream home? Look no further than this beautiful residential lot in the community of South Point Farms. This beautiful building lot is in a prime location on the corner with beautiful bay views. The lot is approximately 2.76 acres and it’s located off 611 in Berlin Maryland. At the entrance of South Point Farms is a public boat ramp and public pier with water access for boating fishing, crabbing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. If you are looking for a peaceful, tranquil location with unbelievable Bay views this is the prime spot. There are multiple world-class golf courses close by and Assateague National and State Park as well for days on the beach. No builder tie in required. Come take a look today and enjoy the good life on South Point Farms! MDWO2014122

Stunning 3-bedroom 3.5 bath luxury condo in Laguna Vista hits the market! As you walk in the front door, you will immediately fall in love with the large open floor plan and coastal decor. The gourmet kitchen features an abundance of cabinets, beautiful tile backsplash, granite countertops and center island with stainless steel appliances. Off the kitchen is a beautiful dining area where you will enjoy meals with family and friends. The dining room flows nicely into the large family area for relaxing and entertaining, and there is a gas fireplace for winter nights. The family room has a glass slider to a covered deck with southern exposure. The famous White Marlin tournament is right next-door, and you have a great view from your balcony. The primary bedroom ensuite is spacious and faces the water as well. There's also a slider off the primary bedroom to the balcony. The other two bedrooms are private as well. There's also a separate entrance to those two bedrooms off the foyer so one of them could serve as a second primary bedroom. The HVAC was just replaced. This condo is well taken care of, and the amenities in the condo building include an indoor heated pool and an open year-round exercise room. The condo is just three blocks to the beach and boardwalk. This well-maintained condo is being sold fully furnished and shows pride of ownership. Come take a look today before it's sold. MDWO2018458

COMMERCIAL

34862 WEST LINE RD SELBYVILLE, DE • $3,900,000 Commercial Site in Prime Location hits the Market! 2.36 acres on the corner of RT 54 and W. Line Rd in Selbyville DE. This location is directly across from Yellowfins Restaurant and shopping center on heavily traveled Rt 54. The location is approximately 3-4 miles to the beaches of Ocean City & Fenwick Island. It has water and 8' sewer main that will supply a hotel, shopping center, office complex, medical center, professional center, etc.

Lot is cleared. Buy it Now Before It's SOLD!!! Owner Financing is available. MLS DESU184528

COMMERCIAL

32474 LIGHTHOUSE RD SELBYVILLE, DE • $7,900,000 Prime commercial location in Selbyville of 10.09 acres. This is a rare commercial development opportunity on the busy intersection of Lighthouse Sound Rd. (Route 54) and Hudson Rd. There are already many existing new homes surrounding this property and more than 3,200 additional homes are coming soon. This is the perfect location for a shopping center, multiple smaller retail businesses, and/or medical or other professional offices to serve these homes and the entire Selbyville, Bayside, Fenwick, Ocean City area. The Seller will finance up to 70% of the purchase price at 1 percent below the current prime lending rate for up to 5 years. The property is located 8 miles from the beach! DESU2044978

THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING? LET'S CONNECT TO BEGIN THE PROCESS TODAY! The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate 2024 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2015 a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 10771BALT_07/15

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Pilot fee-in-lieu parking program eyed for resort

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) Officials are considering a pilot program to test a fee-inlieu parking concept in Ocean City.

At a recent meeting of the Ocean City Fee-In-Lieu Parking Committee, members held discussions on several topics pertaining to a proposed feein-lieu concept. In addition to costs and pricing, committee members also discussed a potential pilot program.

“Essentially we discussed implementing a pilot program,” committee member Joe Wilson said this week. “I think the goal coming out of this next meeting is to discuss pilot locations and set up a fee-in-lieu program for two different zones, one from North Division to 9th Street and another south of North Division Street. OCDC has a lot we could potentially use, and the town has a lot they could potentially use as well.”

Last year, representatives with the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) came before the Mayor and Council to discuss the proposed implementation of a Fee-In-Lieu of Parking (FILOP) program. Simply put, a FILOP program would allow developers an alternative for meeting the town’s minimum parking requirements. The concept allows property owners to pay a fee to the town instead of providing some or all of the necessary off-street parking required by code. The town then uses those fees to pay for public parking.

From that initial meeting, the council agreed to form a new committee to explore the concept in greater detail. And in June, the committee held its first meeting at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

Wilson said a FILOP program would not only improve parking but encourage economic development.

He noted that a developer’s inability to meet the town’s parking requirements has hindered redevelopment opportunities in the downtown area.

“It helps for development and redevelopment,” he said this week. “Oftentimes, people downtown have more density than they have parking.

We want to help incentivize development and provide an avenue to get parking when they don’t have it in those areas.”

Wilson said that no official actions have been taken regarding a FILOP program in Ocean City. However, the committee plans to meet again in the coming months.

“The last meeting was primarily a discussion and not a whole lot of action,” he said. “We’re still in the research phase at this point in time.”

OceanCityToday.com

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OC Today/Dispatch

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Resort businesses seek housing solutions Continued from Page 3 21st Street housing project, Ramadan said he is renting to businesses rather than seasonal employees. By utilizing that business model, he said, local business owners can ensure housing for their workers. He said he is now accepting applications for the coming summer season and that more information can be found at ocworkforcehousing.com.

“I like this model because it makes sense for both parties,” he said.

Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association Executive Director Susan Jones said the shortage of workforce housing – exacerbated by the pandemic and the conversion of properties into short-term rentals – continues to be an ongoing issue for Ocean City. She noted, however, that she is witnessing some short-term

rentals converting back to workforce housing.

“It is easier to service a seasonal rental rather than a daily/weekly short-term rental,” she said.

Amy Thompson, executive director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, said several efforts to address workforce housing are taking shape in Ocean City. In addition to Ramadan’s project, Thompson highlighted a recent code amendment allowing for non-accessory workforce housing in town.

“It’s a big issue, and there’s no simple solution …,” she said. “We just have to keep talking about it. This is an entrepreneurial town, and someone can go, ‘I can help in this way.’”

While the town has yet to receive any applications utilizing the recent code amendment, officials said they

are exploring all options when it comes to workforce housing, including the development of a police substation that includes employee housing. Ramadan, however, argued more needed to be done to encourage developers to take on such projects.

“The city – and maybe the state – could show some more support to incentivize people to do this,” he said.

While work continues at the municipal level, one nonprofit is attempting to improve workforce housing in the downtown area. Ocean City Development Corporation Executive Director Zach Bankert said the organization is now in its second year of offering workforce housing and rehabilitation grants through its OCDC Development and Assistance Program.

“It is designed for development

costs,” he explained, “so surveys, architectural design, construction drawings, geotech, all of the preconstruction costs for new construction or the rehabilitation of existing workforce housing.”

Property owners in the downtown area could be awarded grants between $10,000 and $25,000 to help cover costs associated with new workforce housing projects and workforce housing rehabilitation, he said.

“Any business you talk to, they have an employee issue, a shortage,” he explained. “In Ocean City, because we rely so much on J-1s and H-2B employees, you have to have housing for them or you won’t be able to secure their contracts. It’s something the OCDC and the town has talked about for a long time, and this is our way of trying to support the cause.”

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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) New water and wastewater rates will take effect in the coming fiscal year.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council voted to adopt new water and wastewater service rates for the next five fiscal years. The rates, determined by a recent water and wastewater study, are expected to increase a customer’s average bill by more than $14 a quarter starting in 2025.

“This is adopting the water and wastewater rates for fiscal years 2025 through 2029,” said City Solicitor Heather Stansbury. “This was originally presented to you at the January 30 work session.”

Last week, representatives with NewGen Strategies and Solutions came before the Mayor and Council to present the results of a recent See INCREASE Page 10

Stay informed with our digital newsletter Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC Today/Dispatch delivers? Our five-days-a-week digital newsletter might be just what you need.

We are developing an in-your-morningemail product (with updates for breaking news) and invite you to give it a try when it debuts in the spring. If you sign up now, you’ll get a free three-month trial subscription to what will become available by paid subscription only for a nominal charge. How nominal? $2 a month or $12 a year to cover our production costs.

Sign up now and get three months free by emailing malloryp@oceancitytoday.net.

She’ll also keep you posted on our progress.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

PAGE 9

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Council approves special event changes Gehrig defends questions, denies grandstanding on inquiries about deatils

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) City officials this week voted to establish town equipment and labor charges for special events, but not before a lengthy discussion on late fees that could be charged to promoters.

In a work session last week, the Mayor and Council approved revisions to the town’s policies and procedures manual which, among other things, establishes charges for town equipment and labor related to special events. Back on the agenda this week, the council voted to adopt a resolution to formally set those

charges.

“This is the resolution establishing charges for town equipment and labor related to private events,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told the council. “This also was approved at the January 30 work session.”

In a work session last fall, the council voted to move forward with a revised special event fee structure and to bring back those changes in the form of a resolution. As part of that process, staff last week presented officials with revised policies and procedures that reflect the new fees and approval processes and update equipment and labor usage fees as it relates to private events.

During Monday’s council meeting, Councilman John Gehrig said he continued to have questions regarding late fees that could be charged to pro-

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moters who fail to meet submission deadlines. He noted that Monday’s consent agenda featured requests to approve private events, including the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

“Are any of the events currently on our slate in any type of late status right now?” he asked. “We’re talking about applications nine months out, agreements four months out. We just approved an event today that’s happening in March.”

Officials noted the town’s policies and procedures were amended since last week’s meeting to make late fees permissive, rather than mandatory.

City Manager Terry McGean noted that a few events, including the OC Air Show, have come close to the deadline. Stansbury, however, noted that the revision gave staff leeway to change those deadlines.

“I can add that the events that are not one-sheet private event approvals, but that come through my office, what we have done previously … is if they are close to those deadlines through no fault of their own, we’re simply moving them,” she explained.

Gehrig pointed out that promoters could be charged between $500 a day and $2,000 a day for failing to meet submission deadlines.

“Of course if it’s the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, we’re not going to charge any fees,” he said. “But I want to get rid of the who-you-know type of situation.”

Gehrig added that he didn’t want to charge promoters who encounter delays that are no fault of their own, particularly promoters working through a negotiation with the town.

McGean said the intent of late fees is to penalize promoters who don’t meet certain benchmarks.

“If it’s our delay, we don’t charge.

If it’s their delay, that’s the issue,” he replied. “I don’t want to name names, but we have had where the contract is put in place, specific things that were supposed to happen, and we just keep getting told, ‘oh, we’ll have it to you next week, we’ll have it to you next week, we’ll have it to you next week.’

And then the next thing you know it’s three days before the event and we still don’t have something like the See OFFICIALS Page 12

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Continued from Page 8 water and wastewater study. The report proposed rate increases over a five-year period to cover a forecasted increase in operating expenses and capital costs.

The resolution adopted this week sets new quarterly rates for fixture charges, commodity charges and service availability fees within the water division and new quarterly rates for fixture charges, service availability fees and pool fees within the wastewater division.

Overall, the changes will increase water rates by 7% in fiscal year 2025, 5% in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 and 3 % in fiscal years 2028 and 2029, and wastewater rates by 5% in fiscal year 2025 and 3% in fiscal years 2026 through 2029. NewGen representa-

tives report the average quarterly bill would increase from $227 to $277 by the end of fiscal year 2029.

“It’s on average $10 per year,” NewGen’s Eric Callocchia said last week. “It’s slightly frontloaded. You can see the first year would be a $15 per quarter increase, $5 a month.

And by the end of the forecast, it’s about $8 per quarter.”

With no further discussion, the council this week voted 6-0, with Councilman Frank Knight absent, to adopt new water and wastewater rates for fiscal years 2025 through 2029.

The council this week also approved a resolution to amend the town’s zoning district map. Officials say the new map reflects zoning changes approved by ordinance since 1999.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 11

OC Today/Dispatch

Commission majority denies allowing public comments

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) The Worcester County Commissioners opted not to add public comments to their meetings this week.

Though they instructed staff to find a vehicle for public comment at meetings last month, the majority of the commissioners this week voted against a motion that would’ve added public comment to meetings. A motion to adopt staff’s recommendation to give speakers three minutes each at the end of commissioner meetings failed with just Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Diana Purnell and Ted Elder in support.

“It’s a dead issue, which is certainly a loss for the citizens of Worcester County, not being able to voice their issues with the full board of commissioners,” Mitrecic said after the meeting.

It was Mitrecic last month who made a motion to have staff find a way to work public comment into the commissioners’ meetings. Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young presented the commissioners this week with a recommendation to hold a public comment section at the end of meetings that would give speakers three minutes to address the commissioners. The memo Young provided to the commissioners stated that speakers would have to follow rules, which he pointed out in must jurisdictions included identifying their name and address, refraining from remarks unrelated to the business of the county, refraining from conduct that’s not civil and understanding that the public comment period was “not a question-and-answer time.”

“As it is handled now, the emailing of questions and comments ahead of the meeting is always encouraged,” the memo reads. “The commissioners@co.worcester.md.us email address goes to all the commissioners.”

Mitrecic said he’d read the memo.

“I found no problem with any of the points made,” he said. “I’d make a motion we adopt a public comment period.”

Purnell seconded the motion but it failed with just three commissioners—Mitrecic, Purnell and Elder—in support.

Mitrecic said after the meeting that he didn’t expect the issue to come back up, as typically that only occurs when one of the commissioners who voted against a motion asks that it be reconsidered.

Commissioners Eric Fiori and Caryn Abbott, who both supported Mitrecic’s motion to find a method for public comment last month, said they were in opposition this week because the staff recommendation and the motion were too vague.

“The motion was too incomplete,”

Fiori said. “What was documented was such a range of options there was nothing to vote on there.”

Abbott said the recommendation was basically a compilation of what other counties did and wasn’t a Worcester-specific concept.

“They didn’t present a way for Worcester County to do it,” she said.

“There was nothing to vote on.”

Fiori said he expected staff to come back with concrete examples of how Worcester County could implement public comment effectively into meetings. Fiori referenced the public comments permitted at Worcester County Board of Education meetings.

“We solve problems differently than the board of education,” he said.

“A two-minute comment with no action plan I feel is counterproductive.

I don’t want to see a dozen people come up with all the problems they have with no action plan, no interaction.”

He said that until staff hammered down a specific template for Worcester, he didn’t think the commissioners should change the meeting format.

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Mitrecic calls decision ‘loss for the citizens’ Continued from Page 11 ken during the public comment period there in the past.

“I find it very ineffective,” she said.

“That got me nowhere with the board of education. I recognize that, and I think that format doesn’t work.”

Abbott prefers one-on-one communication with her constituents.

“The people most vocal about wanting public comments have never emailed me,” she said.

She added however that she would support incorporating public comment into the commissioners’ meetings if it could be done in a way that worked. In the meantime, she said citizens were welcome to call her or set up a meeting with her.

“If they have real issues, you’d think they’d want to speak to us directly,” she said.

Mitrecic, however, said the issue with one-on-one communication was the fact that the whole board of commissioners might not be aware of an issue. Unless the commissioner shares the constituent’s concerns with the whole board, the rest of the commissioners won’t hear about it, he said. That’s why he wanted to offer the public the chance to speak at meetings.

“This would’ve been a chance for the citizens of Worcester County to come and address the entire board of commissioners,” Mitrecic said. “How can that be a bad thing? Most decisions are made behind closed doors by the four of them.”

Mitrecic pointed out that there was no discussion before Tuesday’s vote on the public comment motion.

“Look at their votes,” he said. “It’s

very clear they don’t want any input from anybody. They’ve made up their minds before they walk through the door.”

Bishopville resident Kate Hulme, who attended Tuesday’s meeting hoping to see the commissioners approve the inclusion of public comment at future meetings, said she was also upset by the lack of discussion.

She noted that Abbott and Fiori last month voted for having staff find a vehicle for public comment.

“At no point during the motion did any commissioner in opposition to the recommendation offer feedback, concerns, or otherwise,” she said.

“They had no discussion. The commissioners advocate for transparency and yet are in direct conflict of this initiative when it could negatively impact their motives.”

Hulme said she personally spoke with several of the commissioners in recent weeks to express her desire to see public comment at meetings and even shared links from other jurisdictions to show how they handled public input.

“Not once did any of the commissioners reference hearing from constituents in support of public comment,” she said. “They chose to disregard the voice of their constituents.

They avoided allowing constituent concern to be publicly recorded. That is why we need public comment.”

Officials, staff debate late fees Continued from Page 10 proper insurance. And we’re placed in the position where we either figure out how to do it without the proper insurance or be bad guys and cancel the event.”

Gehrig argued the policy gave one person the “blanket ability” to charge late fees. McGean, however, said the idea of imposing late fees was no different than the liquidated damages provision the town added in its contracts with promoters.

“At some point the council needs to have the faith in the people that they hire, whether it’s me or somebody else sitting in here or Frank Miller or Tom Perlozzo,” he replied.

“They’re really the ones who are going to be making these calls.”

After further discussion, the council agreed to have Stansbury add language to the contracts clarifying that penalties are assessed if the fault lies with the promoter.

“That’s the better place to do that,” Stansbury said. “It does bring an element of subjectivity into it, which we’ll deal with if it arises.”

Gehrig also asked about labor fees, internal events and private event tiers. Following that discussion, Councilman Will Savage called for the vote, which led to a verbal spar between the two council members.

“You had four days to sit here and ask questions and you sit here and grandstand every week, and I’m tired of it,” Savage said. “I think this entire council is tired of it.”

Gehrig said he wanted to ask questions so that the public could hear the responses.

“I know you are tired of it because I’m the only one who asks the damn questions,” he replied. “This packet gets sent to the public … What if the people in the public have the same question?”

The council then voted 5-1, with Gehrig opposed and Councilman Frank Knight absent, to establish charges for equipment and labor usage related to special events.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

PAGE 13

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Combined school meeting slated for Feb. 26 Officials aiming to inform parents about board of ed Fiscal Year 2025 budget

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) Worcester County Public Schools officials and the School Improvement Advisory Committee are hosting a meeting open to parents of Berlin Intermediate School, Stephen Decatur Middle School and Stephen Decatur High School students at 5:30

p.m., Feb. 26. The event will take place in the SDHS cafeteria.

WCPS Public Relations Coordinator Carrie Sterrs said Superintendent Lou Taylor and Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert will present their Fiscal Year 2025 school system budget. Attendees can ask questions and hear information on educational needs and resources.

The system budget has been on the minds of school officials, as they anticipate a $5000,000 drop from FY2024.

In a January board of education meet-

ing, Tolbert confirmed that the county commissioner is likely to fund WCPS through the maintenance of effort (MOE) formula, the minimum monetary support allowed by state law.

Changes to the education system are also expected to add to the county’s struggles. The CFO said that the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a plan to improve the state’s quality of learning, mandates that a teacher’s starting salary reaches $60,000 by 2027. The school system worries that similar stipulations and cost-of-living adjust-

ments could dig the county into a $10 million hole.

These concerns are likely to be addressed at the Feb. 26 parent meeting.

Officials are hopeful the event will provide parents with a deeper understanding of the budget, inform attendees of school needs and avenues of support, and offer a forum to ask questions. Tolbert gave the same presentation to the Snow Hill area’s School Improvement Advisory Committee in January, and a similar assembly is slated for Feb. 12 at Pocomoke Middle School.

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OC Today/Dispatch

Route 90 dualization tops transportation priority list posed dualization from Rt 528 (Coastal Highway) to Rt 113 along with shoulder hardening from Rt 113 to Rt 50,” the letter reads. “We believe this will have a significant positive impact on traffic flow, emergency vehicle

By Bethany Hooper response times and evacuation times.”

Associate Editor Ocean City’s next priority, McGean (Feb. 9, 2014) The dualization of Route 90, a replacement of the Route said, is the replacement of the Route 50 drawbridge and an evaluation of an 50 drawbridge. He said frequent malintersection near the White Marlin functions at the drawbridge have Mall top a list of transportation prior- caused major traffic disruptions.

“When the draw span is operating ities resort officials will send to properly, the delays caused by the regWorcester County.

At the end of Monday’s Mayor and ular half hour openings are the major Council meeting, City Manager Terry source of congestion in the Ocean City McGean provided officials with a draft downtown area,” the letter adds. “A new reliable draw letter detailing bridge with a taller Ocean City’s transportation requests ‘I don’t want to overstep what clearance would refor 2024. He said we were supposed to do and duce the frequency of openings and the town’s priorities, then get criticized for it.’ help ease congestion which include the Mayor Rick Meehan on both sides of the dualization of Route bridge.”

90 and the replaceMcGean told offiment of the Route 50 drawbridge, will be added to cials Monday the town’s transportaWorcester County’s Consolidated tion letter also includes a request from Transportation Program priority let- Councilman Frank Knight to have the State Highway Administration evaluter.

“Each year the county sends a re- ate the intersection of Route 50 and quest for what’s known as the State Route 611, specifically the left turn Consolidated Transportation Plan, lane entering the White Marlin Mall which is the state’s planning docu- from Route 50 eastbound. Mayor Rick ment for State Highway …,” he ex- Meehan, however, questioned if the plained. “I have a draft letter that I’ve town should request improvements in put together, which pretty much mir- the West Ocean City area.

“I don’t want to overstep what we rors what we have requested in the past, which is our top priority, the du- were supposed to do and then get critalization of Route 90. Our next prior- icized for it,” he said.

McGean said he had consulted ity is the Route 50 drawbridge.”

In the letter presented Monday, Ocean City Public Works Director Hal McGean wrote to county staff detail- Adkins and had decided to include it ing the importance of a dualization in Ocean City’s list of transportation project along the entire length of requests.

“It came from Councilman Knight Route 90. He said congestion and accidents continue to be a problem, par- when State Highway was here,” he ticularly for emergency vehicles replied. “Hal felt it was appropriate to add it to this letter, so I included it. We leaving or entering Ocean City.

“Understanding that dualization also, in the letter, say that we support for the entire length of RT90 is no the county’s other requests, and we longer being considered by the State particularly recognize the need to duHighway Administration, Ocean City alize [Route] 589. So I don’t think it’s does support the State Highway’s pro- inappropriate to add that in.”

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

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tional concerns, including sports equality and border securement.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38C) and Del. Kathy Szeliga (R-7A) hosted a press conference on the Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act on Wednesday, Jan. 31. Senate Bill 381 would require pri-

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Local lawmakers urge Moore to support Texas Continued from Page 16 for high school girls for scholarships, their social needs, and fairness on the field of play,” Carozza said. “This bill protects the hard-earned opportunities to compete in organized girls’ high school sports fairly and to earn athletic awards and scholarships, just as I did as a student-athlete.”

Also heard last week was Senate Bill 87, Homicide or Life-Threatening Injury by Motor Vehicle or VesselParole Eligibility and Penalties, sponsored by Carozza. The legislation would classify life-threatening injuries caused by unlawful driving offenses, particularly while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as violent crimes when determining paroleeligibility.

Carozza is worried that the legalization of marijuana will lead to an

increase in car-related deaths. CurImmigration was also a topic of inrently, a first offender who kills terest during the session last week. someone while impaired by sub- The Republicans in the Senate of stances faces a maximum of three Maryland sent a letter on Jan. 29 urgyears in prison and is eligible for pa- ing Gov. Wes Moore (D) to join the role after nine other 25 governors months. The senain supporting tor’s goal with the ‘This is a humanitarian crisis Texas’s border legislation is to on an unprecedented level, and struggles. enact harsher con“This unchecked we are calling on Governor sequences for these illegal immigration Moore to stand with Texas.’ instances. on our southern Additionally, a Sen. Mary Beth Carozza border is being used hearing was held on to hide the in(R-38C) local recreational creased exploitavehicle legislation. tions of the drug Carozza and Delegate Wayne Hart- trade and human traffickers,” man (R-38C) supported Senate Bill Carozza said. “This is a humanitarian 60, allowing out-of-state RV sellers to crisis on an unprecedented level, and display their products in Worcester we are calling on Governor Moore to County, given its proximity to stand with Texas.”

Delaware and Virginia dealerships.

The message sent to Moore notes

that while many of the immigrants are fleeing desperate conditions, there are dangerous individuals who take advantage of the situation.

Maryland Republicans worry that those gaining access to the United States unvetted are bringing with them an abundance of drugs, particularly fentanyl.

Hartman also had a hearing on Feb. 1 for his Tobacco Tax Stamp Refunds- Loss Due to Theft legislation.

Current law states that if cigarettes are lost or damaged from flooding, the taxpayer can receive a credit from the Comptroller. The amended bill will include stolen property as eligible for the same benefit.

On a more local level, Hartman was excited to welcome the Stephen Decatur High School Football team during the session this week, where they were recognized for their state championship win over Huntingtown on Nov. 30.

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

COASTA AL CUTS H A I R S T U D I O

Governor’s budget to cut Wor-Wic by $1.5K in fiscal ‘25 Commissioners slated to air concerns in letter sent this week to state officials

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By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) A budget change proposed by the governor could result in a $1.5 million funding cut to Wor-Wic Community College.

The FY25 Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act (BRFA) proposed

by Gov. Wes Moore includes cuts to community college funding throughout the state. Locally, Wor-Wic could see a cut of $1.5 million. The Worcester County Commissioners this week agreed to send state officials a letter expressing their concern with the proposed change.

According to county staff, the BRFA proposes a cut to community colleges.

Essentially, it would adjust the Cade funding formula, which was established in the 1990s to provide community colleges with predictable support for operations. Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said that state had the ability to pass a BRFA that would re-base the calculation.

“They can choose not to fund a formula they’ve previously committed to funding,” he said.

The BRFA proposed would reduce Wor-Wic funding $1.5 million. Young pointed out the change was proposed despite the fact that the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future included a college and career readiness component that encouraged students to pursue associate degrees while they were still in high school.

“In short a cut to Wor-Wic is counterproductive to the state’s educational reform efforts,” he said.

Jennifer Sandt, the vice president for administrative services for WorWic, said community college officials throughout the state were working together to oppose the BRFA. Commissioner Chip Bertino expressed concern that the reduction in funding could lead to students having to pay more.

“The sense from the Maryland Association of Counties is counties across the state are having issues with this and there’s a tremendous amount of pushback,” he said.

Commissioner Eric Fiori agreed.

“This really hurts when I see this,” he said. “What you all are doing, is something I wish when I was younger I had access to.”

Sandt thanked the commissioners for their support and said presidents of community colleges throughout the state were working together to oppose the BRFA. “The presidents of the Maryland community colleges are joining together with one voice and advocating as a group,” she said.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 21

OC Today/Dispatch

OCPD names Amy Gutowski officer of the year at event (Feb. 9, 2024) Ocean City Police Det. First Class Amy Gutowski was officially named Officer of the Year at the department’s annual ceremony last weekend at the Princess Royale Nearly 160 people attended to recognize Gutowski and other OCPD personnel and volunteers for their accomplishments in 2023.

Five community members — Larry Yates, Tonja Sas, Charles “Newt” Weaver, Megan Alvarado, and Lee Gerachis — chose Gutowski as the Officer of the Year. Other nominees were Police Officer First Class Corwin Vincent, PFC Mark Cutter, PFC Kevin Herbert, and Corporal Ryan Flanagan.

Gutowski is a 13-year-member of the Ocean City Police Department.

She has been a member of the Major Crimes Unit for the past two years and is known for her tireless work ethic, teamwork, and advanced job knowledge, according to a news release.

In 2023, Gutowski was the primary detective on 35 investigations, including 12 rape/sex assault cases and multiple other complex felony investigations. Gutowski also assisted other detectives and the patrol division with numerous investigations

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PAGE 22

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Annual OC police banquet recognizes excellent service Continued from Page 21 the release said she passes her expertise and knowledge to the officers serving in Ocean City and all of the officers attending the academy on the Eastern Shore.

Gutowski also earned the distinction of the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy Police Instructor of the Year for 2023.

Volunteers of the OCPD Auxiliary Unit were also recognized for their contribution of 1,352 volunteer hours in last year. Since the unit’s inception in 1999, auxiliary officers have volunteered over 66,000 hours, which translates to a cost saving of over $2 million for the taxpayers of Ocean City. This year, the Auxiliary Officer of the Year award was given to Colleen Douglas, who has been an auxiliary officer since 2013. In 2023, she led the charge and donated 504 hours.

As part of Saturday’s ceremony, many officers were also awarded departmental commendations for exemplary service. The following officers were recognized: • Meritorious Service: Lt. Frank Wrench, Lt. Allen Hawk, and Sgt. Richard Wawrzeniak.

• Special Commendation: PFC

Justin Koser and PFC William Mossop. Two community members, James Peck and Michael Hansen from the Comfort Inn Gold Coast, will also receive this award.

• Excellent Performance: Lt. Andrew Yeager, Cpl. Michael Karsnitz (two awards) and Officer Dylan Harlos, as well as three members of the narcotics division, DFC Kory Moerschel, Custody Officer Jessica Lagas, PFC Mark Cutter (two awards), Officer Emma Hamilton-Blackford, PFC Devin Bartrom, Sgt. Joseph Bushnell, PFC Erika Rhode (two awards), PFC Yovanny Ramirez (two awards), PFC Patrick McElfish, PFC Patrick Keller, Sgt. Kyle Murray and PFC. Terrance Jankouskas.

Employees were also recognized for their promotions at Saturday’s event. The following officers were promoted last year: Lt. Jeffrey Heiser, Sgt. Shawn Lindsay, Cpl. Benjamin Berry, PFC Hailie Brumley, PFC Anthony Helias, PFC Terrance Jankouskas, PFC Patrick Keller, PFC Justin Koser, PFC Benjamin Panitch, PFC Daniel Richardson, PFC Ryan Walker, PFC Jessica Wieber, Crime Scene Technician Victoria Herbert, and Crime Scene Technician Sara Hetherington.

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Weekend camper fire in Stockton results in fatality (Feb. 9, 2024) One person died Sunday in an early morning fire at a camper trailer in southern Worcester County.

A news release from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office said crews from the Stockton and Girdletree Volunteer Fire departments were

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OC Today/Dispatch

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Officials still investigating fire Continued from Page 22 trailers under control. During overhaul operations, responders learned that an adult had been living in one of the trailers. The person, whose identification has not been released, succumbed to their injuries as a result of the fire.

Deputies from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office and members of the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner re-

sponded to the scene to conduct a joint examination.

The release said the cause of the fire remains under investigation and the identity of the deceased resident was withheld until members of the medical examiner’s office could properly identify them.

The release said it is unknown whether working smoke alarms were present in the camper trailer at the time of the fire.

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OC Today/Dispatch

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OC Today/Dispatch

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

For Super Bowl, try a bratdogen

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Feb. 8, 2024) Superbowl LVIII is finally here.

Months of body slamming, nerve biting finishes, and high-fives are coming to an end. Who will take the coveted prize will be decided very shortly. If the playoffs are any indication, the big game will be a doozy.

The Super Bowl is the most anticipated sporting event of the year.

Adult beverages will be plentiful and the menu should reflect the occasion.

Tacos, pizza, and wings are popular dishes for the big day. Predictability never wins a game or impresses crazed fans.

That being said, if one loves pork, consider a bratdogen. You might be wondering what the heck is that?

Have you ever heard of turducken; a deboned turkey stuffed with a deboned duck, and then stuffed with a deboned chicken?

A bratdogen is your favorite bratwurst or smoked sausage, stuffed with a hot dog and encased in crispy bacon. This porky delight will have your guests squealing in delight.

Condiments are up for grabs, but caramelized onions and sautéed peppers push the boundaries of deliciousness and complete this particular bratdogen.

Preparation for this dish must be done in advance, so let’s get started.

The foundation for your bratdogen is a sausage. Personal preference is important but the size of the sausage comes into play. Remember, a hot dog has to fit inside of it. Bratwurst, chorizo, and kielbasa are possible options. Helpful hint: precook sausages makes this dish much easier to make.

These sausages are typically long, so I suggest you cut them in half. Hollowing out the center is easier if you are dealing with a half of a sausage. I used a jalapeño corer to remove the center.

You can also use a very small paring knife, but it will not have the clean circular edges that you want.

But with the help of your finger, you can make it more impressive.

Once you have the hot dog inserted, the next step is to encase this bad boy with bacon. Regular or thick sliced bacon are your options. I prefer thick bacon for the simple fact that the sausage and hot dog will overpower regular sliced bacon.

Lay out a slice of bacon and make sure it is flat. Break the tooth picks in half. Before you start to wrap the bacon around the sausage, secure the end of the slice of bacon with a tooth pick. Then wrap the bacon around the sausage and again, secure the other end of the slice of bacon with a tooth pick.

There are several ways to cook the bratdogens. You can bake them in the oven, pan fry, or grill. If you are going to pan fry, make sure only a tiny section of the tooth pick shows. This way you can get a good sear. Once, they are done, use tweezers to remove the tooth picks. The cooked bacon will retain its shape around the sausage.

If you prefer grilling, soak bamboo skewers in water for 15 minutes, again break the skewers in pieces and grill the stuffed sausages until done.

Remove the skewers and serve immediately.

Bratdogens packed with caramelized onions and sautéed peppers are a mouthful. Standard hot dog buns may not support this huge bite. Hoagie rolls are suggested.

Peppers can be grilled, or blackened, on your gas stove, or simply sautéed in a pan. The choice is yours but make sure you slice them thinly or slice them on a mandoline. Otherwise, the bratdogen will be difficult to eat. And the more difficult it is to eat, the greater the chances food will end up on your floor. And that does not make a host happy!

Caramelized onions are so delicious and are so far superior to sauteed onions. Caramelized onions are cooked for a longer period of time to bring out the natural sugars in the onions. Also, caramelized onions will enhance as opposed to competing with the proteins in the bratdogen.

To make caramelized onions, slice them thinly or slice them on a man-

doline. Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a cast-iron skillet or heavy bottomed pan over medium heat. Cook sliced yellow onions for about 30 minutes or until onions are golden brown. You may need to add a bit more oil to prevent the onions from burning.

The onions will shrink considerably as they cook, so make sure you prepare enough. Five large onions will yield about two cups of caramelized onions.

I always try to provide options.

Let’s go back to the hollowing out process. If one is not comfortable with this, simply cut the sausages into 2-inch sections. Then the hollowing out process becomes very easy and the bite size sausages can be served as a passed hor d’oeuvre.

Forgo the bun, and serve the bitesize sausages on a tray with a selection of condiments. Tooth picks or mini tongs should be provided for easy access. And don’t forget the cocktail napkins. As Martha Stewart says, “this is a good thing,” not only for your guests but also for you.

In closing, if one is a fan of sausages, hot dogs, and bacon you must give this recipe a try.

Move over turducken, bratdogens are on the scene and about to be become number one. Enjoy!

Secret Ingredient – Competition “Taste the relish to be found in competition – In having put forth the best within you.”

— Henry Kaiser

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Pieces of artwork by local high school students are pictured on display at the Worcester County Arts Council’s current exhibit in Berlin.

CROSSWORD

Arts council displaying local student art through month (Feb. 9, 2024) The Worcester County Arts Council is hosting an exhibit featuring entries submitted by students from all county high schools for its annual Berlin/Ocean City Optimist Club-sponsored art competition.

The exhibit is open now through Feb. 28 at the arts council’s gallery at 6 Jefferson St. in Berlin. Monetary

awards and ribbons will be presented to the winning artists at a reception from 5-7 p.m., tonight, at the gallery.

The exhibit showcases 28 pieces, including paintings, drawings, and digital media.

A press release said the competition aims to encourage, recognize and honor the artistic expression of talSee LOCAL Page 27

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Answers on page 47

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 There is a new person in your life who may become a source of inspiration, Aries. It’s a new year and you are ready for all the novel experiences you can encounter.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you could be feeling more grounded in your personal life than you have in some time. The people you surround yourself with accept and love you unconditionally.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, if a suggestion goes against your instincts this week, give it careful consideration nonetheless. This person may have some good ideas that you may not have thought of.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you tend to be good about not letting work life bleed into your personal affairs. However, this week you may need to have some carryover to accomplish all that lies ahead.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Some good news may arrive this week that will put you on cloud nine, Leo. Just don’t let this enthusiasm distract you from getting all of your business wrapped up on time.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 A charming person may come into your life this week, Virgo. At first he or she may be a whirlwind and confuse you for some time. Eventually, you may catch on and go with the flow.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, use whatever opportunities you have to speak to older family members and jot down the memories they have. Time is fleeting and you want to learn all you can.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Surround yourself with people who bring positivity into your life, Scorpio.

It is alright to take inventory and distance yourself from others who do not generate positive vibes.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 People who believe they have a lot of power are going to be all around you this week, Sagittarius. Don’t fall prey to any intimidation tactics. Continue to do your own thing.

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OC Today/Dispatch

Local competition offers $2K in prizes Continued from Page 26 ented art students in Worcester County and emphasize the importance and support of quality art programs.

The competition offers a total of $2,000 in cash prizes to the student artists. Along with the monetary awards, a $100 gift certificate, provided by the Blick art supply company, will be given to the selected student.

Local artist and arts council board member Doris Glovier will be judging the contest entries.

Winners of a People’s Choice award will also be presented, which members of the public are invited to vote on from Feb. 1-8.

Along with the featured exhibit, new artworks by members of the gallery co-op are on display and available to buy. Art gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p..m, Tuesday through Sunday.

Two pieces of art by local students are pictured on display at the Worcester County Arts Council’s current exhibit in Berlin.

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CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Dreams have been entertaining and awfully vivid lately, Capricorn. But you can’t put too much stock in them.

They may simply be your subconscious mind trying to work through things.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Express gratitude when you are gifted something both thoughtful and expensive, Aquarius. This is something you have had your eye on for some time but never purchased yourself.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 You’re likely to be very busy soon enough, Pisces. Some loud and busy people may come into your life in the next few days. It may prove hard to find a quiet moment afterwards.

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PAGE 28

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

OC properties win big in ‘23 holiday lights competition

PHOTOS COURTESY GREATER OCEAN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/OCEAN CITY TODAY/DISPATCH

The Bishop House won first place in the residential category of the annual lights contest.

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(Feb. 9, 2024) Each December, the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce hosts its Chamber Lights Decorating Contest to help showcase commercial and residential decorations during the holiday season.

The contest was open to all residents and members of the chamber, Ocean City Development Corporation, and Ocean City Hotel-MotelRestaurant Association.

According to a news release, chamber officials sincerely thanked all of the following families and businesses for participating: Bad Monkey, Bad Monkey West OC, Barn 34, Bay Club Resort, Bishop family, Atkinson family, Bull on the Beach, Caine Woods Christmas House, Cambria Hotel, Carousel Hotel, City Hall, Coastal Cuts Hair Studio, Coconut Malorie, Comfort Inn Boardwalk, Comfort Inn Gold Coast, Country Inn & Suites, Courtyard by Marriott, Designing Windows, DoubleTree by Hilton, Engel & Völkers Real Estate, Fager's Island, Fenwick Inn, Golden Sands, Grand Hotel, Grotto Pizza, Hampton Inn West OC, Hileman Real Estate, Hilton Suites Oceanfront, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Horizons East Condominium, Howard Johnson Plaza, Jolly Roger Park, Jolly Roger Park at the Pier, Jones family, Long and Foster Realty, M.R. Ducks, Main Street Home Loans, Montego Bay Civic Association, Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, Old Pro Golf, Park Place Hotel, Phoenix Physical Therapy, Pit n' Pub 28th Street, Princess Royale, Rimel family, Salt & Co Home, Somerset Jewelers, Stephenson family, The Dough Roller, The Original Greene Turtle and Wheeler family.

Chamber ambassadors serve each year as judges and donate several hours of their time for three nights of judging.

See Lights Page 30

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OC Today/Dispatch

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OC Today/Dispatch

PHOTOS COURTESY GREATER OCEAN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/OCEAN CITY TODAY/DISPATCH

First place in the Restaurant Indoor category went to the Barn 34.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PHOTOS COURTESY GREATER OCEAN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/OCEAN CITY TODAY/DISPATCH

Bull on the Beach’s creativity won first place in the Restaurant Outdoor category.

Lights contest winners named

by OC chamber Continued from Page 28 HOTEL INDOOR First Place: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Second Place: Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort Third Place: Golden Sands Ocean Resort SERVICE INDOOR First Place: City Hall (OC Beautification Committee) Second Place: Main Street Home Loans SERVICE OUTDOOR First Place: Hileman Real Estate Second Place: Designing Windows RESTAURANT INDOOR First Place: Barn 34 Second Place: Fager’s Island RESTAURANT OUTDOOR First Place: Bull on the Beach Second Place: Barn 34 Third Place: The Original Greene Turtle RETAIL INDOOR First Place: Old Pro Golf Second Place: Somerset Jewelers RETAIL OUTDOOR First Place: Jolly Roger Park RESIDENTIAL WINNERS Christmas Illumination Award: Caine Woods Christmas House First Place: Bishop House Second Place: Wheeler House Third Place: Stephenson House Community Spirit Award: Montego Bay Civic Association The release said members of the Chamber Lights Committee look forward to even greater participation in 2024. Keep watch in the fall for entry details on oceancity.org or follow the group on Facebook or Instagram.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 31

OC Today/Dispatch

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OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Area student wins bookmark design contest Berlin Intermediate sixth grader surprised with honor at schoolwide pep rally

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) A local student was recently recognized for winning a regional design contest.

On Jan. 18, representatives with the Delmarva Shorebirds visited Berlin Intermediate School to recognize sixth-grade student Loralei Donoway as the winner of this year’s “Hit The Books” bookmark contest.

Donoway’s design was selected from tens of thousands of submissions across 100-plus schools on the Delmarva Peninsula.

“I’m excited,” she said in an interview this week. “I didn’t think I was

going to win.”

Each year, the Delmarva Shorebirds partner with local schools for its “Hit The Books” program as a way to encourage children to read outside the classroom. The annual event kicks off with a bookmark design contest, with the winning design being distributed to schools across the region each January.

Last fall, Donoway’s art class, led by art teacher Sarah Purdue, entered into the Shorebirds’ bookmark contest. Donoway said her design depicted the team’s mascot, Sherman, learning how to play baseball by reading a book. The picture is accompanied with the phrase, “Home Run Reader.”

“My teacher had heard about the contest and decided to do it,” she recalled. “We didn’t have much time.

So I ended up finishing it at home and turning it in.”

Unbeknownst to Donoway, her bookmark was ultimately chosen as the winning design. In a pep rally held Jan. 18. Donoway’s parents and siblings, as well as representatives from Worcester County Public Schools and the Delmarva Shorebirds, were on hand to surprise her with the accolade.

“I thought it would be a normal day …,” she said. “We ended up having a pep rally for the winner, and everyone around me kept saying it was someone else. But as soon as I heard the ‘L’ come out of their mouth, I knew it was me.”

Donoway’s mother, Tammy Donoway, said she had learned of her daughter’s winning design in December. She said she, her husband

and their two other daughters hid in the locker room until the name was announced.

“We had to keep it a secret,” she said.

As the winner of this year’s design contest, printed copies of Donoway’s bookmark will be distributed to schools across the Eastern Shore.

Donoway will also get to throw the first pitch at Berlin Intermediate’s “Hit The Books” night at the Delmarva Shorebirds.

“The bookmarks will be used as inspiration for the next drawing contest,” Donoway added. “And it will be attached to the Shorebirds schedule.”

Pine’eer Craft Club seeks former members, vendors (Feb. 9, 2024) The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines is seeking former members and vendors to participate in several upcoming events.

On April 18, Members will celebrate the club’s 50th anniversary at the community center. Former members are asked to join in the festivities. For more information, contact club treasurer Jane Wolnik at j.wolnik63@gmail.com or call 410-2084225.

The annual August Craft Fair is also set for Aug. 3, both inside the Ocean Pines Community Center and outdoors at White Horse Park. For information on becoming a vendor, contact Kelly Davis at shoafpr@gmail.com or call 609-3512125.

The Pine’eer Craft Club always welcomes new members. For an information packet, email Sherry Waskey at sherwaskey@gmail.com, or attend regular meetings on the third Thursday of each month in the community center.

The Artisan Gift Shop sells and showcases locally handcrafted items made by club members. The shop is open on weekends year-round and features gifts, seasonal items, and home décor favorites. For artisans who would like to be featured in the shop, email opcraftclub@aol.com for more information.

For more information about events the Pine’eer Craft Club hosts or to learn more about the club and its members, visit oceanpines.org/web/pages/artisangift-shop or search for Ocean Pines Pine’eer Craft Club on Facebook.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

PAGE 33

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Teen aims to improve Caine Woods with service project

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) The construction of “little libraries” is expected to benefit an uptown community.

Last summer, Caine Woods Community Association resident Finian Dudley,16, began an effort to construct “little libraries” for his Eagle Scout service project. With the boxes now installed at three public parks, he said he is hoping those in his neighborhood can benefit.

“It’s about sharing information,” he said.

A current “Life Scout” with Ocean City Troop 2173, Dudley began the process of earning his Eagle rank last July. Meeting with Delmarva Council Eagle Counselor Thomas Smith, he began what would be a months-long process of meeting project requirements.

Dudley said the idea of constructing “little libraries” in his neighborhood was inspired by community member Billie Chambers. As an avid walker and reader, Chambers expressed interest in having a library box where she and her friends could pick up books along their walking route.

“I wasn’t really thinking for myself, but I wanted to build these for Ms. Billie because I knew her and her friends would use it,” he explained. “I also know a lot of people in my neighborhood really like reading.”

To that end, Dudley began writing a project proposal to install library boxes at Gorman Park, North Surf Park and Fiesta Park. His plan was then presented to his Eagle counselor, Town of Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department, and the Caine Woods Community Association board.

“Most people in the troop who did a project similar to mine didn’t have to go through a board or neighborhood council,” he said. “I was one of the few that had to.”

Eileen Dudley, Dudley’s mom and scoutmaster, said her son had to meet certain requirements to install the library boxes. As the boxes were placed

on public property, they had to have specific materials and paint colors and meet ADA requirements.

“He also had to make sure the products he used could withstand 10 years,” she said.

Utilizing monetary and in-kind donations – including specialty paints from McCormick Paints in Fenwick Island and composite lumber from The Adkins Company in Berlin – Dudley began constructing the library boxes alongside his father and project coach, Ed Dudley. He said they spent days cutting, sanding, assembling and painting.

“When we had the materials and paints, we started working right away,” he said. “We had to plan how we were going to build and plant our boxes.”

In October, posts were cemented at the three parks. Once set, the library boxes were installed and filled with books. While Dudley has been tasked with maintaining the libraries, he said his project has turned into a community endeavor, as Chambers and her group of friends have volunteered to keep the boxes filled with books.

“A lot of people in the neighborhood were willing to help us maintain it,” he said.

In an interview, Association President Mike Quade praised Dudley for taking the time to bring a worthwhile project to Caine Woods. He said community members can now take and leave books when they visit the boxes.

“He’s a great young man who has a great future,” he said. “He has a lot of ambition and drive that’s hard to find in the younger generation anymore.

I’m so proud of him.”

On Jan. 24, a dedication ceremony was held to present the “little libraries” to the Caine Woods Community Association board. But Dudley’s efforts don’t end there. He continues to produce a 30-plus page project packet that will be presented to the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Board of Review, the final step to achieving the highest rank in scouting.

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Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When BOURBON STREET ON THE BEACH 443-664-2896 12601 Coastal Hwy. Friday, Feb. 9: Dave Sherman & Lennon & The Leftovers Saturday, Feb. 10: On The Edge Sunday, Feb. 11: Brian, Taylor & Barry Tuesday, Feb. 13: Nola Band, Steve Kuhns & Fat Tuesday Party Wednesday, Feb. 14: Love Songs w/ Reform School Thursday, Feb. 15: Randay Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Feb. 10: DJ Giddy Up & Jack Bannon Sunday, Feb. 11: Teenage Rust & The Fabulous Rustettes CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Friday, Feb. 9: Bilenki Duo Wednesday, Feb. 14: Full Circle Duo

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CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, Feb. 9: Pier Pressure Saturday, Feb. 10: Dust N Bones FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Friday, Feb. 9: DJ Greg & DJ RobCee Saturday, Feb. 10: DJ Groove

BRYAN CLARK Fager’s Island: Monday, Feb. 12

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Thursdays, & Fridays

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 35

OC Today/Dispatch

Who’s Where When Monday, Feb. 12: Bryan Clark Tuesday, Feb. 13: Latin Night - DJ Patana

TEENAGE RUST & THE FABULOUS RUSTETTES Coins: Sunday, Feb. 11

ROGUE CITIZENS Pickles Pub: Saturday, Feb. 10

PIER PRESSURE Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, Feb. 9

THE DUNEHOUNDS Harborside: Saturday, Feb. 10

ON THE EDGE Bourbon St. On The Beach: Saturday, Feb. 10

FULL CIRCLE DUO Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, Feb. 14 Seacrets: Thurs, Feb. 15

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OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Seacrets: Friday, Feb. 9 Harborside: Sunday, Feb. 11

GREENE TURTLE WEST 410-213-1500 Route 611, West OC Saturday, Feb. 17: Rogue Citizens HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Friday, Feb. 9: DJ Billy T & DJ Wax Saturday, Feb. 10: The Dunehounds & DJ Billy T Sunday, Feb. 11: Opposite Directions Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, Feb. 10: The Rogue Citizens Sundays: Beats By Styler Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By TBA Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Saturday, Feb. 9: Rockin’ Queenz/Ticket Event SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Feb. 9: Opposite Directions Saturday, Feb. 10: John McNutt Band & Light Up The Moon Thursday, Feb. 15: Full Circle Duo

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PAGE 36

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Things I Like...

By Steve Green A tip that leads to a news story Seeing lines at the dispensaries Leftovers for lunch the next day Not wanting to know what teenage boys are laughing about upstairs A late lunch that turns into dinner Any steak at Fager’s Island Watching my kids play sports Old sayings that still ring true Pebble Beach Golf Course’s views Meetings under an hour A text over a call

OC’s art league welcomes four new board members Sisson named president for another year; Patrick and Jenkins elected to be VPs (Feb. 2, 2024) The Art League of Ocean City recently announced its 2024 board of directors, with four new members joining this year.

The new and returning members were sworn in at the art league’s annual holiday luncheon and meeting on Dec. 14 at the Princess Royale Hotel.

“We welcome our Ian Postley new board members and look forward to the new ideas they will bring to the table,” Executive Director Rina Thaler said in a news release.

“We also thank our long-serving board Patricia Selig members who have devoted so much of their time and talents to our cause.”

John Sisson continues as president; Marian Bickerstaff as past president; Barbara Patrick as first vice

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president; Laura Jenkins as second vice president; Jan Perdue as corresponding secretary, and Ryan Wilde as recording secretary. Amy Rothermel will serve as treasurer.

Returning to the board are Courtney Blackford, Crystal Collins, Al “Hondo” Handy, Don Lehman, Virginia “Ginny” Outten and Emily Schwab.

New members are Ian Postley, David Keil, Patricia Selig and Heather Ross.

Postley, of Bishopville, is a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and the David Keil Delaware College of Art & Design, Postley was a former art league college scholarship winner. He is a working graphic artist and social media coordinator at Unscene Productions and the Heather Ross designer of the annual Ocean City Film Festival poster.

Keil, of Bethany Beach, Delaware, joins the board after previously vo unteering for the art league. A graduSee OFFICERS Page 43

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

PAGE 37

PAGE 38

OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY

ART LEAGUE HOLDS MONTHLY RECEPTION Artist Rosie Bean, of Salisbury, and writer John Sisson pose with one of their pieces on display in the “Shared Visions” show on Jan. 5 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts during the art league’s First Friday celebration.

The winners of the “Home Sweet Home” group art show pose together for a photo during the First Friday celebration. Pictured, from left, are John Sisson, art league president; Megan Burak, first place; Carl Wooleyhan, second place; Linda Steere, third place; and France Anna Arriola, Honorable Mention.

Jim Motsko, the director of the White Marlin Open, poses with his grandchildren, Eliza and Cole Myers

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan poses with Art League Executive Director Rina Thaler and member Katy Durham.

MEMBER WELCOMED From left, Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Bob Wolfing, new member Jack McLaughlin and his sponsor, Kiwanian Jim Ulman, pose for a photo after McLaughlin’s induction at a recent meeting.

McLaughlin is from Western Pennsylvanian and a veteran who taught in Baltimore for over 40 years.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVIS J. LANDIS SR.

Writer Ash’iz, of Salisbury, poses with a poem she wrote for the “Shared Visions” exhibition that pairs writers and artists.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

PAGE 39

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS WRESTLING TEAM BENEFIT The Seahawk Wrestling Purse Bingo fundraiser was held last Saturday night at the high school. All proceeds fund the school’s wrestling program outside of school covered expenses.

Funds will also be used to send school wrestlers to camps over the summer months to improve their techniques and broaden their experiences. Pictured, from left, with designer bags that were on sale, are Jake Saullo, Kristy Intrieri, Wendy Saullo, Nate McDaniel and Coach Don Parana.

PHOTO COURTESY PAMELA GREEN

OLD BOTTLE DISCOVERED

PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

GRANT PROVIDES ARTISTS’ SCHOLARSHIPS The Art League of Ocean City recently awarded $1,500 each to three female artists from Worcester and Wicomico counties to create bodies of work to be displayed throughout the month of March at the Thaler Gallery inside the Ocean City Center for the Arts. The funds were provided by a grant from the Women’s Fund of the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore in celebration of Women’s History Month. Pictured, from left, with the check are Katie Joyce and Rina Thaler from the art league; the three recipients, Lisa Tossey, Jeri Alexander, and Sue Bromm; and Gayle Widdowson from the Community Foundation’s Women’s Fund.

This Davis Baking Powder bottle (c. early 1900s) was recently found in the eaves of the old Bank of Ocean City building at the intersection of South Baltimore Avenue and Dorchester Street. The building is undergoing a full makeover to become the Museum of Ocean City, an arm of the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum. Before it was a bank, the building was Charlie McGregor’s Grocery Store (19111913). It is possible the old bottle was part of the store’s inventory during that time.

PHOTO COURTESY MUSEUM OF OCEAN CITY

JD QUILLIN HONORED Lions District Governor Kathy Crockett recently visited the Ocean City Lions Club and presented recognition pins for years of service. JD Quillin was honored for being an Ocean City Lion for 62 years. Pictured, from left, are Dorothy Beran, Joe Beran, Crockett, OC Lions President Greg Cathell, Past District Governor Norm Cathell, Quillin, Joe Myles, Past President Mike Hooper and Greg Bergan.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY/DISPATCH

PAGE 40

OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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PAGE 42

Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street ■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON DRY DOCK 28 28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City.

From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, eggrolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza. Both locations are famous for their sports atmospheres, especially all things Pittsburgh.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood.

Breakfast: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday through Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. Open daily for Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials.

Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out. Ordering online www.coinspuboc.com.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR 17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ CRAWL STREET 19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-3732756, blackoutalley.com Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT 15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-6811, Papistacojoint.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

With a family atmosphere you can enjoy building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks.

Dine in or order online for your carryout.

■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen.

Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m.

Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

■ PIT & PUB 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily.

Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ FAGERS ISLAND 201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-5245500, fagers.com $$ | Full bar Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water.

Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD’S CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave. in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts.

Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:3011:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar CLOSED JAN. 21 AND REOPENING FEB. 1.

Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets ■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY 13117 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410250-2000, albertinosoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection. Winter hours Thursday-Sunday open at Noon.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

■ THE CRAB BAG 13005 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA 120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations.

Open Year Round. The Crabcake Factory started out as a breakfast house in 1996 and still serves one of the best and most creative breakfast menus in Ocean City. Try Eastern Shore favorites prepared daily by Chef-Owner John Brooks including a chipped beef, skil-

lets, omelettes and their famous lump crab creations. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.

■ ORIGINAL GREENE TURTLE 116th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 410723-2120, originalgreeneturtle.com This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs! Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more! Join them for weekday lunch specials 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and happy hour 3-7 p.m. Popular features are game room, gift shop, carryout, party trays, nightly drink specials, MD Lottery-Keno, Powerball and DJs with dance floor. Open year-round.

■ TAILCHASERS RESTAURANT & DOCK BAR 12203 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-664-7075, tailchasersoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A coastal casual farm to table restaurant with a fun dockside family friendly atmosphere. Menu changes with the seasons and cocktails are handcrafted with care. Bring the whole family for lunch or dinner along the canal. Kids playground available to keep the littles entertained.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT 13801 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, located on the 8th floor of the Fenwick Inn, 410390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Enjoy a wonderful dinner overlooking the ocean and the bay. Serving off season weekly specials. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to midnight. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to midnight.

Happy Hour, 3-6 p.m. Check out the website for a full menu.

FENWICK ISLAND ■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-9885000, crabcakefactoryonline.com Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining.

Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available.

Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu. visit us online at crabcakefactoryonline.com or on our Facebook page.

■ NANTUCKETS Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. There’s the memorable steaks, fresh seafood, famous quahog chowder and the chef’s daily specials.

OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open everyday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, www.OPYachtclub.com $$-$$$ | Full bar The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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Dining For Kiwanis, ‘it’s all about service’ Open Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. menu.

WEST OCEAN CITY BREAKFAST CAFE 12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting.

Open daily closing at 2 p.m.

CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-2131500 Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables.

With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more.

Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out. Something for everyone.

HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL 12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-213-1846, weocharborside.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

SELLO’S ITALIAN OVEN & BAR 9802 Golf Course Road, 410-390-3543, sellosoc.com $$-$$$$ | Full bar Located in the heart of West Ocean City.

You may think you stepped off a city street and not just off the beach or boat. You will find a wide array of choices from a wood-fired oven individual pizza to our 8 oz. center-cut filet mignon. Join us at Sello’s, your new “happy place,” where “va tutto bene” … it’s all good … Open Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. until and Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. until.

(Feb. 9, 2024) For decades, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City have made their mark through volunteer work and charitable giving.

According to a submitted news piece, globally, Kiwanians are a dedicated service organization of men and women who share the challenge of community and world improvement.

Formed in 1915, the nonprofit group reported more than 7,000 adult clubs and 8,300 youth clubs in 85 nations and geographic areas, with over 600,000 active members.

Locally, the Kiwanis clubs has been active since 1980. The nonprofit sponsors five youth leadership programs throughout Worcester County Schools and engages in fundraising activities that generate roughly $40,000 each year for local programs and people in need.

On any given day, Kiwanis members can be seen collecting clothing donations for local shelters, cooking breakfast for Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks events, or raising money for scholarships.

David Landis, the area marketing and media chairperson, first became involved in the Kiwanis in 2004. He previously worked in marketing and

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID LANDIS SR.

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City made pancakes, sausage and scrambled eggs for attendees of the Ocean Pines Department of Parks and Recreation Breakfast with the Grinch event in December. Pictured, from left, at the breakfast are Kiwanis members Dave Landis, playing Buddy the Elf; Ed Ahlquist dressed as the Grinch.; Barbara Peletier; and Mike Castoro.

sales in the Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia areas and moved to Ocean Pines upon his retirement in 2003.

“To me, it’s all about service, and the main thing that interested me from the start was helping kids,” he said. “We have advisors that go to all these different school clubs, and they go to their meetings, help them to see

how we do community service, and try to give them examples so that they’re ready for something like that when they get older. And we can do that all the way from elementary school up through high school.”

Education is also a part of regular Kiwanis Club meetings.

Landis said they often have guest See KIWANIS Page 44

Officers for ‘24 season also named Continued from Page 36 ate of Syracuse University, he is also on the board of the Delaware Center for Inland Bays and volunteers for the Brandywine Valley SPCA and the Bethany Beach Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Committee.

Selig, of Berlin, who recently returned to the area from Maine, holds degrees from George Washington

University and Salisbury University.

She has served on the executive boards for the Abbe Museum and Cliff Day Campo, as well as on the board of Worcester County Youth & Family Counseling and a private first responder board.

Ross, of Berlin, comes to the art league after a successful career as a senior program manager and director

of operations at Deloitte Consulting Group. She also served on the art league’s 60th Anniversary Gala Committee. A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Wake Forest University, and the University of Virginia, she also volunteers for the Cape Charles, Virginia, Main Street Project, and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.

and Gifts FREE Box of Chocolates when you order on or before Feb. 9th Montego Bay Shopping Center • 12909 Coastal Highway • Ocean City, MD 21842

410-250-1636 • www.oceancityflorist.org

Because Every Day’s a Celebration

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Kiwanis steps up efforts

8TH ST T.. LIQUORS OPEN EVERY Y DA AY Y

SUPER BOWL SUND DAY Happy Hour During Game G

HAPPINESS HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6PM

MONDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT:

TUESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT:

WEDNESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT:

Friday 9:30pm Beats By DeoGee

Saturday 9pm

Continued from Page 43 speakers and representatives from groups including the Worcester County Developmental Center, Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, and the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

Guests help educate club members on local programs that benefit the community, and their organizations generally become the beneficiaries of Kiwanis charitable giving.

Club members are actively involved in community fundraising and engagement throughout the year, but Landis said the Kiwanians are especially active during the holiday season.

In November, Kiwanis membership collected more than 300 coats for local charities during a five-week donation drive at the Ocean Pines Community Center. A related toy drive helped gather three SUV loads for Worcester G.O.L.D., a nonprofit that provides emergency financial assistance and basic needs for Worcester County residents living with low incomes.

The club also pitched in during the recreation and park department’s annual Breakfast with the Grinch event on Dec. 2, cooking pancakes, scrambled eggs, and sausages.

“We all love to volunteer for community stuff. It’s just fun,” Landis said, adding that he’s been mixing pancakes for the Kiwanis since 2004.

“They put me on it right away, and they complimented me the first time I ever did it that it never ran out.”

Throughout the year, there are also regular clothing and canned good drives, blood drives, and concessions for countless events. Kiwanis members cook hamburgers and hotdogs during events like Bay Day, and the weekly Concerts in the Park series each summer, with proceeds going to-

ward scholarships and other charitable endeavors.

Keeping up with those activities requires the help of many volunteers, which Landis said can sometimes be an issue. He said the local Kiwanis previFILE PHOTO COURTESY DAVIS LANDIS SR. ously had as many as 135 members, but Pictured, from left, are Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean now there are just City Kiwanians Jan and Bob Wolfing, who serves as president, with Worcester Youth & Family Services Executive Director Jennifer over 50.

Leggour at the club’s annual luau fundraiser last year at the Sunset “If we lose people Grille in West Ocean City. that moved or passed away, we might replace them with new people, so our things, and she also brought a cash numbers have been fairly steady. But donation.

“She said, ‘I really love what your finding good volunteers has been a problem for groups all over the East- club does,’ and I told her, ‘if you’re looking for something to do, why don’t ern Shore,” he said.

Landis encouraged anyone who you come by after the New Year to one might be interested in joining the club of our meetings?’” Landis said. “I’ll tell to stop by one of the regular meet- anyone, come and see what we’re all about, and there’s no obligation. Give ings.

“We’re generally pretty quiet from it a chance and see if it’s for you.”

He said the club has been around January through March, so it’s a great time to stop by, learn about the club for 43 years and hopefully will be and see if you’re interested in getting around a lot longer.

“But it’s going to take membership involved,” he said.

For those interested in pitching in, to keep us alive and we would really appreciate people just checking us out Landis said the rewards are great.

“It’s a lot of satisfaction, and it’s a and seeing if it’s a fit for them,” Landis good feeling of having done some said.

The Kiwanis Club meets at 8 a.m., good in this community,” he said.

“And I’m really proud to say that this every Wednesday, in the Ocean Pines community is very supportive of us. Community Center on 235 Ocean We couldn’t do what we do without Parkway. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. and them. We can offer raffle tickets, make coffee and donuts are available. Mempancakes and hotdogs, and bring our bers pay $3 toward food, and a 50/50 cars out to collect donations, but it’s raffle is available for an additional $3. up to the community to respond – and Attendance is free for prospective new members. they always do.”

For more information on the KiLandis said an Ocean Pines woman came by during the coat and toy drives wanis Club of Greater Ocean Pinesand stopped for a few minutes to talk. Ocean City, visit kiwanisofopoc.org or Her husband recently passed away www.facebook.com/servingthechiland she wanted to donate some of his drenoftheworld.

The Rogue g Citizens Sunday 9:30pm Beats By Styler

Monday 9:30pm Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesday 9:30pm Beats By TBA

Wednesday 9:30 pm Beats By Styler

Thursday 9:30pm Beats By Deogee

WHOLE HOUSE ELECTRICAL ASSESSMENT & SAFETY INSPECTION

A $249 VALUE FOR ONLY $99 • Check the electrical service panel and wiring • Tighten screws and lugs on circuit breakers to ensure proper functioning • Apply Noalox on branch circuits’ aluminum wires • Check all outlets with tester for loose connections, open grounds, neutral wires, proper polarity

• Test/inspect GFCI outlets and breakers • Check for double tapped breakers to eliminate overloading a circuit breaker • Survey for proper surge protection • Check smoke detectors and make recommendations for compliance with local electrical codes

Call 410-641-1434 Worcester County Lic. #M917 • Maryland Lic. # 3506

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Calendar Fri., Feb. 9 VALENTINE’S DAY CARDS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Drop in and make a homemade card to give to a friend or family member. Fun for all ages. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SWING DANCE WEEKEND

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Workshops on Friday and Saturday. Dance parties held ThursdaySaturday (Thursday is free) and live music from The Funsters on Saturday.

410-524-1000, https://carouselhotel. com/swing-dance-weekend/

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Stories, rhymes and finger plays. For ages 0-2 years and their caregivers. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m.

Join in for STEAM activities and socialize with other homeschool families. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘THE BLUEST EYE’ BY TONI MORRISON

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m.

Copies of the book are available at the Ocean Pines circulation desk. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. Cost is $14 for a single-crab cake platter, $24 for a double-crab cake platter and $10 for a single crab cake sandwich. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Bake sale table.

Sat., Feb. 10 CRAFTY SATURDAY: CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m.

Come and make some Valentine’s Day crafts. All ages welcome. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SWING DANCE WEEKEND

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos,

11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Workshops on Friday and Saturday. Dance parties held ThursdaySaturday (Thursday is free) and live music from The Funsters on Saturday.

410-524-1000, https://carouselhotel.com/swing-danceweekend/

SMITH ISLAND CAKE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Lisa Evans, from Smith Island, will demonstrate how these cakes are made. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PAWS FOR READING

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 11 a.m. Read to Piper, a Portuguese Water Dog, and make a craft. For ages 5 years and older.

410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ANNUAL MAC & CHEESE COOKOFF FUNDRAISER

Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City, 300 Seabay Lane, 12-3 p.m. Rockstar Chef and Sommelier Paul Cullen as host and emcee. Live music, 2 complimentary drinks and door prizes. General admission $40 ($45 at the door).

Under 21 years $15, 5 years and younger free.

UNCORKED & UNPLUGGED VALENTINE’S WITH PAUL CULLEN

Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City, 300 Seabay Lane, 12-3 p.m. Paul will have a sampling of five of his favorites wines. Enjoy Paul’s acoustic performance. Tickets cost $20 and include hors d&#39;oeuvres. Must be 21 years or older. Tickets: 443-664-7043.

SONS OF THE LEGION VALENTINE DAY DINNER

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City.

Seatings at 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Cost is $30 and includes streak, shrimp, baked potato, mixed vegetable, salad, dessert and choice of one wine or beer.

410-289-3166

OCEAN PINES PLAYERS PRESENTS ‘LOVE LETTERS’ JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets $25. Featuring the Ocean Pines Players production of “Love Letters” by A. R. Gurney. Admission cost is $25 and includes wine and charcuterie. Tickets: https://oceanpinesplayers.org. 703-4015631

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., Feb. 11 SOUPER BOWL SUNDAY

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin.

Worship Service at 10 a.m. followed by a soup lunch with a love offering to benefit Diakonia. 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com

Salisbury, 6-7 p.m. Angela Korb, MS, PA-C, discusses the basics of coronary artery disease, the impact of diabetes on cardiovascular health, prevention and cardiovascular risk reduction. 410-5437061

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin, 7-11:59 p.m. All are welcome.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mon., Feb. 12

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org

LITTLE LEARNERS WITH ASSATEAGUE STATE PARK SCALES AND TALES

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 10:30-11:30 a.m. Scales and Tales will bring animals for participants to see and touch. There will also be a story time and craft. Free program.

Designed for children ages 0-5 years, but all are welcome. 410-289-4991

STORY TIME: ‘VALENTINES CELEBRATION’ Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and a craft about all things love and hearts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m.

Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited.

Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.

Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues., Feb. 13 SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4:30-6 p.m. Allyou-can-eat. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children and free to those 5 years and younger. Carry-out available. 410-6411137

TIDALHEALTH ICD SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth Adult Fitness, 800 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, 9-10 a.m. To allow people with implantable cardioverter defibrillator devices to become more knowledgeable and comfortable with having an ICD. Attendees are welcome to bring one guest. 410-543-7026

STORY TIME AT THE DELMARVA DISCOVERY MUSEUM - SNAKES

MAKER MONDAY - WALL HANGINGS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Make wall hangings, small or large, plain or intricate. All materials provided. Registration required: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Join in each second Tuesday of the month at The Delmarva Discovery Museum to see, touch and learn about local animals and enjoy stories, songs and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878

MEET PRESIDENT LINCOLN

STORY TIME: ‘LOVE IS IN THE AIR’

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Lincoln impersonator, Chris Hill will give a presentation about Lincoln’s boyhood, presidency and Civil War history, ending with the Gettysburg Address speech. All ages welcome. 410-957-0878

SMITH ISLAND CAKE

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Lisa Evans, from Smith Island, will demonstrate how these cakes are made.

410-632-3495

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet?

Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOW TO WORK THE GIG ECONOMY TIDALHEALTH DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP TidalHealth Avery W. Hall Education Center - auditorium, 100 E. Carroll St.,

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.

Rick Leibowitz from the Maryland Small

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 47

OC Today/Dispatch

CALENDAR Business Development Center will discuss the basics of setting up a small “gig” business. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING CLUB

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Group provides discussions and mutual support, along with education on exercise nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment.

Kay Kinnikin, 410-641-4765

SHROVE TUESDAY COMMUNITY PANCAKE DINNER

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Featuring Norwegian Pancakes. Love offering collected. 410-6412186, bethany21811@gmail.com

Tuesdays - Worcester County Library Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Wed., Feb. 14 ASHES TO GO

PAINT & SIP

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Register: 410-641-7052.

TIDES & VINE BOOK CLUB: ‘THE UNCOUPLING’ BY MEG WOLITZER

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. Stop by Snow Hill Library to pick up your book any time, then meet for a great discussion at Tides & Vine.

Must be at least 21 years of age. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

The Church Mouse Thrift Shop, 101 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-noon. St. Paul’s priest will be in front of the thrift shop to provide ashes and a blessing. All are welcome.

LENTEN BIBLE STUDY

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 11 a.m. Six-week class on “The Third Day” by Tom Berlin, Wednesdays from Feb. 14 to March 20. Led by Pastor Jacob Jackson. Sign up: 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com. Books also available on Amazon.

SONG CELEBRATION

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring a song and share it with other players and writers in a welcoming and encouraging space. Originals encouraged. Listeners welcome. Hosted by Mikel Campbell.

410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. The guest speaker will be striped bass research biologist, Beth Versak, from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The public is invited.

Food and refreshments available after 6 p.m.

BEACH HEROES-OC

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round.

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org

ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP SERVICE

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 2 p.m. For information, contact 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com.

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Play Bingo for prizes and pizza. For ages 8 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Salisbury, 12-1 p.m. Learn the intricacies of Business Banking and the importance of keeping your business and personal finances distinct. Bring your lunch. Also virtual. Register: https://marylandcapital.org/education.

D & D NIGHT

MINDFULNESS AT WORK

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m.

Get registered for D&D Game Night, great for adults and teens. Limit of 15.

410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

B.I.N.G.O. FOR A CAUSE

The Sterling Tavern, 119 N. Main St., Berlin, 6-8 p.m. Join Assateague Coastal Trust for a fun night of bingo, prizes, raffles, giveaways and great food. Support your local non-profit.

Thurs., Feb. 15 Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointments required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.

FINANCIAL LITERACY: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS WITH SBDC

Berlin Maryland Welcome Center, 14 S. Main St., Berlin, 8 a.m. Breakfast and coffee provided. Free. https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/fls2024-2945089?utmcampaign=social&amp;utm-content=cre atorshare&amp;utm-medium=discovery&amp;utmterm=odclsxcollection&amp;utm-source =cp&amp;aff=escb

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Also held via Zoom. This talk celebrates libraries and encourages participants to share individual experiences. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: VALENTINE’S DAY!

SCHOOL’S OUT SWITCH SESSION

STORY TIME ‘FIVE FUZZY CHICKS’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 2 p.m.

Come play some Nintendo Switch games on the big screen and hang out with other kids and tweens. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

I LOVE THE BEACH ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Free ice cream social featuring Jerry Lee Adkins, who will perform Jimmy Buffett hits and an array of love songs for Valentine’s Day. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m.

Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 12:30 p.m. Bring a packed lunch and join in on a “silent lunch” followed by a 20- to 30-minute guided relaxation practice, led by Bevin Jones, with focus on begin mindful of the present moment. 410-957-0878

MOBILE MENTOR

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Oneon-one assistance for those who want to make the most of their tablet or mobile device. Call the Berlin Branch for more information: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

CPAP MASK FITTING

THE LIBRARY: A UNIVERSAL MEMOIR

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

BINGO

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m.

Join in for a story time to celebrate Valentine’s Day. For ages 2-5 years. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577, BeachSingles.org.

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join licensed, certified Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

MANAGE YOUR BUSINESS CASH FLOW

Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, 1324 Belmont Ave., Suite. 401,

ONGOING EVENTS OCEAN CITY - BERLIN ROTARY CLUB

Don’s Seafood and Chop House, South Gate, Ocean Pines, 6 p.m., on the first and third Wednesday of each month. ocberlinrotary@gmail.com

BLIND DATE WITH A BOOK

Pocomoke library, 301 Market St., during February. Choose a mystery date from the display to take home and read.

Fill out the brief form inside the book and return it to the library to be entered into a drawing to win a sweet prize. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STEAM STATION

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during February. Each hands-on activity will focus on art, math, science, engineering or technology. Create jewelry using binary code, construct a flying glider, design. your own city out of recycled material and more. Challenges will change each week.

For ages 11 years and older. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

2024 JUST WALK CHALLENGE

Get the most miles of physical activity between Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 and be crowned the Just Walk Worcester Champion of 2024. Sign-up for Just Walk Worcester and report your monthly miles: https://justwalkworcester.org/. 410-632-1100, Ext. 1110

Crossword answers from page 26

PAGE 48

OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

February 9, 2024

49

OC Today/Dispatch

Call 410-723-6397

by Monday 5 p.m.

Classifieds appear in OC Today/Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com

MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

ROOMMATES

COMMERCIAL

DONATIONS

Pool General Maintenance.

Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required.

Able to pass CPO test.

Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.

Now Hiring Full-Time Dispatcher and Scheduling Person with good people and organizational skills, computer and Quick Books skills are a plus. Paid vacations, holidays, medical, dental, vision and 401K. RYT Plumbing, 443-727-3091

Looking for four months Summer Rental in Ocean City. Gentleman works on beach full-time downtown for local business. Excellent references. Call or text Charles, 410-294-1028

House Share in Berlin, male preferred, $600/month, non-smoker, no pets.

443-513-0190

Industrial Warehouse.

Space: 1500 sq. ft.

Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom.

Route 90/Bishopville.

Call 443-497-4200.

Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.

Smal Engine Mechanic Year-round.

Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047

Full Time Outboard Marine Mechanic/Tech Needed at established marine business in W. Ocean City, MD. Excellent starting salary.

Contact Harbor Marine at 410-213-2296.

for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr.

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

5,000 Square Foot Shop/ Warehouse for rent. Just outside of Berlin. $2,500/month. Call for details 443-366-5935.

Efficiency/1 Bath Condo with full kitchen available for either summer season for $10,000 or 8 month lease for $1250 per month.

Accommodates 2.

32nd Street, Bayside.

Resort Rentals, 410-524-0295

AUTOMOTIVE GREAT OPPORTUNITIES Auto Parts / Marine Parts with huge Retail department, is now hiring for: Parts Associates (will train).

Locations in: Ocean Pines, Clarksville & Long Neck.

Great Pay & Benefits.

Call: 302-344-9769.

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew

Seeking To Rent. Long term, year-round, unfurnished, 2BR/ 2BA, ground floor. Ocean City/Ocean Pines area. Great references. 410-726-0169

Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber, Housekeeper, Liquor Store Attendant, Boat Mates, Receivers, Event Space Housekeeper Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Fully Furnished Townhouse, 4BR, 2BA, Living Room, Dining Room.

Water, Electric and Cable not included. $2100/month.

Yearly lease. One month security deposit and one month rent upfront. Located at 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD 21011.

410-456-0272

HERKER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

OFF SEASON RENTALS

WE OFFER: Full-Time, Monday - Friday, competitive pay, great benefits, paid holidays and vacation.

Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

An Innovative Approach to Property Maintenance

- SENIOR OPERATIONS MANAGER -

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Customer Service, MS Word, Excel, & Outlook, and marketing skills. Bi-lingual & strong math skills are a plus.

Houseshare. Furnished room in South Ocean Pines. All inclusive. $800 per month.

Year-round. No smoking.

No pets. Call John 443-880-2317.

Year-Round Room For Rent Ocean Pines $800/month and $200 security. Fully furnished.

All utilities included. 443880-2317

SEEKING ROOM SEEKING ROOM Seeking Room to Rent: 60 yr. old seeking room to rent on annual basis.

Ocean Pines or Berlin area.

Have own funiture for room.

443-513-1421

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE For Sale: 2BR/2BA, Waterfront Condo with deeded boat slips.

Open house, 1-16 through 2-18. Contact Rick, 610-751-5203.

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL

1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft.

Call 443-497-4200 Commercial Warehouses 600 and 800 sq. ft. spaces West Ocean City and Bishopville, MD Yearly Leases Only

Call 646-812-1212

- EXPERIENCED MECHANIC -

PETS PETS AKC Beautiful German Shepherd, Longcoat, Female puppies, Dam imported bred

by Dior Vom Zwingerwalder.

DM clear, Hips / Elbows certified. 11 weeks old.

No text. Call 856-628-7719.

For A, AKC Yorkshire Terrier 8 m Male, UTD on Shots/Heartworms.

Only 4 lbs and will stay that small. Open AKC and DNA health tested + clear. $2200. 302-943-4491

MISC./OTHER

The hole in my boot Allows the snow to find me Hiding in my sock!

Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm

SERVICES

BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797 LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers

PUT COLOR IN YOUR CLASSIFIEDS! CALL 410-723-6397

to repair to maintain gas & diesel trucks and landscaping equipment.

call 610-459-5857 or email resume to Gherker@comcast.net & Gherker@herkerinc.com

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

Carpenter | Laborer | Painters Stucco & EIFS Mechanics Concrete Work o Experience preferred. o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus. o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available.

Please Apply Online: https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

Classifieds appear in OC Today/Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES MARYLAND STATEWIDE BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower NETWORK systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & FOR SALE Prepare for power outages professional installs. Call today with a GENERAC home Now! 877-738-0991. standby generator. $0 Money SERVICES Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a DENTAL INSURANCE from FREE Quote. Call now before Physicians Mutual Insurance the next power outage: 1-855- Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental 993-0969 insurance - NOT just a disMISC. FOR SALE count plan. Do not wait! Call Switch to DISH and get up to now! Get your FREE Dental a $300 gift card! Plus get the Information Kit with all the deMultisport pack included for a tails! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ limited time! Hurry, call for MDDC#6258 details: 1-855-407-6870

www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!

VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044.

410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397 Deadline is Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends

PAGE 50

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

DIRECTORY AUTO

BLINDS / SHADES

BLINDS / SHADES

CONSTRUCTION

ELECTRICIAN

WAINWRIGHT’S TIRE CENTER INC. Custom Wheels Computer Wheel Alignment Lube & Oil Change Shocks & Struts

Exhaust Systems Air Conditioning & Brake Service Road Service – Truck & Farm

410-641-2000 • 18 Broad St. • Berlin CARPET CLEANING

Raym Raymond mond O’Brocki O O’B Jr. M Master Electrician

443 691 0544 0 Call or Text Electric Veh hicle Chargers

35 Years Exp perience No Job Too Small! Frree Estimates!

Residential/Commercia al/Emergencies!

MD Lic #2268 Worcestter Co Lic #M1337 HANDYMAN SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

AN AFFORDABLE NEW BATH STARTS HERE!

MHIC#76938

Del.#2007215731

Making Your Dream Bath Come True For 20 Years!

Specializing in Bathroom Remodels Tub to Shower Conversions Custom Tile Work Contact Garth for FREE Estimate! atminc4u@aol.com 410-641-8439

HOME IMPROVEMENT

BAYSIDE BUILDERS

COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER

• Flat Roof Specialist • • Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Custom Homes • Additions • Repairs • Kitchens • Baths • Tile Work • Decks • Custom Inside Trim Work • Hardwood Floors

Cell: 410-713-8599 HOME IMPROVEMENT

MHIC #94614 Licensed Insured

HOME IMPROVEMENT

RISH A RBEACHMAN PHANDY THE

Exterior Home Repairs

“WE DO IT ALL”

• Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards

• Screening • Painting

• Staining • Caulking

• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •

• Deck Repairs •

HOME IMPROVEMENT

PipeLine

Contracting, LLC

Home Improvement Services Company

“One stop shop for Home Improvement”

Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail • Cabinets & Countertop • Flooring & Tile • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & • General Carpentry & Delaware Beaches Painting

US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor

11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433 “A Family Tradition Since 1935”

410-893-9707

HOME INSPECTOR LICENSED, CERTIFIED & TRUSTED

443-235-6249 • ARTISTICRENOVATIONS.COM

(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed

HOME, LAWN & PATIO SERVICES

MD 34948

LOGAN RODRIGUEZ Owner/Field Inspector

443-944-1133 • LEOSHOMEINSPECTIONS@GMAIL.COM LEOSHOMEINSPECTIONS.COM

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 51

OC Today/Dispatch

DIRECTORY HVAC

LANDSCAPING

LAWN CARE

Dirty Ducts, LLC HVAC Duct & Dryer Vent Cleaning Joseph Payne Manager jpayma200@gmail.com

LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available

5 Southwind Court Berlin, MD 21811 Family Owned & Operated

484-744-9309

MEN’S HAIR SERVICES

443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com MOVING SERVICES

MVA LICENSED

BUDGET MOVERS

NEW TITLE AND TAGS AND MORE www.westoceancitytagandtitle.com

The Area’s #1 Moving Company

LOCAL • ENTIRE EAST COAST Residential or Office or Commercial Packing or Loading or Unloading or Complete Move Single Item or Certain Items or Full Home

Call Maria: 443-664-5797

WEST OCEAN CITY

VEHICLE TAG & TITLE TRADER LEE’S VILLAGE 9935 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY #15 Open Mon., Fri., 9-2 & Wed. 9-5

Female Owned & Operated

JODY PALMISANO 410-629-5600

www.Facebook.com/ocbudgetmovers 40+ Years in Business

PAINTING • CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING Painting & Powerwashing • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE Interior & Exterior

Zimmerman & Son LLC Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured

Licensed & Insured

PAINTING

Commercial & Residential • Complete Exterior Cleaning Hot Water, Powerwashing & Soft Wash Systems Year round ser vices & • Deck Staining w/yearly seasonal • Decks • Docks tes ra • Houses • Restaurants • Shopping Centers ices is ad!

• Roofs • & More all ser v h t / w

Free Estimates

10% Discount with this ad.

NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!

410-603-3400

Bill Zimmerman cell 443-373-4539

Joe Beran/Owner Operator acms1st@gmail.com

REAL ESTATE

Kim Dixson

ROOFING REDFIN

190 W. Ostend St., #200 Baltimore, MD 21230 Redfin - Direct 410-868-5666 redfin.com

REDFIN AGENT

Sell for more, pay a 1% listing fee when you buy and sell with Redfin Agents.*

POWERWASHING / SOFT WASH

POWERWASHING Atlantic Coast Powerwashing Services

443-373-1328 kim.dixson@ redfin.com License #650977

Contact Kim for a no-obligation home-value consultation. *Sell for more based on difference between the sale and list prices of Redfin listings versus those of comparable listings by other brokerages, per a 2019 study. Sell for a 1% listing fee only if you also buy with Redfin within 365 days of closing on your Redfin listing. If you sell first we will initially charge a 1.5% listing fee and then send you a check for the .5% difference after you buy your next home with Redfin. Subject to $3,750 minimum Redfin commission.

Listing commission subject to change. Buyer’s agent commission not included. More info at redfin.com/disclaimer.

Information provided is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business.

ROOFING

MHIC 97081 Ocean City 34629 • Delaware 2004 222 381 Licensed & Insured

ROOFING

Licensed & Insured Ocean City #35727 Maryland #95090 Delaware #2007214173 QUALIFIED MECHANICS TO HELP WITH YOUR ROOFING NEEDS!

• All New Roofs Carry 10-Year Warranty • All Jobs Inspected By Owner At Completion • Customers’ Satisfaction Guaranteed Over 25 Years Experience In Roofing & Siding FOR A FREE ESTIMATE CALL OFFICE: 410-289-1115 OR CALL THE OWNER DIRECT: 443-366-2786

PORCH COVERS

TAX RESOLUTION / CREDIT SERVICES

AMA Consulting & Business Svcs, Inc We Solve Your Problems

Mae Phillips Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS

Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com

*Licensed in MD, DE &VA

(434) 382-8920 11806 Sheppards Crossing Road Whaleyville, MD 21874 amaconsultingandbusiness@gmail.com www.amaconsultingbusiness.com

PAGE 52

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

DIRECTORY UROLOGY SPECIALIST

YOUR BUSINESS

Your Business Card Here!

Call 410-723-6397

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Home Need Improvements?

Check out the

y r o t c e r i D e c i v r Se For a variety of local contractors

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OceanCityToday.com

RELIABLE & LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 9, 2024 BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON 37 LIBERTY ST. OCEAN PINES A/R/T/A BERLIN, MD 21811 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated November 26, 2008, recorded in Liber 5176, Folio 564 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $420,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on FEBRUARY 20, 2024 AT 4:05 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $26,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court.

There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit.

All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser.

The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale.

PAGE 53

OC Today/Dispatch - Public Notices The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 355517-1) Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

OCD-2/1/3t _________________________________

TOWN OF BERLIN

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP # 2024-02 Harrison Avenue Water Utility Improvements Due Date: Monday, 02/26/2024 Time: 3:00 PM EST The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for the installation of approximately 300 LF of 8” watermain using trenchless installation methods (directional bore), the abandonment of an existing watermain with flowable fill, the installation of a 1” residential water service lateral, the installation of 20 LF of 6” watermain, the installation of a 2” commercial water service, and the replacement and relocation of an existing fire hydrant assembly. A portion of the work is adjacent to Broad Street (MD 374), a MD-SHA maintained roadway, and any work performed in the ROW will need to meet

their requirements for utilities, restoration, and traffic control.

Qualified contractors are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/ or contact Director of Water Resources Jamey Latchum at 4 1 0 - 6 4 1 - 3 8 4 5 / jlatchum@berlinmd.gov for the official RFP. EEO. OCD-2/1/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

The Farmers Bank of Willards Meeting of Stockholders will be held on April 25th, 2024 at 10:00am at the Willards Lions Hall on Hearn Street in Willards, Md. OCD-2/1/3t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: VIRGIE LOUISE SMALL ESTATE NO. 19448

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Juanita L. Bossler, 118 Clam Shell Road, Ocean City, MD 21842 for judicial probate of the will dated October 24, 2006 and for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Room 102, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 on February 20, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time.

Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills.

Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Court Room 4 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: February 1, 2024 OCD-2/1/2t _________________________________ TIMOTHY J. OURSLER ESQ. 706 GIDDINGS AVE., STE. 305 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-1425

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20046 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARTA LEWIS BEMAN Notice is given that Michael Gordan Beman Jr., 1866 Woodbine St., Apt. 3L, Ridgewood, NY 11385-3747, was on January 18, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marta Lewis Beman who died on December 09, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 18th day of July, 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: (1) 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.

Michael Gordan Beman 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 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 1, 2024 OCD-2/1/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of KENNETH RICHARD STEVENS JR Estate No. 20054 Notice is given that BARBARA ANN STEVENS whose address is 11500 COASTAL HWY UNIT 1420 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-7070 was on JANUARY 23, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of KENNETH RICHARD STEVENS JR who died on DECEMBER 06, 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: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

PAGE 54

OC Today/Dispatch - Public Notices

NOTICE

The Mayor and City Council, a public community transit service provider in Ocean City, Maryland, is offering the opportunity for a public hearing to provide citizens a forum to present views on the following proposals: FY 2025 Annual Transportation Plan (ATP).

The ATP contains requests for operating funds from the following programs: Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act, which provides funds for general public transit service in rural areas; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) program, which provides funds for federally required para transit services for persons with disabilities.

In addition, capital funds will be requested for the following items: ITEM Two (2) Heavy Duty 60’ Articulating Buses Transit Vehicle Preventative Maintenance Transition Plan for Zero-Emission Vehicles TOTAL

TOTAL $1,700,000 $916,000 $149,000 $2,765,000

A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. Monday, March 4. Requests for a Public Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked “Public Hearing Comments”: Ocean City Transportation 224 65th Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Written comments can also be emailed to: Rob Shearman Jr. at rshearman@oceancitymd.gov If requested, a Public Hearing will be held:

NOTICE

Monday, March 18, 2024 6:00 p.m.

City Hall Council Chambers 301 North Baltimore Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m.

Monday, March 4, 2024.

OCD-2/1/5t ____________________________________________________________________ (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 claim 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/1/1t _________________________________

LEGAL ADVERTISING Call: 410-723-6397 Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net

of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of July, 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: (1) 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.

Thomas J. Kokolis Esq. 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 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 02, 2024 OCD-2/1/3t _________________________________

JACOB DEAVEN, ESQ. PARKER, SIMON & KOKOLIS, LLC 110 N. WASHINGTON STREET, SUITE 500 ROCKVILLE, MD 20850

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19967 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF FREDERICK EDGAR WILLIAMS Notice is given that Thomas J. Kokolis Esq., 110 N. Washington St., Ste. 500, Rockville, MD 20850-2230, was on January 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Frederick Edgar Williams who died on August 18, 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 APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20057 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARLENE JOYCE FORD Notice is given that Linda F. Wamsley, 1705 Masefield Circle, Salisbury, MD 21801-3265 and Pamela Ford, 36 Knottingham Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, was on January 24, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marlene Joyce. Ford who died on September 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 (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of July, 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: (1) 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 cred-

FEBRUARY 9, 2024 itor 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.

Linda F. Wamsley Pamela Ford 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 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 01, 2024 OCD-2/1/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "A" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Beverly Bongiorno, 191 Sandyhook Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Pines Point Provisions, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Pines Point Provisions 869 Yacht Club Drive Ocean Pines, Maryland 21811 Formerly: Pines Point Provisions & Seafood Co., Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 21, 2024 @ 1:00 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Edward Dale Cropper, Jr., 207 10th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Joseph Brandon Wilson, 617 Bayshore Drive #49, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Donald Mark Alimo, 14306 Jarvis Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: Bird Dog Tavern, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Bird Dog Tavern 9th Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 21, 2024 @ 1:10 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Dina Basel Sbih, 12648 Whisper Trace Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: 67th Street Eats, Inc. For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Route 66 Diner 6909 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Dented Can, LLC There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 21, 2024 @ 1:25 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Joseph John Mark Ochse, 401 15th Street, Unit 6, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: 5th Street Pool Bar, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Tidelands Caribbean Pool Bar 406 Baltimore Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 21, 2024 @ 1:40 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "A" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Dillon Gerald Harrington, 9741 Mason Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: West Bend Inc. For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Wine Rack West 0 12827 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Route 50 Carry Out, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 21, 2024 @ 1:50 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

PAGE 55

OC Today/Dispatch - Public Notices MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP POBOX 910 - 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of WALTER J MAXIMO Estate No. 20065 Notice is given that JOHN BATZIG whose address is 15 DORI CT ERIAL, NJ 08081-9539 was on FEBRUARY 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WALTER J MAXIMO who died on SEPTEMBER 25, 2023 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of AUGUST, 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: (1) 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/8/3t _________________________________ ADAM S. ABRAMOWITZ ESQ. STEIN SPERLING BENNETT DE JONG DRISCOLL PC 1101 WOOTTON PKWY STE 700 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-1074

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20058 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES E. MCGINNIS JR. AKA: CHARLES ERNEST MCGINNIS JR. Notice is given that Collin M. McGinnis, 61 Braddock Dr., Ohiopyle, PA 15470-1323, was on February 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles E. McGinnis Jr. who died on September 19, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or

by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of August, 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: (1) 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.

Collin M. McGinnis 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 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 8, 2024 OCD-2/8/3t _________________________________ REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of GLADYS LOUISE MITCHELL Estate No. 20068 Notice is given that DOROTHY MASON whose address is 9540 MORRIS RD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1328 was on FEBRUARY 02, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of who died on DECEMBER 11, 2023 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment 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 Reg-

ister of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/8/1t _________________________________ REENA J PATELL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20066 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BETTY HULCHER SIMPSON Notice is given that Matthew Louis Simpson, 8700 Langmaid Rd., Newark, MD 21841-2122, was on February 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Betty Hulcher Simpson who died on December 19, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of August, 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: (1) 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.

Matthew Louis Simpson Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House

PAGE 56

OC Today/Dispatch - Public Notices

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 08, 2024 OCD-2/8/3t _________________________________

personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 08, 2024 OCD-2/8/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20061 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KATHLEEN ROBERTS AKA: KATHLEEN DARCY ROBERTS Notice is given that Warren Roberts, 1092 Ocean Pkwy., Ocean Pines, MD 21811-1672, was on January 25, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Kathleen Roberts who died on December 03, 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: (1) 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 claim 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.

Warren Roberts Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19857 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GERALD D. TIMMONS SR. Notice is given that Tammy Timmons, 8945 Ironshire Station Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2927, was on January 31, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gerald D. Timmons Sr. who died on July 07, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of July, 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: (1) 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.

Tammy Timmons 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 Name of newspaper designated by

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

Legal Advertising Call Taylor Sloan 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net

Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 08, 2024 OCD-2/8/1t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN MARIE THOMPSON Estate No. 20060 Notice is given that CHRISTOPHER THOMAS WILSON whose address is 2945 NW 144TH TER NEWBERRY, FL 32669-2069 was on JANUARY 30, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN MARIE THOMPSON who died on JANUARY 06, 2024 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of JULY, 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: (1) 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/8/3t _________________________________ 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 To all persons interested in the estate of LOUISE H LITTLETON Estate No. 20062 Notice is given that GARY W HANCOCK whose address is 305 WINTER QUARTERS DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218511044, NANCY LYNN HANCOCK whose address is 305 WINTER QUARTERS DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-1044 were on JANUARY 31, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of

FEBRUARY 9, 2024 LOUISE H LITTLETON who died on JANUARY 13, 2024 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 31st day of JULY, 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: (1) 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/8/3t _________________________________ BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND IN THE MATTER OF CHABERTON SOLAR SNOW LLC’S APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO CONSTRUCT A 4 MW SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATING FACILITY IN WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. 9714

NOTICE

OF PRE-HEARING CONFERENCE A pre-hearing conference in the above-entitled matter is schedule for Thursday, February 15, 2024 at 1:30 p.m., in the Public Service Commission’s 19th floor hearing room, William Donal Schafer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland, concerning Chaberton Solar Snow LLC’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Maryland Public Service Commission.

Anyone wishing to observe the live stream of the hearing may do so via the Public Utility Law Judge Division’s YouTube Channel, https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP. Any questions about the hearing should be directed to psc.pulj@gmail.com. At the pre-hearing conference, any preliminary matters will be discussed, including consideration of any petitions to intervene that have been filed, and the establishment of a procedural schedule.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024 Petitions to intervene must be filed by February 14, 2024, and may be filed electronically through the Commission’s website at www.psc.state.md.us or sent by firstclass mail to the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Andrew S. Johnston, 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202-6806, referencing Case No. 9714 Pursuant to the Commission’s March 13, 2020 Notice of Waiver and Relaxed Filing Requirements, no paper copies need to be submitted if the filing is public in nature and no more than 25 pages in length. The Commission encourages parties to use the Commission’s “e-file” system for filing. Instructions for e-filing are found under the “Tools” section of the Commission’s website.

OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 24-01 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 24-01 (Zoning – Multi-family Dwelling Units in the C-2 General Commercial District) was introduced by Commissioners Elder, Mitrecic, and Purnell on January 16, 2024.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows: § ZS 1-210(c)(16). (Amends the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to allow detached multi-family dwelling units as an accessory use to a commercial development, provided at least sixty-five percent (65%) or more of the net lot area for a given parcel be developed with a commercial use or structure permitted in the C-2 District, and a minimum of 15% of open space be provided for the residential uses.)

A Public Hearing will be held on Bill 24-01 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 24-02 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 24-02 (County Government – County Ethics Law) was introduced by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on January 16, 2024.

PAGE 57

OC Today/Dispatch A fair summary of the bill is as follows: Amending the County’s Ethics ordinance, § CG 5-103, et seq. of the County Government Article, to comply with State law as follows: 1. Add the definition for “Quasigovernmental entity”.

2. Disclosure and prohibition of gift acceptance from associations engaged in representing counties or municipal or corporations.

3. Prohibit disclosure of confidential information by former official or employee.

4. Prohibit retaliation against individual for reporting ethics violation or participating in ethics investigation.

5. Prohibit disclosure of amount of consideration received from: University of Maryland Medical System, State, or local governmental entities and quasi-governmental entities.

6. Disclosure of name business trades as or does business under.

7. Disclosure of certain business interests.

A Public Hearing will be held on Emergency Bill 2402 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at 10:35 a.m.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-2/8/2t _________________________________

BUSINESS BRIEFS

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James Kanuch recently joined Atlantic General Hospital and Health System as the new vice president of finance and chief financial officer.

Kanuch succeeds Cheryl Nottingham, who has served in the role since 1998 and will retire in April.

Kanuch brings 30 years of financial and operational experience to his new role from Allegheny Health James Kanuch Network, a leading health care provider in western Pennsylvania. He has held a variety of leadership positions with AHN, most recently as senior vice president of finance for the networks 1,300-plus member system of medical practices.

Kanuch holds a master of business administration from Robert Morris University and an executive leadership program certificate from the Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania. He is an alumnus of Geneva College in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, where he earned his bache-

New investor advisor Comprehensive Financial Solutions, or CFS, in Salisbury recently announced the hiring of Nathan Canada as an investment advisor representative.

Canada is based out of the Salisbury office and joins the firm after working loNathan Canada cally in the industry.

A true Salisbury native, Canada attended James. M. Bennett High School and graduated from Salisbury University with a bachelor’s degree in finance with a financial planning track. After marrying his high school sweetheart, Kelli, in December, the couple has chosen to continue make Salisbury their home.

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OCD-2/8/1t _________________________________

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OceanCityToday.com RELIABLE & LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 58

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

REAL ESTATE REPORT

First-time homebuyer savings accounts may be expanded

OceanCityToday.com RELIABLE & LOCAL NEWS

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) Back in 2021, the Maryland legislature passed a bill that created first-time homebuyer savings accounts.

The account is a way that a first-time homebuyer can save for the purchase of a home and receive preferable Maryland state tax treatment on contributions and account earnings.

The law allows a taxpayer to designate an account they have with a financial institution as a first-time homebuyer savings account. However, although financial institutions may choose to offer such accounts to their customers, the law does not require them to create or offer these types of accounts.

When a first-time homebuyer account is established, the banking institution is required to provide information to the account holder about homebuyer education and housing counseling programs, as well as services provided by nonprofit and government organizations that are certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and available to Maryland residents.

Any Maryland resident who has not owned a home in the last seven years is eligible to create one of these savings accounts. The bank account must be in the first-time home buyers name, or in a joint name, if both people file jointly and are both first-time homebuyers. Currently, family members are not allowed to open accounts for the benefit of a first-time homebuyer, however, family members can contribute money to the buyer in their first-time homebuyer savings account.

A related measure state legislators are introducing this year involves expanding on the state’s first-time

homebuyer savings accounts. When first passed in 2021, several compromises were made to the program’s structure to win approval. Unfortunately, the changes resulted in making the accounts less attractive to first-time buyers.

Working with the original bill sponsor, Realtors hope to allow family members to open accounts on behalf of a first-time buyer to maximize their savings timelines and gain wider adoption. This is one bill to watch in the 2024 legislative session.

—Lauren Bunting is the broker of record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

OC chamber job fair, expo offers one-stop shop (Feb. 9, 2024) The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce is hosting a job fair and business expo next month.

Set 6 p.m., March 23, at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort in Ocean City, the event is free to job seekers. A press release said workers are needed in many local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, stores, banks, Beach Patrol, watersports and more.

Employers will be at the fair offering seasonal and year-round positions, as well as possible employer-provided housing. Partners from county organizations will also be assisting with questions regarding insurance, social security and more.

Job seekers can access a generic application and register at bit.ly/OCJobFairBizExpo. Walk-ins are also welcome. Attendees are encouraged to dress for success and bring items such as pens, IDs and resumes. Free coachSee CHAMBER Page 60

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 59

OC Today/Dispatch

TERRI FRENCH/OCEAN CITY TODAY/DISPATCH

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATED The SIbony family celebrated the grand opening of its new Taphouse West Bar and Grille last month with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of the new location. The restaurant is open daily at 11 a.m.

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PAGE 60

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Berlin seeking $3.8M bond for needed improvements Modern electric meters, new public works building included in application

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By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) The Berlin Town Council this week agreed to pursue a bond to help pay for updated electric meters as well as a new public works facility.

The town council voted 4-0 this week, with Councilman Jay Knerr absent, to approve an application to the Community Development Administration (CDA) 2024 Local Government Infrastructure Financing Program. Officials plan to seek a $3.8 million bond through the CDA process that would fund new electric meters as well as $2.8 million for the design and construction of a new public works facility.

“A million dollars, $2.8, $3.8 total, it seems scary right? We don’t take that on lightly,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “Our finance department doesn’t take it on lightly. Our town administrator, myself, the council, none of us do that on a whim. We’re confident there’s a pathway to be able to pay for these things. We’re confi-

dent that we can overcome the additional obligations through some costs savings as well as some partnership on how we spend our overall tax dollars. So we don’t take it lightly and we understand that all of you work very hard for your tax dollars that come in and we’re good stewards of that money.”

Tyndall told the council during a special meeting Monday that the town’s electric department had been stressing the need for AMI electric metering for years, as it would cut down on staff meter reading time and would be more accurate. The new metering is expected to cost about $1 million.

“They’re down to pen and paper right now which is not a good way to be reporting,” he said.

He said that because the town was interested in the possibility of general obligation bonds to fund the electric meters, it made sense to also include funding for a new public works facility. Finance Director Natalie Saleh said there would be an opportunity for the Town of Berlin to participate in a municipal bond issuance in April.

“Advisable was to come up with all of the potential projects we might See BERLIN Page 61

Chamber job fair on March 23 Continued from Page 58 ing sessions will be available each hour to help applicants succeed.

This year, the chamber is partnering with Summer Jobs DelMarVa to add a virtual component. Using Brazen’s in-person event management software, they can reach college students interested in coming to the beach to work from Frostburg, Towson, Loyola, Stevenson, UMBC, University of Delaware and more. All candidate data is sent to participating employers after the event.

Employers interested in manning a booth or businesses interested in pro-

moting services or selling goods at the business expo can contact Colby Noble at colby@oceancity.org.

Booths for OC Chamber members are $200 ($100 for each additional space). Booths for non-members are $275 ($200 for each additional space).

If the business joins the chamber within 30 days, $75 of the booth fee will be applied to the membership fee.

Booth fees include one table and two chairs.

For more information visit bit.ly/OCJobFairBizExpo or contact Colby at colby@oceancity.org or 410213-0144 ext 110.

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 61

OC Today/Dispatch

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY/DISPATCH

Berlin considering $3.8M bond Continued from Page 60 need to finance,” she said.

As a result, she recommended the town also seek $2.8 million in funding for a new public works facility.

She said the town could plan on a bond not to exceed $3.8 million.

“If we realize we will not utilize the whole amount or realize we don’t need this amount in April we can adjust the number down,” Saleh said.

She said the public works team

currently operated out of a trailer with no heat or air conditioning.

While the town has land at Heron Park that could be used for a new facility, water and sewer service would need to be extended to the site and a building would have to be designed and built.

The finance administrator said the town’s electric fund could handle the annual debt associated with its porSee BOND Page 62

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Beriln Mayor and Council members discussed plans Monday night for a $3.8 million bond application to the Community Development Association.

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PAGE 62

OC Today/Dispatch

A day in the life of a teacher

‘I listen, advise, end with a hug, and as the bell rings, I enter my second home, my classroom.’

By Dr. Aimee Bergonia Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) 5:45AM Before the sun makes her appearance, I wake and rise thinking about coffee and the downfall of MacBeth. I grab my notebook that rests on my bedside table, glance over my notes for the day ahead and gather my things for the drive. On the way to work, I listen to a true crime podcast that I plan on using with my first clients of the day, and my mind swirls with scenarios of the brilliant discussion that is about to ensue.

Arriving in the parking lot, I settle in my spot, grab my bag (that is always packed to the brim) and the extra tote containing Earl Gray Tea, local honey, and Walkers Shortbread Cookies, as I head in for one of my favorite days of the week, “What’s the Tea?” Wednesday.

Salutations and smiles greet me as I walk through the halls, making my way to my artwork adorned room.

The normal crew awaits me as I reach my door, greeting me with varied emotions, retelling the stories from the night before- scores of basketball games, debacles from play practice, the breakup story of the century. I listen, advise, end with a hug, and as the bell rings, I enter my second home, my classroom.

By 8:05, we are sipping on tea as we begin our journey into true crime.

I look across the room, iPads propped in front of each curious face, and I see expressions of disbelief as the story of deception unravels. Students are listening to the podcast, taking notes on their iPads, and preparing to work in groups to compare modern day crime to Shakespeare’s famous criminal, MacBeth. We wrap up 90 minutes with a short 5 paragraph write, based on the dramatic plots twists that are parallel between real-life and fiction.

I glance over their work and am in awe of the creativity of these 17-yearold scholars.

The bell rings and although it is my planning period, I am hurrying down the hallway to a meeting, a chance to collaborate with my peers, when I make a quick detour to check in on my former intern, now colleague. I peak in the classroom and watch her magic as she masterfully weaves her love of literature through reading. I can see her success through the excitement of her students, and I slip away, my heart bursting with pride. As I turn the corner, I run into a student who “desperately needs my help”, so I stop to calm her nerves and reassure her that I will return in 20 minutes to assist in editing yet another college scholarship endeavor. My planning period goes by so quickly, with meetings, and essays, and hearing about the future goals of students, before I know it, the clock strikes 11AM. Lunchtime arrives, and my doors

are open for business. Students pop in for lunch and a chat or lunch and homework, and I sit holding court with all my kids surrounding me. We talk about college, jobs, homework, stress, prom dresses and “the breakup” news of course. 30 minutes fly by and I am off to judge a Poetry Out Loud contest for seniors who are moving on to a state competition. The students brilliantly recite their poetry, and I am yet again, so moved by the talent of our students.

Now begins the busy afternoon, another 90-minute dose of Macbeth with my afternoon British Literature crew. This group is a bit ahead, so we discuss graduation and plans after high school.

Another bell, and the last period of the day arrives along with 20 energetic…energetic … freshies. I change gears as I transition from seniors to freshman and prepare to dazzle as I build the foundation of writing in our newest population of kids in our school. Today we are talking about details as we begin a unit on the art of storytelling.

2:51PM The final bell of the day rings and the students shuffle by, as they go off to practices, afterschool studies, and home. I sit down to prepare for tomorrow, looking over essays and updating my online class folders with lesson guidance. And then I change gears once more, as I structure my PowerPoint presentation for the evening- I am soon off to Salisbury University to teach a literacy course to prospective teachers.

8:15PM Another fantastic course ends at the university, and I drive home listening to an educational podcast discussion on the art of mentoring. I soaked in hours of educational enlightenment today and the wonderful part about it all, is that I get to wake up and do it all over again tomorrow.

Beyond the concentration of academic instruction and teaching concepts, I get to play a vital role in fostering an inclusive community of learners. Every day, I strive to support students by developing critical thinking skills, encouraging student creativity, and preparing students for future educational and career endeavors. I want to be a positive role model, ensuring that each student is equipped with tools to become good citizens. As a high school teacher, I also contribute to the social and emotional growth of my students, as I spend time offering guidance, support, and mentorship.

I am lucky because I get to work with the future every single day.

Dr. Bergonia is a High School English Teacher at Pocomoke High School and an adjunct professor at Salisbury University

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

New public works facility, upgraded meters necessary Continued from Page 61 tion of the proposed bond, which would be $80,000 to $90,000 a year.

She said the general fund portion of the bond tied to the public works facility would come with annual debt of about $185,000. She added that while the funding would be available in May if the town moved forward with the bond, the first payment, which would be interest only, wouldn’t be until October. The next payment after that would be in April.

“That gives us time to decide how to fund the general fund debt payment,” Councilman Steve Green said.

Tyndall said the council would be presented with a request for qualifications regarding design services for the new public works facility at its next meeting. He acknowledged that there was a little padding on the proposed price but said he felt the town was in good shape to cover the debt associated with a $3.8 million bond.

Councilman Dean Burrell said he wanted department heads to talk about the needs for the meters and the new building. Electric Utility Director Tim Lawrence said there were numerous advantages to AMI metering. He said it would save staff time, as it currently takes his whole team two and a half days to read the meters, and that with the new meters customers would be able to access the data associated with their electric use. He added that when he had his staff using paper and pencil to read meters, mistakes happened and then more time was spent re-reading meters. New meters would eliminate those extra trips.

“You’re saving wear and tear on vehicles, gas, emissions output,” he said.

AMI metering would also allow for remote disconnects, which would improve safety.

Public Works Director Jimmy Charles said a new building would allow his staff to better maintain vehicles and equipment. It would also give them space for showers and a kitchen. He said the department could service the town’s police cars, for example, if it had a facility to do so in.

“Right now we’re in a tin can,” he said.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the current structure was never meant to be a permanent facility.

“That building was meant to be a temporary solution 45, 50 years ago,” she said.

The council voted 4-0 to move forward with the bond process. A first reading of the associated ordinance is expected to take place Feb. 26 while a public hearing will be held March 11.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

County wants control over cannabis dispensary sites

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) County officials agreed to send a letter of opposition to proposed state legislation that would inhibit the local government’s ability to regulate the locations of cannabis dispensaries.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week voted unanimously to send a letter of opposition to Senate Bill 537, as well as its counterpart in the House. The bill would prohibit local jurisdictions from increasing the separation distances currently listed in state law, something Worcester County has already done.

“I would say that Worcester County needs to stick to its guns and let whoever is going to put that operation in place fight us for that change in location,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said.

Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting, approached the commissioners this week to provide information on two bills that have the potential to affect Worcester County.

She said Senate Bill 537 would prohibit local jurisdictions from increasing separation distances for cannabis dispensaries currently listed in state law. She noted that contrasts with a bill the commissioners passed in No-

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The commissioners are opposing a bill that would lessen local control over dispensaries.

vember that established a 2,000-foot separation distance – greater than what is currently in state law - for new dispensaries. The county’s bill requires dispensaries maintain a minimum separation distance of 2,000 feet from a pre-existing primary or secondary school, a licensed childcare center, a playground, recreation center, library or public park, and from other licensed dispensaries.

Keener said she also wanted to bring another bill, Senate Bill 158, to the commissioners’ attention because See COMMISSION Page 64

The first bridge to carry automobile traffic into Ocean O City was approved by the Maryland General Assembly in 1916 bu ut did not officially open until July 4, 1919.

Known to locals as the “State Roads Bridge,” it had a single lane in each direction. It crossed the Sinepuxent Bay at its most narrrow point and entered Ocean City at Wo Worcester Street in the center of thee old downtown.

This bridge was damaged in the hurricane of 1933 that destroyed the nearby railroad bridge and also created the Inlet. For thee three days it took to t repair i th the State St t Roads R d Bridge, B id no automobile t bil traf t ffic fi w was able to enter or leave Ocean City except by the long and sand-coverred route through Delaware. The photo above was taken four days after thee hurricane in 1933.

The State Roads Bridge was replaced by the current Route 50 Bridge in 1942.

To T o purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishinPhoto ccourtesy T Trravis Langworthy goc.com.

PAGE 64

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

Whale carcass washes up on Assateague Maryland DNR team along with National Aquarium officials perform necropsy

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) A dead whale washed ashore on Assateague Island last week, prompting a response from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the National Aquarium.

On Wednesday, Jan. 31, representatives with Maryland DNR’s Stranding Response Program and the National Aquarium responded to the barrier island for a report of a deceased humpback whale found on the north end of Assateague Island National Seashore.

The Stranding Response team determined the whale to be a subadult male humpback, which was found in the tidal zone at the park.

“National Park Service staff moved the carcass out of the tidal zone to a more accessible location, and a necropsy was conducted Feb. 2 by staff and volunteers of the Maryland DNR Stranding Response Program and the National Aquarium …,” a statement from the Stranding Response Program reads. “A definitive cause of death was unable to be determined during the examination and samples have been sent for diagnostic analysis.”

PHOTO COURTESY LINDA FEDELE

A deceased humpback whale is pictured Jan. 31 on Assateague Island National Seashore.

While test results are pending, the Maryland Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Response Program reminds community members to keep their distance from any stranded or deceased marine mammals, which are protected by law under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Those who encounter a stranded marine mammal or sea turtle, dead or alive, are asked to call 1800-628-9944.

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Since 2016, an elevated number of humpback whale mortalities have been reported along the Atlantic coastline, from Maine to Florida, according to NOAA Fisheries. From 2016 through 2023, Maryland recorded three onshore humpback whale mortalities and one offshore humpback whale mortality.

Last year, for example, a female humpback whale was found on Assateague, with preliminary necropsy results listing the cause of death as a vessel strike. And in 2021, a deceased 30-ton humpback whale washed up on the northern end of the barrier island. No signs of a “non-natural” death were reported.

Commission to voice opposition Continued from Page 63 it was also related to cannabis establishments. She said the bill would repeal a preemption that was previously established by the state.

Previously, applicants listed as preapproved would be exempt from local authority and would not be required to be approved by a local zoning board.

Keener said Senate Bill 158 would benefit the county.

“It’s repealing a preemption that was put in last year,” she said. “It basically said if a licensee had a preapproval they didn’t have to come to us for anything.”

The commissioners voted unani-

mously to support a motion by Mitrecic to send letters of opposition to the state regarding Senate Bill 537 and its counterpart in the House.

“We have no idea where this operator’s going to come from,” he said.

“This person can come from anywhere in the state of Maryland. I don’t think they’ve had the lottery yet.

We could have an operator that’s never been to this area before come in, from Montgomery County or somewhere else across the bridge, that doesn’t respect our county as much as we do. We really need to stay on top of this. I think we put the onus on the operator as far as meeting our requirements and not the state’s.”

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

Lower Shore Land Trust leader hopes to continue work

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Feb. 9, 2024) The Lower Shore Land Trust began the month with a new executive director at the helm.

On Feb. 1, Matt Heim officially joined the Lower Shore Land Trust as its new executive director. While he spent the week prior learning the ins and outs of the nonprofit, Heim said he is eager to hit the ground running in the months ahead.

Matt Heim “I’m excited to get into the field,” he said. “Right now I’m soaking it in, but I’m looking to roll up my sleeves and continue the work that Kate started.”

In January, the Lower Shore Land Trust introduced Heim as the nonprofit’s next executive director. He fills the role previously held by Kate Patton, who announced her retirement last year.

In an interview last Thursday, Heim shared his excitement over his new position. He said the opportunity is one that has been many years in the making.

“I feel like this is the career trajectory I’ve been on for a while,” he said.

“Early on in my career, I worked with Kate and the Lower Shore Land Trust. I feel like it’s kind of come full circle in that aspect. It’s nice to come after her.”

Heim brings nearly 20 years of nonprofit experience to the Lower Shore Land Trust. After years spent managing a network of community gardens and urban farms in Memphis, Tenn., he returned to the Eastern Shore, where he led a local campaign to oppose offshore drilling in the mid-Atlantic region. From there, Heim became the first director of the One Water Partnership program at Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake. And in 2022, he joined Delmarva Public Radio as the deputy general manager and director of development. In that position, he helped produce environmentally focused programs in partnership with the “No, I Know” podcast and Salisbury University’s environmental studies program.

When asked about his plans for the future of the Lower Shore Land Trust, Heim said he will spend the first year learning more about land use policies and easements and continuing to strengthen the nonprofit’s existing programs.

“The organization has some great momentum on a lot of different fronts,” he said. “My goal in year one is to get a handle on the cycle of the year, spending a lot of time learning.

There are areas I would like to steer See DIRECTOR Page 66

PAGE 65

OC Today/Dispatch

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

T

here is nothing better to me than the sound of laughter.

A couple stories on the joy of good giggles: •I especially love it when I hear outbursts of laughter coming from my house’s second floor, which my teenage sons basically dominate.

Usually once a night or so Beckett, 15, will venture across the hall to roughhouse with his little brother, Carson, 14, who probably has him by about 30 pounds at this point. I always caution Beckett to be careful with his brother because Carson has no concept of his strength. Beckett always dismisses me, saying, “I got him.”

One night this week I walked into Carson’s room and loved what I saw.

Beckett was face down on his bed with Carson sitting on him. Carson was pulling Beckett’s hair back with one hand while giving him noogies with the other. It looked to be violent at first, but the giggles told me different. Beckett was letting him dominate him. Beckett then coerced me down on the bed for Carson to do the same thing to me. It was not as enjoyable to me as it was to the teenagers.

Whenever Carson walks by Beckett he goes for the top of his head with an evil smile and quiet giggle. Beckett is taller and faster, so he misses most of the time on landing a noogie, but it’s a fun thing to see play out. It doesn’t even really appear Carson is trying to get to his head most of the time. It’s Beckett’s reaction that seems to tickle Carson the most. When our special needs son laughs, it’s impossible not to giggle right along with him.

Over the years, it has been wonderful to watch the relationship evolve between these boys. Both our kids were adopted at birth, but they are as close as biological siblings would be.

They are also as different as they can

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be. Biological siblings who come from the same place oftentimes have completely unique personality traits.

In our boys’ case, Beckett is neurotypical and extroverted, while Carson has significant disabilities, the most impactful being Autism and Apraxia, a language impairment disorder that restricts speech. The bond is strong between them, thanks largely to Beckett adopting a bit of a protector’s role over Carson as well as being his biggest cheerleader and supporter. I have enjoyed watching their bond deepen over the years.

Beckett understands Carson’s shortcomings, and he consequently has become a more patient, empathetic and aware person. Beckett, like his mom and dad, has gained a soft place in his heart for all people with disabilities. He, like us, are outraged whenever special needs kids are mistreated or even underestimated and undervalued.

I get to see Beckett’s kind ways with kids with disabilities each Saturday during our TOPSoccer practices.

TOPSoccer offers kids with disabilities the opportunity to learn the sport in a casual, noncompetitive and accepting setting. My wife and I have been coaching for several years, while volunteer buddies, like Beckett, partner up with the special needs athletes.

I leave each Saturday better than I walked in because my perspective is broadened. I am forced to think outside of things weighing on my mind.

It’s a healthy release and puts the focus on things that truly matter.

At one point during last Saturday’s session, Beckett was chasing after his day’s partner, who has Down syndrome, and I heard him say to a friend, “man, this is just beautiful isn’t it?” His friend agreed.

A few days later, I asked him about the comment, and he said he was just excited about what was happening.

He said he took a minute and looked around the gym at everything. He just thought it was beautiful. I told him how I view our volunteer efforts with these special needs kids as, “perfectly imperfect.” All that matters is the smiles.

If every player (and hopefully parent) leaves with a smile on his or her face and a tad exhausted, it’s a win. It's exciting to see the impact it has on Beckett and his friends who volunteer with the program. I like to think it’s creating memories for them. I know watching them does for me.

On the way home, we always have a few giggles over some of the players’ antics and what I could have done better.

•Though I love the sound of laughter, I don’t race upstairs to find out what’s happening when Beckett and his teenager friends are in a laughing uproar.

The chances are it’s inappropriate and somethings are best left unknown. It’s usually about girls, making fun of each other’s weird tendencies or something they have seen on social media. Sometimes it’s just a silly body function that touches their immature side. I get that because I seem to be far too in touch with my immaturity at my age.

A teacher friend and I got into a conversation on this front recently. He said he just smiles when he sees a group of teenage boys or girls having a laughing fit at a lunchroom table.

He said he knows the students so well he doesn’t worry about whether it’s something inappropriate, concluding if he asks the source of the laughter, he may not be happy and might have to deal with it. Somethings are just better left alone seems about right.

(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.)

PAGE 66

OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

CHRIS PARYPA/OCEAN CITY TODAY/DISPATCH

SUNSET SKY A sunset from a cold winter day last month is pictured on the horizon, just beyond the pier at Northside Park. The scene is captured looking west from the shoreline at the north end of Ocean City.

Director shares nonprofit goals Continued from Page 65 us in, but we have a good momentum going.”

Heim said one of his goals is to make the Lower Shore Land Trust a nonprofit that will exist for generations to come. He said the things the nonprofit does now will have lasting impacts.

“My goal is to lead the organization in a way that focuses on longevity,” he explained. “And the things we do now will have ripple effects down the road.”

Heim said he is also eager to build a community of environmental stewards who will be involved in the preservation of natural resources.

“Growing up in the area, a lot of our culture is tied to natural heritage and waterways …,” he said. “Everyone who lives down here is an environmentalist to some level. So I want to find ways to use that as leverage to bring people together.”

Heim said his prior experience with environmental causes will help in leading the Lower Shore Land Trust. He noted, however, that Patton will continue to assist in the transition in the weeks to come.

“I’m beyond excited,” he said of his new role. “It’s really a dream job. It seems like a phenomenal landing spot for me, and I hope it’s the spot I can retire in.”

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OC Today/Dispatch

PAGE 67

Opinions

Feb. 9, 2024

Page 68

Governed should be able to speak The four county commissioners who have been dominating decision-making by the seven-member board this past year made it clear Tuesday that they are too important and the business they do is too critical to waste time listening to the likes of you.

The vote by Commissioner President Chip Bertino and voting bloc cohorts Caryn Abbott, Eric Fiori and Jim Bunting said as much when they rejected a proposal by Commissioner Joe Mitrecic to set aside time each meeting to allow members of the public to have the floor for two or three minutes to comment on topics both on and off the agenda.

Bertino’s objection was that allowing citizens even this limited time to speak their minds on county affairs, the irrelevancy of their remarks notwithstanding, would be an impediment to getting the county’s work done.

Considering that Ocean City government does make time for citizen comment and still gets its work done just as efficiently as the county, one has to wonder what the commissioner majority’s real objection is.

Maybe they just want to meet, vote and go home rather than having to sit quietly as citizens air real or perceived grievances that have nothing to do with the work at hand. It also could be the commissioners don’t want to be criticized or have their authority questioned in an open forum.

Either way, that’s just too bad, because that’s how democracy works. No one ever said democracy and public involvement in government is the most efficient way of doing things, but it remains far superior to governing from on high without regard to the opinions of the governed.

We believe democracy, as awkward and sloppy as it is, ought to be protected, and there’s no better place to do that than right here at home.

The commissioners should reconsider their vote on this measure, while keeping in mind the President Harry Truman quote: if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.

OC Today/Dispatch Stubbornly local, equally independent NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS CHARLENE SHARPE, BETHANY HOOPER DIGITAL EDITOR MALLORY PANUSKA AMES STAFF WRITER TARA FISCHER Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS TAYLOR SLOAN Contact Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS web: oceancitytoday.com Facebook: facebook/mdcoastdispatch.com OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2024

PUBLIC EYE

Added complications

Considering how complicated life has become, what with my smart TV telling me what I want to watch to the possibility of being targeted by malevolent artificial intelligence — “Congratulations, sucker. You just bought 17 cases of smoked cabbage from Bob’s Online Produce Pirates” — you would think I’d want to simplify things.

But no. I have gone in the opposite direction by getting a new dog and a new car, both of which I have yet to underBy stand.

The dog, which did not Stewart come with an owner’s manual Dobson unfortunately, is a Mexican hairless ... with hair.

Of course, it is. If anyone’s going to get a hairless dog with hair, I would be the one, given my inability to explain that satisfactorily to others.

“My hairless dog has hair because that can happen, but they call them hairless because most times they don’t have any. Understand?”

Regardless, the furry little beast and I have yet to communicate effectively. This is due to my inability to grasp the difference between “Woof” (gimme food now!) and “Woof” (I gotta go right now!) and “Woof” (I heard a noise with which I am unfamiliar).

Consequently, moments of confusion have led to less than desirable results in some circumstances.

“Woof!”

“You want a snack? Okay, here you ....

NOooooo, not there!”

Or “Woof.”

“What is it girl? An unfamiliar noise? Are the barbarians at the gates? Are we about to be set upon by villainous strangers from a strange land ... NOooooo, not there!”

Right about now you’re asking yourself why I just don’t let her out every time she woofs just to be safe. That’s because she could woof herself outside, then woof herself back inside after engaging in her own private mulch-eating contest, and then “woof” again, thus leading me to believe she wants a treat for having gone outside only to discover ...

“NOooooo, not there!”

I do realize that it takes time to achieve a mutual understanding with one’s dog, and that sometimes a woof is just a woof, given dogs’ inability to form consonants (except maybe for an “M” as in “mwoof,” which could mean something else, but I don’t know.

In the meantime, I could probably get a reasonable translation from my new car, which has everything, including a voice recognition feature that probably speaks “woof” on at least a fundamental level.

It must, because this car is so smart it can do algebra while telling me to get out of the left lane, back up, turn around, STOP NOW! and, “No, turn right, you moron.”

Unlike the dog, the car came with a manual, even though it baffles me. That’s because it’s actually a manual for seven cars by the same manufacturer.

Consequently, if I tap button “A,” which is for a different car, instead of tapping button “B,” bad things could happen.

It says so in the manual: “If you’re driving this particular model, don’t push button ‘A’ instead of button ‘B’ ... unless you want your car to go ‘woof.’ And if you don’t know what that means, go ahead push ‘A’ and find out.”

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

PAGE 69

OC Today/Dispatch

Between the Lines

By Steve Green Productive seems to be the best way to describe last Friday’s stroll around Buckingham Elementary School with the state’s Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC), the Worcester County Commissioners, members of the Worcester County Board of Education and other officials.

Most of the folks involved in the tour expressed optimism about the visit, which has led to another meeting planned for Feb. 22 between the IAC, commissioners and school board.

The IAC had previously told the county the Buckingham Elementary replacement project – one desperately needed due to the aging, crowded facility – would not be eligible for a state funding contribution due to “available capacity” in the district per a state-rated formula. The state was requested to fund $5.8 million of the $50 million-plus project. During the IAC’s December meeting, Executive Director Alex Donahue said, “… IAC staff are looking forward to working through the next couple of months with the Worcester County Public Schools and Worcester County to identify how the state may support improvements in the WCPS portfolio including Buckingham Elementary.” Last week’s tour and upcoming meeting are part of those efforts.

Throughout these discussions, Berlin Intermediate School’s future has been linked to Buckingham’s project as a result of the capacity equation the IAC is now leaning heavily into when making capital funding decisions. Talk of the state wanting to combine the schools has circulated for months.

The situation remains fluid, but WCPS Coordinator of Public Relations & Special Projects Carrie Sterrs provided a comment representing the school system, alluding specifically to the concept of Berlin Intermediate and Buckingham Elementary schools being combined. Her statement read, “At the meeting, we were very pleased to learn that our efforts in explaining the impracticality of a combined school was heard and removed from consideration. The IAC presented data on the entire WCPS capital portfolio before introducing a potential option for the school system and county to explore regarding a new Buckingham Elementary. This option included pairing the Buckingham project with another school project in order to maximize state funding. The example shown was Berlin Intermediate School; however, the IAC intends to run the calculations with additional scenarios that support our existing CIP as well. We have also requested documentation from the IAC that illustrates how they have modified their calculations for this option, and we are still awaiting receipt of that at this time.” *** Gone are the days when school board elections were uneventful. For many years, Worcester County Board of Education elections featured uncontested races for the open seats. The ho-hum elections were especially so right after the petition drive in 2002 to change the Worcester County Board of Education seats from appointments by central committees and the governor to elected by the people.

The filing deadline for the three open Board of Education seats is today, but it’s known at this point at least two of the districts will feature the incumbents being challenged. Back in 2022, only District 7 (Ocean City) incumbent Todd Ferrante was unopposed with District 1 incumbent Bill Buchanan surviving a tight match with John Abbott; Bill Gordy winning over Jamie Rice in District 4; and Katie Addis in District 6 knocking off Nate Passwaters, who was appointed to the seat after Eric Cropper’s death.

As of yesterday, incumbent Donald Smack (District 2) will be challenged by Kaleemah Barkley of Snow Hill. Incumbent Board member Dr. Jon Andes (District 3) is being challenged by Glen Riddle resident Cheryl Middleton. In District 5, incumbent Elena McComas will face at least two challengers from two Ocean Pines residents – John Huber IV and Dorothy Leslie. *** It’s the personalities within them that make small communities unique. A big personality in this community for decades was Dean Langrall, who passed away last Thursday. There were several social media posts this week on “Dean the Dream.” The Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City wrote, “Dean epitomized a zeal for his hometown and never wavered in support of all things Ocean City. When this hotel opened, Dean was there to help us in so many areas … Dean wanted everyone to prosper, his helping hand guided many. ...”

Dean spent 18 years in television ad sales with Comcast, leading him to a sales and marketing position at Jolly Roger Amusement Parks he valued most, according to his obituary. In a full-page ad, the amusement company wrote, “… Dean’s commitment to community service was evi-

dent through his involvement on various boards and committees. His belief that the Jolly Roger crew was a family was reflected in the warmth and generosity he extended to both staff and guests alike. … In every interaction Dean wanted more than a handshake; he was a hugger, symbolizing genuine connections … let us remember Dean for the joy he brought, the lessons he shared and the love he bestowed.”

Letters to the editor Local couple offering donations with adoptions Editor, If you have ever seen the commercial by the ASPCA where they show mistreated animals that are left out in the cold, malnourished, living a horrible existence, you know how sad that is.

Every time I see that commercial I cry, and I mean I, literally, cry and feel their pain and suffering. Having had rescue dogs and cats over the years, I was thinking of ways that might inspire or motivate others to go and adopt a dog or cat from the Humane Society. Thinking that it might be a financial issue for some that might want to adopt, but their financial situation may not allow them. So, I was thinking if I placed an ad or wrote an article that would say something to the affect that my wife and I would be willing to pay whatever the cost it would be for somebody to rescue an animal from the Humane Society, taking care of the payment to rescue the animal, and any cost they might incur for shots and neutering.

Maybe, this would lead to someone to go and adopt a pet.

We would, also, pay for the cost of their first 50 pound bag of food and make a $100 donation in their name to the Humane Society. We would start out offering the first five people to contact us that would be willing to give an animal a forever home this option. I said a prayer last week and

said, “God, if you are there, please send me an idea on how I might be some help in helping these poor animals.” The idea of what we might do is what I have written above.

Did God give me that message or did I just happen to think of it? I don’t know, but we would like to believe there was some kind of divine intervention. We figure by saying the first five people who might be willing to take us up on the offer, would be a good number to start with, just in case we were to get inundated with responses that could bankrupt us…us … lol. If we got five interested individuals, we figure, we could handle that, financially. Then we could work out any kinks in this idea and see if it would be feasible to continue with another five individuals.

This “experiment”, for the lack of a better word, may just be wishful thinking, but we just feel like if it was successful, we would be doing something worthwhile, and then when that commercial comes on, I would still be brought to tears, but if we got just one person to take us up on our offer, then it would be worthwhile. So, if there are any takers willing to take us up on this proposition, please text the number 443-847-0643. Remember, it would be for the first five individuals we might receive a text from. God Bless the Worcester County Humane Society.

Drew and Laurie Haugh Ocean City Continued on Page 70

PAGE 70

OC Today/Dispatch

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 69

Quality schools require funding stability Editor: As educators at Buckingham Elementary School, a community-based elementary school serving a diverse population, we are proud of the rich learning experiences, the strong community connections, and the authentic relationships among students and adults that are forged here every day.

But here’s what you may not know. Our ability to sustain this level of impact on our students is hanging on by a delicate thread.

The strong fabric of our school begins to unravel as a dedicated 4th grade teacher in a portable, watches her instructional minutes fade away.

Two of her students leave class to join a lengthy line for a single bathroom

shared with over 90 4th graders, a music class, a physical education class, and an entire cafeteria.

A special education teacher attempts to meet with a small group of her students in the back of the same portable.

She lacks adequate areas to support her students who are legally required to have space for interventions to be delivered without distractions.

Her voice overlaps with the boisterous sounds of recess right outside the thin portable door.

With a supply budget cut in half, the art teacher uses leftover materials and relies on the donations of the community that relentlessly stands behind this school. The music and movement teacher has packed up his obstacle course and is now relegated to a mobile cart. He finds creative ways to teach his critical program in a cramped corner of the cafeteria.

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The tapestry of our school continues to unravel.

Despite all of this, educators continue to hold on tight—for the sake of our children and the future of education in our community. We are all waiting for a fully funded public school system. An approved budget that will not only build our new school but will recruit and retain the passionate educators who will fill it

with love and learning.

If we want a strong local economy and thriving communities, we can’t allow our schools and our educators to remain in such a fragile state of sustainability.

We have far, far too much to lose.

Gloria Scafone, BES 4th Grade Teacher Melissa Reid, BES Art Teacher Ali Giska, BES Literacy Coach

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Shaffer continues family’s legacy of service with dept.

By Steve Price Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) This week we are pleased to recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member Chris Shaffer.

Shaffer began his career with the Ocean City Fire/EMS Career Division as a 911 dispatcher in June of 1987.

He transferred to the EMS Division in 1989 under the leadership of EMS Supervisor David Collins, and became a firefighter/paramedic in 1991.

Shaffer was promoted to his current position of deputy fire chief of the Ocean City Fire Department in December 2016.

Chief Shaffer’s father, Howard C. “Jake” Shaffer was a pioneer in the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company.

Jake served the OCVFC for 65 years.

During those years he helped Chief Al Harmon establish the OCVFC Cadet Program. served as an assistant fire chief, and was recognized as a “tank man” for his skills in the use of selfcontained breathing apparatus, or SCBA. Jake Shaffer was a Gold Badge Member of the OCVFC at the time of his death.

Chris followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the OCVFC on June 2, 1987. He cites his desire to help people in times of need and a commitment for service to others as his reason for joining the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company.

During Chief Shaffer’s 15 years of active service with the OCVFC (36 years of total service), he served as lieutenant on Heavy Rescue 707, captain on Engine 701, and three years as treasurer for the Volunteer Fire Company.

Shaffer recalls the Ninth Street

Chris Shaffer

Boardwalk fire of Sept. 22, 1994, as the most significant event of his fire service career.

As a young member of the OCVFC, Shaffer responded from his home in West Ocean City to Station #5. His engine was assigned to establish a reliable water supply as crews battled the blaze while facing driving rain and blowing winds with gusts of more than 50 miles per hour.

Although the fire destroyed several businesses, including Sunsations, Candy Kitchen, Alaska Stand, Auction Gallery and the Crab Alley Restaurant, crews were able to prevent flames from reaching the Lankford Hotel immediately south of the Sunsations store. This was Shaffer’s “first big fire” and he remembers remaining on the scene throughout the See DEPUTY Page 71

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ANNUAL PENNEWELL SERVICE HELD Members of the Berlin Fire Company and Stevenson United Methodist Church hosted their Annual Pennewell Memorial Service. Franklin L. Pennewell, who joined the BFC in 1930, died in the line of duty on Feb. 12, 1934, and members of both organizations have gathered annually for more than 89 years to honor his death and service. Members of the BFC in attendance and pictured, front row from left, are David Fitzgerald, fire company president; Joe Pylypczuk, 53-year member; Linda Thomas, Pennewell’s granddaughter; Harry Trimble, 53-year member; Charlie Townsend, 53-year member; and David Bloxom, chaplain. Pictured, back from left, are fire company members Phil Simpson, Bill Tilghman and Joe Daw; Joe Sise, chairman of the board of directors; and Troy Croom, board of directors member.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY/DISPATCH

Deputy chief: ‘a real need for volunteers’ Continued from Page 70 night and the next day assisting the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office in the investigation.

Chief Shaffer cites the opportunity to serve his hometown community as one of 125 members of the Ocean City

Volunteer Fire Company as his greatest accomplishment in the fire service.

Shaffer would like to pass on the following advice to our OCVFC cadets and young men and women with an interest in the fire service: “Ask ques-

tions, don’t be afraid to ask about things you may not know – that is the only way you keep learning. Put yourself out there – no better way to serve your community and there is currently a real need for volunteers.”

We thank Chief Shaffer and his

family for their many years of service dedicated to protecting the lives and properties of our neighbors and visitors to community.

For membership information, or to learn more about the volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.

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OC Today/Dispatch

WORLD WAR II

OBITUARIES

Indian Corps defends ‘Admin Box’

BRENT WILSON CURD Bishopville Brent Wilson Curd, 66, of Bishopville, died on Jan. 20, 2024, at home.

For the record, he did not lose his battle with cancer.

The cancer died when he died so basically it was a tie. He did it “HIS” way and drew his last breath just as the Ravens defeated the Texans and to Brent W. Curd prevent himself from seeing the Chiefs and 49ers go to the Super Bowl instead of his beloved Ravens.

Born on Sept. 29,1957, in Baltimore, he was the son of the late Houston Goebel Curd and surviving mom Barbara Bear Curd. He attended Dulaney High school and Towson State University.

Working summers in Ocean City throughout high school and college he grew to love the area and decided to call Ocean City home. In the early days he enjoyed tending bar for some popular establishments.

He met the love of his life Debi, (married for 43 years), had a beautiful daughter, Alexandra (Zach), and started a very successful business, Atlantic Embroidery. In 2023, he was blessed with a grandson, Thomas Brent.

Although Alex, Zach and Thomas live in Idaho, every chance they could they came home to visit. In the 10 short months of knowing each other, Thomas became the apple of Brent’s eye.

He is also survived by brother Hugh (Patti); sister Tricia; brotherin-law Fred (Mary); mother-in-law Eileen, father-in-law Richard; and numerous nieces and nephews. Also his beloved pets.

All will remember him for his quick wit, dry sense of humor and anything sports, especially March Madness and his beloved Ravens.

There was no one quite like him. RIP Stitch.

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer This week, 80 years ago, the Indian XV Corps, commanded by Lt. Gen. Sir Philip Christison, was defending the “Admin Box” near the Burmese Port of Maungdaw in Arakan on the Bay of Bengal. Maungdaw currently has a population exceeding 400,000.

In an effort to puncture the myth of Japanese invincibility in Burma, William Slim, commander of the Commonwealth’s 14th Army, sent Gen. Christison’s XV Corps into Burma in January 1944.

Gen. Christison’s XV Corps consisted of the following Divisions: 5th Indian Infantry, commanded by Sir Harold Rawdon Briggs, containing English, Gurkha, Punjabi, Marathins, and Sikh soldiers; 7th Indian Infantry, commanded by Sir Frank Walter Messervy, containing English, Scottish, Punjab, Gurkha, and Sikh soldiers; the West African Division, commanded by Fredrick Joseph Loftus-Tottenham, containing soldiers from Nigeria, Gambia, Sierra Leon, and the Gold Coast.

The Port of Maungdaw was captured by Gen. Briggs’ 5th Indian Infantry Division on Jan. 9. XV Corps

headquarters was established in a 1,200-square-yard area of dried-up paddy fields near Sinzweya, located on the Bay of Bengal. Arsenals, a mule station, fuel dump, hospital, and other buildings were built. It came to be called the “Admin Box.” Gen. Messervy’s 7th Indian Infantry Division garrisoned Lieutenant the “Admin Box.” General Sir Gen. Shozo SakuPhilip Christison rai, commander of the Japanese TwentyEighth Army, sent the 55th Division, commanded by Gen. Tadashi Hanaya, against the “Admin Box” on Feb. 7. The Japanese were able to break into the compound. Before they could be driven out two days later, they murdered 31 patients and four doctors in the hospital. For 18 days the Allied soldiers held. On Feb. 14, 1944, the Japanese captured a hill on the defense perimeter, but lost it the next day to an assault by M3 Lee tanks.

Allied air power proved decisive in this battle, as the defenders, although surrounded, were able to be supplied by air. During the battle, Allied air-

planes dropped 2,300 tons of supplies. British Spitfires, operating from airfields in Chittagong provided air superiority and protection for the transports.

The thousand-year-old city of Chittagong, with a population of 5.2 million, is the second largest city in what is now Bangladesh, and is the busiest Seaport on the Bay of Bengal.

By Feb. 22, the Japanese had nothing to eat for several days. Some officers were refusing to attack. Gen. Sakurai gave up the fight on Feb. 26.

By then the Defenders had received reinforcements from the 26th Indian Infantry Division, under the command of Cyril Ernest Napier Lomax.

The division contained Gurkhas, Englishmen, Rajaputhans, and Punjabis. The Allies had suffered 3,506 casualties and lost three fighter planes. The Japanese lost 3,106, killed, 2,229, wounded and 65 fighter planes downed.

It was the first time in this theater that the Japanese Imperial Army had been turned back by the Allies. General Slim later said, “It was a victory, a victory about which there could be no argument and its effect, not only on the troops engaged but on the whole Fourteenth Army, was immense ... The Arakan Battle, judged by the size of the forces engaged, was not of great magnitude but it was nevertheless one of the historic successes of British Arms.”

Next week: When the Tigers Broke Free Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.

SALLY LOSH Snow Hill Sally Losh, 70, of Snow Hill, died Monday, Jan. 29, 2024 at home with her loving husband Bobby and sister Helen by her side, following an extended illness.

Sally was born May 5, 1953, in Continued on Page 73

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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OBITUARIES Continued from Page 72 Rabat, Africa, the daughter of the late Glenn Heistand and Julia Licklider.

Sally married the love of her life, Robert “Bobby” Losh on Dec. 6, 2003.

Surviving are one loving daughter, Tavy J. Burton (Brady); four stepdaughters, Brandi Gillespie (Corbet), Kristi Harrison (Patrick), Cortney Mills (Aaron) and Sally Losh Katie Carroll (Ronnie); stepson Daniel Losh (Audrey); one brother, Lawrence Kopp (Donna); three sisters, Judy Thawer, Jane Johns (Mel) and Helen Semsker (Michael); two grandsons, Devin James and Nolan Burton, who she absolutely adored and loved with all her heart; seven step-grandchildren, Grayson, Rowan, Briley, Danica, Roxy and the twins, Avery and Addison; and several nieces and nephews.

Sally was a very loving mother and grandmother, known as the baby whisperer. Her beautiful smile could light up the sky.

Sally was a talented artist. She loved to paint, draw, and use her vivid imagination to create beautiful pieces of art for our home and others.

Sally’s kitchen was her castle where she would cook and bake, and no one

left her home hungry. Sally loved spending the day on the beach, but most of all Sally loved life, laughter and her family.

A memorial service will be private at a later date.

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

DEAN INSLEY LANGRALL Ocean City Dean Insley Langrall, whose name was inspired by three branches of paternal ancestors who were Dorchester County farmers, watermen and merchants dating to the 18th Century, died Feb. 1, 2024, at home on Bluefish Cove in Ocean City. He was 68.

Born Sept. 13, Dean Langrall 1955, in Salisbury, Dean was the son of the late Betty Jane (Brittingham) and H. Orland Langrall Jr. He was a third-generation merchant in the family-owned Langrall’s Furniture. After leaving the furniture business, Dean transitioned to a sales and marketing career, initially working 18 years at Comcast as the sales manager responsible for Maryland

and Delaware beach territories.

While at Comcast, he was named one of 1997’s top 100 cable sales executives by Cable Avails magazine, a trade publication.

More recently, he was special projects director and sales and marketing consultant for Jolly Roger Amusement Park in Ocean City, a job he described as the best in his working career.

Dean was educated in Wicomico County public schools. Like his parents, he was a graduate of Wicomico Senior High School (1973) and earned two degrees from Wake Forest University in 1977 – a bachelor of science in speech communications and a bachelor of arts in history. In the 1980s, he took graduate-level courses at Salisbury University’s Perdue School of Business.

During his youth, Dean excelled at tennis and golf, and enjoyed playing golf until he retired. He unabashedly admired — and once met — the late Arnold Palmer, the iconic professional golfer and fellow Wake Forest alum.

A gregarious personality, Dean was well-read and quick-witted with a self-effacing manner and a distinctive, booming voice. Watching “Jeopardy!” weekdays was appointment TV for him.

Dean supported a variety of charitable organizations and events,

among them the local chapter of the American Cancer Society, Children’s House by the Sea, Ocean City’s Walk Smart campaign and the Ocean City Performing Arts Center.

He was a multi-term member of the resort’s Board of Zoning Appeals, the Berlin-Ocean City Optimist Club, the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board and the Ocean City Arts Advisory Board. In his free time, a favorite outlet was serving on the Big Brothers, Big Sisters’ advisory board. He also was a member of the Delmarva Irish-American Club, and a fixture for 19 years as a broadcast host of its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Ocean City.

A lifelong Methodist, Dean worshipped at historic Atlantic United Methodist Church in downtown Ocean City.

He is survived by his only sibling, Jane Langrall Robinson and her husband William; a niece, Emily Balea Hopkins, her husband, Rob, and their sons Jameson and Landon, all of Salisbury; a paternal cousin, Marcie Zink and her husband Butch of Lutherville, and their two children; and maternal cousins Connie Morris, Terri Cornelius and Joan Malone, all of Salisbury, and their children.

To honor Dean’s memory, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society (1406 S. Salisbury Continued on Page 74

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

OBITUARIES Continued from Page 73 Blvd., Salisbury, MD 21801) or Coastal Hospice (P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802), which provided him incomparable support over the past four-and-a-half months.

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Avenue in Berlin.

To send condolences to the family, visit easternshorecremation.com.

JOHN T. GULSHEN Berlin John T. Gulshen, 97, of Berlin, passed away Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, in Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born Oct. 27, 1926, in Kewanee, Illinois, he was the son of the late Francis and Josephine (Ryan) Gulshen. His wife of 43 years, Darlene (VanRenterghem) Gulshen passed away in 1996.

After serving in the U.S. Army dur-

ing WWII, John began a career in the furniture manufacturing industry. He retired from Sealy Furniture, Salisbury. He had been a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Salisbury.

John was an avid golfer and bowler in his younger years and always enjoyed having a wellkept lawn.

Survivors include three daughters, Kathy Williamson (Bryan) of Villa Park, John Gulshen Illinois, Susan Luff (James) of Ocean City, and Ann Rieben (John) of Sebastian Florida; four grandchildren, Jason Gulshen, John Luff, Katie Luff and Michelle Russen; and five greatgrandchildren.

John was predeceased by two siblings.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Wicomico Memorial Park in Salisbury.

Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County at 908 W. Isabella St., Salisbury, MD 21801, or via wicomicohabitat.org; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or via stjude.org; or Boy’s Town at 14100 Crawford Street, Boys Town, NE 68010, or via boystown.org.

Arrangements are in care of Holloway Funeral Home at 501 Snow Hill Road in Salisbury. Visit hollowayfh.com to express condolences to the family.

RICHARD LEWIS LEINER Del Ray Beach, Florida Richard Lewis Leiner, 98, of Delray Beach, Florida, passed away in his home on Sunday, Feb. 2,2024.

Richard was an admired and suc-

cessful businessman in the Ocean City community.

He operated and owned, along with his uncle, many local landmarks including Candy Kitchen, The Bonfire and The Embers restaurants.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Rickey (Taustin) Leiner; and his wife of nearly 60 years, Patricia A. Leiner.

Survivors include his loving sons, Bruce Charles Leiner and Richard Leiner Mark David Leiner, and his daughters-inlaw Cynthia Leiner and Donna Leiner. Richard is also survived by seven grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; and Nina Ross, his significant other of many years.

Richard had many friends. He was a lifelong golfer who was proud of his hole-in-one and winning the Senior Club Championship at Ocean City Golf and Yacht Club.

Never one to turn down a good game of bridge, or gin, Richard was often found playing cards with his buddies at his club in Addison Reserve.

He was an avid reader and enjoyed the Wall Street Journal with his coffee every morning.

Richard was a World War II veteran and graduated cum laude from New York University.

He loved to travel and was an accomplished man of the world.

Richard lived his life to the fullest and will be greatly missed by his large extended family.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 9, at Temple Bat Yam, Daughter of the Sea, 11036 Worcester Highway, Berlin, Md 21811. Burial will follow in Beth Israel Cemetery in Salisbury.

Arrangements are in care of Holloway Funeral Home at 501 Snow Hill Road in Salisbury. Visit hollowayfh.com to express condolences to the family.

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E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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OC Today/Dispatch Feb. 9, 2024

Page 76

Seahawks overcome slow start to defeat Rising Sun 14-class match evenly split, but Decatur captures tight victory in 37-28 finish

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) On Feb. 2, a large, loud, rowdy crowd of Bayside Conference wrestlers and their fans filled Stephen Decatur High School’s gym to witness a historic dual match between Stephen Decatur’s Seahawks and the Tigers of Rising Sun High School.

Between a rough start, and just as rough a finish, the Seahawks split the 14-class match up 7 all for a 37-28 final winning score.

“They are both really good teams so we knew it would be close,” Stephen Decatur wrestling head coach Josh August said. “Our guys were pressing hard the whole six

minutes.”

Seahawks Juan Hinojosa and Elijah Collick captured the first two matches. Hinojosa, ranked third in state (fall 2:00), won the 106 weight, and Collick, who is second in the state (fall 0:55), captured the 113-pound division.

The Tigers took the next four classes from 120 to 138 pounds. Seahawk Alex Riehl stopped the Tigers’ streak at 144 pounds for six more.

Amarian Manuel took the 150pound class to keep the Seahawks’ streak going and Stephen Decatur’s Braydon Bell‘s win in 157 pounds placed them further ahead.

Gavin Solito got his team a 165pound win and Parker Intrieri sealed the deal with a win in 175 pounds for an overall of 37-28.

This year’s Bayside Conference for wrestlers will be hosted by Stephen Decatur on Feb. 17.

(Top) Stephen Decatur’s Jasper Davis takes down his Rising Sun High opponent during a match on Feb. 2.

(Left) Stephen Decatur’s Paxton Jack battles a Rising Sun High Tiger for a win during the match.

PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s Careen Bolden jumps up for a rebound during SDHS’ game against James M. Bennett Feb. 3.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLORWALLS

Seahawks improve to 14-1 on season with JMB victory Decatur heading into final week of Bayside play before playoffs begin

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) Stephen Decatur High School’s boys basketball team sucked the wind out of James M. Bennett’s Clippers’ sails 69-63 last Saturday afternoon at the Seahawks’ nest in Berlin.

Led by 6’2” junior guard Davin Chandler and 6’2” senior guard Careen Bolden, the Seahawks shook off early challenges from Bennett behind an explosive fourth period from 6’4” Seahawk guard/forward Trybe Wise.

“We worked hard in practice every day for this,” Chandler said. “We worked well as a team tonight.”

Chandler, the Seahawks’ game high scorer with 18 points, hit two three-pointers and went 4-for-4 from

the charity stripe.

Wise and Bolden each contributed 17 points to the Seahawks’ cause.

Bolden sank four baskets in the first quarter, while Wise hit five baskets in the fourth. Senior Brycen Coleman scored 10 points in a fast back-andforth game.

The Seahawks made 69% of their free throws in front of a loud and at times rowdy crowd. At halftime the Seahawks were down 36-32 and battled hard during the third quarter but to no avail. Then Wise brought them back to life for the win in the final frame.

“I knew it was going to be a tough fight tonight with Bubba Brown as the James M. Bennett coach,” Head coach B. J. Johnson. “They worked hard tonight … the players deserve all the credit.”

The Seahawks’ current record is 14-1. Next game is 6 p.m., next Tuesday, Feb. 13, at Mardela High School.

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s Paityn Tyre moves the ball down the court alongside teammates Jozlyn Tyre (#4) and April Bondurant (#13) during the Seahawks’ game Feb. 5 against Wicomico High School.

SD slides to 9-4 on season

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) The Stephen Decatur girls’ varsity basketball team are 9-4 and learning and working hard with the post season near.

This week, the Seahawks played a more mature team in Wi-Hi, according to Seahawk head coach Britany Tracy.

“There is a lot of difference between the two teams, they have a well-oiled machine, they have a couple of seniors that take the lead and they play all year long,” she said.

High Seahawks scorer Lisa Gunther scored seven points, including one out of the box. Allison Swift and Jozlyn Tybe scored

five points each. Mallyah Manuel and Carry Moyer each added two points for the Seahawks. April Bondurant contributed three points in the final period. The final score was 67-24.

“These girls have a strategy of get the ball all the time,” Tracy said. “They are a transitioning team, so my girls are young with a lot of mental hurdles. It’s a long season and I’m super proud of their effort even though the score doesn’t depict it. We always have intensity cheering on their teammates and always looking forward. We have another big game coming up on Wednesday at Kent Island and our girls are optimistic in preparing our strategies for that game.”

She added that the team had four games last week and four the week before, with limited practice time.

“So these girls are playing like an NBA team schedule doing the best they can to ride it out and support each other,” Tracy said.

“We are now 9-4, in third place, with Wi Hi and Parkside ahead, this is a winning record for this young team. Super proud of them.”

Tracy also gave a shoutout to scorekeeper Maggie Pfaff “for all her hard work and attention to details.”

“She is also pleasant and helpful to refs and media while working under pressure,” she said.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s Allison Swift shoots a basket as two Wicomico High opponents try to stop her during the Seahawks’ game against the Indians on Feb. 5.

SURF REPORT

Winter sessions a balance of swell vs. effort

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Feb. 9, 2024) January was quite a month. Some of the significant features were two solid overhead swells. There was a week of very cold, below “normal” air temperatures coupled with winds that, of course, made it feel even colder. I’m sure that people who live farther north wouldn’t think much of our cold weather but it’s easy to think that it’s what one gets used to.

Our weather also featured two snowfalls. Depending on one’s perspective it becomes hard to say how significant these snowfalls were but it was enough for the State of Maryland to salt the roads. Snowfalls are actually rather rare in this area but they do happen from time to time.

My most memorable snow event

happened in February one year. A powerful low pressure system came from a southerly direction and met with an equally powerful cold front from the northwest. The result was 18 inches of snow with very cold air temperatures and wind chills. I was working at, what was then, The Sheraton Hotel in the high rise section of Ocean City. It was bad enough that as employees we were allowed to stay in hotel rooms for a few days. Suffice to say that it was quite an event.

On the other hand, January also produced a few warm days. It was what has become to be known as the “January Thaw.”

Friday the 26th saw air temperatures at about 60 at the beach, 75 in Salisbury, and up to 80 in Washington, D.C. Good friend Harvey Evans, who had graciously brought some fire wood, was wearing shorts, which is a bit hard to understand, at least for me. I can see it if one is engaged in a vigorous outdoor

activity such as running, jogging, or cycling, but after all it was January.

It seems as though some people see it as an attitude, a psychology of sorts.

Maybe there’s a beach mentality and that mentality is a direct result of warm summer months at the beach. Another thought could be that only a small amount of time is actually spent outside. These short-pants wearing folks are either in a warm building or a warm vehicle with little time in between. It’s hard to say.

So what does this weather discussion have to do with surfing? Depending on one’s outlook we can say everything or nothing.

If a session is under consideration on a bright, sunny, low wind day, the attitude might be more conducive to go for a surf. If it’s cloudy, raining, snowing, or windy from an unfavorable direction the effect could very well be more negative.

Probably the greatest factor would

be the surf conditions and whether the conditions are deemed to be ridable and worth the effort. I can recall a surf session when it was snowing. The waves were clean and quite ridable with no wind to speak of. It was actually calm.

That session was the epitome of what I call “counter intuitive.” It was downright magical!

A major factor is the water temperature and how it stays much more constant than the air. Assuming that the wave conditions are inviting and a goout is being considered, the water temperatures will most probably be the same, or at least close to the same, as yesterday, last week, or even a month ago. And at this time of the year, cold is the operative word.

To close, two days after that warm Friday mentioned above, the air was cold, damp and even a bit drizzly. I counted roughly ten surfers in about a five-block stretch. Surfing in January or February? Sure!

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OC Today/Dispatch

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FEBRUARY 9, 2024

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