3/8/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

School board fires back

In its own press conference, the county board of education rejects the claim by the state’s at-

and sheriff that school crime is rising

rapidly, and says data compiled so far this year shows that incidents are dropping dramatically. — Page 12

US Wind project faces pier pressure

The offshore developer seeks to rehab and use the WOC commercial pier — Page 3

Chamber awards:

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce presented its annual awards last Friday. And the winners are ... PAGE 64

State champs: Three wrestlers from Stephen Decatur’s varsity team took home titles in last weekend’s state tournament ... PAGE 81

US Wind seeks to rebuild Harbor Road pier

Public hearing

set for March 25 at Wor-Wic

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) The Maryland Department of the Environment will hold a public hearing this month on an application from US Wind to build a concrete pier off Harbor Road.

As part of its plans to construct an operations and maintenance facility in West Ocean City, US Wind has applied to the Maryland Department of the Environment for permission to construct a 625-foot-long by 32-footwide concrete pier at its project location, listed as 12929 and 12933 Harbor Road. A public hearing on the company’s application will be held March 25, from 5:30-8 p.m. at WorWic Community College’s FultonOwen Hall.

“US Wind is advancing permits for various aspects of the project, consistent with what has been included in our Construction and Operations Plan and the Draft Environmental Impact Statement issued by BOEM last October,” said Ben Cooper, US Wind’s director of marine affairs. “This permit hearing concerns the pier and bulkhead of a planned operations and maintenance facility required by the

state to be located in the Ocean City region. The pier, as many locals know, was built 45 years ago and is in desperate need of improvement. This permit seeks to make those improvements. US Wind has been engaging with the state and local fishermen on our project plans and will continue to do so throughout the process.”

As proposed, an operations and maintenance facility would serve as the primary location for planning and coordinating wind turbine and offshore substation maintenance operations for US Wind’s wind projects off the coast of Ocean City. According to the company, the facility will feature an onshore office, marine coordination center and warehouse space, as well as quayside and berthing areas for four or more crew transfer vessels.

“In order to support US Wind’s offshore wind projects, an Operations and Maintenance (O&M) facility will need to be established relatively close to where the turbines are located offshore,” a fact sheet from US Wind reads. “The Ocean City, Maryland region is perfectly situated for this facility given its proximity to US Wind’s planned offshore wind projects and the availability of commercial waterfront space. The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) recognized these important factors when it mandated that US Wind establish its O&M

facility in the Ocean City region.”

Two property owners in the West Ocean City commercial harbor — Martin Holdings LLC and James and April Reese — have approached US Wind about the potential sale of their properties, the company said. Combining the two properties would satisfy the Maryland PSC’s requirement to locate an operations and maintenance facility in the Ocean City region, US Wind said.

To moor its crew transfer vessels at the proposed site, US Wind has planned upgrades to the existing pier

structure. The company’s application calls for a concrete pier with associated wave break and timber fenders and 435 feet of replacement bulkhead.

“The purpose of the project is to improve navigable access,” the application reads.

The March 25 public hearing, which is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., will be preceded by a poster session from 5:30-6 p.m.

In the meantime, several community members and groups, including

WEDNESDAY

PHOTO COURTESY US WIND

Plans to build a 625-foot-long concrete pier at the future location for a US Wind facility, pictured in a rendering above, will be reviewed during a March 25 public hearing.

Uptown shopping center seeks subdivision

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) The subdivision of an uptown shopping center could allow for future redevelopment.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve a preliminary subdivision plan for a 17-acre tract of land currently home to the 94th Street shopping center. Joe Moore, the applicant’s attorney, said his client plans to subdivide the lot into four separate parcels for future redevelopment.

“It’s a concept, I think, that allows us to truly take what may well be the largest single piece of underdeveloped property in Ocean City and bring it into something of which Ocean City is very proud,” he said.

Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy

told commissioners this week the property is currently home to standalone commercial businesses, including Blue Fish Restaurant, Coffee Beanery, ACME Supermarket and Roses department store. She said applicant Vista Design Inc., on behalf of OCTC Holdings LLC, is requesting consideration of a preliminary subdivision plat.

“As far as subdivision review with the actual zoning district, it is in the SC-1 shopping center district,” she said. “It far meets the bulk regulations for your four different lots that are going to be created here.”

Gordy said the preliminary subdivision plat met the requirements set by town code. She noted, however, that the applicant was working with the town to address issues related to utilities.

“This is nothing more than breaking it into lots,” she explained. “And they will be coming back with a redevelopment plan with those things taken care of as we work through them.”

When asked what would become of the existing businesses, Vista Design’s Steve Engle said the Roses department store would first be demolished to make room for a new ACME Supermarket. Once the supermarket is built, the old ACME would be demolished.

“Currently only two of those buildings are planning to be demolished … ,” he said. “As far as all the commercial buildings on parcel B, they are all to remain.”

Moore said dividing the property would make the four new lots more developable. While ACME would be

the anchor storefront, he said there could be an opportunity for residential uses off the highway.

“So we are in the concept of the mixed-use plan,” he said.

Commissioner Palmer Gillis praised the idea of mixed-use development on the property.

“I’m just excited you guys are considering a mixed-use on this,” he said. “I get very upset when we take a commercial property and completely exploit it with residential and lose the opportunity for commercial development.”

Moore clarified that his client was not coming forward with site plans at this time, but rather a preliminary subdivision plan.

“This is simply allowing us to have the roadmap for development,” he said. “We are going to come back to you all for each and every development plan we do so you will be able to observe and hopefully be pleased with what we come up with. The lots may be sold, there may be different developers for tract D or tract A. This gives us the alternatives to really get it developed in the best way.”

After further discussion, the commission voted to accept the plan for preliminary subdivision approval.

“This is a 40-year-old legacy project,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told the commission Tuesday. “They are trying to clean up on-the-property utilities to subdivide it to get it to be sellable.”

WATER VIEWS!

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

MALLARD

38331 BLUEBIRD LANE MALLARD LAKES #368 SELBYVILLE, DE • $379,900

Stunning 2BR/2BA Mallard Lakes home overlooking a pond and just minutes from Fenwick and Ocean City beaches has just been listed. As you walk through the front door, you'll immediately see a room to the left which could be used as a home office with plenty of space for your desk and printer. The hallway is tiled and leads to a beautiful custom kitchen with granite countertops, upgraded cabinets, stainless steel refrigerator, freezer and beverage cooler, and plenty of space to eat at the breakfast bar. An open floor plan allows the kitchen to flow nicely into the family room which has a wood burning fireplace. Off the family room is the Florida room, which is perfect for dining overlooking the water. There's a glass slider that leads to a patio to enjoy summer breezes and the pond views. There is a full bath on this level as well. On the second level there are two spacious bedrooms and another full bath. This would make a great home, second home or investment property. It has been upgraded, shows pride of ownership and is being sold completely furnished. There is also an outside shower and storage closet. This home is in the amenity rich community of Mallard Lakes. There are pools, pickleball and tennis courts, kiddie pools, basketball courts, volleyball courts, shuffleboard, a hot tub, fishing and crabbing pier, and an area for kayaking. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! DESU2056378

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

7704 COASTAL HWY • SANDS #102 OCEAN CITY •

Come take a look at this spacious 1BR/1BA Ocean Block beauty! This one-bedroom unit is over 700 sq.ft. and is on the ocean block side of coastal highway. This is an elevated building so there's a very nice view from the large deck off the family room. This is your chance to own a slice of Ocean City and make memories that will last a lifetime. As you walk in the front door, you’ll be welcomed by the beautiful dining area and kitchen. The family room flows off the kitchen and provides plenty of room for entertaining. There is a large balcony off the family room with access by a glass slider. The bedroom is very large and can accommodate two queen beds. There is one full bath as well. This condo located midtown Ocean City, close to plenty of restaurants, shops and attractions. Come take a look today and own your slice of Ocean City. This building is professionally managed and has low condo fees. The condo is being sold fully furnished and is ready for your immediate enjoyment. MDWO2015968

OCEAN 2 BR/2BA CONDO

COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL LOT COMMERCIAL

NORTH OC CONDO with DEEDED BOAT SLIP

204 N HERON DR #2048C

OCEAN CITY • $425,000

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 one-year 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

NEW WATERFRONT CONDO

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

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

34862 WEST LINE RD SELBYVILLE, DE • $3,900,000

32474

10201

MID-TOWN 3BR/3.5 BA RIVENDELL CONDOMINIUM with

$310,000

OCEAN BLOCK MID-TOWN CONDOMINIUM

Resort commission talks affordable housing

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) A discussion on affordable and workforce housing highlighted a resort commission meeting this week with the state planning office.

As part of an ongoing update of the town’s comprehensive plan, members of the Ocean City Planning Commission met with Maryland Department of Planning representatives Tuesday to discuss a housing element now required in every municipality’s planning document. City Planner Bill Neville said housing is one of the few topics mandated by the state to be included in the comprehensive plan update.

“It’s specifically guided by legislation that directs the exercise we need to go through,” he told the commission. “I figured rather than me trying to interpret what all of that means, I would go

straight to the source.”

During a presentation Tuesday, Maryland Department of Planning’s Tracey Taylor noted that updates to a municipality’s comprehensive plan are sent to her department, which then sends the draft document to other state agencies for review. She noted that while the state does not dictate how a town’s comprehensive plan incorporates those responses, it does require certain elements be addressed.

“So the housing element has always been an optional element, it wasn’t required,” she explained. “But in 2019 with House Bill 1045, it did add housing as a required element. That is a requirement in all plans adopted after June 1, 2020 … That’s what we’re really here to talk to you about tonight.”

Taylor told commission members that while the legislation set the housing re-

quirement, it did not provide additional details on how it should be incorporated into comprehensive planning documents. To that end, she said, the Maryland Department and Planning created guidelines for municipalities to use. Officials said a comprehensive plan’s housing element should consider not just inventory, but proposed housing projects, housing demand and other factors such as jobs and transportation.

“Ocean City has a unique situation where you have all these people at one time of year and not so many people at other times, so you have to contemplate that but also workforce housing to run the entertainment industry here,” Taylor said. “That’s another big issue and one that’s been on the town’s radar for a long time. It’s looking at all of that. It’s not simply an inventory, it’s looking at the big picture, analyzing all of this and putting

together goals and objectives and policies.”

Taylor said housing was not just an Ocean City issue, but a regional issue. She said the town could consider inclusionary housing, tax incentives and more to encourage affordable development as the town grows.

“We’re dealing with the cost of housing being exorbitant to most people,” she said. “And if you aren’t aware, if you are spending 30% of your income, before taxes, on housing, then you are operating with a housing burden. And most of the cost of housing we are seeing built is expensive.”

Taylor added that the state has also mandated that comprehensive plans incorporate fair housing practices into its comprehensive plan. She said those elements must be added to comprehensive plans adopted after Jan. 1, 2023.

“It’s not just about addressing affordable and workforce housing, it’s also about addressing affirmatively furthering of fair housing practices,” she said.

For his part, Maryland Department of Planning’s Keith Lackie said the inclusion of a housing element in the town’s comprehensive plan could benefit Ocean City when implementing future laws or applying for state grants. He said addressing housing issues assists in the state’s scoring of grant applications.

“Ocean City, with OCDC, has been very active in applying for state revitalization grants, and they have pretty much gotten them every single year through the Department of Housing and Community Development,” Taylor added. “So that would be one of our sister agencies that would be looking at some of these policies, goals and objectives for housing, specified in the comprehensive plan.”

Neville said he would be walking the commission through the development of the comprehensive plan and the inclusion of housing topics. He said he had also reached out to Worcester County, which is also in the process of updating its comprehensive plan.

“I think this housing element in particular brings to us the need to coordinate with what Worcester County’s plan says,” he explained. “The fact that the value of land in Ocean City is so high that town

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State reps. review housing element

Continued from Page 6

employees, myself included, all go live in Ocean Pines because it’s more affordable, I think as we put this together we have to address the fact that there are some things we can do on the barrier island and there are some things that will have to happen on the mainland side.”

Neville noted that of the 30,000 residential units in Ocean City, roughly 3,600 are considered year-round housing. He said that created a challenge for the town when updating its comprehensive plan.

“So all of this analysis we are going to do only relates to a small percentage of total housing available,” he said. “When we get to the recommendation part, we are going to be faced with, is it more units we need? Possibly not. If we built more units, are they just going to turn into second homes and rental properties? And is

it going to satisfy the intent of this exercise to build more units?”

Taylor acknowledged that Ocean City was a unique municipality when it came to housing. She noted, however, that the department was willing to work with the town in creating its plan.

“That’s something we can help you work on,” she replied.

Commission members this week acknowledged the challenges Ocean City faced when it came to housing. Commissioner Palmer Gillis said he had experience with affordable housing projects and highlighted the difficulties in building such developments within the corporate limits.

“There are so many incentives that are needed to make it affordable for workforce housing,” he said.

Gillis also stressed the importance of working alongside the county to develop

housing projects off the barrier island.

“I think Worcester County forgets Ocean City is in Worcester County and that solving our problems helps solve a regional problem,” he added. “I can identify a couple of sites in West Ocean City that could possibly work, but it needs a lot of incentives and assistance from the county. And I don’t think they are willing to step up to do that.”

Neville, however, said both town and county staff were coordinating on many of the topics presented in the comprehensive plan.

“This is our chance to envision the future,” he said. “I think it’s true for both us and the county as we go through this.”

After further discussions about transportation, cost of living and housing challenges, Maryland Department of Planning officials encouraged the town to contact the agency for further guidance.

May 31-June 2

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) Resort officials this week approved the return of a professional bull riding event, but not before a lengthy discussion on special event agreements.

On Tuesday, Special Events Coordinator Lisa Mitchell presented the Mayor and Council with a term sheet for PBR Ocean City, a professional bull riding event set to return to the Inlet parking lot May 31 through June 2. While the PBR series is not a new event to Ocean City, she told officials this week it did have a new promoter.

“We are no longer working with the former promoter, which was OC West Productions,” she said. “We are now working directly with Professional Bull Riding, an international professional bull riding organization. They have the largest bull riding league in the world, and they produce events internationally.”

Following a brief presentation, which included a review of the promoter’s plans to acquire the necessary liquor license and implement safety procedures, a motion was made to approve the private event request. Before a vote could be taken, Councilman John Gehrig questioned if the council would see the drafted agreement before it was sent to the promoter.

“A lot has changed with our events,” he said. “Is there a plan to see the agreements or not see them in advance?”

City Manager Terry McGean said town staff had implemented a process of presenting the council with a term sheet rather than an agreement. Gehrig, however, said he wanted to see what agreements look like under the new special events policy and fee structure the town implemented this year.

“A lot has changed with the process, the potential penalties, how things will be applied to various promoters based on tiers. Some of these penalties are pretty severe,” he said. “I would like to know and see, if we are being asked questions in the future, the facts of what’s going on in advance so we are aware of which events will be subject to $2,000 a day penalties and which ones are not.”

Gehrig said he had no issue with the PBR Ocean City term sheet as presented, but that he felt more comfortable seeing the agreements. He noted that the council used to see and approve agreements for special events.

“It’s really more about how the policies we approved for this year are applied, how the new language looks …,” he said. “I don’t know what the new agreements look like, but I’d like to see them.”

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury cautioned against sending a contract

Council debates event contracts

Continued from Page 8

to the council in an email, as it could invite an opportunity for discussion. However, she said she would do whatever the council instructed.

“I think perhaps this contract would be ready for presentation at our next work session,” she explained. “But from there, it would be sent to PBR, and PBR may have changes. To the city manager’s point, historically, we have trusted staff to address and negotiate those changes provided they don’t get too far off the term sheet. So we would still need that level of flexi-

bility. You would begin to have time constraints.”

Gehrig said he did not want to delay the process but wanted to see how the new special event policy is applied. He noted that policies are applied based on what tier an event is categorized and if the event is recurring.

“There is a system,” Stansbury replied, “and perhaps that system could be clarified with a couple of views of these contracts.”

Councilman Will Savage questioned if the contracts would then be-

See OFFICIAL Page 10

Group shares opposition to offshore wind projects

Continued from Page 3

Protect Our Coast - Delmarva, have objected to the developer’s plans. In a change.org petition, the organization called for an immediate halt of the development of offshore wind projects until their impacts on marine life, property values and the economy could be further investigated. As of Monday, the petition had more than 13,000 signatures.

“We call on both the Federal Government and the States of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia to ensure a thorough independent, transparent investigation of the effects on sea mammals, migratory fish and shellfish,” the petition reads. “We ask

these investigations be carried out by federal agencies with independent, third party scientific oversight. These massive, unprecedented experimental projects have been fast-tracked without meaningful public input, and with all the impacted cities and towns understanding all of the possible hazard and negative effects of an industrialized offshore.”

The Maryland Department of the Environment reports that written comments on US Wind’s application will be accepted until April 9. Those seeking more information are asked to contact R. Miles Simmons at robertm.simmons@maryland.gov or at 410-627-4826.

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Staff and members of the council discussed Ocean City’s special events policy details this week.

(March 1, 2024) The next Maryland Safe Boating Course is set from 6-9 p.m., March 19-21, at the Ocean Pines Library.

Certified instructors from the Ocean City Coast Guard Auxiliary will be offering the comprehensive class, which is required of anyone born after July 1, 1972, to posses a Maryland Basic Boating Safety Certificate to operate a boat in the state. All the required material is covered during the course. Those who attend the class and pass the test will receive a Maryland Boating

Certificate which is National Association of State Boating Law Administrators-approved and valid in all states. A fee of $20.00 covers the cost of the course and materials.

Checks should be made payable to: “USGCAUX 12-05” and mailed to: USCGAUX 12-05, P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, MD 21811.

Payment through PayPal is also accepted.

For more information, or to register, contact Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807 or email CGAUXOC@Gmail.com.

Official seeks contract review

Continued from Page 9

come a public document. He said he didn’t want to hide information from the public but wanted to protect the town’s special events business from competing municipalities like Virginia Beach.

“I think we should work on protecting our brand,” he said. “Beyond that, I don’t mind us having that information.”

Stansbury said special event agreements are always subject to Public Information Act requests.

“I will tell you that often we have

promoters who do not like that the contracts are so very public,” she explained. “And we do have to explain to them, because they have not often dealt with a municipality or local government, that that is a Public Information Act request. If we get one, we will honor it.”

After further discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the PBR Ocean City event as presented. Council President Matt James said any council member interested in viewing the special event agreement could request it.

SUBMITTED

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard guide a boat into a dock on the bay.

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WCPS disputes school safety data

Superintendent ‘appalled’ at law enforcement’s manipulation of data

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) School system officials said misleading data was at the root of safety concerns shared by local law enforcement and stressed they were working on several of the recommendations made by the state’s attorney and sheriff’s office.

Three days after Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser and Sheriff Matt Crisafulli showed video depicting fighting in local schools and voiced safety concerns, the school system responded with its own press conference. Superintendent Lou Taylor and Worcester County Board of

Education President Todd Ferrante said law enforcement mischaracterized disciplinary referrals as crimes and ignored the fact that education officials were working to implement recommendations made by law enforcement.

“I was saddened and frankly appalled to see our elected law enforcement leaders choose to manipulate student referral data and attempt to say our schools were hotspots for assaults,” Taylor said. “Student disciplinary referrals are not crimes. To label referrals as assault rate is an affront to our schools, our students and our staff, particularly those staff who lent their expertise to putting this data together not knowing it would be manipulated in such a way.”

A joint statement issued by Heiser and Crisafulli after the press confer-

ence said the presentation by the school system did nothing to assure the public that educators were making safety a priority.

“Despite their best efforts to label the Sheriff and State’s Attorney as liars and data-manipulators, their press conference today confirmed the two main points that law enforcement has been making for months: (1) that crime in schools is rising at an unacceptable rate and (2) that none of law enforcement’s recommendations to improve school safety have been implemented by Worcester County Public Schools,” the statement reads. “Now that the Board of Education and Superintendent have publicly acknowledged these two facts, we once again call on them to take immediate action on these recommendations to improve safety in our schools. State’s Attorney Heiser and Sheriff Crisafulli remain ready to support, advise and assist school leadership in this mission, and will continue to provide transparency for the public moving forward.”

Early last week, Heiser and Crisafulli said the school system was not doing enough to address school safety amid rising crime rates in schools. Since the Covid-19 pandemic closed schools during the 2019-2020 school year, Heiser said data showed a “devastating” impact. According to her presentation, there has been a 67% increase in physical attacks on students and a 171% increase in fighting in schools. She reported a 225% jump in physical attacks on school staff. Heiser pointed out that during the last school year, 72% of fights and 55% of physical attacks against students happened at middle schools.

On Friday, education officials disputed those statistics. Taylor, who called on Heiser to release the raw data behind law enforcement’s presentation, said there was a 20% increase in physical attacks on students and a 42% increase in fighting in schools.

Taylor said the data depicted was student disciplinary referrals, which covered a wide range of incidents. While some of those incidents might be criminal he said some related to violations of school rules or policies.

Taylor added that since a school safety leadership change at the start of the 2022-2023 school year, staff had been reminded of the importance of properly reporting incidents.

“It stands to reason as a new emphasis on reporting was stressed referrals would rise,” he said.

Taylor said a redesigned code of conduct, training and trauma-informed supports had the school system on track to have its lowest referral rate in years.

“I want to be clear, very clear, that both the school board and school officials believe that even one instance

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

“We don’t know what has motivated law enforcement to publicly and aggressively defame our school system but I’m here to tell you we can’t stand for it,” Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said at a press conference last Friday.

Annual report details Ocean City police data

(March 8, 2024) A reduction in service calls and arrests highlight the Ocean City Police Department’s annual report.

In a meeting Tuesday, Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro and Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller presented the Mayor and Council with the department’s 2023 annual report, a special edition commemorating the agency’s 125th anniversary. Buzzuro said the document highlighted the statistics and major accomplishments of the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) in

the prior calendar year.

“Overall, it is a fantastic report,” he said. “2023 was a banner year for the department on all fronts.”

During this week’s presentation, Buzzuro detailed the agency’s community engagement efforts last year, including OCPD’s participation in the Special Olympics Torch Run, National Night Out and Coffee with a Cop. He also highlighted the agency’s auxiliary officer program, which contributed 1,327 hours of service to the department.

“That’s a savings of $43,000 for the town,” he explained.

Within the patrol division, Buzzuro said officers responded to 53,726 service calls in 2023. He said that marked a reduction from the 56,000-plus calls reported in 2022.

The police department also recog-

Department records decrease in service calls, arrests w ns g th e b n i HH

nized its transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System. In 2023, 57% of reported crimes in Ocean City occurred during the summer months of June, July and August.

“That’s consistent with our population spikes,” Buzzuro said.

The police chief also highlighted the effectiveness of body-worn cameras, which he said resulted in fewer instances of use of force and fewer allegations against police officers. He also recognized the Maryland Cannabis Reform Act, which he said contributed to fewer weapons arrests and controlled dangerous substance (CDS) arrests in 2023.

“It basically legalized marijuana, cannabis with certain restrictions,” he said. “This has been a positive impact, to a degree, for us.”

In 2023, the police department recorded 234 fewer custodial arrests, as well as 7,327 traffic citations and 6,828 traffic warnings. The agency also reported 469 traffic collisions, 25 pedestrian collisions and 20 scooter collisions.

“That’s the lowest we’ve seen in the last four years,” Buzzuro said.

The police chief also recognized the department’s major crimes unit, which solved 95% of the cases it investigated in 2023, and the support services division’s budget and financial services unit, which recorded a savings of $790,461 for the OCPD last year.

Buzzuro told the council the complete annual report would be posted on the OCPD’s website, under the annual report tab.

“We certainly encourage everyone to take a few moments to look at the report and look at the progress that’s been made by the police department,” he said.

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State’s Attorney Heiser defends safety stats

Continued from Page 12

of aggression in our schools is unacceptable and can impact the climate and culture of our school buildings,” Taylor said.

In response to Heiser’s assertion that a significant amount of fighting happened at middle schools, Taylor said that was not a new challenge.

“We know these are the hardest years for many of our kids,” he said.

Ferrante said school system officials had been trying to work with law enforcement to address the concerns shared last fall and were surprised by last week’s press conference. He said a task force created to review and address the concerns had met seven times and that there had been plans for a joint presentation. He said the school board had expressed concern when Heiser made it clear a video compilation of school fights would be part of that presentation. He said the state’s attorney advised that redactions would be made but never shared the redacted version of the video. Instead, the school system learned of last Tuesday’s press conference.

Ferrante also said work was underway on a job description for a new chief safety officer, one of law enforcement’s key recommendations, and that the school system already had a sex offender policy, another issue that was highlighted during Tuesday’s

press conference. In addition, Ferrante said efforts were being made to improve communication and the school system had long been working toward implementation of weapons detection systems, another recommendation. Ferrante ended his comments by stressing that at the last task force meeting, law enforcement had confirmed that schools were safe.

In addressing the video law enforcement showed the media, Taylor said appropriate consequences had been levied in those situations.

“As stewards of the school system we have made a commitment to not only ensuring the education of thousands of students but to ensure their well-being. The video depicts several unfortunate incidents that I assure you are not condoned by our school system…,” he said. “Acts of aggression are never acceptable in schools. We continue to work toward creating learning environments where all students feel accepted and cared for. This work is obviously never ever done but our commitment to this goal will always be and has always been unwavering.”

He said officials would not stand idly by while the reputations of students and staff were smeared.

“We don’t know what has motivated law enforcement to publicly and aggressively defame our school sys-

tem but I’m here to tell you we can’t stand for it,” Taylor said.

When asked about the raw data Taylor called on her office to release, Heiser said via email this week that as was included in the infographic she’d presented, the statistics she shared were compiled from publicly available FBI data. Because it only included felony assault figures, however, she said she also reached out to each law enforcement agency in Worcester County to get the number of seconddegree assaults per year. She combined the two to get the numbers shown on the infographic.

“That is the closest we could get to an apples to apples comparison of assaults occurring in schools vs. assaults occurring in the county,” she said, adding that while the school system referenced referrals, the titles of the columns in her infographic—“physical attacks on students” and “fights” were very specific. “A ‘physical attack on a student’ is an assault, and ‘fighting’ is also an assault, and assault is a crime. So the physical attack on students, physical attack on staff, and fighting columns were all combined to get the school assault number.”

Heiser said it was important to note that law enforcement did not calculate the county’s assault rate by factoring in the hundreds of thousands of tourists that visited in the summer.

“And secondly, I also think it is important to note that the county assault rate is based on 12 months’ worth of data for the full year, and the school data only represents 9 months’ worth of incidents,” she said.

Heiser said the “fighting” numbers from the school are tallied as one fight, no matter how many students participated in the fight, whereas the assault numbers from law enforcement would tally two people fighting as two assaults, not one assault. Had the school data been tallied like law enforcement data she said the figures would be even higher than shown on the “Rate of Assault” graphic in law enforcement’s presentation.

“There is no reason for law enforcement to exaggerate the problem or try to cherry pick numbers that look bad – they all look bad,” Heiser said. “And the public would never have seen any of this data if it were left to the schools – the only reason this is even a public conversation now is because the Sheriff and I pressed them for this data for months (because they dismissed law enforcement’s data for months) and now everyone can see the same trend in all of the data.”

When asked about Ferrante’s statement that law enforcement told the task force that schools were safe,

Bethany Hooper

(March 8, 2024) A decision to either affirm or reverse a lower court’s dismissal of charges against Tyler Mailloux now rests with the state appellate court following oral arguments last Friday.

On March 1, the Appellate Court of Maryland heard oral arguments from both the prosecution and defense in the case involving Mailloux, a Berlin man charged last year in the hit-andrun death of 14-year-old Gavin Knupp.

dent involving death – were filed against Mailloux in the death of Knupp, who was struck and killed by a motorist in a black Mercedes while crossing Greys Corner Road on July 11, 2022. Knupp was returning to a vehicle driven by his older sister and died from injuries sustained in the collision. Mailloux allegedly fled the scene and did not return, according to charges filed.

ceptions allowing the case to be tried in circuit court, including that the penalty for such charges exceeded three years. Following the hearing, Judge Brett Wilson granted the defense’s motion to dismiss the case, and the matter was immediately appealed.

Since that time, both the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the Public Defender, Mailloux’s legal counsel, have filed briefs with the Appellate Court of Maryland.

Last April, 17 traffic charges – including failure to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury and failure to immediately stop a vehicle at the scene of an acci-

During a motions hearing in Worcester County Circuit Court last August, Mailloux’s attorney argued the district court had “exclusive and original jurisdiction” and that the judge should either dismiss the case or transfer it to district court. The Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, however, argued state statute provided ex-

During oral arguments Friday, Assistant Attorney General Zoe White asked that the appellate court reverse the circuit court’s decision, arguing that relevant statutes gave both the district and circuit courts concurrent jurisdiction over all charges filed in the case.

Heiser said law enforcement had not advised that group that schools were safe.

“The reason we were having those meetings was to discuss how to improve school safety, which obviously would not have been necessary if we had assessed that schools were already safe,” she said.

According to Heiser, school system officials were told for months that law enforcement would update the public on safety concerns so they shouldn’t have been surprised by last week’s press conference. School officials,

however, said they only learned of the press conference after being called about it by the media.

“Law Enforcement remains very concerned about the state of safety in our schools, but at this point, we’ve told school leadership what the problems are, we’ve told them what the solutions to those problems are, and now all we can do is hope that they implement our recommendations while we keep the public’s attention on this,” she said.

At this week’s meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners, Commissioner Chip Bertino, presi-

dent of the board, also addressed the school safety situation.

“Last week our community got an education in semantics,” he said. “We learned the difference between a crime statistic and a referral in our school systems. There is a lot of talk from multiple agencies about the difference between the definition of those two. Whether it’s called a crime statistic or a referral I think we can all agree, or I hope we can, that some sort of violation has been taking place.”

He said that regardless of the number of incidents taking place in schools, behind each of those situations was an individual. Bertino said arguing over whether it was a crime statistic or a referral and disagreeing about amount the rate of incidents had increased didn’t change the fact that there was a problem.

“It’s a problem, and I think that parents should be more involved if they aren’t already,” he said. “I think law enforcement needs to be involved, as they are trying to be, and I think that our board of education needs to be involved, as they are … The crux of the situation is that we all agree that there’s a problem, so I guess the question is what happens now? Because the problem exists and the authorities and the people responsible for this have a responsibility to fix it.”

State court decision awaited

Continued from Page 18

“This case arises out of a truly tragic situation involving the hit-and-run death of a 14-year-old boy in Worcester County,” she said. “This case, in terms of the legal issue, however, the state would submit, presents a straightforward analysis of the statutes relevant to jurisdiction.”

During her presentation to the court, White said the circuit court erred in its interpretation of state statute. She said the first eight counts against Mailloux – four felonies and four misdemeanors – fell within the concurrent jurisdiction provision.

“There’s two bases on which the circuit court had concurrent jurisdiction here,” she argued. “And it’s very clear under 4-302(f) that once the state’s attorney for Worcester County exercised her discretion to bring the charges in the circuit court, that the district court was divested of jurisdiction over the remaining nine counts as well, and exclusive jurisdiction at that point over all 17 counts of the information vested exclusively in the circuit court.”

For her part, Assistant Public Defender Celia Davis asked the appellate court to uphold the circuit court’s de-

See ATTORNEYS Page 22

expansive twostory Great Room very welcoming and comfortable for entertaining. First level Owner’s suite, including walk-in closet and Venetian bath. The 2nd level has 3 additional

Attorneys debate jurisdiction

cision in the matter. She noted that charges should have first been filed in district court.

“The plain language of Section 4-301 is the original enabling statute for the district court of Maryland, and it sets forth exactly what cases should originate in that court,” she said. “And it sets forth in part A a general category of traffic and boating offenses, and in part B it enumerates 25 offenses, including the offenses charged in this case.”

Davis acknowledged that while there were exceptions where the case could be tried in circuit court, the district court had “starting point jurisdiction.” She said that took precedence over the provision that allowed for concurrent jurisdiction.

“I would urge this court to give plain meaning to the term ‘exclusive,’ meaning limited or dedicated, and ‘original,’

meaning that’s the court that has the power to decide the case first. That’s what those words mean …,” she said. “The term exclusive original jurisdiction does not define where the case must be tried, it defines where the case starts … In fact, the state has not brought us any examples of cases with these particular charges that started in the circuit court. They always start in the district court.”

In her rebuttal, White disputed Davis’ argument and reiterated the state’s attorney had discretion in bringing the charges in circuit court.

“Unless the court has any specific questions for me, I would submit both my briefs and ask this court to reverse the judgment of the circuit court,” she said.

With oral arguments concluded, both parties now await an opinion from the Appellate Court of Maryland.

(March 8, 2024) A Salisbury man’s fatal beating of a Worcester County man with a baseball bat resulted in a life sentence last month.

On Friday, Feb. 23, Carl Lee Fuller, age 33, was sentenced to life imprisonment for first degree murder, which he was convicted of on Sept. 8. Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley suspended all but 50 years of Fuller’s life sentence and placed Fuller on five years of supervised probation upon release.

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of cardiac arrest on Oct. 23, 2022, on St. Luke’s Road in Snow Hill. Upon arrival, deputies observed a male lying unresponsive in a pool of blood, with numerous and severe blunt force injuries to the face and head. The victim was identified as David Pfeffer and he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigators noticed the victim’s vehicle was not on scene and eventually located it parked at a residence in Delmar with the help of the Delaware State Police. Carl Fuller was

located inside the Delmar residence and agreed to speak with investigators. During the interview, Fuller ultimately admitted to killing David Pfeffer with a baseball bat on the night of Oct. 22, 2022. Pfeffer also admitted to entering the home and removing firearms from the residence, which he then hid in his mother’s residence along with his bloody clothing. Investigators were able to recover these items, as well as the victim’s credit card and the murder weapon, which Fuller had discarded along the roadway leaving the crime scene.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with Mr. Pfeffer’s family, whose lives have been altered forever by this terrible crime,” said Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser. “We can only hope that the sentence in this case brings them some small comfort that justice was done.”

Heiser also thanked the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, the Maryland State Police, Delaware State Police, Newark Volunteer EMS and Det. Allen of the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit who investigated the case, and commended Assistant State’s Attorney Dempsey Stewart who prosecuted the case.

Carl Lee Fuller

Resort turns green next weekend

(March 8, 2024) On Saturday, March 16, Ocean City will be aglow in green as the St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival, sponsored by the Delmarva Irish American Club, returns bigger and better than ever, according to organizers.

The event, which began in 1980, has grown to become the largest St. Patrick’s parade in Maryland and is the seasonal kick-off for many local businesses. Over the years, the DIAC — a 501(c)(3) social organization — has donated more than $550,000 from parade proceeds to scholarships for local high school students and to other charities and organizations. The DIAC is especially proud to in recent years contributed $50,000 donation to the Macky and Pam Stansell House at Coastal Hospice.

Pipe and drum bands will bring the sounds of Ireland to the streets of Ocean City, along with high school marching bands and festively decorated floats sponsored by local businesses, groups and organizations. Leading the parade will be Rebecca and Leighton Moore as this year’s grand marshals.

The procession begins at noon on Coastal Highway at 57th Street and marches south to the 45th Street Shopping Center, where the viewing bleachers and judges’ stand will be located. Trophies will be awarded for best marching band, best commercial float, best non-commercial float, best motorized unit, best adult marching unit, best youth marching unit, special committee award, judges’ choice award and best overall entry in the parade.

In addition to the celebration on the parade route, the 45th Street Shopping Center will be transformed into a spirited Irish festival complete with live music from the Pat O’Brennan Trio, along with Irish dancers, Irish apparel, baskets of cheer, souvenirs and a variety of beer. Spectators can enjoy the free-admission festival beginning at 11 a.m. and running until 3 p.m.

To avoid traffic delays, spectators are urged to arrive before 10:30 a.m.

and to view the parade from 57th Street south to 45th Street.

This year’s parade is dedicated in memory to long-time DIAC members Dennis Roarty, John Staley and Dean Langrall.

Mike Bradley will serve as parade emcee on the judges’ stand. The parade will be live-streamed by UnScene Productions and hosted by Bill Baker and Melanie Pursel; details of the stream will be shared on the DIAC Facebook page. There is no rain date for the parade or festival.

The DIAC was founded in 1980, and its first membership drive resulted in 75 members. Today, there are close to 300 members. The club is open to anyone who is Irish, of Irish descent or just likes things Irish.

This year’s grand marshals were announced last month as Becca and

Leighton Moore, who first met in 1987 at Fager’s Island. At the time, Leighton was designing the tiki bar at Seacrets, which would open June 29, 1988. Becca was studying at Wor-Wic Community College, working toward a bachelor’s degree in geography from Salisbury University. They went on their first date to Chez La Mer in Rehoboth Beach, a restaurant that Leighton’s friend Tom owned. Twenty years later, Leighton and Becca went on their second first date and just celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary. Becca and Leighton Moore support several charities and host events to benefit numerous nonprofits including Tidal Health Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health, Diakonia, Children’s House by the Sea, Life Crisis Center and the Worcester County Humane Society.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Serving as grand marshals after decades of support for the annual parade and festival will be Becca and Leighton Moore.

An aerial view of the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines.

COUNTY VET-

Upcoming events set at Veterans Memorial

‘Flags for Heroes’ sponsorships currently available for $50 each

(March 8, 2024) The Veterans Memorial Foundation and Ocean City/Berlin Rotary Club are co-sponsoring the return of “Flags for Heroes” from May 18 to July 4.

During the installment, a display of flags will fly in Veterans Memorial Park along Route 589 to honor heroes.

“A ‘hero’ is defined by anyone who has made a difference in your life. Living or deceased, veteran, teacher, doctor, parent, or child,” Veterans Memorial Foundation President Marie Gilmore said in a news release.

Individuals and local businesses can be part of the tribute by sponsor-

Stay informed with our digital newsletter

Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC TodayDispatch 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? $1 a month or $10 a year to cover our production costs.

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ing a flag for $50. The sponsor's name and their hero's name will be identified on each flag on a medallion. Medallions may be removed at any time by the sponsor.

Proceeds from the project will benefit education outreach projects.

The cutoff date to sponsor a flag is May 11. Forms are available on the Veterans Memorial Foundation website at WoCoVets.org.

The annual Memorial Day ceremony also is also set for 11 a..m, May 27, at Veterans Memorial Park.

demonstrations and public speakers honoring U.S. Military men and women who gave their lives in service.

‘A ‘hero’ is defined by anyone who has made a difference in your life. Living or deceased, veteran, teacher, doctor, parent, or child.’

Marie Gilmore, Veterans Memorial

“Memorial Day honors all who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our county,” Gilmore said. “This year’s ceremony, as those before it, will honor the brave men and women who served our country and lost their lives in doing so.”

Foundation President

The event each year draws thousands of people and features music,

Public parking will be available at Veterans Memorial Park on Route 589 and Cathell Road in Ocean Pines. Limited seating will be available during the Memorial Day ceremony and

guests are encouraged to bring chairs.

The ceremony will include a special dedication for a new gazebo.

“The Worcester County Veterans Memorial, along with the Ocean Pines Association, will be constructing and dedicating a large gazebo in Veterans Memorial Park. This joint project will provide the sheltered space we need for our educational programs as well as a space for visitors to Veterans Park to enjoy some shade for a picnic lunch,” Gilmore said. “We are very excited to see the finished project, which should be in place for this year’s educational programs.”

For more information on the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation, visit WoCoVets.org or find Worcester County Veterans Memorial on Facebook.

Resort museum’s historic site tour tickets now on sale

(March 8, 2024) The Ocean City Life Saving-Station Museum will host a tour of noteworthy historic sites this spring.

The Historic Sites Tour is planned for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 11 and will feature some of Ocean City’s oldest historic sites.

At each walk-in location, docents will be on-site to discuss the unique

history of the buildings. The tour is a fundraiser that will help strengthen and grow the George and Suzanne Hurley Memorial Scholarship Fund.

New this year, when tour goers buy tickets online early they’ll be given the option to sign up for one of two guided tours of select sites. Guides will shares stories of old downtown

See HISTORIC Page 32

Who’s Where When

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.

Friday, March 8: Wes Davis

Saturday, March 9: DJ Giddy Up & Opposite Directions

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE

Sunday, March 10: Kevin Poole

Wednesday, March 13: Hurricane Kevin

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, March 8: Dust N Bones

Saturday, March 9: Risky Business

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, March 8: DJ Greg & DJ RobCee

Saturday, March 9: Mad Decent & DJ Groove

Monday, March 11: Bryan Clark

Tuesday, March 12:

Latin Night w/ DJ Patana

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Friday, March 8:

DJ Billy T & DJ Wax

8

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, March 8

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Friday & Saturday, March 8 & 9

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

KEVIN POOLE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sunday, March 10

DJ WAX Harborside: Friday, March

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Thursdays, & Fridays

DJ GIDDY UP Coins Pub: Saturday, March 9

ALTER EGO

MAD DECENT

Fager’s Island: Saturday, March 9

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Seacrets: Friday, March 8 & Thursday, March 14

Coins: Saturday, March 9

Harborside: Sunday, March 10

FULL CIRCLE

Seacrets: Saturday, March 9

RISKY BUSINESS

Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, March

ROGUE CITIZENS

Pickles Pub: Saturday, March 9

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Harborside: Saturday, March 9

DUST N BONES

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, March 8

Harborside: Thursday, March 14 (Duo)

Who’s Where When

Saturday, March 9:

The Dunehounds & DJ Billy T

Sunday, March 10: Opposite Directions

Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays:

Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, March 9: Rogue Citizens

Sundays:

Beats By Styler

Mondays:

Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays:

Beats By Wood

Wednesdays:

Beats By Styler

Thursdays:

Beats By DeoGee

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts.

On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, March 8 & 9: Alter Ego

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, March 8: Opposite Directions & DJ Connair

Saturday, March 9: Full Circle, The Event Horizon, DJ Bobbyo & DJ Cruz

Thursday, March 14: Opposite Directions & DJ Connair

Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, March 8 & 9

9

County Veterans Memorial looking for volunteers

Docents help educate students on field trips

(March 8, 2024) The Worcester County Veterans Memorial at Ocean Pines is looking for a few good docents to help with educational programs.

The Veterans Memorial Foundation each year sponsors field trips to the memorial for all fifth-grade students in Worcester County.

Students learn about the history of the American flag, and how to properly fold and display it. While touring the memorial grounds, they learn about the different branches of the U.S. Military and a brief history of U.S. armed conflicts.

“Our Educational programs begin May 10, with a field trip to the memorial from Most Blessed Sacrament School. It’s the first of many field trips by fifth grade students in Worcester County,” Veterans Memorial Foundation President Marie Gilmore said in a news release. “Before the month is over, more than 650 students will have been met by docents and learned the stories of veterans and their sacrifices for our freedom.”

Docents who assist with the trips don’t have to be veterans or teachers – they just need a desire to engage students in a fun and interesting way.

“Please consider becoming a docent,” Gilmore said. “It’s a great way to give back to the community and help connect local school children to our wonderful veterans memorial.”

Docent training is scheduled at 3 p.m., April 24, at the memorial. For more information on volunteering, call Susan Pantone at 410-430 1040 or Don McMullen at 443-388-2941.

Historic OC tour set for May 11

Continued from Page 30

Ocean City in an hour-and-a-half walk from the Inlet, to City Hall on, and back down the Boardwalk to the life-saving museum for a mile-and-ahalf round trip of walking.

The guided tour will not take people to all of the sites of the Historic Sites Tour, which can be visited without assistance before or after. The

two guided tours will fill up quickly, and those interested are encouraged to buy tickets online soon.

Tickets for museum members are $25, or $30 for general admission.

More information can be found on the museum’s website, at ocmuseum.org, and tickets can are available to buy online at bit.ly/ticketsforhistoricsitestour.

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Docent Mary Adair teaches Worcester Prep fifth graders the history of the U.S. flag during a fall field trip to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, think about collaborating on a fun project with someone close to you. Find out if anyone needs help on something they may be working on if you don’t have a project in mind.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

An excitement concerning work goals or a business venture may compel you to take some action to get your ideas heard by higher-ups, Taurus. The audience will be receptive.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, trying to resolve issues in a relationship this week may leave you feeling unsettled. It might be that you are trying to avoid sensitive topics that you will have to address eventually.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, if you are feeling content with yourself and life in general lately, that is excellent. Embrace this positive state of mind and take the necessary steps to continue the good feelings.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, this week you may be feeling nostalgic or sentimental. Look over old photographs or watch family movies for a bit. If you want to take it further, reach out to childhood friends.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Find new activities that you can add to your daily routine, Virgo. This may be a sport, hobby or even a new club. Add a dose of creativity to each and every day for good effects.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Uncertainty regarding long-term plans may be driving emotions of shyness, Libra. If you are having trouble , plan excursions or events with friends you trust.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, encouragement comes from people you may not feel are on your team. Take all of the support you can get as you start plowing through some long-term goals.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

It’s always the right time to tell others how much they mean to you, Sagittarius. It will not take grand gestures to do so, merely your loving words.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Your busy schedule this week has everything feeling more hectic even if it really isn’t, Capricorn. Carve out some time to sit quietly or enjoy some alone time to refresh.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

This week you may be feeling especially charitable, Aquarius. Open your heart up to others who may need some extra support. This may be a stranger or someone you know.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Some news from a family member may catch you off-guard, Pisces. You’ll soon recover when you learn that it is extremely happy news. You may even get good news of your own.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

St. Joseph’s Day Festival coming up on March 23

(March 8, 2024) Members of the Italian/American social and cultural group Sons and Daughters of Italy of Ocean City are working diligently to plan and organize the annual St. Joseph’s Day Festival, set for March 23.

A news release said efforts began in 2023 to plan this year’s event, the 12th installment, which will bring family-style food and entertainment to St. Andrews Hall on Synepuxent and 144th street in Ocean City. Admission is free and the event will feature homestyle Italian foods, breads, baked goods, pastries, and desserts, accompanied by Italian music throughout the day.

See ST. JOSEPH’S Page 35

The planning crew for the Sons and Daughters of Italy of Ocean City’s annual St. Joseph’s Day Festival finalize details of the 2024 event, set for March 23 at St. Andrews Hall on Synepuxent Avenue and 144th Street in Ocean City.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Lazy weekend mornings when it’s raining

The movie, Coda

Short, heartfelt awards speeches

Learning something from a stranger

The new Junior Achievement center in Salisbury

Teaching my son how to drive

Talking on the phone with air pods

A rational call of criticism

When the weather cooperates on St. Patrick’s parade day

Kids artwork hung on a wall How first responders go toward danger

New arts board member

The Worcester County Arts Council recently appointed Gerald (Jerry) Gietka of Ocean Pines to its Board of Directors.

Jerry Gietka

Gietka enjoyed different careers throughout his life, anything from driving a truck to writing law to teaching at the university. Currently, he is a writer.

After completing his education, earning an MBA and an honorary doctorate,Gietka entered public service managing various statewide programs and drafting legislative and administrative laws for the Maryland Department of the Environment as a content professional. At the same time, he designed and taught a graduate-level course for the University of Maryland Global Campus.

After his retirement in 2003, Gietka served on various boards, from local community theaters and recreation councils to the American Breast Cancer Foundation. He has also returned to his earlier love of the arts by acting, directing and producing.

Gietka has appeared in over 1,000 performances and worked in stage, film, radio and television as an actor and director.

Most recently, Jerry published his

memoir, “I Like Me Now,” available on Amazon and in major bookstores.

‘Reflections’ reception

The winners of the “Reflections” juried art competition on display at the Worcester County Arts Council gallery this month will be announced during a reception tonight.

Set 4-6 p.m., Friday, March 8, the reception is open to the public at the gallery at 6 Jefferson St. in Berlin. Winners will be announced and monetary awards presented during the event.

Local artist and University of Maryland Eastern Shore art instructor Brad Hudson will jury and judge the competition entries. Artists were asked to show what reflections mean to them in their pieces.

Pi Day escape room

The mathematics and science department at Wor-Wic Community College will hold a free “Pi Day” escape room event at 12:30 to 4 p.m., March 14, in Room 105 of Henson Hall at the college at the corner of Route 50 and Walston Switch Road in Salisbury.

The event celebrates the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter — 3.14.

Visit the events section of worwic.edu for more information.

Continued on Page 35

Continued from Page 34

Local serving on warship

A Worcester County native is making his mark in Annapolis.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class

M. Krystofiak

Matthew Krystofiak, a native of Pocomoke City, is serving aboard the Navy’s newest warship, the USS John L. Canley.

Krystofiak graduated from Pocomoke High School in 2020.

Krystofiak joined the Navy two years ago. Today, he serves as an information systems technician.

Youth Art Month

In celebration of Youth Art Month, observed nationally in March, the Worcester County Arts Council is showcasing a selection of artwork created by the Worcester County public school elementary students from March 8-31

The pieces on display were made by students who participated in the arts camp program sponsored by the council last summer. During the program, more than 250 students from five schools engaged in hands-on visual and performing art activities instructed by professional art teachers.

Wor-Wic magazine award

“Echoes & Visions,” the creative arts journal at Wor-Wic Community College, won first place yet again in the category of publications from junior/community colleges with student enrollments of more than 2,501 in the American Scholastic Press Association’s 2023 Scholastic Yearbook

Continued on Page 37

St. Joseph’s Day event planned

Continued from Page 33

Italian-themed merchandise will be available for sale. Stuffed gift baskets and baskets filled with wine and spirits will be raffled off. Silent auctions will be held for a variety of packages, including sports packages and leisure activities. A Pick Six wheel game will also return, and attendees can buy tickets for the 50-50 drawing.

The release said the Ocean City chapter of the Sons and Daughters of Italy was started in 1980 and today has almost 200 members. The group’s mission includes increasing awareness of the Italian culture and contributions of Italian Americans to the United States, helping the community with scholarships for high school students, and a tradition of charitable giving to support local organizations.

Eastern Shore Physical

Therapy

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 daily 7:30-11 a.m. 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.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, 410-289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu |

Full bar

Celebrating our 40th anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open all March, Thursday through Sunday; Happy Hour: Thursday and Sunday, all night long featuring $9 select appetizers, $6 crushes, $4 select draft.

Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ 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 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, skillets, 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, CCFBayside.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,

Dining

signature drinks, live music and more.

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.

WPS senior named semifinalist for merit scholarship

(March 8, 2024) Worcester Preparatory School senior Izzy Huber is one step closer to earning a national merit scholarship.

In September, Huber was named a 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalist, and this month she was named a finalist.

A news release said Huber qualified for the accolade through her 2022 PSAT scores. She was among 16,000 students selected as semifinalists, representing less than 1% of all U.S. high school seniors.

As a finalist, the release said Huber

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Continued from Page 35

and Magazine Awards.

The magazine has earned firstplace honors every year since 2014.

The winners were chosen based on the results of an item-specific, 1,000point rubric that evaluated each publication on every aspect of quality, from the published contents to design and copy editing.

The association has been holding the contest annually since 1980. It is open to all schools around the country.

has an opportunity to compete for one of roughly 7,250 national merit scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered this spring. About half

Submissions for “Echoes & Visions” are accepted from any current or former student. Faculty advisors for the publication are Charles Porter, arts and humanities department head and associate professor of developmental English, Lawrence Blasco, assistant professor of English, and Adam Tavel, professor of English.

The journal also recently earned honors from the National Council of Teachers of English and the Community College Humanities Association.

of the finalists will win scholarships. Merit scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation, a nonprofit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by the corporation and about 340 business organizations and higher education institutions that share the corporation’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

For more information, visit the corporation online at nationalmerit.org.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER PREPARATORY SCHOOL Worcester Prep senior Izzy Huber, third from left, poses with WPS Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner, Head of Upper School Carol Evans, and Head of School John McDonald. Huber is a finalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

CONTRIBUTIONS RECOGNIZED

SURF CLUB DONATION

The Ocean City Surf Club recently donated $2,000 to the Rise Up Foundation to support local youth. Pictured, from left with the check, are Velda Henry, executive director of Rise Up Foundation; Rusty Ruzsin, the vice president of OC Surf Club; Tommy Vach, the president of OC Surf Club; and Patrick Henry, executive director of Rise Up Foundation.

COUNSELOR SHOWN LOVE

is in

SHIP SHAPE WELCOMED

Amy Rowe, center, the owner and operator of Ship Shape in Ocean City, cuts the ribbon for her new organizing and decluttering business with her husband, Vance Row, and Amy Thompson, the executive director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. Ship Shape specializes in creating organized and clutter-free spaces for homes, offices, and storage units.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

County

and

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR.

From left, Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean CIty members Mike Castoro, Jim Ulman, Jackie Dubin, Tom Southwell and Mary Page pose with appreciation awards they recently received for noteworthy contributions to the club.

PHOTO COURTESY TOMMY VACH

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Love

the air in Liz Engh’s kindergarten classroom for Ocean City Elementary’s school counselor, Linda McGean. The students presented McGean with paper hearts decorated with her picture and words of appreciation to celebrate School Counselor Day Feb. 7.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY GARDEN CLUB FLORAL WORKSHOP

Worcester

Garden Club President Joan LaHayne, left, delivers Valentine’s Day floral arrangements to Gull Creek Resident Services Coordinator Jamie Triplett. At a workshop after their most recent meeting, garden club members created floral designs in mugs for the holiday. The arrangements were delivered

shared with Gull Creek Senior Living Community residents.

WINNER

ROBOTICS EVENT

Members

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL ART CONTEST

Worcester Technical High School student Jamari Savage poses with Doris Glovier, an artist and a member of the Worcester County Arts Council Board, at the council’s student art contest on Feb. 9. Savage won the digital category in the contest, which Glover judged, for his work, “Memorabilia.” The contest was sponsored by the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, which donated $2,000 in prize money.

PHOTOS COURTESY WORCESTER PREPARATORY SCHOOL

JUNIOR RING CEREMONY

Worcester Preparatory School’s annual Junior Ring Ceremony was held on Feb. 8. It is tradition that seniors present the juniors with their class rings along with comments explaining why the recipients are special to them. (Left) Junior students pose for a group photo after the ring ceremony with their class sponsor. (Right) Senior Dylan McGovern presents his brother, Ben McGovern, with his class ring.

Juniors Will Wells, Briar Parsons and Frank Miller proudly display their new class rings.

Class of ’92 alumnus Reid Tingle and his daughter, junior Sydney Tingle, pose with junior Jack Lynch and his father, Class of ’91 alumnus Will Lynch, at the ring ceremony.

of Worcester Prep’s 2024 Mallards Robotics team pose for a photo during the DelMarVa End of Season Robotics Extravaganza held on Feb. 24 in Wilmington. Pictured, from left, are senior Vanesska Hall and junior Lydia Schwartz with WPS technology and science teacher Nick Busko.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER PREPARATORY SCHOOL

A day in the life of a teacher A Day is Not Enough

As a high school teacher...

I’ve never seen my own daughter get on the school bus on the first day of school.

But, also...

I’ve seen the joy on her face in the classroom from pictures sent by her teachers,

And I’ve seen the commitment these teachers possess to making learning fun.

I’ve seen the classroom culture of family built by her prekindergarten teacher,

And I’ve seen the friendships that continued to kindergarten.

I’ve seen the support offered to my quiet, reserved little girl,

And I worry about cuts affecting her voice in the room.

In my tenure at SDHS...

I’ve seen 1,495 seniors walk across the graduation stage,

And I’ve seen four Boardwalk graduation parades.

I’ve seen 270 reading intervention students receive individualized services,

And I’ve seen these students grow in reading levels.

I’ve seen 168 Honor Society members tutor lower classmen on academics,

And I’ve seen 630 students stay after school to accept this support.

I’ve seen 10 special education youths work their first job,

And I’ve seen local businesses hire these kids for the entire summer.

But, also...

I’ve seen county commissioners fully support the board of education consistently for years,

And I’ve seen two of the same county commissioners flip their stance on education funding.

I’ve seen county commissioners run campaigns on the shoulders of supporting teachers,

And I’ve seen county commissioners turn their backs on these same constituents.

I’ve seen demand for and attainment of transparency,

And I’ve seen the same demanders deny public comment in their own space.

I’ve seen good teachers leave the classroom for more sustainable jobs,

And I’ve questioned my decision to stay for the last two years.

I have 21 more years of service until retirement,

And I’ve seen support this year that makes me want to stay.

But also...

The recent years have been exhausting. A day is not enough.

Megan Seyler English Teacher

Stephen Decatur High School

Create a spring menu with Butterscotch Crème Brulée

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(March 8, 2024) Food photography is simple: place the object in front of the camera, focus by adjusting the lens, and click the shutter button. If you believe this, think again.

Eating is a multisensory experience, and so is food photography. The power of a single image is a mirage of taste, time and truth.

But in photography there is no sound, smell, touch, or flavor to support your experience, so you need to entice your viewer’s tastebuds by way of their eyes.

You do this by drawing attention to visual details in your images which awakens the viewer’s senses. This process allows one to interpret the photograph according to personal preference and reminiscences of a particular dish.

The best photographers are those who never stop stretching their creative muscles, who always stay curious, and never stop learning.

Allow yourself to be a beginner. Don’t worry if you do not have expensive equipment or a studio, no one does when they start out.

Your eyes are your most powerful piece of photography equipment and mastering the art of observation is a must. Slow down and really observe the dish: see the highlights and shadows, look for the smallest details, and assess how can you translate your vision for a particular shot.

Your camera does not take the pictures, you do. Tell a story and remember the background is just as important as the subject matter itself.

Contrast is imperative. Sometimes a picture has more impact if some of the subject matter is blurred. Light is key and shadows can actually highlight the main component of a dish.

You are not only a photographer but also an artist. Every aspect has purpose intended. That being said, one might wonder what this has to do with home cooks? Everything!

Entertaining is an event and you want your festivities to be memorable. The presentation is just as important as the taste.

So, the next time you have company, think of yourself as a food photographer. Your dishes should be enticing so guests keep coming back. Most important, have fun and remain true to yourself.

Spring is around the corner, and menus need to reflect the change of seasons. Butterscotch crème brûlées are light, refreshing and tasty. They can be made in advance, which is al-

ways a good thing. Just save the caramelizing of the sugar until the day of the festivities.

A few helpful hints when making crème brûlées follow.

The tempering of the heated cream with the sugar and egg mixture is crucial to crème brûlées. A small amount of hot cream is added to the egg yolks. This process is repeated until the cream mixture and eggs are completely combined. Otherwise, the mixture will curdle and you will have to start all over again.

In addition, tempering the eggs allows for a natural thickening of the custard and is essential in developing the consistency of a crème brûlée.

Choosing the proper dish is the next consideration. Sometimes it’s the smallest detail that determines success or failure. The key to making a crème brûlée is making sure the dish is the right thickness.

Always use a dish that is designed specifically for a crème brûlée. The dish should be wide and shallow to ensure an even bake.

A water bath is essential for a crème brûlée’s velvety texture. A water bath insulates the custards from the direct heat of the oven because the water cannot exceed 212 degrees, unlike the air in an oven. Without a water bath, the outside of your custard would overcook before the center is done.

Understanding the science of a recipe not only enhances one’s knowledge, but also builds your confidence.

The element of surprise is essential in the art of entertaining. Crème brûlées are easy to make and butterscotch is an old-fashioned favorite. What more can a host ask for? Enjoy.

Butterscotch Crème Brûlée

Ingredients

½ stick unsalted butter

½ cup plus 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar

2 cups heavy cream

1 ½ tablespoons vanilla extract 5 large egg yolks

¼ cup granulated to caramelize the ramekins

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

2. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar gradually.

3. When mixture thickens and sugar has been completely dissolved, add heavy cream.

4. Heat until nearly hot, and then remove pan from heat.

5. Add vanilla and allow to sit for 15 minutes. If the sugar seizes, simply place the pan back on the heat on low

Light, refreshing dessert can be made in advance

Continued from Page 40

temperature, and constantly stir until the sugar dissolves.

6. Add a small amount of heated mixture to the egg yolks and whisk rapidly. Repeat this process until cream mixture and egg yolks are thoroughly combined.

7. Place ramekins into a roasting pan. Pour crème brulé mixture into ramekins. Pour water into roasting pan until it comes halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

8. Place in oven and bake until the center of the custard does not jiggle, about 45 to 55 minutes. The time will depend on depth and size of ramekins used.

9. When cool enough to handle, remove ramekins from roasting pan and refrigerate covered in plastic wrap for 4 hours or overnight.

10. Remove from refrigerator and cover surface of crème brûlée with a thin, even coating of granulated sugar.

11. Torch surface using a blow torch to melt and caramelize the sugar.

Makes approximately 8 small crème brûlées

Secret Ingredient – Gaining Weight

“There is no one standard definition of beauty or one perfect size.”

— Ashley Graham

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United Way hosts 20th annual Holiday Ball

Event raises $215K for programs, area nonprofits

(March 8, 2024) The United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore recently celebrated its 20th holiday ball at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge.

A news release said the event raised more than $215,000 to support the organization’s direct programs and nonprofit partners serving Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

Randy Scott, from Froggy 99.9’s Whiskey and Randy Show, served as the emcee for the event, which included live music by Gold City, a gourmet dinner, specialty drinks, treats and late-night fare.

Along with an online auction of trips and local specialties, fundraising included a chance to win more than $2,000 in gift cards, and a new signature item – The Golden Ticket –a limited availability drawing for one winner to receive a choice of four inclusive trips.

“The Holiday Ball is far more than an extra special celebration to usher in the holiday season. This is our largest fundraiser to support United Way’s year-round programs and

nearly 40 nonprofit partners annually,” Pam Gregory, the president and CEO of the United Way of the Lower Shore, said in the release. “Over 43% of Lower Shore households struggle each month to meet the very basic

needs, often working multiple jobs. This event helps us continue to work alongside our community partners to close gaps and open access to programs and opportunities for every neighbor to thrive.”

Members of the holiday ball committee, led by co-chairs Rush Stehley and Briana Mattern, worked all year with organization staff to make the event unforgettable, Gregory added.

PHOTO COURTESY JAMES SEIP PHOTOGRAPHY

United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore board member Laura Rodriguez, pictured third from left, and friends from PNC Bank pose together during the organization’s 2023 holiday ball, held recently at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge.

The Ocean Playland Amusement Park was developed by Jim Caine and opened on the bay at 65th Street on June 11, 1965. It was built on a section of filled land that measured 860 feet long and 375 feet wide.

At its peak Ocean Playland featured 42 rides including electric boats, a skyride, go-carts, and a 60-foot tall wooden roller coaster. A monorail circled the park giving magnificent views of the bayside, particularly at sunset.

Caine sold his interest in Ocean Playland in the early 1970s but the park continued to operate until the fall of 1980. The Town of Ocean City bought the property in 1982 and today the town’s public works department covers the grounds of the former amusement park.

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

Photo courtesy Earl Shores

Members of the 2023 United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore Holiday Ball Committee pose together during the organization’s 20th annual installment of the event at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge.

by Steve Green

AThe Adventures of Fatherhood

highlight of the latest “Driving with Beckett” installment was a trip to the dump.

It’s not called the dump anymore actually. It’s officially the Berlin Homeowners Convenience Center, but as Beckett, 15, said as he drove up to the place Sunday afternoon, “looks like a dump to me.”

No matter the terminology, it was his first time driving to a place like that. I am learning a lot from my experiences of driving with my teenager. Maybe it’s just me, but I have found my son has been tuned out all these years as a passenger in the vehicle. It’s become evident Beckett has not picked up anything along the way while being chauffeured all over the place. From what I see, I believe most parents share the experience. Most teens have their heads buried on a device of some sort while their parents are driving. What’s lost with their attention elsewhere are the observations and experiences they can learn from along the way. Nowadays when I am driving, I make Beckett pay close attention to help him gain more familiarity. That is, until my good intentions are replaced with other thoughts that lead to me zoning out. Not the best example for my son, I understand.

As luck would have it, the beautiful weather last Sunday brought dozens of vehicles to the place. Even for someone who has been driving for more than three decades, it was a tense scene as trucks and rural landowners lined up to make their deposits, while others utilized the recycling bins. We were there for the latter. At one point, a stressed Beckett offered to just turn around and avoid the chaos.

I was able to talk him through it, encouraging him to just go slow, stay to the left (“your other left” did have to be said during a flustered moment) and wait our turn at the recycling cans.

We were able to get out of the dump line and park to get rid of our recyclables. The stress level rose for Beckett when we got blocked in by vehicles waiting their turn to dump their trash. “Everybody is in such a hurry,” he observed, and I agreed, asking him to take note.

After a few minutes – he later told his mom we were blocked in for an hour –the attendant at the landfill removed a cone so we could get out of there.

Once we got out of the congested area, Beckett offered to pull over, saying he was good for the day. I encouraged him to keep going and to try driving on the highway. A drop of sweat then fell off his face, but it might have been my imagination. It was important to demonstrate confidence in him, while hoping he didn’t noticed my white knuckles on the door while he merged onto Route 113.

While there were a few hiccups that created learning moments, I am happy to report he did super. By the time we returned home, I am not sure who was more relieved to get out of the vehicle. On this particular drive, I would say it was Beckett because he left the engine running. Before he went inside, I asked if he forgot anything. He then grabbed his phone from the backseat and quickly realized what I was talking about.

ver the years, I have learned many folks are uncomfortable talking about special needs people.

I see it often when people ask me about Carson and how he is doing in school. Our close friends know we are willing to answer any questions about him and our life with him, but those a bit unfamiliar seem to tiptoe amid apprehension.

I always try to set people at ease by telling them no offense will be taken from questions or comments. I appre-

ciate the interest. Before Carson was born, I had little experience with special needs kids. I had heard of Autism but had no knowledge of the vastness associated with the spectrum. Every child on the spectrum has different strengths and weaknesses. Some talk a lot, while others don’t speak at all (this is where our Carson falls). Some have intelligence challenges, while others, like Carson, do well in school with supports. Almost all suffer from anxiety, but the levels vary, as the word spectrum implies.

When people inquire what life is like raising a special needs kids, I say there are challenges but the positives far outweigh the negatives. The gift is the perspective that comes with the unfortunate realities of the situation. It's a journey I would have never wished upon my family, but today I can’t imagine a life without our Carson. I have learned so much from him. Each step along our path comes with new challenges requiring all of us to adapt. There’s just no crystal ball to spell out the concerns ahead. We just pivot and adjust as needed.

A post on raisingtheextraordinary.com from 2017 says it well. It read, “Since there is no “getting through” this, we must learn how to cope or deal with the stress we face every day. In fact, I would argue it’s the most important thing we do as special needs parents. We need to acknowledge that special needs parenting is not a stage in our life we will work through. We need to determine the best possible way to deal with life the way it is, because our child’s disabilities are not going anywhere. Keeping our mental health in check is extremely important, we need to find healthy ways to cope.”

(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-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.)

Funds to support local households

Continued from Page 44

“Along with our incredible committee and sponsors, we also thank the hundreds of guests and online supporters, and extend our gratitude to Gift Card Bundle winner, Cari Ruppert, who donated her winnings back to UWLES to be shared with local teachers,” she said. “Everyone helped make the season of giving shine bright.”

The 2023 holiday ball sponsors were as follows:

Presenting Sponsor – Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa & Marina

Emerald Sponsor – Avery Hall Insurance Group

Gold Sponsors — Peninsula Plastic Surgery, Salisbury University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Sonya Whited

Silver Sponsors – Bank of Delmarva, Delmarva Power Exelon, Downtown Bridal, Hebron Savings Bank, James A List, Attorney At Law, M & T Bank, Ocean Downs Casino, Perdue Farms, Pohanka of Salisbury, Pool Tech, Taustin Group, and TidalHealth

Bronze Sponsors – Atlantic General Hospital, Amy Hasson, Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, PB Packaging, and Wor-Wic Community College

Titanium Sponsors – First Shore Federal, Palmer & Sandy Gillis, Holloway Funeral Home, JAStrand Consulting, Kuhn’s Jewelers, Mark Rudnick, and Wealthspire Advisors

Cobalt Sponsor – Rotary Club of Wicomico County

Event Highlight Sponsors –Mark Rudnick (Wine Wall), University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Portraits), and Salisbury University (Band)

Auction Partners — AmFund American Fundraising Foundation and HGA Fundraising.

The 2024 holiday ball, celebrating United Way’s 80th anniversary, is set for Dec. 7, at the Hyatt. For more information, or to inquire about early bird sponsorships, visit uwles.org, or call 410-742-5143.

Calendar

Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., March 8

8TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY FILM FESTIVAL

The 4-day festival will screen 100 independent films and offer socializing with the filmmakers. Held throughout Ocean City and surrounding areas. Tickets and information: https://ocmdfilmfestival.com.

YOUTH IMPACT SUMMIT 2024

Golden Sands Ocean Resort, 10900 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Held March 8-10. Youth advocates, industry professionals and change-makers converge for this conference. Reservations: www.villagebuilders2024.com/ and EventBrite.

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

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. 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

DOCUMENTARY ABOUT INLET VIEW CAMPGROUND AT OCEAN CITY FILM FESTIVAL

Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort, 9110 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 12-2 p.m. Tickets $35. Documentary about the last summer of Inlet View Campground at Ocean City Film Festival. 917-693-0171

HOMESCHOOL CAFE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Enjoy activities and refreshments and see what’s brewing. For families. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

‘REFLECTIONS’ JURIED SHOW AWARDS AND RECEPTION

Worcester County Arts Council, 6 Jefferson St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. View the 22 pieces of artwork completed by 16 local artists while enjoying complimentary refreshments. Awards presentation at 5 p.m. https://www.worcestercount-

yartscouncil.org

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘JUST AS I AM’ BY CICELY TYSON AND MICHELLE BURFORD

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 one-crab cake sandwich platter, $24 for two-crab cake sandwich platter and $10 for crab cake sandwich only. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Bake table too.

Sat., March 9

8TH ANNUAL OC FILM FESTIVAL

The 4-day festival will screen 100 independent films and offer socializing with the filmmakers. Held throughout Ocean City and surrounding areas. Tickets and information: https://ocmdfilmfestival.com.

INDOOR FLEA MARKET & BREAKFAST

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 8 a.m.-noon. Breakfast items of sale. 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com

OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9:30 a.m. Speaker will be Coast Keeper Taylor Swanson who will update local projects. Also new Pines Point Marina Store owners and members fishing tournament and charter trips updates. All welcome. 410-641-7662

BRUNCHY BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. March’s theme is “Stranger Than Fiction.” Light refreshments and casual discussion. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JOHN WATERS LIVE! WITH ‘HAIRSPRAY’ MOVIE

Ocean City Performing Arts CenterRoland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $59-$129. VIP with John Waters “Group Therapy” is $229. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/806079 05/john-waters-live-hairspraymovie-

ocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center. FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., March 10

8TH ANNUAL OC FILM FESTIVAL

The 4-day festival will screen 100 independent films and offer socializing with the filmmakers. Held throughout Ocean City and surrounding areas. Tickets and information: https://ocmdfilmfestival.com.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., March 11

‘IRISH’ YOU LUCK SCAVENGER HUNT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Use the clues to find answers to the Irish trivia questions. For ages 10 years and older. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LITTLE LEARNERS WITH THE OCEAN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT’S K9 AND MOUNTED UNIT

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ocean City Police K9 and mounted units along with story time and a craft. For ages 0-5 years but all are welcome. This program is free with free parking in the Inlet parking lot. www.ocmuseum.org, 410289-4991

STORY TIME: ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 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

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB: ‘SAVAGE APPETITES’ BY RACHEL MONROE

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Join in for an afternoon of true crime.

410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169 Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth Avery W. Hall Education Center - auditorium, 100 E. Carroll St., Salisbury, 6-7 p.m. Himani Pulivarthi, MD, of Peninsula Nephrology Associates, will discuss the impact of diabetes on kidney health and prevention of kidney disease. Free and open to the public. 410-543-7061

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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.

Tues., March 12

‘IRISH’ YOU LUCK SCAVENGER HUNT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Use the clues to find answers to the Irish trivia questions. For ages 10 years and older. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CLAY ‘N’ PLAY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Sculpt, squish, roll and stamp using the clay and tools. For ages 0-5 years. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Clap, sing and move to the beat. 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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

GENEALOGY 101

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Learn how to compile your family history and get tips on finding good sources. Individual help is not offered at

CALENDAR

Continued from Page 47

this program, but appointments are avaialble for one-on-one assistance. 410632-3495

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

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

GROWING UP WILD: SPIDER WEB WONDERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Learn about spiders and spiderwebs through a variety of activities. For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650

SONG CELEBRATION

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring a song and share it with other players and writers. Originals encouraged. Listeners welcome. Hosted by Mikel Campbell. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TIDES & VINE BOOK CLUB: ‘WHAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN’ BY HOLLY

MILLER

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. Join in for an evening of books and wine. Stop by the Snow Hill library to pick up your book. Must be 21 years of age. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHRISTIAN CONVERSATIONS

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6 p.m. Held Tuesday Feb. 20-March 26. A free moderated group discussion based on the works of C.S. Lewis. Everyone is welcome. Explore a great opportunity for Lenten reflection. 410-641-7052

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Guest speaker will be Scott Lenox of “Fish in O.C.” magazine and TV. Topic will be “Spring Flounder Fishing.” Food and refreshments available at 6:15 p.m. The public is cordially invited.

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.

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

OC KNITTING CLUB

Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal High-

way, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., March 13

‘IRISH’ YOU LUCK SCAVENGER HUNT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Use the clues to find answers to the Irish trivia questions. For ages 10 years and older. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a silly morning full of movement and music themed stories, songs and interactive activities to get everyone moving. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ST. PATRICK’S DAY STEM

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Can you create a trap so clever that a leprechaun couldn’t escape? Drop in for this STEM challenge. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ADULT CRAFT: BOOK PAGE WREATH

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Take a leaf out of the library’s old books and create a beautiful wreath. Limit 30. First come, first serve. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

VINTAGE SEED PACKET PAPIER MACHE BOXES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. These decorative boxes make great gifts. The box tops will be decorated with vintage seed packet covers. Limit 12. Registration required: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

D&D GAME NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. D&D game for adults and teens. Limit 15. Registration required: 410-6323495. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE SQUARE DANCE LESSONS

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7-8:30 p.m. Pine Steppers Square Dance Club welcome singles and couples. barbcroos@gmail.com, 908-229-8799, 302-222-4448

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Takes place the first and second Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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

Thurs., March 14

FINANCIAL LITERACY: EMPLOYEE & RETIREMENT SAVINGS WITH MD SAVES

Berlin Maryland Welcome Center, 14 S. Main St., 8 a.m. Breakfast and coffee provided. Free. https://www.eventbrite. com/cc/fls-2024-2945089?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery &utm-term=odclsxcollection&; utm-source=cp&aff=escb.

‘IRISH’ YOU LUCK SCAVENGER HUNT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Use the clues to find answers to the Irish trivia questions. For ages 10 years and older. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORYTIME: PI DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Create your own pie and learn all about Pi Day. For ages 2-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FAIRY LANTERNS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Create decorative and lighted mason jars. Limit 12. Registration required: 410-9570878. 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.

THURSDAY CRAFTERNOON: SPRING DOOR HANGINGS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Create door hangings to welcome spring. All materials provided. Register: 410-641-

0650 or www.worcesterlibrary.org.

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5-6 p.m. Join licensed Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required for each class: 410524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STEAM

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5 p.m. Create, explore and express yourself while developing your own STEAM skills. From origami to coding. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONGOING EVENTS

COMMUNITY JOURNAL: TELL HER STORY Pocomoke library, 301 Market St., during March. Share a story about a woman who has inspired you and share your thoughts and hopes for a better future. 410-9570878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STEAM STATION

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during March. 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. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CRAFTERS & VENDORS NEEDED FOR FAIR

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, April 13. Requesting a $20 donation per table. Deadline to reserve a spot is March 8. Linda, 443-604-8068, p.grahe@comcast.net

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

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

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Full-Time Office Person

Local Family-Owned Business is looking for a Full-Time Office Person. Applicant should be computer savvy, have good phone skills, punctual, and willing to work in a small busy office environment. Applicants should email resume to office@fireprotectiveservices.com

HIRING: General Manager, Marketing Assistant, Line Cooks, Sous Chefs, Audio/ Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber, Receivers, Liquor Store Attendant Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

OFFICE MANAGER/SALES

Are you a team player? Someone who follows through? Need a chance to make your mark, and make a difference? We are looking to add a talented person to our high-energy team.

Candidates should have a customer-service background, and be extremely detail-oriented. This is a chance to shine with your multi-tasking tools, and to build and maintain a customer base. You must be proficient in Microsoft Office, have strong communication skills and a terrific work ethic. This is your golden opportunity to join a winning team. E-mail resume with OFFICE MANAGER in the subject line to: AdSales@coastalpoint.com

Coconuts and The Beach House Restaurant at Castle in the Sand Hotel Housekeeping Supervisor

Room Attendants

Hotel Runners

Front Desk Staff Night Auditor Pool Guards

The Castle in the Sand Hotel is hiring for the 2024 season. These are full time seasonal positions with a pay range from $16-$19/hour. Pay is commensurate with experience. Send resume to bob @castleinthesand.com or apply in person at The Castle in the Sand Hotel, 37th Street and Oceanfront, Ocean City Md.

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER

Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker position available for our 87th St. Ocean City, MD location and our Willards, MD location. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please email resume to kris.derickson@fbwband.com

Application cut off is 3-15-2024

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

Now Hiring Summer

2024 Positions for Sun Outdoors

Ocean City!

Looking for bartenders, cashiers, cooks, housekeepers, activities attendants, front desk agents, security, and maintenance!

Starting at $15/hour and up! Call 410-213-0097 or email careers@ eoshospitality.com to inquire.

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Now Hiring Year-Round GM Position

Great starting salary, paid vacation. Must have restaurant experience. Apply in person at The Greene Turtle West OC on Route 611.

AA/EOE

SEASONAL POSITIONS

• Night Watch

• General Clerical

PART-TIME POSITIONS Apply online: DelawareStateJobs.com

Exciting opportunity to work in a fun family-oriented environment. Bayside Rehab is seeking candidates to join our team at our Wallops facility. Bayside Rehab is looking for a full time Physical Therapist and Physical Therapy Assistant to further build our professional staff. The positions are located in Wallops Island, VA. We offer a very competitive salary with benefits. If interested, you can stop at any of our locations to fill out an application, or you can email your resume to Chakira Smith at Chakira@baysiderehab.com

Ocean Aviation Flight Academy seeks Office Assistant

Growing Flight Academy with campuses in Berlin, Maryland and Georgetown, Delaware seeks Exceptional Candidate to join our team. Professional Friendly office environment. F/T Weekend availability is a plus. Year Around Position. Responsible for student interaction, dispatch and check in of flights, filing, retail sales and keeping our offices neat and clean. Must be customer oriented and be proficient in data entry and have good computer skills. Previous office or educational experience necessary.

Please forward resume to mfreed@flyoceanaviation.com

We prefer initial contact be through e-mail only. Qualified applicants will be contacted for in person interviews.

Pool Attendant Wanted

10 AM - 6 PM Part time seasonal $16 per hour. Basic duties but not limited to: ~monitor traffic for proper entrance band ~keep pool and restroom area clean and amenities stocked ~enforce safety regulations Call 410-524-9400

PoolGeneral 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.

Boat Yard Help Needed at West Ocean City boat yard. Call 410-213-2296.

We are looking for a Dependable Handyman that can complete various remodeling and maintenance tasks in Ocean City and surrounding areas. Remodeling job duties include painting, hanging drywall, finish work, minor electrical, minor plumbing, trim, cabinetry and installing floors. You must be able to lift at lease 50 lbs., be proficient with hand and power tools and have a good driving record. Email ocjobs@paramountserv.com or Call 903-814-4469.

BOOKKEEPER NEEDED

Full time. Flexible hours available. Fruitland, MD. Excellent pay. Real Estate & Property Rental. Must have Degree in Accounting. Please email your resume/contact info to office@ fenzelinvestments.com

KITCHEN SUPERVISOR BAR SUPERVISOR

Coconuts at The Castle in the Sand Hotel is looking to add to our management team with one front of the house supervisor, one back of the house supervisor. MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE. Full-time seasonal positions starting at up to $19/hour, pay commensurate with experience. Send resume to jeff@castleinthesand.com or apply in person at Castle in the Sand Hotel, 37th Street and Oceanfront, Ocean City.

FULL TIME LOAN OFFICER Ocean City, MD

Farmers Bank of Willards has a Full Time Loan Officer position available in Ocean City, MD Looking for professional and driven individuals with commercial and consumer lending experience. Strong business development skills are a must.

Please send resume to: Kris.derickson@fbwbank.com “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

Hiring: Massage Therapist/Aesthetician

Cosmetologist West Ocean City Commission/Room Rent 410-600-3437

RENTALS

Summer Seasonal Rental 2BR/1 bath Garage Apt., bayside on 26th St. Occupancy 6. $13,000 plus $1,000 security dep. Comes with A/C, parking for 1, free WiFi and shared laundry facilities. Resort Rentals, 410-524-0295.

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

Fully Furnished Townhouse, 4BR/2BA, Living Room, Dining Room. Water, Electric and Cable not included. $2100/month. Located at 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD 21811. 410-456-0272

Yearly lease. One month security deposit and one month rent upfront.

Commercial Space For Rent West 2500 sq. feet. rental@ ocsandyfeetretreat.com Industrial Warehouse. Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

SURF SHOP CLOSEOUTS

Clothing from $5, Shoes, Sandals, Wetsuits, Bikinis, Hats, Surf, Skate & Bodyboards. 12703

Sunset Ave., West OC.

March 16 & 17,

ROOMMATES

Roommate. Female. Large Condo on Water, 2BR, 2 full ba., sunroom, facing Fager’s Island. Room for privacy. Some storage space. 410-202-9434

Price negotiable.

Houseshare. Furnished rooms in South Ocean Pines. All inclusive. $800 per month. Year-round. No smoking. No pets. Call 443-880-2317.

- NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC#6258

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

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

56 COASTAL DR. BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated February 28, 2007, recorded in Liber 4907, Folio 71 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $66,400.00, 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

MARCH 12, 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. The property will be sold subject to 2 prior mortgages, the amounts to be announced at the time of sale, if made available to the Substitute Trustees.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $5,000 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 responsi-

ble for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. 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. 357188-1)

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees OCD-2/22/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-23-000273 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 3:30 p.m., at the front door of Oceana Condominium Unit No. P-8, Building 2, 8203 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceana Condominium Unit No. P-8, Building 2, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established by Declaration and Bylaws recorded among the land records of Worcester County in Liber No. 442, folio 354, et seq., as amended, and as further described in a deed recorded at Liber 4376, folio 372, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the

Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400.

OCD-2/22/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-23-000230 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 4:00 p.m., at the front door of Pin Tail Point Condominium Unit No. 316, 778 94th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Pin Tail Point Condominium Unit No. 316, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established by Declaration and Bylaws recorded among the land records of Worcester County in Liber No. 1048, folio 426, et seq., as amended, and as further described in a deed recorded at Liber 2507, folio 313, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper,

Trustee, 410-723-1400.

OCD-2/22/3t

Aleksejs Buinovskis

37494 Oliver Road

Selbyville DE 19975

Plaintiff v.

Lelia M. Rowe

Address Unknown

All Unknown owners of property and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property described as the "James B. Collins Tract", containing three (3) acres ofland, more or less, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James B. Collins by Deed dated February 17, 1918 and recorded among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Row and Lelia M. Rowe, his wife, the Unknown Owner's heirs, devisees, and personal Representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right title and interest

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-23-000081

REVISED ORDER OF DEFAULT

Upon consideration of Plaintiff's Request for Entry of Order of Default, it is this 16th of February, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED, that Plaintiff's Request for Order of Default against Defendants be, and the same is hereby, GRANTED. The Court enters an Order of Default against Defendant Lelia M. Rowe (a/k/a "Lelia W. Rowe" a/k/a "Leila Ware Rowe") and Defendant All Unknown Owners of Property and all personal that have or claim to have any interest in the property I described in the Complaint filed herein for failure to file a responsive pleading to Plaintiff's Complaint to Quiet Title; and it is further ORDERED, that the Clerk of this Court shall be caused to be published this Revised Order of Default in a newspaper of general circulation published in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, giving notice to the unknown testate and intestate successors of Leila M. Rowe (a/k/a "Lelia W. Rowe" a/k/a "Leila Ware Rowe"), deceased, and all person claiming by, through, or under the decedent, and all persons that have or claim to have any legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the property described in the Complaint and Cross Claim as the "James B. Collins Tract," containing three (3) acres of land, more or less, on the north side of Bunting Road, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James B. Collins by Deed dated February 19, 1918 and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Rowe and Leila Rowe,

his wife, and being more particularly described in the Complaint filed in this matter, that this Revised Order of Default has been entered and that any interested person must request this Court to vacate the Revised Order of Default on or before March 16, 2024 by filing an appropriate motion with this Court, and, if no such motion is filed, a judgment by default shall be entered in favor of Plaintiff.

Beau H. Oglesby JUDGE

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Worcester County MD OCD-2/22/3t

REENA J. PATEL 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. 20086

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN GULSHEN

Notice is given that Susan Luff, 13038 Riggin Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on February 16, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Gulshen who died on February 04, 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 16th 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.

Susan Luff

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 22, 2024

VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ.

AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO 20084

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS court of SUSSEX COUNTY, MARYLAND appointed MARY E WILGUS whose address is 35828 WILD GANDER LN FRANKFORD, DE 19945-4537, MELISSA ANN EVANS whose address is 35839 WILD GANDER LN FRANKFORD, DE 19945-4537 as the CO-EXECUTRICES of the Estate of CONNIE L WILGUS who died on OCTOBER 18, 2023 domiciled in DELAWARE, UNITED STATES

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is VICTORIA L. O'NEILL, ESQ whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

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

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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 two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/22/3t

KHURRAM RIAZ

429 W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863 Plaintiff, v.

HILBORN MANAGEMENT CORP.

Attn: Suzanne Hilborn 74 Padgett Drive Bluffton, SC 29909 Defendant, and

WORCESTER COUNTY

Attn: Phil Thompson 1 West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant, and

ALL PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN

CO, MD

DESCRIBED AS:

U1S ST LOUIS AVE

WILLOW'S CM, Tax Account # 10209633, Defendant. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-24-000020 ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No.10-209633, Property description U1S ST LOUIS AVE WILLOW'S CM, Deed Reference: 652/251, Assessed to HILBORN MANAGEMENT CORP, owned by HILBORN MANAGEMENT CORP. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is, thereupon this 7th of February, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th of April, 2024 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley

Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/22/3t _________________________________

ALEKSEJS BUINOVSKIS

Plaintiff and PETER A. BRZUCHALSKI, et ux.

Defendants/Cross-Plaintiffs vs.

LELIA M. ROWE (a/k/a "Lelia W. Rowe" a/k/a "Lelia Ware Rowe") and

HARRY WILLIAM PUSEY

1034 S. Bradford St. Dover, DE 19904, et al. and

All Unknown owners of property and all Persons that have or claim to have any Interest in the property described in the "James B. Collins Tract," containing three (3) acres of land more or less, on the north side of Bunting Road, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James B. Collins by Deed dated February 17, 1918 and recorded among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Rowe and Lelia M. Rowe, his wife.

Defendants/Cross-Defendants

Cross-Plaintiffs' Request for Order of Default having been read and considered, it is, hereby, ORDERED, that an Order of Default be and it is hereby entered against each and all of the Cross-Defendants herein for failure to plead, and

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, that the Clerk of this Court shall cause to be published this Order of Default in a newspaper of general circulation published in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, giving notice to the unknown testate and intestate successors of Lelia M. Rowe (a/k/a "Lelia W. Rowe" a/k/a "Lelia Ware Rowe"), deceased, and all person claiming by, through, or under the decedent, and all persons that have or claim to have any legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the property described in the Complaint and Cross-Claim as the "James B. Collins Tract," containing three (3) acres of land, more or less, on the north side of Bunting Road, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James B. Collins by Deed dated February 17, 1918 and recorded among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Rowe and Lelia M. Rowe, his wife, and being more particularly described in the Complaint and Cross-Claim filed in this matter, that this Order of Default has been entered and that said Cross-Defendants may request this Court to vacate the Order on or before March 16, 2024, by filing an appropriate motion with this Court, and if no such motion is filed, a judgment by default shall be entered in favor of the Cross-Plaintiffs.

Beau H. Oglesby JUDGE

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Worcester County MD OCD-2/29/3t

ERIN MICHAEL MCCORMACK, ESQ.

101 MONUMENT STREET SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20090

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Kent County, Delaware appointed Christopher L. Price, 144 Asbury Loop, Middletown, DE 19709-8656 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Michael N. Price who died on May 25, 2022 domiciled in Delaware, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Erin Michael McCormack whose address is 101 Monument Street, Salisbury, MD 21804.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.

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

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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 two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Christopher L. Price Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: February 29, 2024 OCD-2/29/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY MARCH 14, 2024

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 p.m. Case No. 24-16, on the lands of S.D. Hoffman Family, LLC, requesting a special exception to allow an outdoor recreation establishment and a variance to the front yard setback from an arterial highway from 100 feet to 60.16 feet (to encroach 39.84 feet), both for the expansion of Grand Prix Amusements in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-210, ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325, located east of and adjoining 12424 Ocean Gateway, Tax Map 26, Parcel 295, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 24-14, on the lands of Dixie Porter, requesting an after-the-fact special exception to allow 6-foot-tall fencing 21.8 feet into a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), & ZS 1-305(k)(3) located at 9822 Keyser Point Road, Tax Map 26, Parcel 334, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 24-13, on the lands of Ricky Caudill, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the rear yard setback from 25 feet to 21.37 feet (to encroach 3.63 feet) for an existing deck and stairs in a Residen-

tial Planned Community, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-315, located at 11332 River Run Lane, Tax Map 16, Parcel 102, Section 1, Lot 52, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 24-11, on the lands of Joseph Bordenski, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 15.05 feet (to encroach 14.95 feet) and a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 40.59 (to encroach 9.41 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located on Snug Harbor Road about 1,002 feet east of the intersection with Meadow Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Section A, Lot 21, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case No. 24-20, on the lands of Robert Baker, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 23.85 feet (to encroach 6.15 feet) for an existing deck and steps in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206 & ZS 1-305 located at 12518 Selsey Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Block 19, Lot 3, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 24-18, on the lands of Island Resort Park, Inc., on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a special exception to expand an existing non-conforming campground, to add 62 campsites and a variance to the required setback to an “R” district from 1,000 feet to 861.34 feet (to encroach 138.66 feet), pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-122(d)(2) & ZS 1-318, located at 9537 Cropper’s Island Road, Tax Map 40, Parcels 93 & 241, Lot C, Tax District 4, Worcester County, Maryland.

OCD-2/29/2t

MCALLISTER DETAR SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC BRENDAN MULLANEY ESQ.

100 N WEST ST EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20087

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ Court of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania appointed Sherri Anhn Romano, 930 Northridge Dr., West Norriton, PA 19403-2997 as the Executrix of the Estate of Robert Craig Glass Jr. who died on October 29, 2023 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Brendan Mullaney whose address is 100 N. West Street, Easton, Maryland 21601.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims

with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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 two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Sherri Anhn Romano

Foreign Personal Representative

Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street

Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper:

Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication:

February 29, 2024

OCD-2/29/3t

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES

204 WEST GREEN STREET

P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21963

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20075

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EMMA SPENCER CHERRIX

AKA: EMMA MAE CHERRIX

Notice is given that Brenda C. Evans, 5909 Wallace Dr., Snow Hill, MD 21863-4033, was on February 21, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Emma Spencer Cherrix who died on February 03, 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 21st 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.

Brenda C. Evans

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 29, 2024

OCD-2/29/3t

ESTATE NO. 20083

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ Court of Delaware. County, Pennsylvania appointed Jeffrey M. Schlerf, 391 Wilmington W Chester Pike Ste. 3, Glen Mills, PA 193428211 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Gilbert Warren Schlerf who died on October 11, 2023 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Andrew Mommé whose address is 27671 Harness Lane, Salisbury, Maryland 21801.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

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

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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 two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Jeffrey M. Schlerf

Foreign Personal Representative

Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper:

Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: February 29, 2024

OCD-2/29/3t

_________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20089

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DANIEL HARRY RUTH

Notice is given that Diane Crislip, 1018 Marleigh Cir., Towson, MD 21204-2205, was on February 20, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Daniel Harry Ruth who died on January 08, 2024, with a will.

Further information can be ob-

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of 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.

Diane Crislip

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 29, 2024

OCD-2/29/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RODNEY WILLIAM SNYDER Estate No. 20092 Notice is given that LYNNE SWEEZY SNYDER whose address is 7 WHITE HORSE DR., OCEAN PINES, MD 21811-1610 was on FEBRUARY 21, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RODNEY WILLLIAM SNYDER who died on JULY 31, 2021 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of 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-2/29/3t

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

CARRIE M. WARD, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs.

ANDREA J. SCHLOTTMAN

37 Liberty Street

Ocean Pines A/R/T/A Berlin, MD 21811

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-22-000260

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 27th day of February, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 37 Liberty Street, Ocean Pines A/R/T/A Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 1st day of April, 2024, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 25th day of March, 2024.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $305,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/29/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as

the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, March 14, 2024

At 2:00 p.m.

PW 24-011 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings not to exceed 20’ channelward past existing pier. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 204 S HERON DR UNIT104E Parcel # 6067A-104 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: John & Joann Erb

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 24-012 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings and one 8.5’ x 4’ pier extension not to exceed past existing piling, maximum channelward extension 25’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2413 BAY FRONT

LN Parcel # 3203 -AA7 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ken Pfaff

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 24-013 A request has been submitted to extend four existing mooring piles channelward by 1.5’ on two separate existing piers not to exceed channelward extension of 14’10” on the south pier and 15’3” on the north pier. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1505 ST LOUIS

AVE Parcel # 3349 -34 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Acres R Us, LLC

OCD-2/29/2t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ELSIE G. WATERS AKA: ELSIE GUNBY WATERS, ELSIE GUNBY Estate No. 20041 Notice is given that VICTORIA MATTHEWS whose address is 2112 SOUTHERN FIELDS DR., POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-2615 was on FEBRUARY 23, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ELSIE G. WATERS 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 23RD 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-2/29/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-95(1)(a) has been filed to request (1) a variance of 3.4 feet from the 5-foot rear yard setback requirement for a proposed pool; and (2) a variance of 2 feet from the 6-foot height maximum for a proposed fence to exist at 8 feet in height. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 78 of the Caine Keys II Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of Shifting Sands Drive and is locally known as 10609 Shifting Sands Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JASON MILLER (BZA 2678 #24-0950001) at 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(2) and 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(3)(a), 110-95(1)(a), and 11094(2)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception to allow for an additional two stories to exist 7.5 feet in the front yard setback; and (2) a variance to allow for a roof to exist within the 10-foot front yard setback and to be 3.83 feet from the side lot line; and (3) a special parking exception to allow for 8 parking spaces to be in a tandem stacked configuration; and (4) a special parking exception from design standards to reduce

the required 9’ X 20’ parking spaces to accommodate two 6 inch encroachments for support columns. Pursuant to Section 110-98, the applicant has also requested that an approval be valid for three (3) years. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 7 and 8, Block 7, of the Sinepuxent Beach Plat. It is further described as being located on northwest corner of 6th Street and Atlantic Avenue, the Boardwalk, and is locally known as 605 and 607 Atlantic Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ. ATTY FOR 601 ATLANTIC, LLC, 605 ATLANTIC, LLC, AND SAS PARTNERSHIP, LLC (BZA 2679 #24-0940003)

at 6:20 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special parking exception to waive 2 parking spaces of the required 10 parking spaces; and (2) for the 8 remaining parking spaces to be 9’ X 18’ rather than 9’ X 20’, as required by Code. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 242 of the Caine Harbor Mile, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, Section 1 Plat. It is further described as being located on the northwest corner of Coastal Highway and Newport Bay Drive and is locally known as 11651 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JDACAI OCEAN CITY, LLC ATTN: DAVE EYNON (BZA 2680 #24-0940004)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-3/7/1t

BID SOLICITATION ANIMAL CONTROL INCINERATOR

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for the purchase and installation of a new incinerator at the County’s Animal Control Building in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third-party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Wednesday,

PUBLIC NOTICE

The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.

The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 03/01/2024

All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.

AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police OCD-2/29/3t

March 27, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Animal Control Incinerator " in the lower left- hand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of the solicitation.

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-3/7/1t

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 DANIEL WAYNE BRIDDELL Estate No. 20097 Notice is given that SHERRY L BRIDDELL whose address is 102 ELIZABETH STREET BERLIN, MD 21811, DONALD JARMON whose address is 3913 MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MD 21863 were on MARCH 01, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DANIEL WAYNE BRIDDELL who died on DECEMBER 12, 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 1st day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/7/3t

RICK TODD

5850 WATERLOO RD., STE. 140 COLUMBIA, MD 21045-1944

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 20094

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES D. PERKINS

AKA: JAMES DWIGHT PERKINS

Notice is given that Jennifer Marie McKinney, 8773 Mission Rd., Jessup, MD 20794-3943, was on Feb-

ruary 29, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of James D. Perkins who died on September 15, 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 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.

Jennifer Marie McKinney

Personal Representative

True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County

Terri Westcott

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of FREDRICK LEE ROYER Estate No. 17909 Notice is given that ROBERT EARL ROYER whose address is 3637 9TH STREET, NORTH BEACH, MD 20736 was on FEBRUARY 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FREDRICK LEE ROYER who died on MAY 25, 2019 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 29th 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-3/7/3t

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

Estate No. 13911

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DORETHA MAE CORBIN TAYLOR

Notice is given that B. Randall Coate Esq., 204 W. Green St., Snow Hill, MD 21863-1057, was on February 13, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Doretha Mae Corbin Taylor who died on July 16, 2010, 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 represen-

tative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th day of 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.

B. Randall Coates 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: March 07, 2024 OCD-3/7/3t

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20101

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DIANE K. PELLETIER

Notice is given that Paul L. Gasior, 615 N. Pacific Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842-5141, was on March 04, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Diane K. Pelletier who died on February 08, 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 4th day of September, 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.

Paul L. Gasior

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: March 07, 2024

OCD-3/7/3t

JONATHON C SCRUGGS ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MATTHEW S EVANS, III

113 CATHEDRAL STREET ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of PATRICIA ANN HIPSZER Estate No. 20103 Notice is given that MARK SAXON whose address is 1209 BASIL COURT BEL AIR, MD 21014 was on MARCH 05, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PATRICIA ANN HIPSZER who died on FEBRUARY 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 5th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/7/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Self-storage Cube contents will be sold for cash by CubeSmart Asset Management, LLC as Agent for the Owner of 11750 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City MD 21842 to satisfy a lien for rental on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, approx. 1:00 PM at www.storagetreasures.com.

OCD-3/7/1t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a "B" B/W/L and Request to designate as Multiple License #2 for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Francesco Fidanza, 2230 Route 17 M. Middletown, New York 10942; Kevin Eugene Decker 10308 Quarter Deck, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Tipsy Taco, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Tipsy Taco at Lankford Hotel 8th Street & Boardwalk 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: March 20, 2024 @ 1:00 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/7/2t

Reps discuss tourism, RV, tax bills

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 8, 2024) Eastern Shore lawmakers continue to introduce amendments related to economic competitiveness in Annapolis.

This week, three fiscal bills supported by Del. Wayne Hartman (R38C) were heard in the General Assembly.

House Bill 1281, Economic Development—Tourism Zones—Designation and Benefits, was heard by the Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, Feb. 29. The legislation would give municipalities and counties the authority to declare tourism sectors and create tax exemptions from admission fees for businesses that engage in vacation-related activities, such as amusement parks, in the designated areas.

The proposed tourism act would also allow local zones to give property tax credits to qualifying enterprises, incentivizing businesses to open up or expand in the selected spot. Hartman said the bill has faced zero opposition and is supported by the Maryland Tourism Coalition.

Senate Bill 923 was heard before the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee on Wednesday, Feb. 28. The proposed law, also called the Economic Competitiveness Act of 2024,

would decrease the state corporate income tax from 8.25% to 6.25% over five taxable years. Hartman is a strong advocate for the legislation.

“I’m concerned Maryland is becoming less appealing to businesses looking for a location to call home,” he said.

Last week, the House Environment and Transportation Committee heard Senate Bill 60, Worcester County Motor Home and Recreational Trailer Shows—Out-of-State Dealers. SB60 would allow non-Maryland RV sellers to attend shows and display their products in Worcester County, particularly at the Ocean City Convention Center.

The law stipulates that no deposit is to be collected. However, it provides Marylanders interested in purchasing an RV with additional options. According to Hartman, approximately 10 Delaware dealerships are closer to Worcester County than the nearest Maryland vendor.

The bill was introduced in the previous session yet faces no resistance this year. Supporters are hopeful it will pass.

Hartman also emphasizes the economic benefit of an enhanced Ocean City RV show, as sellers would spend their money at the town’s restaurants, hotels, and attractions.

Maryland Matters reported that Delegate Ben Barnes (D-Prince George’s and Anne Arundel), the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, presented a tax increase on alcohol and cigarettes to generate revenue as the state faces a projected structural deficit of $3 billion by fiscal year 2028.

House Bill 1073 would raise the current tax on a package of cigarettes. House Bill 1072 proposes to “increase the sales and use tax from 9% to 10% applied to certain sales of alcoholic beverages.” If passed, the amendments are projected to generate nearly $90 million.

“Some would say we can sort of try to cut our way out of the problems we face,” Barnes said at the Feb. 27 hearing in front of the Ways and Means Committee. “Let me tell you, from my seat, $3 billion—those are not cuts that we will be able to make and balance a budget. Three billion dollars is the cancellation of the Blueprint program. It’s cutting Medicaid, community colleges, higher education, and everything that makes our state great.”

Hartman has expressed his reservations, saying, “These bills would push customers to purchase in our neighboring states, like Delaware, which has no sales tax. It would be detrimental to local businesses.”

Council eyes new garage parking dimension

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) Officials directed town staff this week to come back with new recommendations for the dimensions of garage parking spaces.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council had before them the first reading of an ordinance that would increase the size of garage parking spaces to 12-by-24 feet. Following a back-and-forth debate, however, officials opted to take no action, and instead directed City Manager Terry McGean to come back with a recommendation that considered a new depth, width or drive aisle size that could accommodate larger vehicles without hurting developers.

“I think we’re trying to be reasonable,” Mayor Rick Meehan said.

During a joint session with the town’s planning commission last week, the council agreed to advance a proposed code amendment on garage parking to a first reading. Back on the agenda this week, Councilman Peter Buas made a motion to reject the ordinance.

While he acknowledged the planning commission’s concerns about garage

parking, he said the proposed changes did not benefit the community. He argued the proposed 12-by-24-foot parking space went above and beyond what was currently required and could downzone properties.

“We want to encourage people to build garages. It’s better for the community …,” he added. “If we take away, or increase the size requirements for garages, people are no longer going to build garages. They will build open parking underneath, which I don’t think is the premium product we are looking for. “

For his part, Meehan said something needed to be done to address garage parking. He said he didn’t support an outright rejection of the ordinance.

“I think the size of the spaces within a garage need to be larger or wider,” he said. “The garage needs to be more usable. If not, you are putting more cars out on the street. And I don’t think that benefits the community. I think better products are what benefit the community in the long run, and usable garages make the difference.”

Council President Matt James encouraged the council to compromise on

the size of garage parking spaces. He said he believed the proposed dimension was too large, but said officials could consider a change to the parking depth.

“If we go deeper, that gives room for storage that may occur,” he suggested.

For his part, Councilman John Gehrig agreed the proposed dimension was too big. He said regardless of size, people who wanted to use their garages as storage rather than parking would continue to do so.

“We need to decide, if people want to use it as a garage, will it be big enough to actually use it as a garage …,” he said. “I really don’t care how people use their unit.”

James said he had initially supported a garage parking space that was 10 feet wide. He noted, however, that it would reduce the number of units a developer could potentially build on the lot. Local developer Jeff Thaler reiterated that point during public comments Tuesday.

“If you go 10 feet or above, you lose a unit …,” he said. “There’s no way to make the math work.”

McGean told the council Tuesday part of the problem with the town’s current parking requirement, 9-by-20 feet per space, is not necessarily the dimension, but the tight turning radius when entering a garage. He said at Sanibel Seas, a new townhouse development in Ocean City, residents had to make a 90degree turn to park in their garages.

“What happens is, when you have one vehicle in there, particularly at the 20foot depth … as the vehicle is trying to get in, it is clipping the wall or the vehicle next to it,” he explained.

McGean said a solution would be to increase the depth of a garage parking space, which would allow cars to pull further into a garage.

“Maybe we should look to see what the minimum size is that will work with a hard right,” he said. “Maybe we don’t need the 12-foot width, but a narrower

space with a deeper size.”

Thaler told officials this week he saw no problems with the current parking code. He also provided the council with pictures of one of his developments, which could fit two cars and shelving into a 19-by-20-foot garage.

“I don’t think we should just use Sanibel Seas as the example,” he said. “That was approved by the commission and if it didn’t work it shouldn’t have been approved by the commission. And to make a change based on that one project is not fair to the smaller projects, the 12 units, the 10 units, the two units.”

He noted, however, that if the town were to consider a new dimension, that the depth should be changed.

“If you want to make some more room, depth is the way to go,” he said.

McGean said the drive aisle should be considered. He said a narrower space could require a larger drive aisle, while a wider space could require a smaller drive aisle.

“With a little bit more calculation, engineering, we can come up with the minimum you need,” he said. “It doesn’t serve us to guess at this.”

Meehan suggested that McGean come back to the council with other recommendations. Buas, however, said he was concerned that any changes would require a new ordinance and another public hearing before the planning commission.

“If there’s a different combination that works with the size of a project, a drive aisle or whatever, that’s a different joint session and a different public hearing on a completely different ordinance,” he said.

With no further discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Gehrig opposed, to reject the ordinance on first reading. However, when it was learned officials could simply take no action, the council voted unanimously to rescind the previous motion.

Sunday

Sunday

FEMA flood hazard tools

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(March 8, 2024) FEMA’s individualized approach to risk assessment is built on years of investment in flood hazard information, and one of the tools they provide for homeowners is their Flood Insurance Mitigation Discount tool online at floodsmart.gov/flood-insurancemitigation-discount-tool.

By using current data, flood models, and technology, FEMA considers many risk factors for individual properties, including frequency of flooding, multiple flood types, distance to a flooding source, and property characteristics such as elevation and the cost to rebuild. You can

visit FEMA’s website and enter answers to questions on your: foundation, first floor height, mitigation discounts for machinery/equipment, and number of flood openings.

Once you answer the questions online, the estimator tool determines the percentage discount you are entitled to on your national flood insurance that are generally applied to the building and contents premium. Mitigation efforts, community programs, and other discounts can help reduce flood damage and, potentially, the cost of flood insur-

ance.

Elevation certificates help inform mitigation actions that will lower flood risk, but they are no longer required to purchase coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program’s pricing approach, Risk Rating 2.0. Instead, FEMA uses tools and resources to determine the first-floor height of a building as one of the factors used when calculating rates. However, a property owner may choose to provide an elevation certificate and submit it to their agent to determine if it will lower their cost of insurance.

— Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.

City manager to present options

Continued from Page 62

“If the desire is to not send this back to the planning commission and have another public hearing then there should be a motion to either change the numbers or do something different …,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said. “To be clear, I’m not convinced we are not headed back to the planning commission, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.”

After another lengthy debate about what staff should be directed to do, Councilwoman Carol Proctor made a motion to have McGean come back with a recommendation that considers different options for the width and depth of a garage parking space, as well as the drive aisle. The motion passed 6-1, with Buas opposed.

Planning Commissioner Palmer Gillis said this week he was disappointed with

the council’s discussion and the lack of consideration for existing neighborhoods in Ocean City.

“What’s really disappointing in the discussion is while a couple of councilmembers were trying to appease the development community, not one of them discussed how these projects impact our existing neighborhoods and taxpayers,” he said. “Not one of them.”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARDS CELEBRATION

PHOTOS COURTESY DANA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards celebration last Friday at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. (Above left) Among the highlights of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement award presentation to White Marlin Open founder Jim Motsko. Pictured, from left, are Pat Schrawder, representing Sen. Mary Beth Carozza; Motsko; Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan; Motsko’s daughters Madelyne and Sasha; and Del. Wayne Hartman. (Above right) The Art League of Ocean City was recognized as Nonprofit of the Year. Pictured, from left, are Erica Joseph, of the award sponsor Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore; Schrawder; ALOC President John Sisson; ALOC Executive Director Rina Thaler; Meehan; and Hartman.

(Above left) Celebrated as the year’s Citizen of the Year was Anne Marie Conestabile of United Work and Travel, who is pictured with colleague Jason D’Amore and Chamber Executive Director Amy Thompson. (Above right) The recipient of the Business Person of the Year award was Sophia Christian of Nori Sushi Bar & Grill, Sophia’s Italian Restaurant and Okiaya Fishing Gear. Pictured, from left, are Schrawder, Hartman, Christian, Re/Max Advantage Realty CEO Alex Karavasilis and Meehan.

(Above left) First Responder of the Year was presented to Ocean City Beach Patrol Captain Butch Arbin, who is pictured with Schrawder, Meehan, Jessica Hales of award sponsor TidalHealth, and Hartman. (Above middle) Billy Apostolou of Direct Mortgage Loans speaks after he was named Chamber Volunteer of the Year. (Above right) Thompson congratulates Young Professional of the Year winner Ricky Pollitt of the Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore.

School board votes 5-1 in support of $136M budget

Spending plan for FY25 includes 6% COLA and step increase for teachers

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) Raises for teachers highlight a $136 million proposed budget approved by the Worcester County Board of Education last week.

The school board voted 5-1 last week to approve a proposed fiscal year 2025 budget that includes a step increase and a 6% cost-of-living adjustment for teachers. The budget includes a 6.5% COLA for support staff as well as a pay increase for bus drivers.

“Our parents come to the board and share requests for what they think is important for the board’s budget,” Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert said. “This past year it was stated over and over again by every parent that came to the table where their priorities were. They were to recruit, hire, retain high quality teachers and staff, to maintain small class sizes and to restore FY24 cuts… Our budget addresses those three priorities shared with the board by our parents and our community.”

Tolbert told the school board the proposed budget was $136 million, with about 80%, or $109,632,071, in county appropriations. He said about $26 million was expected in state aid.

The fiscal year 2025 budget includes a step increase and 6% COLA for certificated staff and a 6.5% COLA for support staff. The 6% COLA has been discussed by the school system in recent weeks as the best way for Worcester County Public Schools to work toward the $60,000 starting teacher salary that will be mandated by the state in fiscal year 2027.

Salary increases are expected to cost $5.9 million in the coming year. Health insurance increases are expected to exceed $1.8 million. Tolbert noted that health insurance rates wouldn’t be finalized until March.

School board member Katie Addis asked about the possibility of zerobased budgeting, something she thought might help the school system reevaluate what was important.

Tolbert said that more than 86% of the school system’s budget was spent on staff. He added that the school system also had to increase salaries to meet the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future mandate to get starting

See CAO Page 66

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CAO highlights significance of retiree funds

teacher pay from around $50,000, where it is now, to $60,000.

“I hear what you’re saying Katie, I do, but to get where we need to be without additional funding we’re going to have to reduce positions,” Tolbert said. “That’s just the God’s honest truth.”

Addis also asked about other postemployment benefits (OPEB). Tolbert said the school system’s OPEB account was about 20% funded. He said there was not a certain funding level requirement. School board member Jon Andes said OPEB changes implemented by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board in 2005 required municipal governments set aside money for OPEB.

“So the taxpayers of Worcester County are putting money in a fund that only benefits the fund manager… ,” Andes said. “Worcester County cannot touch that money unless there is a catastrophe. I don’t think Worcester County will ever go bankrupt or financially insolvent.”

He said there was no certain level that OPEB needed to be funded.

“What do we get from it? We get nothing from it,” he said. “The only time it will ever be legally tapped into is if Worcester County becomes insolvent which I don’t see happening.”

Tolbert said Andes was correct but added that the funding could be used to pay for current retiree benefits.

Addis asked if there had been discussion during the budget process about ways to save money.

“Sure we always look at how we can save money,” Tolbert said. “One of the things we looked at was scaling back our summer programs.”

Annette Wallace, chief safety and academic officer for grades 9-12, said there was no place to make cuts significant enough to make an impact. She said the school system had been criticized for what it spent on car washes. She said that was about $3,000 a year.

“It’s just not going to make a significant impact,” she said. “Let alone the discussion we’re below the threshold of other county organizations in expenses like that.”

She said there had been discussions about cutting staff but that the superintendent had opted not to because parents and community members valued small class sizes.

School board member Bill Buchanan said school officials knew what they needed for their facilities to run effectively.

“We have to trust the administrative and the financial departments to make the decisions,” he said. “We

can’t go line by line like some county governments do. I don’t feel like I have the expertise to do that.”

Addis said she felt the school system leadership was capable but still believed the board should do more.

“I am saying that we as the elected board are the checks and balances and yes we should be going and having a more comprehensive budget and not striking things, but having a conversation about it…,” she said. “While we can trust the executive team, it is not our job to trust. Otherwise there’s no reason for us to be here other than to rubberstamp a budget because we trusted them.”

Wallace said the board had held multiple budget work sessions.

Addis said the board didn’t have a comprehensive budget at that point. The board went on to vote 5-1, with Addis opposed, to approve the budget. The proposed budget is scheduled to be discussed with county officials in April.

Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer, said in an interview this week that county staff would be reviewing the school system’s proposed spending plan prior to that meeting. He said he had met with the school system’s executive team regarding their budget format about a month ago. According to

Young, while there were improvements in how they displayed certain operating expenses from last year, details about revenues, positions, fixed charges, and restricted grant expenditures were missing or needed additional clarification.

“We understand they have the difficult challenge of reallocating existing resources to implement the Blueprint’s requirements, however we’re optimistic we will receive a comprehensive budget this year,” he said.

Young also addressed the relevance of OPEB and why the school system’s OPEB funding liability mattered.

“The funding of the OPEB trust for board of education employees not only guarantees their benefits in retirement, but it also impacts our credit rating and the interest rate we pay when we borrow for projects like school construction,” he said. “The board’s budget has not fully covered the cost of current retirees, let alone additional funding to grow an investment trust. The county has picked up the slack and will continue to do so to honor the entitled benefits of retirees. Until this trust is fully funded it will negatively impact our credit rating. When fully funded it will pay for the annual contribution for retirees.”

Rental housing text amendment rejected

In 4-3 vote, commissioners turn down accessory use in C-2 district concept

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 8, 2024) County officials failed to approve a text amendment this week that would have given more flexibility to commercial property owners.

The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday voted 4-3 against approving a change that would have allowed residential units on commercially zoned property as a special exception use. Proponents of the text amendment said it would bring more rental housing to areas where it was needed.

“We just lost a significant amount of year-round housing stock,” said Joe Wilson, past president of the Coastal Association of Realtors. “It’s created a serious problem for people who want to live here.”

Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting, told the commissioners on Tuesday that the text amendment they were considering would allow detached multi-family dwelling units in the C-2 commercial district. She said it mirrored an amendment ap-

proved for the C-3 zoning district not too long ago.

“The planning commission reviewed it in January and gave it a favorable recommendation,” she said.

Commissioner Jim Bunting asked her to describe the differences between the county’s commercial zoning districts. Keener said C-3 was for big box stores, only existed along the service road in the Berlin corridor and affected fewer than 10 parcels. She said C-2 was a broader category.

“There are a significant number of parcels it affects along the Route 50 corridor along the US 13 corridor in Pocomoke and then a little bit of 113 toward Showell,” she said.

Attorney Kristina Watkowski, representing property owner Todd Ferrante, who owns the Park Place Plaza on Route 50 and the undeveloped property directly south of it, said the text amendment had been submitted so that commercial property owners could have more flexibility. She said that even if the text amendment was approved, property owners would still have to get special exception approval from the Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals.

“Allowing it offers obviously the flexibility but it doesn’t open the floodgates either, because there are a lot more parcels that are C-2 but at

the same time there are certain size requirements and it has to be unique to the property,” Watkowski said.

In Ferrante’s case, she said his property was adjacent to a longstanding residential community in West Ocean City. He would like to build a detached multifamily housing building featuring 12 units on the back of the lot.

“The alternative would be to maintain it as it is,” she said. “As we know, we’re not in need of a lot more commercial type of office space. People seem to be gearing away from offices. I know I personally don’t like to look at the outlets and the empty retail space. It just doesn’t look nice.”

Meanwhile she said there was an urgent need for housing, particularly affordable housing. While that might be addressed in the next comprehen-

sive plan, Watkowski said the text amendment would let the issue be addressed now.

“The purpose of the text amendment is to allow this and to use this as an interim tool,” she said.

Commissioner Eric Fiori brought up Watkowski’s reference to affordability.

“I just want you to explain to me how an individual structure is more affordable housing than a dual purpose structure like that’s allowed in the special exception code right now,” he said. “Why an individual structure brings more value than a commercial underneath and a residential up top.”

Watkowski said she’d simply meant that the area needed yearround rentals. Commissioner Chip Bertino asked why the applicant

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County rejects text amendment

Continued from Page 67

couldn’t wait until the comprehensive plan was updated.

“I think the need is for now,” she said, adding that locals needed affordable places to live.

Glenn Irwin, who has served on the Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals and spent years heading the Ocean City Development Corporation, said he was speaking in support of the text amendment. He said smaller scale rental housing was a good thing. He added that Ferrante’s property in particular was a deep lot.

“Retail back there would never survive,” he said, adding that Ferrante’s previous projects had been attractive.

Wilson said he was also speaking in support of the text amendment. He said the area lost a lot of housing stock during the pandemic, when

FREE ESTIMATES

short-term rentals skyrocketed. Wilson believes the area has a desperate need for housing.

Wilson, who also serves as chair of the planning commission in Ocean City, said he thought allowing residential on a commercial site but only if it was attached to the commercial structure seemed odd. He said he’d seen previous projects adjusted because commercial entities didn’t want the risk of having living space attached.

“I think this text amendment is a positive,” he said.

A motion by Commissioner Joe Mitrecic to approve the text amendment failed with three commissioners (Mitrecic, Commissioner Ted Elder and Commissioner Diana Purnell) in support and four (Bunting, Bertino, Fiori and Commissioner Caryn Abbott) opposed.

Axis Sally provided radio program for servicemen

Personality signed off each broadcast with ‘a sweet kiss from Sally’

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(March 8, 2024) This week, 80 years ago, Axis Sally was beguiling American servicemen over German and Italian radio with her sultry voice. Axis Sally was actually two women: Mildred Elizabeth Gillars, broadcasting from Berlin, and Rita Louisa Zucca, broadcasting from Italy.

Ms. Gillars was born in Maine, but grew up in Ohio. She moved to Ger-

many in 1934 and caught on as an announcer with German State Radio in 1940. The Germans determined that their propaganda broadcasts directed at Americans would be more effective if delivered by an American, rather than a German, speaking English with a guttural German accent.

When the United States State Department advised all Americans to leave Germany, Gillars declined, preferring to stay behind with her fiancé, Paul Karlson. Unfortunately, he was drafted into the German Army and sent to the Eastern Front, where he was killed.

After his death, she began a relationship with Max Otto Koischwitz, who was born and educated in Germany, but immigrated to the United States in 1924, where he taught German at Columbia University and became a professor of German literature at Hunter College, both in New York City.

After making antisemitic comments in 1939, Koischwitz was dismissed by Hunter College and returned to the Fatherland. He became the program director for German State Radio, creating propaganda programs directed to American listeners. Koischwitz cast Gillars in a radio show titled “Home Sweet Home.” During that show, she would play music interspersed with German propaganda, such as, “I say damn Roosevelt and Churchill and all of their Jews who have made this war possible.”

Once, when asked to describe herself, Gillars said she was, “...the Irish type...a real Sally - with a figure, black hair, white skin. I think I’m just an armful.” Her program opened each broadcast with a moaning train whistle. It was designed to arouse home sickness among the American servicemen.

U.S. Army Air Corps Cpl. Edward Van Dyne wrote in a Saturday Evening Post article published in January 1944, “...there is no other gal like Axis Sal.” He described her as, “...a dandy — the sweetheart of the AEF (Allied Expeditionary Force). She plays nothing but swing, and good swing! She has a voice that oozes like honey out of a big wooden spoon. We get an enormous bang out of her. We love her. Well, Sally, we’ll be in Berlin soon, with a great big hug for you, if you have any kisses left!”

Axis Sally

Over on the Italian front, American servicemen listened to the broadcast of another Axis Sally, Rita Louisa Zucca. Although born and raised in the United States, she was educated in Florence, Italy. She returned to Italy in 1938 and renounced her American citizenship three years later. She did this to save her family’s property from expropriation by the Fascist government.

In February 1943, she was hired as a radio announcer. Her program was called “Jerry’s Front Calling.” Since “Axis Sally” was already established, Zucca adopted that moniker, and at the conclusion of each program, she sent, “...a sweet kiss from Sally.” She would also coo, “Hello, boys. How are you tonight? A lousy night it sure is. Axis Sally is talking to you, you poor, silly dumb lambs, well on your way to be slaughtered!”

However, even though both “Sallys” were on the same team, the one in Berlin was angry at her Italian teammate, saying, after the war, “I felt that I could be responsible for anything that I said, and I didn’t want any confusion after the end of the war as to what I said. It caused a great deal of trouble.”

The Italian Sally’s last broadcast was April 25, 1945. As the Germans had retreated to the north of Italy, she went with them. After her last broadcast, she fled to Milan and was met by one of her cousins who took her to her uncle’s home in Turin, where she was captured on June 5, 1945.

The Berlin Sally broadcast until May 6, 1945, two days before the German surrender. When it dawned on the American government that Zucca had renounced her citizenship, efforts to prosecute her for treason ceased. However, the Berlin Sally was not so fortunate.

She had assumed the alias of “Barbara Mome” and had faded into the shadows. Finally, on the evening of March 15, 1946, she was arrested in the British zone of Berlin and spent the next two and a half years at the Allied prison camp at Frankfurt-amMain.

She was returned to the United States on Aug. 21, 1948 and served with a 10-count indictment on Sept. 10, 1948. Trial began on Jan. 25, 1949. After 102 days of trial, “Axis Sally” was convicted, on March 10, 1949, of one count of treason and sentenced to 10 to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, which was affirmed by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in a unanimous 26-page opinion, on May 19, 1950, in Gillars v. United States, 182 F.2d 962, 87 U.S.App.D.C. 16 (D.C. Cir. 1950).

The Berlin Axis Sally served her sentence at the Federal Reformatory for Women in Alderson, West Virginia. While in prison, Gillars converted from Episcopalian to Catholicism. She became eligible for

parole in March 1959, but did not apply for it, because she feared harm on the outside and possible deportation to West Germany, and she had nowhere else to go.

Things changed when she was offered a job by Our Lady of Bethlehem Convent in Columbus, Ohio, teaching music. She received room and board and $30 per month. Gillars was granted parole on Jan. 12, 1961, subject to 18 years of supervised probation.

Axis Sally was released from Alderson, on June 10, 1961. After the convent closed, in 1968, she tutored high school students. Gillars died of colon cancer at Great Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio on June 25, 1968. She was 87. Axis Sally is buried in an unmarked grave at St. Joseph Cemetery, Lockbourne, Ohio.

The Italian Sally did not escape justice completely. In September

1945, she was tried in an Italian court and found guilty of collaboration, for which she was sentenced to four years and five months in prison. She was released after serving only nine months, after Italy declared a general amnesty for collaborators in 1946. She lived in Italy for the rest of her life, which ended in 1998.

Each of these women used intelligence, derived from Axis sources and captured prisoners, to convey the impression that they knew more than the soldiers. For instance, after the American raid on the Romanian oil production center of Ploie ti, the Berlin Axis Sally said, “Good show Brereten, but you lost too many!” There were other instances too. Before the invasion of Sicily, Axis Sally, broadcasting from Rome, addressed, “...the wonderful boys of the 504th Parachute Regiment,” and told them, “Colonel Willis Mitchell’s playboys

(the 64th Troop Carrier Group) are going to carry you to certain death. We know where and when you’re jumping, and you will be wiped out.” She would also insinuate that the wives and girlfriends of the American servicemen were at home, running around with the guys left there.

The story of Mildred Gillars is told in the movie “American Traitor: The Trial of Axis Sally,” starring Meadow Williams as Mildred Gillars and Al Pacino as her defense attorney, James J. Laughlin, Esq.

Next week: German Occupation of Hungary

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.

Letters to the editor

Why are commissioners fighting our schools?

Editor,

(The following letter was addressed to the Worcester County Commissioners and sent to this paper for publication.)

“You break it, you own it”. And I refer to Worcester County Public Schools.

The downgrading of WCPS will be your legacy. For some reason, the County Commissioners seek to undermine and underfund WCPS 2 years in a row. Money is not the problem. The County can well afford to maintain excellence in our schools. Despite a 46.1% increase in the value of properties reassessed in Worcester County, some of the Commissioners choose not to support their local communities and to once again give the minimum amount of funding required by law. They undermine the school system through insinuation and complain about lack of transparency. Where is their transparency and accountability to the public?

We fear that they have forgotten the value of a public school system. It

may be that we have lived so long with the benefits of public education we can’t help but take it for granted. We forget that it lifts us all up. It teaches us to read, write, speak well, learn to cooperate, make financial decisions and conform to acceptable civilized behavior. And it unifies us. For what would be the repercussions of underfunded public schools? We know the answer to that. It would include a workforce with few skills, low economic standing, poor health, a lower tax base and increased crime. We are both blessed and cursed by the high property values of Ocean City that allow the County to have the funds to provide a quality education for our future work force and citizens. Due to these same high property values, however, we receive the least amount of support from the State.

So, do we invest in WCPS in a meaningful way or pay for the social and economic consequences of underfunded, low quality schools? It is by fully funding the needs of the public school system, paying for excellent teachers and keeping class sizes small that make Worcester County so desirable.

With respect to Maintenance of Effort, it sounds fairly harmless. Doesn’t it mean that the schools will be in the same good position that they were before? We thought so. But costs increase, such as tuition for dual enrollment at WorWic, for energy, and supplies and for funding the steps of teachers. Thus, MOE means underfunding our schools. Last year WCPS had to cut programs and lose teachers. This year, there are increased costs due to an unfunded mandate by the State. A second year of MOE would compound our difficulties. Teacher numbers will be further reduced, class sizes increased and summer schools for enrichment and special-need students would be eliminated or curtailed. Some commissioners fret over a summer-school trip to Jolly Roger’s. May we point out that the tickets are donated and many students would not otherwise be able to enjoy an experience that is in their own community. Can we really not provide the bus service for such an experience?

Others argue that BOE cuts made last year to meet MOE were prioritized wrong. They claim to favor in-

creasing salaries and keeping small class sizes but if 85% of the budget is for teachers, bus drivers, custodians, secretaries, educational assistants, etc. where else can we make meaningful cuts? Maintenance of buildings? Heat? (Administrative staff at the Board has not increased for years. Payroll has increased by 1 2 of a person in 20 years).

A more important question is

WHY are the County Commissioners choosing to undermine and underfund the school system in a time when the County has the funds?

Please note that while the portion of the county budget for WCPS has gone down from 45.53% to 42.72%, the County fund balance has grown since 2019 from $51 million to $92 million. Again, what are the County Commissioner’s priorities?

Remember that WCPS provide both direct and indirect employment to a large portion of our population and the success of our schools and their excellent reputation are a large draw for people to move here. Why are Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Caryn Abbott, Eric Fiori and BOE member Kate Addis through innuendo and

half-truths purposely damaging the reputation of our schools? Since the County is flush with cash from the rise in property values, shouldn’t they be encouraging the BOE to spend that money to improve school safety and fund special programs and gradually improve the salaries of teachers to satisfy the requirements of the new state mandates?

Therefore, I respectfully urge you and the public to consider the educational, social and economic consequences on the community that would result from UNDERFUNDING Worcester County Schools unnecessarily two years in a row.

Jan Adamchak Berlin

Let’s put focus on quality over quantity

Editor,

The Town of Ocean City’s planning and zoning commission is comprised of volunteer town residents, appointed by the mayor with the advice and consent of the council attempting to do their civic duty. The P&Z responsibilities are to review projects for code compliance and forward the projects to the process for permitting etc. In addition, the commission is responsible for creating and forwarding to our town leadership long term goals for our community as the com-

prehensive plan . Along the way, and in that process with the many cases the Commission hears, we see issues that do not meet the intent and goals of our existing codes, or the code language is unclear or vague.

Sometimes we see new types of products and projects that maybe the code does not consider as well as changes in other codes that trickle down and impact our current codes. As an example residential sprinkler codes. We see flaws in our code that do not protect our communities existing neighborhoods and our taxpayers. We discuss these concerns and if they warrant further discussion, we propose code changes to the M & CC.

To propose a code change can take months if not years to get to the point of submitting to the M & CC. This includes research of what other jurisdictions have done, paid, professional legal advice and review, staff time to create language, crafting language to present for a public hearing, a Town paid court reporter recording the hearing, even more discussion from the commission and staff. This is expensive to the Town and time consuming. Ultimately, and in most cases then arriving at a code change for the M & CC to review and hopefully adopt. These proposed code changes are not fly by night, done on a whim and by the seat of the pants.

With all of this said, proposed code changes regarding townhomes and their garages, the commission, you could actually say , two different commissions (different members), over the last four years have followed the described P & Z process only to produce nearly identical solutions as a proposed code change. Both times the town council have remanded back to the commission the proposed code change without completely discussing. In fact, one iteration presented to the council was suggested from the developer community itself to be rejected by the council.

Broadly speaking the relatively new type of popular product, a typical 3-bedroom townhome, relies on meeting the parking code which requires it to create real, functional parking for its buyers. Furthermore, and as stated in the M&C approved comprehensive plan, residential proj-

ects are to “park where you reside”. If functional parking is not provided, which is the situation in this example, then the owners simple consume on street parking to the detriment of the neighbors, the neighborhood, existing taxpayers, and future taxpayers.

The Ocean City Code itself section 110-931 states that the purpose of offstreet parking is to lessen or prevent congestion on the public streets and thoroughfares. Parking space(s) is reserved for parking an automobile, not for storage or domicile. The projects, when the parking spaces are not used for parking, then become taxpayer provided parking to the financial benefit of the developer. When a development negatively impacts neighbors and neighborhoods it then becomes an additional responsibility of the P & Z staff and commission to address and plan solutions. Are ve-

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School crime flap all about money

The question of whether the Worcester County Commissioners have played a supporting role in the battle between county law enforcement officials and the public school system over crime in schools was answered Tuesday when County Commissioners President Chip Bertino dismissed the school board’s defense as a matter of semantics.

In a speech that came out of nowhere, Bertino took issue with school officials’ assertion that the “proof” of rising crime in schools offered last Tuesday by Sheriff Matt Crisafulli and State’s Attorney Kris Heiser misleadingly lumped reports of crimes in schools in with school-reported data on disciplinary measures imposed on students for non-criminal behavior.

Trouble is trouble, Bertino declared in a monologue that had nothing to do with the day’s business.

“Last week, our community got an education in semantics,” he began, accusing school officials of linguistic hair-splitting to make the schools look better. “The crux of the problem,” he added later, “is that we all agree there’s a problem.”

No, we don’t, and it isn’t a matter of semantics. A consistently disruptive student, for instance, may be referred for discipline, but can’t be hauled off to jail.

As much as the prosecutors of the case against the schools, might believe their own arguments, it sure looks as if they are being encouraged to hammer away by Bertino and his voting majority.

This battle, after all, isn’t about crime in one of the safest school systems in the state, it’s about money. Simply put, the commissioners want a smaller education budget but lack the authority to reduce it below per pupil spending of the previous year. As one theory goes, their only recourse is to pursue their goal in the court of public opinion by painting a picture of a system that’s poorly managed and out of control.

The proof or disproof of that theory is within the budget process and whether the commissioners approve the requested increases in school spending later this spring or stick with the legal minimum per pupil spending.

No, it can’t be true!

Although the possibility exists that the information you are about to read might not be true, I nevertheless feel obligated to report the contents of an anonymous letter I received the other day that attempts to make sense of certain local situations.

As I say, this was a completely anonymous communique, the veracity of which I tend to doubt. Nevertheless, here it is:

“These worms holes, incidentally, also would account for some of the teacher absenteeism on these days as they go shopping in the multiverse instead.

“Anyway, as I am told, steps are already being taken to banish these despots to the netherworld — some say that could be the old Salisbury Mall — by advising him, her, they or them to vacate the premises immediately or ‘face a good thrashing AND a loss of funding.’

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

By Stewart Dobson

“Dear sir, I have it on good authority that the powersthat-be have summoned the Avengers, Harry Potter and Luke Skywalker to quell a growing disturbance in the force and elsewhere within the local school system.

“I can’t be sure, but it is my belief that Thanos, Darth Vader, or maybe even Voldemort are behind this disturbance, hence the pleas from the authorities for superhero assistance.

“After all, a mere safety resource officer would have no chance against any one of these villains, even if they are currently dead.

“I hasten to point out that while I do understand that the members of this evil trio do happen to be dead, that’s in THIS universe.

“This leaves open the possibility that a living version of one or the other has slipped into this realm of existence through one or more worm holes that I believe routinely appear during teacher Professional Development days.

“In the meantime, it has been reported to me that the aforementioned powers-that-be are looking into acquiring an Infinity Stone, although they are divided into camps regarding how it should be used.

“Some say they would employ the stone’s powers to roll back time to the 1950s, where they would feel more comfortable, while others say all they want to do is use it to speed forward to the next election.

“It remains to be seen, though, whether current budget constraints would allow for the purchase of such a rare and invaluable artifact.

“I’m passing this information along to you because there may be photo opportunities ahead and I want you to be prepared.

“Sincerely,

“Anonymous”

As I mentioned previously, I don’t put much stock in what the author of this letter says and have the suspicion that it’s all been made up for laughs. I assure you, however, that I don’t find any of this the slightest bit funny.

By the way, the run on light sabers, cloaks of invisibility and giant flying hammers at Ace Hardware is probably just a coincidence.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

The affordable housing situation in the north end of the county should be a concern if it can be agreed it’s important for our teachers, nurses, police officers and service industry folks to be able to live and play in the area they work. To make any improvements in the situation is going to take creative, smart thinking because in this case our coastal region is a curse due to ever-rising property values. Affordable housing was essentially at the root of the text amendment this week before the Worcester County Commissioners to allow multi-family dwellings in the C-2 general commercial district given that 65% of the parcel is used commercially. A similar request passed last June to allow multi-family dwellings in the C-3 big box development district.

The specific request this week had to do with the vacant acreage immediately behind the current Park Place Plaza commercial development. A potential standalone 12-unit multi-family development with three- and two-bedroom spaces is envisioned as an “accessory use to an established commercial structure,” per the bill. The planning commission unanimously supported the text amendment as did staff and saw no problems with the residential component being detached from the existing commercial structure.

The commissioners went against their staff and planning commission with little explanation, voting 4-3 against the text amendment (with Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting and Eric Fiori opposed). During the short discussion, Fiori asked the attorney for the applicant, Todd Ferrante, who happens to be president of the Board of Education, how the individual housing project would be more affordable than overtop of commercial office or retail space as allowed currently, for example. Bertino seemed to indicate the comprehensive plan review time was best to consider this sort of amendment.

There are three problems with this week’s denial. One, the comprehensive plan update is years away from being finalized, and the affordable housing situation continues to be a major talking point every day around here. It’s not a stretch to call it a crisis for the middle class. Secondly, the lack of explanation behind the no votes has understandably led folks to wonder if the denial was personal against Ferrante, as it’s no secret the commission majority is critical and suspicious of the school board’s handling of public schools. A public hearing was held and there were two voices of support and no opposition. Finally, members of the planning commission must be left wondering why they exist. Over the course of the past year, the commissioners have now four times gone against the commission’s recommendations. The most egregious denial, along the same lines as this week’s rejection, came last November when a 7.5-megawatt rural solar project proposed for 28 acres of a 103-acre farm was denied for no good reason. It was a blatant denial of a farmer’s private property rights, and I am remain hopeful the state overrules the county.

The times are indeed tense in Worcester County. ***

It’s tough for Marylanders to keep tabs on all the potential legislation that could impact their lives during the General Assembly session but bills worthy of following are those planned to increase taxes. This year a major push seems to be to increase the existing sales tax on certain items and expand the current sales tax to new services. The so-called sin taxes are targeted often. House Bill 1073 suggests raising the current tax on cigarettes by 75 cents to $4.75, and House Bill 1072 seeks to bump up the tax on alcohol from 9% to 10%. Together, the changes are estimated to generate nearly $90 million in new revenue, which is always sought by government amid rising operating costs.

Another bill to watch is House Bill 1515, which seeks to lower the general sales tax from 6% to 5%. The rub is it expands the sales tax reach to numerous services not currently subject to the sales tax. The Maryland Chamber of Commerce is right when it says it will hurt the state’s economic competitiveness and stunt small business growth, while adding to the increased costs consumers face at each turn. Among the proposed new sales taxed businesses are real estate services, plumbers, trash services, pet sitting, architectural services, nail salons, barber shops, internet service, tax prep, funeral services, advertising services, car washes, computer repair, satellite radio, personal fitness training, handy man services and veterinary services, among many others.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 71

hicles getting smaller? An 18’ wide OR a 20’ wide 2 car enclosed garage just does not functionally fit two average American vehicles. Draw your own conclusion but the only entity that this parking abuse benefits are developers. The commission has extensively reviewed and presented holistic solutions on this issue to the M & CC during the last two or three years.

Town leadership has had many challenges and resistance from the developer community. In the past the Council has had the courage to make very significant changes. To name a few and as I have been a part of Ocean City, I have watched City leadership take on very controversial and challenging issues. Denying the construction of homes literally on the beach, establishment of a building limit line on the Ocean Front, recognizing and acting on a code that does not adequately address the parking needs along high-rise row, reduction of density by ( I believe from memory) by 50% , creating a City manager form of government. There have been many more brave actions by Town leadership. You could say that these actions took away property rights. You could also say that these actions protected the existing residents, future residents, and taxpayers. The changes were made for the betterment of our total community and existing residents. It is concerning that the Council cannot see the longerterm community benefit and overrides the incredibly long, arduous, and at taxpayer expense and effort put forth by the Towns staff and volunteer P & Z commission.

I am not a baker. However what I do know about baking is that if you miss an ingredient or two the outcome is not tasty. When the P&Z sends a code change to the Council it is well though out and contains a

complete recipe. When the Council makes changes or deletes ingredients the result fails and does not address the extensive effort that is put forth after months maybe years of work effort and expense. Nor does it address the issue at hand thoroughly.

Is it not time to emphasis quality over quantity? Let’s look to the impacts that projects have on our community’s future. Let’s “sell a product” that fulfills what is being represented to the buyer and actually works for the buyer. Let’s have our community plan better for the benefit of our existing residents as well as our future resident.

Palmer Gillis Ocean

City

(The writer is a member of the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission.)

Company’s harbor plans a major concern

Editor,

I am beyond horrified by US Wind’s plans to build an “Operating & Maintenance Facility” at the Ocean City Harbor.

At this time, the facility is scheduled to house wind turbine parts, up to four crew transfer ships, on-loading and off-loading equipment, a Turbine repair vessel and marine activity monitoring vessels.

I have seen the proposed plans which show enormous changes to our small commercial harbor. This is just not a pier rebuild and extension application, the plans call for a 550’ long x 30’ & 32’ wide pier jettisoning out into Sinepuxent Bay and consuming much of what small amount of navigable water is there. Just this part of the pier is 6,520 sq. ft. and that is not all there is, along the area in front of the property east of Martin’s seafood they want a 75’ floating dock with a

Continued on Page 74

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piers and adjacent to that 175’x4’ concrete wharf. The intrusion into the harbor is mind boggling. Look up offshore wind transfer vessels and you will see they ranges from 50’ to over 80’. Google them to get a full understanding of what is desired to be built…pretty much a cruise ship pier.

People need to take a trip to West Ocean City to fully understand. The commercial harbor is only 200’ wide; there is no parking; the area in question is surrounded by multi-million dollar homes who’s value will be destroyed if this industrial sized renovation is to be allowed.

Think about the size of the turbines, they are 900+ feet tall. How

does anyone think the 18 wheelers needed to deliver parts for machines this large will ever navigate West O? I will be happy to provide a copy of the plans to anyone who wants them before the hearing on March 25th, which BTW will be held at Wor Wic Community College in Fulton-Owen Hall at 6pm.

I cannot even wrap my head around the effect this will have on our harbor, commercial and recreational fishing and on our popular locally owned restaurants. Again, there is a public hearing on March 25 at 5:30 pm at Wor Wic Community College, Fulton-Owen Hall, 6pm regarding this plan. Please plan to come to the hearing and let your voice be heard, keeping

in mind that US Wind does not believe that locals and their opinions matter and please after you understand what’s at stake.

Let me close with this tid-bit; when a friend asked Mr Simmons, who is a Natural Resource Planner for the State of Maryland, what the role of the County would be in this decision, he said the approval process is such the Federal Government would approve and then the state would issue an approval and “the county will fall in line”. Nice, huh?

You can send your comments to robertm.simmons@maryland.gov. Please send them as soon as possible.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

MARK STEVEN SAUTTER

Ocean City

There will be a celebration of life for Mark Steven Sautter, 66, who died Nov. 28, 2023.

Sautter was born Aug. 13, 1957.

Mark’s family invites those who knew him to celebrate his life the way he would have wanted. They are invited to come share memories at a celebration of life ceremony at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 9 at the American Legion, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., in Ocean City.

DENNIS MICHAEL ROARTY

Ocean City

Dennis Michael Roarty, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and friend, died peacefully on Feb. 26, 2024, with his wife of over 32 years, Carol Roarty, by his side.

Born on June 22, 1945, in Akron, Ohio, he was the son of John D. Roarty and Margueritte S. Roarty.

In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by his son Daniel and daughter-in-law Susan; stepdaughter Heather Hartman and her husband Colin McKean; grandchildren Ginger, Sarajane and Wynne Roarty, and Alex and Zach McKean; and his brother, Brian Roarty.

After living briefly in San Francisco, California, the family moved to Shaker Heights in the suburbs of Cleveland. An idyllic community in his eyes, Dennis shared stories of his childhood living there with a great sense of pride and gratitude. As many communities struggled with integration, Shaker Heights was known as a place of diversity and equality. These values were instilled in Dennis at a young age and stayed with him throughout his life. Growing up in Shaker Heights, Dennis had many jobs including newspaper delivery, sealcoating driveways and caddying at a local country club.

It was at the country club that his love of golf grew and never waned. What began as an athletic endeavor, quickly became much more. Golf’s rich heritage and traditions spoke to his love of history. The camaraderie and social interaction were time shared with friends and family. The competition and challenge of golf allowed for continual analysis and improvement. In later years, after he could no longer swing a club, he worked on his putting stroke. He was finally able to drain 3-foot putts, or so we’re told.

After four wonderful years at Shaker Heights High School, Dennis attended Miami University in Oxford,

Mark Sautter

Dennis Roarty

OBITUARIES

Continued from Page 74

Ohio. While a student at Miami, he joined Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, one of the most treasured experiences of his life. Within Miami’s SAE Chapter, Dennis found a diverse group of men and the foundation of lifelong friendships was formed. This time in his life paid dividends for Dennis for decades to come.

In the years following college, Dennis and his fraternity brothers found themselves spread around the country and across the globe, on account of war, career and family. Dennis worked tirelessly to track down phone numbers and addresses to keep them connected. By the early 1980s, he began organizing reunions. In the 1990s and 2000s, their steadfast group gathered again on Miami’s beautiful campus. As they reached retirement, they began sharing time together in Florida and over zoom. These loyal friends remained connected and supported each other through some of life’s greatest challenges, which was truly a gift to Dennis.

After graduating from Miami University, Dennis joined the Navy in 1967 and entered flight school in Pensacola, Florida. In 1968, he married Dotsy (nee Wilbern) Roarty and was stationed in Corpus Christie, Texas. In 1971, their son Danny was born, and they moved to Ocean City the fol-

lowing year.

The Ocean City area would remain home for over 40 years. The dramatic growth of the resort town led to a fulfilling career in real estate. Dennis retired in 2014 as the regional vice president of Coldwell Banker.

In addition, Ocean City kept Dennis close to family. He valued the strong bonds tying his extended family together and found the time spent with aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews at Glenn Dale Golf Club and Twin Shields Golf Club to be some of the most rewarding. He was extremely proud of all their hard work and zest for life and was profoundly grateful for their friendship.

The value of relationships and camaraderie was of the utmost importance to Dennis, which was also evident during his cherished years in both Ocean City and Deerfield Beach, Florida. As a resort town, Ocean City is home to a wide array of characters, whom Dennis embraced. He fostered friendships in many places, whether he was on the golf course, on the field playing recreational softball, or in the tight knit real estate industry.

A member of the Delmarva Irish American Club, Dennis was proud of his role in helping to establish the Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day Parade as an annual event, bringing thousands to Ocean City each year to cel-

Continued on Page 76

OBITUARIES

Continued from Page 75

ebrate and contribute to important causes.

Dennis marched proudly in the annual parade, carrying his shillelagh and escorting a representative of the Embassy of Ireland. Since the founding of the parade in 1980 the club has donated over $530,000 in scholarships to local high school students and contributions to local charities.

In 1991, Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Carol. Together, they shared in the joy of traveling with many trips to Ireland. Later in life, they found an incredible community of friends in Deerfield Beach and were able to bask in the joy of watching Dennis’ son, Danny, and Carol’s daughter, Heather, each start their own families. Dennis was extremely proud of Danny, Heather and each of their spouses and embraced their inlaws as extended family and valued friends.

Dennis absolutely adored all of his grandchildren and was eager to share his immense pride with family, friends, and with the grandchildren themselves, always highlighting their character, distinct personalities, talents and accomplishments.

Dennis Roarty was the consummate ambassador and friend. He embraced the good things in life, perfectly balancing family, friend-

ship, career, heritage, recreation and service. He will be remembered for his love, kindness, joy, but mostly for his trademark humor and charm.

A memorial service for Dennis will be held from 1-2 p.m., Monday, March 4, at Kraeer-Becker Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 217 E Hillsboro Blvd in Deerfield Beach, Florida, preceded by a visitation from noon to 1 p.m.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Ocean City in late April with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please join the Delmarva Irish American Club and join us at the parade on March 16. For more info, visit delmarvairish.org/.

PHILIP ANTHONY GUARINO

Selbyville, Delaware

Philip Anthony Guarino, 93, of Selbyville, Delaware, died Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

He was born in Baltimore and was the son of the late Anthony Guarino and Mary (Cincotta) Guarino.

Philip was a retired microbiologist for McCormick and Company and a member of the American Chemical Society for 41 years. He was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church, where he served as a lector and eucharistic minister. He was a member of the Sons and Daughters of Italy, the Knights of Columbus, and Swann

Keys Civic Association.

Philip is survived by two daughters, Deborah J. Ragno and husband James of South Mountain, Pennsylvania, and Elizabeth Bainger and husband Albert of Frederick; five grandchildren, Christina Embree, Joshua Ragno, Andrew Ragno, Joanna Illo, and Janine Levien; and ten great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores E. Guarino; and his sister, Jane Pollizzi.

A viewing was held from 4-6 p.m., Wednesday, March 6, at BishopHastings Funeral Home, 19 South Main St. in Selbyville.

A visitation was held from noon to 1 p.m., on Thursday, March 7 at St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church, 14401 Sinepuxent Ave. in Ocean City. A Mass of Christian Burial immediately followed at the church starting at 1 p.m. Interment was at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Philip’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee, 38105.

Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

HENRY “JOE/HANK” JOSEPH ROWAN

Ocean Pines

Henry “Joe/Hank” Joseph Rowan, 87, peacefully departed on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, in the comfort of his home with his family enveloping him in unwavering love.

Born on Oct. 21, 1936, in New York City, New York, Henry joined a large Irish Catholic family. Henry was the only child and son of Dominick Rowan and Theresa Bartley Rowan. He spent his childhood in Silver Beach, New York, and grew up alongside close family members with whom he maintained valuable connections for many years to come.

Henry went to university at Iona College in New Rochelle, New York, and graduated in 1959 with a degree in economics.

Upon graduation, he became an esteemed sales director within a data processing company.

One special date, which was organized by his friends, led to him meeting the love of his life, Patricia Donohue, with whom he spent the next 63 years of his life beside.

On Oct. 29, 1960, Henry married Patricia in St. Raymond’s church in the Bronx. The couple raised six re-

Philip Guarino

Henry Rowan

OBITUARIES

markable children in Fort Salonga, Long Island, New York. Theresa (m. Thomas Lindgren), Michael (m. Diane Harp), Patricia (m. Michael Hosey), Daniel, Timothy (m. Maria Correia), and Kelli (m. Robert Beck) were blessed to have the deeply loving and sage father that Henry was. He ensured that his six children were provided with fulfilling childhoods and that they received everything that was needed to blossom into successful individuals in all aspects of their lives.

After raising his children, Henry became a loving and present grandfather to 12 grandchildren, Erin, Ryan, Brianna, Emily, Dominick, Joseph, Kylie, Daniel, Grace, Hanna, Patrick, and Jacqueline; and a greatgrandfather to Rylie. These grandchildren had the opportunity to be loved intensely by a grandfather who fiercely celebrated each accomplishment, brought belly laughter wherever he went, and provided a shoulder to lean on during arduous times.

In 2001, Henry and Patricia moved to Ocean Pines, where he lived out the rest of his prosperous life. He greatly enjoyed life on the shore. He frequented the local beach, where he sunk his toes in the sand and faced his head and heart toward the sun,

and the bustling Boardwalk, where he took part in long, cheerful walks by himself or with family.

When he wasn’t walking, he could be found riding the sea’s waves in the family boat and wave-runners. If he wasn’t taking in that crisp saltwater air he loved, Henry could be found swimming laps at the town pool, both by himself and in the company of his adoring grandchildren.

Toward the later years of his joyous life, Henry would be spotted walking throughout his quiet neighborhood in his downtime. During these walks, he would listen to the tunes of John Denver and Barbra Streisand, stopping to talk to neighbors and passing visitors.

Those who were blessed to meet Henry immediately acknowledged his bright and welcoming smile. He had a warm aura around him — one that will never be forgotten. To have known Henry was to know a humble man who held profound positivity closest to his heart.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Coastal Hospice, 1500 Ocean Parkway, in Ocean Pines.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, March 11, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines. Friends may call one hour prior.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

~ Written by Joseph Beck and Kylie Rowan ~

ALEXANDER “LEE” CUNNINGHAM

Ocean Pines

Alexander “Lee” Cunningham, 79, passed away on Feb. 28, 2024, at his home in Ocean Pines.

He is survived by his loving wife, Francine H. Cunningham; his devoted children, John L. Cunningham and his wife J. Kim Birnbaum, Megan K. Rhodes and her husband Brett A. Rhodes, and Jennfer L. Kendz; his grandchildren, Sierra and Ella Rhodes and Sophia and Jonah Cunningham; and his brothers, Richard A. Cunningham and Robert B. Cunningham.

Lee was born on Aug. 13, 1944, to Alexander “Bud” Cunningham and Anna F. Cunningham in Baltimore. He attended high school at the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, class of 1962, and graduated from the University of Maryland College Park. Professionally, he began his life’s

work of Land Use and Transportation

Planning with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission before starting his own firm, Lee Cunningham & Associates.

In his personal life, he was an avid singer and guitarist, a gourmet cook, and a raconteur, who also loved traveling and enjoying the company of his friends and family.

No memorial service will be held at this time, but the family does intend to celebrate his life at an event later this year.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. (opvfd.com/fund-drive/ )

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

Lee Cunningham

Seahawks win regional title, eye Md. crown

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(March 8, 2024) The Stephen Decatur Seahawks boys varsity basketball team earned a 63-55 3A East Region final win over Severna Park High School on Tuesday night.

“This is what we play for, right here,” head coach B.J. Johnson said after the game. “We’re not done.

We’ll be back here Friday and then we go to the final four.”

The championship game is tonight 6 p.m. at Stephen Decatur High School in Berlin.

Led by junior guard Davin Chandler with 23-points, the Seahawks kept Severna Park shooters quiet for most of the night on Tuesday while the Seahawk offense went to work.

Junior Chandler reaches 1,000-point milestone

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(March 8, 2024) One thousand of anything is a lot. It’s a milestone number, a goal to set. For Davin Chandler, a 6’2” junior guard for the Stephen Decatur Seahawks varsity boys’ basketball team, it’s a special milestone number.

It’s the number of points he’s collected since joining the team as a freshman two years ago. During a presentation of the accomplishment at the Seahawks’ Feb. 29 home game against James M. Bennett, Chandler contributed it all to his coach, B.J. Johnson.

“It feels great to get this, this season because I’ve been working on this since I was a freshman,” Chandler said. “I

will keep pushing until I get 2,000.”

He is well on his way.

Chandler had hoped to have the 1,000th ball drop at his home court, but as it played out, it went in during an away game on Feb. 20 against Cambridge-South Dorchester High School.

Chandler was presented the game ball he shot the 1,000th point with, painted with all the important information on it, on Feb 29. His family, coach and team attended the ceremony and said they were proud of him and happy to continue helping him work toward his 2,000 goal.

Chandler has also been named the Bayside Conference offensive and defensive player of the year for 2024.

Junior guard/forward Trybe Wise contributed 17 points to the Seahawks’ cause and senior guard Careen Bolden earned 12 points for Stephen Decatur. Senior Brycen Coleman got 10 points for the Seahawks and Zakari Baker added one.

“It was awesome,” Coleman said after the game. “Our team has worked so hard and we’ve come a

long way, but the job is not finished, Friday’s game is going to be tough, but tonight we are going to celebrate this win.”

Tuesday’s first quarter was tied three times at 2, 8 and 11. The quarter ended with Stephen Decatur leading 14-11. At halftime the difference was 30-20.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Members of the Stephen Decatur varsity boys basketball team pose with their coaches and others after their regional final win on March 5 against Severna Park.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Stephen Decatur junior basketball standout Davin Chandler poses with his parents, Windfield and LaDawn Chandler, while holding the decorated game ball that recently earned him his 1,000th point during a reception celebrating the milestone on Feb. 29 at his home gym.

Decatur advances to state tourney quarters

Continued from Page 79

During halftime, Johnson was recognized as the Maryland Bayside Conference Coach of the Year.

“Because of my kids I got coach of the year,” Johnson said. “Because of the way they play. I give all the credit to them.”

Both teams came out on fire at the top of the third. Severna Park scored 14 and the Seahawks 12. In the fourth quarter they were a dead match with 21 each. The Seahawks were able to hold them off with great defensive work.

“You know all the hard work we have put in, it just goes to show in this win. It feels good,” Wise said after the game.

The junior has a few scholarship offers for football and plans to work hard at both sports.

“This summer I’m going to be grinding it … trying for a state championship football win again and basketball next year,” Wise said.

Before the regional final Tuesday, Decatur cruised past the James M Bennett Clippers last Thursday night at the Seahawks nest, which was another sell out.

If you made it in you got to see two talented, determined and evenly matched teams battle.

The Seahawks offenses got three unanswered baskets in the opening

volley. Junior guard/forward Trybe Wise contributed 17 points, hitting three of four from the line.

Stephen Decatur continued scoring baskets they’d need later. When the first quarter ended, Stephen Decatur had a 23-12 command over the Clippers. James M. Bennett came out strong in the third quarter, out shooting the Seahawks 14-9.

Seahawk coaches and a lot of fans noticed the team was tired and struggling to keep up. That’s when 6’6 senior forward Brycen Coleman found a little something and scored 12 points for over half that quarter’s 21 points. His determination spread to the rest of the team and the defense.

Also contributing in the decisive third quarter were Zakhari Baker with a basket and one free throw, Careen Bolden with a basket and three free throws, and Trybe Wise with one free throw. Bennett poured it on for 31 fourth-quarter points , but it was too late.

“We were just able to hang on. We had a good run,” Seahawks Head Coach BJ Johnson said. “It was lucky we had a good lead and then the clock was on our side. We didn’t take care of the ball on the way down the stretch but we will work on that …. we are just happy to get the win. They are a good team.”

SURF REPORT

Puerto Rico’s draw

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(March 8, 2024) Alright, so here we go again with a travel theme. This one will have a southerly component with an emphasis on the Caribbean and more specifically on the island of Puerto Rico.

Heading south seems like a natural thing to do as long as winter is the referenced time period. Florida is a destination spot, one which is fairly common to friends and neighbors. Some people will even rent for extended periods of time. Others will buy and re-locate “south” for the winter months only to return well into the later months of spring. Still others will do a road trip for as long as possible, made all the better if friends and relatives can provide housing.

How about another destination? The Caribbean in general, and more specifically Puerto Rico. There are lots of good areas in the Caribbean but Puerto Rico will be looked at as having a “best bang for the buck” atmosphere. It’s been called the “Hawaii of the East,” and most probably for good reason. Good

waves, warm air, warm water and cheap flights. All of these factors go a long way in making for an advantageous scenario.

I’ve had the fortune of going to Puerto Rico many times. My only regret was that I couldn’t stay longer. Yes, it was mostly advantageous, with a few disadvantages such as sea urchins, sharp coral, and dinged, damaged surfboards due to encounters with rock or coral formations. But there was always a wave to ride, large or small, and favorable winds as well.

As another key ingredient, there has always been a certain cultural aspect to Puerto Rico. Spanish is the native language, though most native people can also speak English. The disadvantage for me was in not being forced to learn Spanish. I would make attempts at speaking a few Spanish words and phrases but my knowledge of the Spanish language was certainly muy poquito! I’ve always thought of the Caribbean as a little portion of Europe with a tropical bent, each island having its own particular flavor.

So there you have a good combination of quality waves, warm conditions, and a bit of cultural diversity. Assuming enough time and money, a sojourn as described would be most desirable indeed!

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Decatur’s Trybe Wise jumps up for a basket during the Seahawks’ regional final game against Severna Park on Tuesday.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Seahawks Head Coach B.J. Johnson cuts down the net, a basketball tradition, after the team’s regional final win against Severna Park on Tuesday.

(March 8, 2024) Three wrestlers from Stephen Decatur’s varsity team took home individual titles last weekend from the Maryland State Championship Tournament.

Last month, the team won the state championship as a group, and last Saturday three individual state champs were crowned – Elijah Collick won his second consecutive state title at 113 pounds; Gavin Solito won the state title at 157 pounds after coming up just short the

previous three seasons; and AJ Johnson became the first female state champ at 190 pounds.

Taking home second-place honors at the state tourney were Juan Hinojosa at 106 pounds and Chaniah Bernier at 170 pounds.

Fourth-place finishes were recorded by Amari Purnell (155 pounds) and Kole Kohut (190 pounds). Rachel Plata captured sixth place at 125 pounds.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Members of the Stephen Decatur varsity wrestling team are pictured with their coaches after capturing several individual state titles.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Decatur’s A.J. Johnson became the school’s first female wrestling champion when she won the 190-pound division during last weekend’s Maryland State Championship Tournament.