Coastal Bays gets $125K from company and scolding from Commissioner Ted Elder for accepting it. — PAGE 6
Daycare child abuser gets 18 years
Former Berlin child care worker Heather Ward sentenced after conviction on nine counts of assault and injuring children under her supervision. — PAGE 22
No decision on short-term rentals
After hearing mostly from opponents of length-of-stay limits on rentals in some zoning districts, the planning commission takes no action, for now. — PAGE 14
Extended Rt. 50 drawbridge closure announced for Jan.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) Scheduled maintenance on the Route 50 bridge in Ocean City will affect water navigation beginning in January.
In a notice to mariners last week, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that the Route 50 bridge in Ocean City will be maintained in a closed-to-navigation position to facilitate a scheduled maintenance project, from 6 a.m. on Jan. 2 through 6 p.m. March 17.
During this time, the bridge will not be able to open for emergencies. The navigation channel directly under the bridge will also be closed to navigation due to the presence of a permanently moored work barge under the bridge.
The on-site maintenance team can be contacted via VHF-FM channel 13 or via telephone at 302-632-9506. Boaters should adjust their transits accordingly and should use caution when transiting the area.
The span, known officially as the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge, was built in 1942. In 2010, state transportation officials studied replacing the bridge with an elevated span to do away with a drawbridge. While talk of the new bridge dominated discussions for years, the replacement of the span is no longer the top state funding transportation project in Worcester County. The dualization of the Route 90 bridges and highway is the county’s top priority followed by Route 589 improvements.
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Local nonprofit blasted for US Wind stance
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Disheartening. Deleterious. The Devil.
These and other harsh words were spoken Tuesday as county officials excoriated a local environmental nonprofit for accepting $125,000 in donations from the developer of proposed offshore wind project on Maryland’s coastline.
“Your organization sold out to a big business. It sounds to me that was a payoff to keep you neutral – a payoff to keep you quiet,” said District 4 (Western) County Commissioner Ted Elder. “I’m sorry, that’s the way I feel.”
Elder’s tongue lashing was directed at Kevin Smith, the executive director of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program. Smith came before the
commissioners Tuesday to ask for a letter of support than would help the conservationist organization secure a multimillion-dollar state grant.
Instead, Smith was scolded not
only for Coastal Bays’ neutral stance on wind energy, but for the organization’s acceptance of monetary donations over a three-year period from US Wind. The developer plans to in-
stall 114 wind turbines off the Ocean City shoreline to generate electricity for the mid-Atlantic.
Wind power is not without its problems. District 1 (Pocomoke) Commissioner Caryn Abbott mentioned a July incident when splintered bits of a detached fiberglass turbine blade washed ashore on the Massachusetts island of Nantucket.
“With just one blade breaking off, those beaches were closed for weeks. God knows how much revenue was lost. It’s disheartening when environmental groups in our own county are accepting money,” she said. “What did they expect for that money?
Smith countered that the donations from US Wind came over a three-year period with “no strings attached” and helped the Maryland Coastal Bays Program successfully fund habitat conservation for threat-
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
County Commissioner Ted Elder, center with Commissioners Chip Bertino and Diana Purnell, was critical of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program’s decision to accept grant funding from US Wind.
County declines
ened bird species.
“We were fortunate to get funding to address those issues, because we don’t have the funding otherwise. I understand Commissioner Elder’s take on this, but for us, as an environmental organization, we like to deal with issues that are directly in front of us and in the coastal bays themselves. I think it’s important you understand that,” Smith said.
He added that his group takes a neutral position on the wind project because his organization is not an advocacy organization. To take a position against the US Wind project, the program’s leadership would have to feel there was a “deleterious effect” –harmful or damaging – “to the coastal bays.”
Elder said he’s of the opinion that not only should the Maryland Coastal Bays Program be supportive of Worcester County’s anti-wind position, but the organization should return the money.
“When you start accepting money from the devil, bad things start hap-
pening,” Elder told Smith. “It’s been proven over and over again that these are deleterious, to use your word, to the ocean.”
According to the website Open Secrets, US Wind has given more than $68,000 in campaign contributions to political candidates and their parties in both Maryland and Delaware since 2015. That includes $26,000 to the Maryland Democratic Party, $2,500 to Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, and $7,000 to Gov. Wes Moore.
An Italian-based corporation with local operations out of Baltimore, US Wind in 2019 secured a lease area in the Atlantic Ocean to construct 938foot-tall turbines within view of Ocean City.
Opponents argue the turbines, which could come as close as 10.7 miles off the beach if US Wind is allowed to proceed with a third phase of its project, will harm commercial fishing, hurt tourism, and upset the ecological balance of the ocean.
of Natural Resources will award $1 million a year for five years to up to five applicants. The money will be drawn from the newly created Whole Watershed Fund. With local matches, Smith said the grant could yield $20 million. The grant window closes Dec. 3 and won’t reopen for five years.
Smith said the money would go toward restoration of Newport Bay, an arm of Chincoteague Bay nestled between South Point and Newark.
District 3 Commissioner (West Ocean City) Eric Fiori, with a second from District 2 (Central) Commissioner Diana Purnell, moved to approve the letter. But the motion failed to carry without the requisite four yea votes: Elder voted nay, while Commissioners Abbott, Chip Bertino (Ocean Pines) and Jim Bunting (Bishopville) abstained.
While the wind farm developer has yet to drive its first piling in the ocean floor, Maryland’s Board of Public Works voted Nov. 20 to grant a tidal wetlands license that will allow US Wind to build a 353-foot concrete pier and bulkhead in the West Ocean City commercial fishing harbor. The pier would serve as home port for wind farm support vessels.
At Tuesday’s meeting in Snow Hill, Smith did not get what he came for: a letter of support for an application for a rare and substantial grant. The grant from the state Department
“Before voting on this, I would like to hear what your board has to say,” Bertino said, with Abbott and Bunting agreeing with him. “You understand the concerns we have. I understand the constraints you’re in. I’d like your board to have the opportunity to address the concerns we have.”
Bertino, the board of commissioners president, said the wind turbine project as proposed could prove “the beginning of the decimation of our fishing industry.”
“The commissioners, this government, has taken a very strong stance of opposition to these wind turbines, to the fact that we will be losing our harbor and fishing industries, if it moves forward,” he said.
Offshore wind pier in West OC given permit
Despite local opposition, US Wind receives go-ahead to build pier and bulkhead
By Bethany Hooper
Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Maryland Board of Public Works this week granted US Wind a tidal wetlands permit to build a pier and bulkhead at the West Ocean City Harbor, but officials say the company will first need to meet numerous special conditions.
On Wednesday, a state board comprised of the governor, comptroller and state treasurer supported the Maryland Department of the Environment’s recommendation to grant US Wind a permit to construct a pier and bulkhead, which will support a
planned operations and maintenance facility on Harbor Road. While the board heard from various local officials about the impacts such a facility would have on the commercial harbor, officials opined their concerns went beyond the board’s purview.
“I want to reiterate that the tidal wetlands license before us is only for the work to be completed on the bulkhead and the existing pier,” Comptroller Brooke Lierman said at the conclusion of Wednesday’s hearing.
“It is not the actual operations and maintenance facility or the turbines themselves. We are not permitted to look at what this is actually being used for. We are looking at what is actually happening regarding the physical structure.”
To support its wind energy project off Maryland’s coast, US Wind is
planning to construct an operations and maintenance facility at 12929 and 12933 Harbor Road in West Ocean City. Home to Martin Fish Company and Southern Connections, the properties will be redeveloped to include an onshore office, a marine coordination center and warehouse space, as well as quayside and berthing areas for the company’s crew transfer vessels.
To moor vessels at the proposed site, US Wind officials have planned upgrades to the existing pier and bulkhead, which requires the state wetlands permit approved by the Maryland Department of the Environment. With a favorable recommendation from the department, the Maryland Board of Public Works held a hearing this week to gather public feedback on the company’s permit application.
“There are no unique impacts to the wetlands here relative to many other pier and bulkhead projects the board regularly issues licenses for,” Wetlands Administrator Bill Morgante told the board this week. “The license activity here along this commercial harbor in West Ocean City is consistent with past license work in the state tidal wetlands. Therefore, I recommend the board approve the license.”
Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain told board members Wednesday that US Wind’s wetlands permit application met all the requirements of state law and her agency. She noted that during the permitting process, the Maryland Department of the Environment extended its public comment period. From the public’s response, she said, the company had reduced the size of the pier.
“So there’s really no doubt about this license, like none,” she said. “We made our decision based solely on the size of the pier in linear feet, the impacts to the waterway and sediments, and other technical questions that we always ask for permits. And they met everything. Those requirements of the governing law and regulations are really the only thing that matters to the Department of the Environment.”
Those supporting the permit application included Salisbury-based engineer Matt Drew, Wicomico Environmental Trust’s Charles Stegman and Maryland League of Conservation Voters Executive Director Kim Coble, all of whom provided testimony on the benefits of the US Wind project. Coble said approval of the tidal wetlands permit was a crucial step for the state.
“Onshore infrastructure is critical to support the offshore project,” she said. “And so, as we look to meet our goals in the state around clean energy, this permit becomes pivotal.”
The board also heard from US Wind’s Laurie Jodziewicz, who detailed plans for the pier and bulkhead project and addressed concerns re-
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Local officials push back on approved wetlands permit
lated to the operations and maintenance facility. She added that the company was working with local fishermen, to mitigate any impacts the facility could have on the West Ocean City harbor.
“The application seeks to replace 353 feet of an existing wharf and bulkhead, extend the bulkhead 18 inches forward and build the concrete pier flush with the bulkhead to create a unified structure facing the harbor,” she explained. “The operations and maintenance facility would support the technicians that travel out to the wind farm, and transfer vessels will dock there when not in use. The crew transfer vessels are 90 feet in length, largely the same size as fishing vessels that frequent the harbor. They would not cause any interference.”
However, several state, county and municipal officials, as well as business owners and those representing various interest groups in northern Worcester County, asked the board Wednesday to either delay its decision or deny the permit application. Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, Del. Wayne Hartman and Del. Chris Adams all spoke of their constituents’ concerns regarding the project and the impacts it would have on the local tourism and fishing industries.
“From the economic standpoint, the proposed O&M facility would eliminate commercial fishing as it removes the only facility for commercial vessel operators to offload the seafood catch,” Carozza said, “and therefore, would create a major negative economic impact.”
Officials also highlighted a lawsuit the Town of Ocean City and numerous co-plaintiffs filed against the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, as well as a compensation package that US Wind and the Department of Natural Resources is developing for local fishermen. They argued those issues, as well as other permitting requirements, must first be addressed.
“It is simply premature to make a decision on the license today when there are multiple pending issues, including federal litigation not resolved and pending applications that are far from complete,” Carozza said. “Under COMAR, the performance of project work under this license is contingent upon the licensee receiving all other state and local approvals and permits. US Wind has not even applied for local permits. And other pending applications like the landfall permits in Delaware requiring the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are not complete. I respect you to listen to the voice of those Marylanders who are asking you to reject this application.”
Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino argued the proposed operations and maintenance facility tied to the pier and bulkhead project
would hurt the fishing industry and put locals out of business. He added that Worcester County has yet to receive a permit application for the project.
“This will compound existing problems,” he said of the facility. “Most acutely, approval of this project begins the industrialization of the harbor and compromises a fragile marine ecosystem. COMAR states a project must be evaluated based on ecological, economic, developmental, recreational and aesthetic values. The permit before you today negatively impacts all of the above.”
Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan told the board Wednesday the pier and bulkhead project could result in environmental and property damage related to pile driving, reduced water quality and navigational safety issues. However, he said the biggest concern was the displacement of the fishing fleet.
“While the state proposed a fund for commercial fishermen for the loss, we believe that it is more important to our local area and to the state of Maryland that our fishing fleet remain a vibrant part of the economy rather than be displaced for the project, one you know we also believe impacts tours and property values,” he said. “Bottom line, our local watermen want to fish. They want to utilize the water. They want to maintain their livelihood. They are not looking for compensation.”
Representatives from the Ocean City Development Corporation, the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, the Waterman’s Association of Worcester County, the White Marlin Open and the Ocean City Marlin Club also came before the Board of Public Works this week to state their opposition to the wetlands permit, as well as the related operations and maintenance facility. At the conclusion of Wednesday’s hearing, however, the board voted to support the Maryland Department of the Environment’s recommendation and approve the wetlands permit.
During the board’s remarks, officials reiterated that their decision was confined to the impacts the proposed pier and bulkhead project would have on state wetlands.
“What we are considering today is limited by the board’s regulations and precedent by the Supreme Court of Maryland to only work in the wetlands …,” Lierman said. “99% of the protests really have to do with the use of the pier, not the renovation of the physical structure of the pier. And actually, most of what the proponents have to say too is not about the structure itself. It’s about the use. And that is not state statute. That’s not what we consider according to state statute.”
(Nov. 22, 2024) Resort planners will have a lot to consider as they review roughly three hours of testimony given this week on proposed shortterm rental regulations.
At the conclusion of Tuesday’s public hearing, during which time more than 20 community members shared their thoughts on proposed length-of-stay requirements and occupancy limits for short-term rentals in the R-1 residential and MH mobile home zoning districts, the Ocean City Planning Commission agreed to postpone its deliberations. Chair Joe Wilson said a discussion would be held at the commission’s next meeting, scheduled for Dec. 3.
“It’s a lot to take in,” he said.
In September, the Mayor and Council agreed to forward two proposed short-term rental regulations to the Ocean City Planning Commission for further review. When the matter was brought to the commission later that month, the commissioners directed staff to prepare an ordinance that could be presented for a public hearing, which was held Tuesday.
As proposed, the ordinance would set a five-day minimum length of stay for short-term rentals in the R-1 residential and MH mobile home dis-
tricts, May 1 through Sept. 30, and a three-day minimum length of stay from Oct. 1 through April 30. It would also change occupancy limits for short-term rentals in those zoning districts to two people per bedroom plus two additional guests, and no children 10 and under counted toward the limit. Lastly, the ordinance sets stronger enforcement measures and requires a local agent to handle issues that may occur at a property, among other things.
At the start of this week’s public hearing, Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told commission members the city had 230 rentals in the R-1 neighborhoods and 147 rentals in the MH neighborhoods. When looking at police data from Jan. 1, 2022 to Nov. 14, 2024, the city recorded 50 disorderly calls to rental properties in those two neighborhoods, 32 noise complaints, six ordinance violations, four trespassing violations, and five instances of malicious destruction of property.
Bendler also noted that the city had received several emails regarding the proposed short-term rental ordinance, with three in favor and 36 against. Several in attendance for Tuesday’s hearing also expressed their opposition to the new regula-
tions.
“The targeted R-1 and mobile home rental zones are about 4.25% of all rentals available in Ocean City,” resident Linda Tucker said. “This percentage would have a negligible impact on hotels or restaurants. Yet the changes proposed are likely to have a devastating impact on the small business owners, the private owners, to the point of utter failure, business closure and sale. Not only will owners be severely affected, but the families these rentals have served will go to a more family and economically friendly area.”
For her part, Tucker argued the proposed regulations not only benefited city council members involved in the local hotel and restaurant industries, but infringed on her rights as a property owner. Local Realtor Terry Miller added that the proposed regulations would hurt short-term rental operators.
“While I feel the current regulations are sufficient, I understand people have concerns about short-term rentals,” she said. “However, I don’t think that the proposed changes will help with these concerns or promote neighborhood cohesion.”
A concern reiterated throughout the hearing was the five-day minimum length of stay. Several operators and managers in their testimony this week said stays at their properties averaged three or four days.
“Last year in 2024, we probably had 45 check-ins across the two properties …,” operator Neal Scully said. “I have only one that was seven days or more. The majority of those are now four days, sometimes three days.”
Some argued the proposed restrictions would be difficult to enforce. Others said it punished operators who already took the proper precautions to limit large or unruly groups.
“I can’t tell you how many reservations that we decline each year because they don’t meet the current guidelines and also in an effort to keep goodwill with our neighbors,” David Marciniak said. “We’ve hardly ever had a complaint from our neighbors. All my neighbors have my card. If there’s any issues or concerns on their part, they give me a call directly and we come out and we go and visit them.”
While rental owners and operators argued the police data did not support a change in rental regulations, some at Tuesday’s hearing said they supported the city’s effort to manage some of the behaviors they have witnessed in their neighborhoods. Resident Gordon Kretser said he believed the proposed regulations were too lenient and that commercial operations such as short-term rentals should not be allowed in residential areas.
“I love this community and I want to see the R-1s protected as much as
Green uniforms in place for OCPD’s K-9 unit
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Ocean City Police Department announced this week its K-9 Unit has gone green as part of updating the unit’s ability to utilize the latest technology and operational readiness for deployments day or night.
According to a department press release, the OCPD K-9, founded in
the late 1960s, is one of the oldest K9 Units in Maryland. The patrol consists of five working patrol/narcotics dog handler teams.
The K-9 teams all work patrol as their primary function and are dedicated to supporting the OCPD through community engagement. These teams constantly prepare for
high-risk scenarios, tracking and searching, narcotics detection, civil unrest, and even the apprehension of violent and/or dangerous persons, according to the department.
“Going green, a color symbolizing safety, makes our K-9 Teams easily recognizable, fosters seamless coordination with allied agencies, and dis-
tinguishes our Officers through high visibility, defining their specialty roles and responsibilities. Our adoption of a green uniform further promotes consistency and familiarity within the law enforcement community nationwide and reinforces the unique nature of K9 operations,” the press release states.
PHOTO COURTESY GRANT GURSKY
Members of the Ocean City Police Department’s K-9 team gathered on the beach with their partners last week to display their new green uniforms.
Worcester tightens parking minimums for dispensaries
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Future cannabis dispensaries in Worcester County will have to meet new parking restrictions, a change made by county officials based on concerns about vehicular traffic and high demand.
The Worcester County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved legislation that sets a minimum parking requirement for dispensaries: 1 spot for every 100 square feet of floor space. It also sets a minimum of 8 stackable spaces for drive-through service.
This code amendment separates retail cannabis dispensaries from retail pharmacies, establishing the use as a special zoning exception. Existing dispensaries are now considered a legally conforming special exception, and do not have to make any parking changes. As emergency legislation, the policy takes effect immediately.
Because cannabis dispensaries got their start in Maryland as a medicaluse service in 2017, the county to date put cannabis dispensaries in the same zoning category as a pharmacy, where the parking requirements have been 1 spot for every 300 square feet of retail space.
At issue is how the July 2023 expansion of cannabis sales from medical to recreational “generated a significant amount of additional (vehicular) traffic impacts that were not originally contemplated” under medical-only sales, Zoning Administrator Jennifer Keener wrote in a Sept. 26 memo to members of the county’s planning commission.
Worcester County has two licensed cannabis dispensaries, Positive Energy and Hi Tide, both located less than two miles from each other in the West Ocean City area. Positive Energy is located off Route 50, while Hi Tide is situated off Route 611.
By contrast, there are 39 retailers or restaurants in Worcester County that sell to-go alcohol, according to a spokeswoman for the county’s Board of License Commissioners.
Officials with the Maryland Cannabis Administration are planning in January to grant 75 new dispensary licenses statewide by a lottery system. While it’s unclear whether Worcester will get a third dispensary in this round of licensing, it still set in motion the county’s regulatory review of parking at cannabis dispensaries going back to September.
The change doesn’t sit well with at least one dispensary operator.
Greater parking restrictions on future dispensaries could be a violation of state law, according to Bob Davis, the owner and clinical director of Hi Tide dispensary, which will soon move from Route 611 to Route 50 to occupy the former Rite-Aid.
When reached for comment, Davis cited House Bill 805, which was passed by state legislators earlier this year. Text of the law says cannabis dispensaries should be regulated on an equal playing field with businesses that sell to-go alcohol. He also said compliance with these parking restrictions passed by the county could prove challenging for future operators.
While his dispensary won’t be affected, Davis said “going forward, there’s going to be host of new licensees coming on board, say, in the next 10 years. If they can’t open their doors, that’s significant. If they’re trying to keep out any new dispensaries in Worcester County, that’s a good way of doing it, making it so they can’t get the parking.”
Roscoe Leslie, attorney for Worcester County, says the county believes the new parking restrictions are consistent with Maryland law.
“The only two state-licensed cannabis dispensaries currently create high traffic and parking demands that are burdensome to nearby areas when compared to more common businesses that are often compared to dispensaries, like drug stores or licensed alcohol stores,” he said in a statement to OC Today-Dispatch.
A representative from Positive Energy did not respond to a request for comment
Occupancy limits questioned
Continued from Page 14
seemingly possible,” he said.
Ocean City residents Dennis Dare and Pam Buckley agreed. However, they acknowledged they did not like the changes being presented.
“Enforcement with what’s in front of me tonight is going to be difficult, if not impossible …,” Dare said.
“There are 377 rentals that we’re talking about tonight, but there’s 9,000 rentals in the town. How do you tell if they leave early? How do you tell if there’s only two adults per bedroom
plus two more living in the room, and an undefined number of children?”
At the conclusion of Tuesday’s public hearing, commission members agreed to postpone their decision to the next meeting. While acknowledging the concerns of the rental operators, a majority of the commission’s members said they believe some change is needed to address the impacts of short-term rentals.
“It’s a tough decision, a tough recommendation for us to make,” Commissioner Janet Hough said.
Rezoning rebuffed for old Phillips property
OC Council doesn’t buy into attorney’s argument why zoning needs fixing
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) A request to rezone a portion of a 21st Street shopping center will be reconsidered by resort planners following this week’s council meeting.
On Monday, the Mayor and Council had before it a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City Planning Commission to rezone the easterly portion of the Phillips Plaza Shopping Center from R-3 residential to LC-1 light commercial.
While resort planners opined the zoning designation to be a mistake, the majority of the council this week
Open 4pm Friday & Saturday
did not believe that to be the case.
“I think I made it clear that I don’t think the findings of fact or the transcript provided show that there was a mistake made,” Council President Matt James said of the commission’s recommendation. “And that’s the argument being made here today.”
On Oct. 8, attorney Hugh Cropper came before the planning commission to seek a rezoning of the easterly half of 2100 Philadelphia Avenue, better known as the Phillips Plaza Shopping Center. He said his client, Mike Ramadan, was looking to double the size of the current shopping center, with additional employee housing and offices above.
In their application to the commission, Cropper, landowner JAMB LLC, and property owner and lessee Phillips Plaza Inc. requested that the
eastern half of the property currently serving as a parking lot be rezoned from R-3 to LC-1, the same zoning designation found on the western half of the property adjacent to Philadelphia Avenue.
From the outset, Cropper argued that the city had made a mistake in its zoning designation. While mid-block properties have been divided between LC-1 and R-3 since 1946, officials noted the only exception to be the block just south of the shopping center, which is zoned entirely LC-1. Cropper said for years, both parcels –the shopping center and the former Phillips Crab House – had operated as a joint commercial operation, and that state assessment records had even identified the entire shopping center property as commercial.
“For 55 years, there was a sign on
Philadelphia Avenue that said Phillips Square,” he said at the time. “There was a sign on Baltimore Avenue that said Phillips Square. There was a ticket booth that had Phillips Square on top of it. The shopping center was the same architecture as Phillips Crab House. It had the mansard roof with the shingles. And for all intents and purposes this appeared to be one single property. It was indeed a unified development by one group, which was the Phillips family.”
When the request was revisited late last month, members of the planning commission agreed with Cropper’s argument, voting unanimously to forward a favorable recommendation and their findings of fact to the Mayor and Council for consideration.
However, when the matter was presented to the council on Monday, only two members – Councilman John Gehrig and Councilwoman Carol Proctor – voted to accept the rezoning and findings of fact.
“They’ve given us a document that doesn’t support their recommendation,” James said.
During his presentation Monday, Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told council members that zoning for midblock parcels are typically split, with the easterly half fronting Baltimore Avenue typically zoned R-3. He said the property owner wants to change that area from R-3 to LC-1, the zoning designation found on the western half of the parcel.
“It’s where the back parking lot is located,” he said.
While the request came with a favorable recommendation from the planning commission, James asked staff if it was normal to rezone a property because a developer wants to build something.
Bendler said a property could be rezoned if the Mayor and Council agreed that there was a substantial change in the neighborhood, or that there was a mistake in the zoning classification. He said the planning commission supported the argument that the R-3 zoning was a mistake.
“In their view, based on the comments, they believed it was a mistake and presented it in that fashion,” he replied.
When asked if he believed the zoning classification to be a mistake, Bendler said he did not. James said he thought a change in the neighborhood to be a better justification for rezoning.
“The adjacent properties up and down Baltimore Avenue are all zoned pretty comparably to how it’s currently zoned, except for the Phillips complex to the south,” he said.
Bendler said the parking that currently exists on the easterly side of the property is a permitted use in the
Mayor, Council members will review duties
tion campaign. The majority backed challenger Peter Buas, who lost by 192 votes.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) It appears the source of division between the mayor and City Council members will be broached at an upcoming work session.
At the end of Monday’s meeting, Councilman John Gehrig asked that the council president schedule a work session to review the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor and Council. He said editorials found in the Nov. 8 issue of the OC Today-Dispatch had brought to light what appears to be a division within city government.
“I do look forward to working together as a team. The mayor does too,” he said. “But I do think there are some differences of opinion, perhaps, between some council members and the mayor on some things, and it’s a good opportunity to vet that out.”
A divide between the mayor and the city council was evident early on in this year’s mayoral race, with Council Secretary Tony DeLuca the only member to actively support Meehan’s re-elec-
Internally, it is reported the source of dissension among elected officials is what some contend is the mayor’s influence over and involvement in city matters, sometimes without the council’s knowledge or consent. While noting those issues are typically handled internally, Gehrig this week said they have now been brought to the public’s attention, and as such should be addressed publicly.
“I think it’s about time, since it’s out in the public domain, we should probably have a meeting just to discuss mayor duties, City Council duties, city manager duties, and this may be something we do, just a standing meeting we have after every election,” he said.
Councilwoman Carol Proctor said she supported Gehrig’s request.
“Our charter is very clear as to the duties, you know, who reports to who and what our duties are and what our responsibilities are, and I think that there has been, maybe, some blurred
lines, for lack of better words,” she said.
Proctor said she had also been asked about what had been reported in the newspaper’s editorial section.
“There is a question in the public eye that needs to be addressed, so I think that these duties need to be clear,” she concluded. “It’s outlined in our charter, but the charter is not always followed.”
Council President Matt James agreed to place the topic on a future work session agenda.
Zoning case remanded by council
R-3 zoning district. Officials asked if that lot served as required parking for any use, including the former Phillips Crab House property to the south.
“It is not,” Bendler replied. “It is just servicing the Phillips Plaza.”
For his part, Cropper told council members he believed that when the Phillips Crab House property to the south was rezoned in 1974, the parking lot to the north had been mistakenly excluded. He also argued that
while parking is permitted in the R-3 district, he did not believe it to be good planning.
“In fact, the comprehensive plan said downtown is under siege by parking …,” he said. “The residential area of Baltimore Avenue has become nothing but asphalt parking.”
After further discussion, a motion to make the zoning amendment and adopt the planning commission’s findings of fact failed with just Gehrig and Proctor in favor.
“We can’t call something a mistake just because we don’t like the allowable use,” James said.
Councilman Will Savage then made a motion to reject the findings of fact and remand the issue back to the planning commission for further discussion regarding the change of character in the surrounding neighborhood.
That motion passed in a 6-1 vote, with Council Secretary Tony DeLuca opposed.
Worker pleads guilty to not reporting observed abuse
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) A former childcare worker pleaded guilty this week to three misdemeanor charges stemming from a child abuse investigation at the Berlin Activities Depot.
On Thursday, Catherine Deutsch, 32, entered a guilty plea to three misdemeanor charges of failure to report child abuse/neglect. The remaining 12 charges in her case will not be prosecuted as part of a plea agreement with the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office.
“She admitted that she saw what was going on but didn’t know what to do about it,” Assistant State’s Attorney Pam Correa told the court this week.
Last November, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into the Berlin Activities Depot’s Berlin Education Station after law enforcement and Child Protective Services were notified of an eightmonth-old who had been admitted to Atlantic General Hospital with a broken tibia. The sheriff’s office alleged that video footage of the infant classroom revealed Heather Ward, 40, of Berlin, had caused the child’s injuries and showed other concerning interactions with several other infants under
her supervision.
As a result, a grand jury in March indicted Ward on 90 charges, including 10 felony counts of child abuse and 80 misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault. And in June, Deutsch, who worked alongside Ward in the infant classroom, was arrested on 15 misdemeanor charges, including neglect of a minor and failure to report child abuse/neglect.
Having entered into her own agreement with the state’s attorney’s office, Ward in August submitted an Alford plea to nine counts of second-degree assault.
And in a hearing Thursday, Correa presented Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley with another plea agreement, this time with Deutsch.
The prosecution recommended a $1,000 fine for each count – or $3,000 total – and a suspended concurrent sentence of 18 months for each count. As part of her plea, the prosecution also recommended Deutsch be placed on probation for three years, during which time she will have no engagement in childcare. She will also be required to complete a mental health evaluation before sentencing, which is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 28.
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Area woman sentenced in ‘disturbing’ case
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) A Berlin woman will spend 18 years in jail for assaulting nine children in her care.
In a hearing last Friday, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley sentenced Heather Ward, 40, of Berlin, to 18 years for the nine misdemeanor assault charges for which she had tendered an Alford plea in August. For each of the nine counts, Ward received 10 years, with all but two years suspended. Her sentence for each count will be served consecutively for a total of 18 years.
“It’s disturbing,” Shockley said of Ward’s actions last week, “and it’s heartbreaking.”
Friday’s sentencing comes one year after the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into the Berlin Activities Depot after law enforcement and Child Protective Services were notified of an eight-month-old who had been admitted to Atlantic General Hospital with a broken tibia. The sheriff’s office alleged that video footage of the infant classroom revealed Ward, one of the daycare’s employees, had caused the child’s injuries and showed other concerning interactions with several other infants under her supervision.
As a result, a grand jury in March
indicted Ward on 90 charges, including 10 felony counts of child abuse and 80 misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault. And in August, as part of an agreement with the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, Ward submitted an Alford plea for nine of the assault charges, representing the nine victims in the case.
An Alford plea acknowledges that the state has enough evidence to prove Ward guilty beyond a reasonable doubt should the case proceed to trial. The remaining 81 counts in her case, including the 10 felony charges, were not prosecuted.
In court last week, both the prosecution and the defense made their case for sentencing. Assistant State’s Attorney Pam Correa recommended that the court go beyond the state guidelines and impose a sentence of 90 years, with all but 50 years suspended. She said that video footage of Ward’s interactions in the classroom between October and November showed 52 instances of assault.
“What we see is not rough handling,” she argued. “What we see is a deliberate, intentional act.”
Correa said video footage showed
Ward bending and twisting children’s arms and legs into unnatural positions, placing her fingers in their mouths, and handling them in a rough manner, among other things. However, when the footage was shown to Ward, Correa said Ward denied any intention of hurting the children but acknowledged that her handling of the children appeared less gentle than she remembered.
“That’s the sum total of the acknowledgement of her behaviors,” she said.
While sentencing guidelines for assault range from probation to six months for each count, that number can go up to two years if the prosecution can prove injury had occurred. However, Correa recommended a longer sentence based on Ward’s actions and the nature of her conduct.
“She was in a position of trust that she violated,” she said. “And I’m asking the court to recognize that.”
Ward’s attorney, Colleen Murphy, said she believed the appropriate sentence to be 18 months, given Ward’s guilty plea, her lack of a criminal record, and her active involvement in counseling, among other things. She added that the video footage collected against her client accounted for just a small fraction of the time she had spent in the classroom.
“This behavior accounts for 1% of her time in the classroom from October 1 to November 1,” she said.
Murphy also highlighted Department of Social Services reports, which concluded that no injury had occurred to any of the victims.
“Injury must be considered only when there is reasonable proof,” she said.
The court last week also heard from the families of the nine victims, each detailing the behavioral changes witnessed in their children since the incident occurred. Several parents said their children now fear certain routines, such as having their diaper changed or having their face cleaned.
“Now we know that this wasn’t a phase,” one parent said. “This was abuse.”
One parent said her child has since been hospitalized for optic nerve pressure she believes in related to the incident. Another said she no longer trusts others to watch her children.
“This abuse was malicious and very much intentional,” one parent said.
For her part, Ward shared her remorse. She said she had no intention of hurting the children in her care.
“After seeing all the videos, I am taking accountability for my actions,” she said.
Heather Ward
Salisbury motorist pleads guilty to negligent homicide
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) The driver involved in a fatal car accident in Worcester County late last year pleaded guilty to negligent homicide this week.
Last Dec. 16, at around 4:13 a.m., the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office responded to Saint Lukes Road in Worcester County for a single vehicle crash. Upon arrival, deputies and first responders found a Jeep Wrangler, operated by Wyatt Lowman, now 20, of Salisbury, had left the roadway and struck a ditch and utility pole.
Lowman was transported to Shock Trauma in Baltimore for his injuries, and another occupant was transported to TidalHealth. However, one of the car’s passengers, Allison Milburn, 20, of Stockton, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
In July, following a months-long investigation, 10 charges were filed against Lowman in Worcester County Circuit Court. Charges included negligent manslaughter by automobile, criminally negligent manslaughter by automobile, negligent manslaughter
by automobile under the influence, homicide by motor vehicle impaired by alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, reckless driving, negligent driving, driving in violation of alcohol restriction, and failure to obey a traffic control device.
In court last Friday, Assistant State’s Attorney Brittani Stewart said an agreement had been reached with the defendant, who entered a guilty plea to negligent homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. The remaining counts would not be prosecuted.
Stewart said the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office recommended a sentence of five years, with all but 18 months suspended. The agreement also includes five years of supervised probation.
Pending sentencing, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley ordered Lowman to abstain from any drugs or alcohol and to have no contact with the victims’ families.
“They are pretty modest given the circumstances,” he said.
Former employee embezzled $1.5M, court filing alleges
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) The owners of a local construction company claim a former employee stole more than $1.5 million and funneled it into her husband’s business, but the couple’s attorney says they continue to maintain their innocence.
On Oct. 24, Resort Homes, LLC filed a civil suit against Tammy Barcus, the company’s bookkeeper, and her husband, Ron Barcus, owner of Shoreline Tile & Marble, alleging the couple defrauded the business and conspired together to embezzle money by forging unauthorized checks and hiding the transactions. Steve Rakow, attorney for Tammy and Ron Barcus, said he has “not yet received anything of substance from the Plaintiff” in the lawsuit, but acknowledged that criminal charges are pending.
“I’ve been advised that the state is going to file criminal charges against Tammy Barcus and considering whether to file charges against Ronald Barcus,” he said in a statement last week. “At this time, my clients maintain their innocence. We’ll have to see what evidence the Plaintiff has in the civil case, and also see what happens in the pending criminal case.”
Resort Homes reports both Tammy and Ron Barcus have been employed with the company for over a decade –Tammy as the company’s bookkeeper
HAPPY HOUR
and Ron as the company’s tile and marble installer. In her position as bookkeeper, Tammy Barcus was tasked with tracking and paying all subcontractors through the company’s QuickBooks software and the company’s expense account.
On Oct. 17, however, the company’s accountant discovered discrepancies between bank account statements and the QuickBooks ledgers. Further investigation revealed unauthorized payments to Ronald Barcus, concealed as transactions to other companies, according to the lawsuit.
“To date, Plaintiff has discovered Defendants have embezzled, and defrauded Plaintiff out of $1,542,036.56,” the complaint reads. “Investigation is ongoing which will likely reveal additional funds have been misappropriated.”
According to the lawsuit, Tammy Barcus routinely paid her husband from the company’s expense account for services he legitimately rendered as a subcontractor, with those payments accurately reflected in the QuickBooks software. Those draft checks would be presented to the company’s owners, who signed the checks.
However, the company claims the defendants also paid Ron Barcus without authorization by printing checks that did not appear on the company’s QuickBooks software and forging the
ENTERTAINMENT
Civil lawsuit filed after alleged embezzling
signature of one of the company’s owners. The company reports the scheme began as early as 2018.
“To conceal these checks from Plaintiff and Plaintiff’s accountants, and to allow the QuickBooks ledgers to reconcile with Plaintiff’s bank account statements, Defendants falsified QuickBooks entries for false payments to actual building supply companies, which matched the totals and dates of the actual checks printed and forged, payable to Defendant Ronald Barcus in the name of Shoreline Tile & Marble.”
The company alleges the defendants used various building supply companies’ names to hide the fraudulent payments among the other legitimate expense entries in the QuickBooks ledgers.
“Each of these false entries into QuickBooks were purposefully created for the purchase of supplies, as opposed to services, so they would not require Plaintiff to issue a 1099 to the payee at the close of the tax ear, to further conceal the fraud,” the complaint reads. “Had these false entries been payable to other subcontractors for services, Plaintiff would have issued a 1099 to the subcontractors, who would have discovered the discrepancy.”
Resort Homes alleges Ron Barcus had endorsed the falsified checks and deposited them into the couple’s bank accounts. The company claims the fraudulent payments to Ron Barcus totaled more than $200,000 per year.
“Given Defendant Ronald Barcus was paid about $75,000.00 per year on average by Plaintiff, and Defendant Tammy Barcus was paid about
$50,000 per year on average by Plaintiff, Defendants have roughly tripled their annual income from Plaintiff through their fraudulent actions and conspiracy,” the complaint reads.
After discovering the accounting discrepancies, the company notified Maryland State Police, which began an investigation. The lawsuit also reports Tammy Barcus had confessed to the fraudulent activity.
“When Defendant returned to Plaintiff’s office on Monday October 21, 2024, Plaintiff confronted Defendant Tammy Barcus about the fraudulent scheme, and Defendant Tammy Barcus admitted to the fraud,” the complaint reads. “When Plaintiff’s member Darryl Greer asked Defendant Tammy Barcus if she planned on paying back the misappropriated funds, Defendant Tammy Barcus
stated that she had spent all the funds and only had a few thousand dollars in her bank accounts, and refused to pay back any stolen funds, despite owning multiple vehicles, a new boat, and real property. The entire account and admission was recorded by Trooper Stacey of the Maryland State Police.”
The company’s lawsuit, filed in Worcester County Circuit Court last month, seeks $1.5 million in compensatory damages and $75,000 in punitive damages on the counts of fraud and conspiracy. Resort Homes owners Darryl Greer and Chuck Davis declined to comment on the case.
Salisbury man dies after vehicle runs off parkway
APPAREL SHOP
(Nov. 22, 2024) A landscape worker died last Saturday morning after a motorist veered off the road striking him.
On Nov. 16, at 8:43 a.m., officers from the Ocean Pines Police Department responded to a reported motor vehicle collision on Ocean Parkway between Briarcrest Drive and Beaconhill Road.
Upon arrival, it was observed a vehicle, operated by William R. Lewis Jr., 65, of Parsonsburg, traveled off the south side of the roadway and struck an individual working in the yard of a property.
The individual who was struck, Ramon Ramirez Castillo, 35, of Salisbury, suffered fatal injuries because of the collision.
Both the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and the Maryland State Police responded to assist.
The investigation is ongoing with an accident reconstruction being handled by the Maryland State Police.
‘Gross breach of trust,’ judge says
Continued from Page 22
After a nearly three-hour-long hearing, Shockley handed down a sentence of 90 years for all nine counts, all but 18 years of which were suspended. Ward will receive credit for time already served, and will be placed on five years of probation upon her release, during which time she will have no supervised contact with minors, the victims and their families, and will be prohibited from participating in youth groups, among other conditions.
“This is a case that represents a gross breach of trust, which caused significant harm,” Shockley said.
Blue Angels begin Air Show prep
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) Members of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels team will visit the Eastern Shore next week in preparation for their return to the OC Air Show in 2025.
For the first time since 2019, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels will make an appearance at the OC Air Show, scheduled for June 14-15, 2025. To that end, two members of the demonstration team will make their way to Ocean City next Monday in preparation for the fourth stop on their 2025 Air Dot Show Tour.
“The Blue Angels serve as ambassadors of goodwill by bringing naval aviation to men, women, and children across America,” a news release from the OC Air Show reads. “Their precision flight demonstrations showcase the professionalism, excellence and teamwork
found in all Navy and Marine Corps units, as well as provide the thrill and magic of flight to people each year.”
Last December, after announcing that the 2024 OC Air Show would be moved from its typical mid-June date to August, city officials reported that the annual event would return to its normal schedule in 2025, with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels as the headline act. The following week, the demonstration team shared its 2025 air show lineup, with Ocean City on the list of locations.
“During their 79th air show season, the Blue Angels are scheduled to perform 64 demonstrations at 32 locations in 2025,” a news release reads.
On Monday, two members of squadron will fly into NASA Wallops Flight Facility in a Blue Angels yellow and blue F/A-18 Super Hornet. The members will then meet with various
local agencies as they plan for next year’s OC Air Show.
The Blue Angels’ participation in next year’s air show will fulfill the terms laid out between the promoter, Air Dot Show Tour, and the Town of Ocean City, which expressed its desire to have no less than one major military jet team –the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the Canadian Air Force Snowbirds, or two or more U.S. military single ship jet demonstrations – headline the annual event.
In a break from that agreement, city officials last year announced that none of the major U.S. demonstration teams would perform in the 2024 OC Air Show, but rather the Italian Air Force Frecce Tricolori team. They reported the promoter, Air Dot Show Tour, had faced several challenges in securing major U.S. military jet teams for the season.
GETTING READY
Months of preparations by the city’s parks department took place in advance of last night’s Winterfest of Lights opening at Northside Park. Top left, placing two trees along the walking path last Friday were Jeff Green and Gary Holtzman. Top right, the festival’s featured centerpiece tree is pictured. Above left, Joshua Lehmert strings a tree. Above right, William Malin is pictured at work. Winterfest will be open Wednesday-Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Newark butcher shop now allowed to slaughter cattle
Ewell had been spending $34,000 annually to ship cattle to neighboring states
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) A Worcester County cattle farmer was granted permission to slaughter cows for butchering on his own property instead of having to outsource the job.
Call it the Ewell Rule. It was farmer Bob Ewell of Newark who successfully petitioned Worcester County officials earlier this year to tweak the county code, making in-house livestock slaughtering a permitted use in agriculturally zoned areas – but only when zoning officials give the OK as a special exception.
Ewell did just that, appearing Nov. 14 before the county’s Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA).
The board unanimously approved his special exception because he met the requirements. Now he’ll be able to sell beef he butchered himself at his Fresh Cut Butcher Shop, located off Route 113 at Croppers Island Road.
For personal use, one can cull as many cattle as they want, and the law doesn’t interfere. But in order to sell butchered beef at market, cows have to be processed under USDA supervision. Ewell did this by having his cattle slaughtered out-of state, at an annual cost of about $34,000, he told the BZA.
In a new slaughterhouse he’ll construct on his farmland, Ewell said he plans to process up to three cows a week, based on demand. A cattle farmer for 36 years, Ewell said he keeps about 75 head of cattle on his pasture and feed lot.
Cattle will be processed one day a week, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., alongside two employees and joined by a USDA inspector. He won’t be receiving cattle from any other source, because the only cattle allowed to be harvested will be ones raised on his property.
The slaughterhouse rule stipulates that a processing facility must be located on a minimum 140-acre farm where livestock is already raised, can’t be any bigger than 600 square feet, and must maintain a 400-foot setback from roads or homes.
Ewell’s attorney Mark Cropper told the BZA his client will meet the setback requirements.
“You’re not going to hear it and you’re not going to smell it,” he said. “This use is so far away from all of the residences on Croppers Island Road –let’s just say I would be stunned and amazed if anybody even knows this is occurring. There’s no way you would ever see this.”
When the matter came before the Worcester County Board of Commissioners in April, opponents had a beef of their own – raising concerns about negative impacts to groundwater from cattle processing, as well as with traffic on Croppers Island Road.
Ewell’s attorney told BZA members he’d commissioned a traffic study that concluded there would be little to no impact on vehicular traffic.
He also said there will be no on-site disposal of waste from the slaughtering process. Bone, hide, offal, and other solids will be sorted into bins, while separately, an in-ground catch tank will collect liquids for removal. Solids and liquids will be removed by different vendors and shipped to separate processing facilities in Maryland and Virginia.
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FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Fresh Cut Butcher Shop is pictured off Route 113 at Croppers Island Road.
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Prayer breakfast to feature Blanks
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce has announced fitness legend and motivational speaker Billy Blanks will be the featured keynote speaker at this year’s annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. The event will take place on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, at the Ashore Beach Club & Resort in the Atlantic Ballroom.
Blanks, internationally renowned as the creator of the Tae Bo® fitness program, has inspired millions around the world with his powerful message of resilience, faith, and determination. A former martial arts champion and actor, Blanks combines his passion for fitness with a message of personal growth and faith, motivating audiences to overcome obstacles and lead purposeful lives. His address at this year’s break-
fast promises to uplift attendees with insights drawn from his remarkable journey of discipline and spiritual conviction.
The morning will kick off with a VIP check-in 7:15 - 7:30 a.m. Standard ticket holders are invited to check in and enjoy breakfast from 8:15 to 8:40 a.m. The main program will begin promptly at 8:45 a.m.
The Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast is an annual event that brings together community members for a morning of reflection, unity, and inspiration. The event serves as a forum for civic leaders, residents, and guests to come together to honor faith, community values, and the strength of shared purpose.
Tickets are available now, with VIP meet-and-greet and standard seating options. Standard tickets are $35 and
meet-and-greet tickets are $100 and can be purchased at https://bit.ly/2025PrayerBfast. For sponsorship information email colby@oceancity.org
Tickets are currently available for the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, which will feature
Proposed project secures elevation support in Berlin
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2024) Developers for the proposed Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham received the approval they needed last week to continue moving forward.
In what was at least the fourth appearance before the body in the last year, the Microtel representatives presented a revised concept plan to the Berlin Planning Commission once again, incorporating building enhancement suggestions made by the town’s advisory group at last month’s project meeting. The updated elevations were approved, with a few modifications.
The Microtel team met with the Berlin Planning Commission on Wednesday, Nov. 13, where they presented new elements added to the hotel’s exterior, including an awning above the first-floor windows on the building’s brick portion, a canopy that comes out of the stair exit over to the pool entry, and a small awning over the rear lobby door. The revised elements consist of planters between windows, brick on the porte-cochère’s support columns that extend to the top, ornate cornices on the portecochère matching those on the property’s brick area, and a modified porte-cochère connector that resembles the less ornate cornice at the top of the structure.
The design was updated with a darkened, brownish Hardie lap siding rather than the yellowish color in the previous plan. Brick was also added underneath the glass storefront to wrap around the entire window line.
The planning commission approved the modified design unanimously, with a few tweaks. Rather than incorporating brick underneath the window line, the group suggested that the developers switch the proposed material to panel for a more traditional and cost-effective structure, eliminate the awning on the Hardie lap siding near the pool, and instead wrap the front’s remaining canopy around so it is continuous on the building’s brickwork, and do away with the porte-cochère’s ornate cornices. Despite disagreements in the past, the Microtel team was receptive to the advisory committee’s recommendations.
When the applicants went before the Planning Commission earlier this year, the two groups struggled to agree on the hotel’s elevations. The town’s representatives argued that the building must resemble downtown Berlin. A few on the commission described the original concept as a “computer box,” lacking any of the historic municipality’s charm. At the same time, the Microtel team fought back, saying that they could not create a structure without clear guidelines, as the
SUBMITTED RENDERING/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The proposed Microtel hotel is shown in a rendering. The image shows the view for motorists traveling north on Route 113.
78-unit Microtel eyes location on east side of 113
design standards to which they could refer to for specific guidance.
“Looking at the current plan, it doesn’t work for me,” Commissioner Pete Cosby told the developers at a July meeting. “The colors, the architecture, it just doesn’t work.”
Now, the parties have reached a consensus on Microtel’s aesthetics. Upon initial feedback in the spring and summer that the structure was not adequate for Berlin, the developers added Victorian lamp posts, brick, mature trees, and cornices to match the old-time vibe of the town. At the Nov. 13 meeting, the groups continued working together to create the best possible structure. Applicant Athon Zambetis from A&M Properties acknowledged that the compromise has improved the project overall and that they are satisfied with the revised elevations.
“The cooperation and collaboration helped me at the end with the, ‘I like this,’ ‘I don’t like this,’ ‘we can agree for the most part on this,’” he said. “One person may have a differing opinion, but if you all come to a collective agreement on something, that gives us so much to go back with.”
The Microtel is a proposed fourstory, 78-unit hotel on the east side of Route 113, near Franklin Avenue, across from Berlin Intermediate School. Since it was initially presented to the planning commission in March, the structure has caused a stir among Berlin business owners and residents.
Applicant Tom Zambetis told commissioners at the spring meeting that, given the occupancy rates at the West Ocean City location and the trafficked area of Route 113, he saw a need for another building that could accommodate visitors, this time in Berlin.
Some residents argued that the proposed placement was an issue. Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols, who attended the March planning commission meeting, said that the building was near her house and that she doesn’t think “that location is a safe spot.” Council Vice President Dean Burrell also spoke critical of the hotel’s site selection.
Still, the developers have continued to return to the commission with upgrades as recommended. With the aforementioned modifications, the elevations were approved by the municipality’s advisory group on Nov. 13. An official concept approval and the green lighting of site plans will come later as more details are provided and a planning director is hired and established into the current vacant role. Final site plans cannot be confirmed, given a temporary moratorium that has stalled specific actions of the planning commission until the position left by Dave Engelhart, the former planning director who passed away in April, is filled.
Annual awards presented to leading shore entrepreneurs
(Nov. 22, 2024) Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) held its annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards Banquet this month, honoring the exceptional achievements of local entrepreneurs who are contributing to the growth and prosperity of the region.
Hosted at Salisbury University’s Patricia R. Guerrieri Academics Commons Building Assembly Hall, this year’s event drew business leaders, community members, and local officials, all gathered to celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Shaina Daly and Heather Hall, Coowners of The Ugly Pie, were awarded the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award in recognition of their commitment to quality, innovation, and the expansion of their successful bakery business.
Jeremy Brink, owner of Ocean 13 Seafood and Steakhouse, received the Workforce Development Award for his dedication to creating meaningful employment opportunities and fostering workforce growth in the hospitality industry.
Sara Aquino Noyes, president of Atlantic Portable X-Ray, was honored with the Innovator Award for her groundbreaking work in the healthcare sector, delivering vital diagnostic services to pa-
tients with accessibility needs.
MCE Executive Director Maurice Ames expressed his admiration for the winners.
“The entrepreneurs we honor tonight exemplify resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to their communities,” said Ames. “Maryland Capital Enterprises is proud to support their journeys and to be a part of this thriving network of small business leaders who are shaping the future of Maryland’s economy.”
Special guest Maryland Senator Mary Beth Carozza gave the keynote address, showing her support for the honorees and the important role MCE plays in fostering economic development across the region.
The evening was further distinguished by Congressional Citations presented to the award recipients in recognition of their contributions to the community and the local economy.
The event also included presentations by winners of the Salisbury University Perdue School of Business Ratcliffe Foundation and Shore Hatchery Entrepreneurship competition, introduced by Bryan Bourdeau, Assistant Director of the Dave & Patsy Rommel Center for Entrepreneurship at Salisbury University.
Pictured, from left, at the MCE annual awards event were MCE Executive Director Maurice Ames, Jeremy Brink, Shaina Daly, Heather Hall, Sara Noyes Aquino and Senator Mary Beth Carozza.
Jolly Roger Black Friday specials on passes offered
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Black Friday tradition returns Jolly Roger’s SpeedWorld building on 30th Street on Nov. 29, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for unbeatable holiday deals — 50% off all 2025 park passes and select merchandise.
“Black Friday is one of the highlights of the year for our team and my family,” said Steve Pastusak, Vice President of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks®. “There’s nothing better than seeing locals, visitors, and friends all enjoying 50% off and knowing that their summer will be full of making amazing memories at Jolly Roger.”
Get in on the excitement with discounted passes for Jolly Roger’s Pier and 30th Street locations, including SpeedWorld, Splash Mountain Water Park, 30th Street Amusement Park, and Mini Golf. Choose from The BIG Ticket, 2-Hour Armbands, Unlimited Daytime, or Unlimited Nighttime Armbands—all at 50% off. New for 2024, there will be additional registers and self-serve kiosks throughout the SpeedWorld building to help make your shopping quicker and more efficient.
In addition, there will be live music by Otto Grundman outside by the firepits for those waiting outside the line, or keeping warm while enjoying the day.
Tickets on sale for Let’s Get Lit weekend in OC
(Nov. 22, 2024) The 2nd Annual Let’s Get Lit Winterfest Weekend returns to Ocean City Dec. 6-8 at the Cambria Hotel on the bay.
The highlight of the weekend is the Shore Craft Beer & Beverage Fest on Saturday, Dec. 7. Attendees can enjoy unlimited tastings from a variety of local breweries, including Dogfish Head, Evolution Craft Brewing, Big Oyster Brewery, Burley Oak, and Buzz Meadery. Savor seasonal brews, hard seltzers, and Dogfish Head craft cocktails, all while enjoying live music from DJ Bigler. Don’t miss the “Most Lit” costume contest for a chance to win beer for a year from Shore Craft Beer. Other prizes include a two-night stay at the Cambria, a two-night stay at the Dogfish Inn, and lots of great prizes from the event sponsor, Dogfish Head.
The celebration kicks off Friday, Dec. 6 with early check-in for festival ticket holders from 3-7 p.m. at the View, the restaurant on the ground floor of the Cambria. There will be discounts on food and beverages for all attendees. Ticket-holders to the Let’s Get Lit event can pick up their wristbands and start enjoying exclusive discounts at participating bars and restaurants throughout Ocean City all weekend.
Tickets are limited to 400 and are expected to sell out quickly. Purchase your tickets online now at https://shorecraftbeer.ticketspice.com/lets-get-lit-2024.
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‘Moon Tree’ finds new home outside SH Middle School
Loblolly Pine sampling orbited moon on mission
(Nov. 22, 2024) Students from Snow Hill Middle School recently gathered outside of the school’s front exterior to plant a NASA Moon Tree.
As a selected recipient of one of NASA’s Artemis I Moon Trees, Snow Hill Middle School received a Loblolly Pine sapling that orbited the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft during the 2022 Artemis I mission. This rare and historic tree was planted on school grounds, symbolizing the intersection of space exploration and environmental stewardship.
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Snow Hill Middle School is among the first institutions in the nation chosen to receive these remarkable Moon Tree seedlings. NASA selected recipients based on their ability to both nurture the tree and incorporate educational programs that inspire future generations of scientists and explorers.
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“This is a perfect way for students to see firsthand how experiments in space have real meaning here on Earth,” said Snow Hill Middle School Library Media Specialist Beau Williams. “With Wallops Island in our backyard, we are fostering the next generation of engineers, mathematicians, biologists, and more, right here in Snow Hill and Worcester County. The hope is through our STEAM engagement, that students will not just wonder about the moon and stars but realize that the possibilities are practically in their hands.”
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The planting of the Loblolly Pine will be incorporated into the school’s environmental and STEM curriculum, providing a hands-on learning opportunity for students to explore space science and ecological responsibility. As a designated Maryland Green School, Snow Hill Middle School continues its mission of promoting sustainability and environmental education while connecting students to the wonders of space exploration.
“We are honored to receive this sapling and to be part of such an inspiring program,” Dr. Matthew Record, principal of Snow Hill Middle School said. “It connects our students with both the legacy and the future of space exploration, encouraging curiosity, innovation, and care for the planet.”
NASA’s Moon Tree Program honors the legacy of the original Moon Trees, seeds that orbited the Moon during the Apollo 14 mission in 1971. The Artemis I mission saw a diverse array of tree seeds, including sycamore, sweetgum, Douglas fir, and Loblolly Pine, journey 270,000 miles from Earth.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Snow Hill Middle School students, teachers and administrators are pictured around the new addition to their grounds this week.
Berlin approves starting meetings one
hour earlier
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2023) Per a motion made and approved last week, Berlin Mayor and Council meetings will now begin at 6 p.m., moving up an hour from the previously established start time of 7 p.m.
Councilmember Steve Green suggested modifying the time at which meetings begin at the Berlin Town Council’s Tuesday, Nov. 12, meeting, arguing it would be more beneficial to start and end earlier. Last week’s meeting began at 6 p.m. rather than 7 p.m. due to a robust agenda.
“I would like a 6 p.m. start,” he said. “I would like us to consider that.”
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall was receptive to Green’s recommendation of an adjusted Town Council meeting launch time, confirming he was “open to it.”
“Keep in mind, a lot of these folks get in early, then have to stay late,” he continued. “It’s a long day.”
However, not all assemblies will have the privilege of starting an hour early. The meeting immediately following the municipality’s council election will maintain the original start time. Tyndall said the town’s charter specifies that the gathering must kick off at 7 p.m.
Town Administrator Mary Bohlen noted that Berlin is due to update its election code and that the amendment that determined the start of the post-election meeting may be changed during that process.
Still, the council and staff members in attendance were enthusiastic about the prospective change. Per the unanimously passed motion, all regular meetings of the Berlin Mayor and Council will now move up an hour to begin at 6 p.m. Executive gatherings, or closed sessions, which Tyndall said are held sparingly, will start at 5 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. as needed.
The change is immediate, as the agenda for the next council meeting on Nov. 25 is advertised to begin at 6 p.m. on the town’s website.
Beach to Bay wins award for Frederick Douglass mural
tourism businesses across the state of Maryland.
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area won the Best New Product award at the 43rd Annual Tourism & Travel Summit held in Belcamp last week.
The award recognized the Frederick Douglass mural in Salisbury by We Are Limitless Studios. The mural was dedicated to Douglass when he traveled to Salisbury and gave a speech in front of the Wicomico County Courthouse to raise funds for what is now the Charles H. Chipman Cultural Center.
Sponsored and managed by the Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC), the summit brought together hundreds of public sector leaders in the hospitality industry to network and learn new strategies to benefit
“I strongly believe that we need to highlight what has been achieved by Black people throughout American and Maryland’s history in the face of adversity,” said Andre Nieto Jaime, program specialist with the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. “Black history is more than just a history of suffering, but also a history of achievement, community, perseverance, and much more. This was the preface to our mural journey.”
“It’s always nice to be recognized for the work we are doing,” added Lisa Challenger, BBHA Executive Director.
The Beach to Bay Heritage Area received a grant from the Maryland Office of Tourism to fund the mural and funding from the Md. Heritage Areas Authority.
The mural ribbon cutting took place last month and is located at 513 West Main Street, Salisbury.
Coins Pub
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Free Christmas movie nights announced for December
(Nov. 22, 2024) Worcester County Recreation & Parks (WCRP) will be hosting four, free Christmas movie nights in Ocean Pines, Berlin, Snow Hill, and Pocomoke this December. Movies will play on a giant, outdoor screen. All are invited, so gather your family and friends for a month of movies under the stars.
Nightmare Before Christmas will take place Dec. 6 at Newtown Park in Pocomoke and Dec. 13 at the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex in Berlin.
Elf will take place Dec. 7 at John Walter Smith Park in Snow Hill and Dec. 14 at Showell Elementary School just north of Ocean Pines.
Bring a blanket and favorite snacks. Vehicle parking for all four events will begin at 6 p.m., with show times to start at 7 p.m. The first 20 cars to arrive each night will receive a free bag of popcorn, courtesy of Aetna Better Health of Maryland and Eastern Shore Kettle Korn.
Pictured, from left, are Nora Campbell, co-host; Secretary Rebecca Flora, Maryland Department of Planning; Lisa Challenger, executive director, Beach to Bay; Liz Fitzsimmons, Director, Maryland Office of Tourism; and Chris Riehl, co-host.
Berlin developer makes changes to Oceans East plan
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2024) The Berlin Planning Commission approved revisions to the Oceans East site plan building mix and density at the body’s meeting last week.
On Wednesday, Nov. 13, the municipality’s planning group unanimously green-lit modifications to Seahawk Road’s Oceans East project, a luxury apartment initiative across from Stephen Decatur Middle School. Rather than offering a mix of townhouses and threestory garden walkups, the new plan strikes the townhomes and focuses solely on the apartment-style accommodations.
Oceans East is a collection of apartment buildings in Berlin. While several structures are currently occupied, the project is multi-phased and is expected to house roughly 700 units once completed.
Project engineer Brock Parker said that the initiative’s developer, Rinnier Development Company of Salisbury, originally intended to add a segment of 22 townhouses and one 36-unit building as part of phase two of the project. This was changed in 2022 to two, 24-unit apartment buildings and 18 townhouses, with the apartments oriented toward the community’s lake. The plan has been adjusted once again to strike the townhomes, as Parker said that some unforeseen issues were discovered as the details were ironed out.
“Once [the developers] got to that point, they realized the economy did not work, and that unit mix of that townhouse just wasn’t right for this economy,” he said.
The new plan eliminates the proposed townhouses and is amended to construct three standard three-story garden walkups, including two 24-unit buildings and one 36-unit building. While there is a density cap, Parker said that it is “significantly greater than what this phase proposes.” The lodging will mix one, two, and three bedrooms.
Parker said the elevations and architecture of the upcoming structures will be “basically identical” to those currently placed and occupied on the project site.
Parker added that the townhouses were eliminated because of the economy’s “uneasy footing.” The apartments’ rents can be kept down more than what the townhouses would charge, and thus, the developers felt that they could fill the units up faster.
Parker noted the initiative’s future is unclear. While preliminary drafts exist, the engineer said there are no concrete plans for phase three.
“There are no plans for phase three right now,” Parker said. “All they are cartoon drawings to see what and where and make sure it all fits. When we come in for phase three, I’ll be given a very strenuous set of advice to kind of come in with a master plan so you can see how this thing is going to finish up.”
The planning commission unanimously approved the revisions at its Wednesday, Nov. 13 meeting.
Berlin council will vote on building design guidelines
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2024) The Berlin Planning Commission supports the adoption of Worcester County’s design guidelines and standards as an interim solution until a planning director is hired.
The commission has agreed to amend the Worcester County design guidelines, tweaking them to fit the historic town so that commercial developers may have a set of parameters to refer to when designing new structures and amenities. The municipality has lacked any definitive regulations, which has created conflict, such as in the case of the controversial Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham. To revise the code for Berlin, commissioners met to remove mentions of the words “must” or “shall’ from the Worcester document or change the phrases to “should” to avoid pinning hard and fast rules on builders.
Berlin Planning Commission Chair Matthew Stoehr noted at the group’s meeting last week that he met with the town’s historic district commission earlier this month to discuss their “game plan” for pushing forward the Worcester County Design
Guidelines and Standards.
“They [HDC members] were unanimously happy,” he said. “They understand that it is basically a stop-gap and that when we get a planning director and a proper staff … it will get more into the nuts and bolts.”
Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the historic group had “no real changes” to add to the proposed document. The Berlin Mayor and Council will further review the guidelines at the governing group’s next meeting on Nov. 25 at 6 p.m.
The county guidelines will act as a quick fix for the town. Currently, Berlin lacks standards for commercial developers to follow when designing a new space. Like in the case of Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham and the Wawa at the corner of Route 50 and N. Main Street, this has led to drawn-out discussions and conflict over a structure’s elevations.
Microtel developers approached the Berlin Planning Commission in March intending to construct a hotel off Route 113 near Franklin Avenue. The commission criticized the design for lacking the historic charm found in the municipality’s downtown area. The developers fought back, arguingthat they
See COUNTY’S Page 44
Area students earn bronze medals at FFA convention
(Nov. 22, 2024) Worcester County Public Schools recently congratulated Worcester Tech High School National Future Farmers of America (FFA) members Brooke Fitzgerald, Andy Maynard, Landon Makinen, Hailey Renshaw, and Jakob Thawley, who each brought home bronze medals representing Maryland as the 2024 Agriculture Issues team at the National FFA Convention.
The students competed against 39 teams on the topic What are the Effects of the Whitetail Deer Population at the National FFA Convention held in Indianapolis, Indiana in late October.
This team Leadership Develop-
ment Event (LDE) challenged students to investigate a variety of current local, state, national and international issues facing agriculture through classroom instruction. Students then demonstrate through portfolio, presentation and questioning an understanding of the principles and fundamentals of agricultural issue analysis. This LDE prepares students for the workforce to apply teamwork, leadership and communication skills for career success. This was the first Agriculture Issues team to compete from Worcester Tech, led by Worcester County FFA Advisor/Agriculture Science teacher Jessica Flores.
County’s guidelines adjusted
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could not create a structure with everything the group desired if no guidelines were laid out to follow.
Despite the addition of Victorian lamp posts, cornices, and mature trees, commissioners at a July 10 meeting said the hotel failed to match Berlin’s aesthetics. The developers expressed their frustration at the advisory group’s dismay.
“We all understand what you are trying to achieve. The problem is the manner in which you are trying to achieve it,” Mark Cropper, hotel building applicant Thomas Zambetis’s attorney, said to the commission at the summer presentation. “At some point, if a developer does A, B, C & D, a developer is entitled to site plan approval … We are trying to be responsive and cooperative, but it’s a two-way street. … We are told to return with something different, but there’s no guidance or details to go by. We are trying to get there, but this is a hard arena to work in when there’s nothing to work through.”
Despite the improved collaboration between the two parties, paving the way for the elevations to be approved at the commission’s Wednesday, Nov. 13 meeting, adopting Worcester County’s design code will
work to prevent similar problems from forming in the future.
The county standards will be temporary. Once a planning director is hired to fill the role left by former position-holder Dave Engelhart, who tragically passed in April, a Berlinspecific code will be drafted and adopted to address issues highlighted by the Microtel situation. Still, Stoehr said this could be awhile, even once a new director is secured, as the individual will have much to work through.
“When that planning director comes on board, I bet it is six months to a year before they can even look at these guidelines,” the commission chair said. “They are going to be inundated. We need to temper our expectations. This stopgap is going to last a lot longer than anticipated, and understandably so. There is going to be a lot of catchup.”
The municipality is still actively looking for a planning director. Since the role was left vacant, Rick Baldwin has acted as a consultant to the town. In July, a moratorium was implemented to halt certain actions of the planning commission, including final site plan approval, rezoning, and annexation, so as not to overburden staff.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Pictured, from left, are FFA Director Jessica Flores with students Jakob Thawley, Hailey Renshaw, Andy Maynard, Brooke Fitzgerald and Landen Makinen.
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LEARNING ABOUT WEATHER
On Nov. 18, third-grade students at Ocean City Elementary School were treated to a special presentation from Chief Meteorologist Rich Wirdzek. Wirdzek spoke with the students about the many interesting things that his job entails and also described some of the important weather-related tools that he uses daily in his profession. One of the best parts of the day was receiving a special shout-out on the 5:30 p.m. 47 abc news from Wirdzek.
Best Beats On The Beach
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 Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy.
Saturday, November 23: DJ Giddy Up & First Class
Wednesday, November 27: DJ Wax
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Friday, November 22: Jason Lee
Wednesday, November 27: Kevin Poole
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.
Friday, November 22: TBA
Saturday, November 23: Fuzzbox Piranha & Matt Avery
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Friday, November 22: The Boh Daddies & DJ Groove
Saturday, November 23: Kittyback & DJ Stinson
Wednesday, November 27: The Rogue Citizens & DJ RobCee
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500 Route 611, West OC
Saturday, November 26: Rogue Citizens Wednesday, November 27: Turkey Bowl w/ DJ BK
DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Wednesday, November 27
BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays
PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, November 23
DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Coins Pub: Wednesday, November 27
DJ BK Greene Turtle West: Wednesday, November 27
KEVIN POOLE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, November 27
Purple Moose: Saturday, November 23
THE BOH DADDIES
Fager’s Island: Friday, November 22
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Pickles Pub: Saturday, November 23
LIGHT UP THE MOON
Who’s Where When
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T
Saturday, November 23:
Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler
Sundays: Pickin’ Party
Thursday, November 28:
Closed ~ Happy Thanksgiving
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Saturday, November 23:
Tranzfusion
Sundays: Beats By Styler
Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wax
Wednesdays: Beats By Styler
Seacrets: Friday, November 22 PICKIN’ PARTY
Seacrets: Saturday, November 23 FIRST CLASS
Coins: Saturday, November 23
Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee
PURPLE MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards
Saturday, November 23: Thunderball
Harborside: Sunday, November 24 THE ROGUE CITIZENS
Turtle West: Saturday, November 23
Island: Wednesday, November 27
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy.
Friday, November 22: Opposite Directions & DJ Davie
Saturday, November 23: DJ Cruz, DJ Flight, DJ E-State, Light Up The Moon & The Benderz
Thursday, November 28: Closed ~ Happy Thanksgiving
Greene
Fager’s
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Lower Shore’s Giving Tuesday event will feature a record breaking 145 nonprofits along with a $250,000 donation match during the 24hour online giving event. Held each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, this year’s event falls on Dec. 3.
The local campaign, known as The Shore Gives More, is hosted by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and supports nonprofits serving Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties. The online donation portal features an easy way for donors to quickly learn about the individual nonprofits and make multiple contributions through
one easy online checkout.
In honor of the Community Foundation’s 40th anniversary, The Richard A. Henson Foundation awarded the Community Foundation $125,000. This gift, in combination with additional funding from the Community Foundation, will provide up to $250,000 in matching funds for participating nonprofits. For every $2 an organization raises through Shore Gives More, the Henson-CFES Challenge will give an additional $1 to that organization.
“We recognize the difficulty of fundraising in today’s world and by offering this exciting opportunity through a partnership with CFES, hope to elevate the important work of so many nonprofit partners,” said Stacey McMichael, executive director of the Henson Foundation. “In our work every day, we seek to honor Mr. Henson’s legacy and believe he would be proud of this challenge.”
Donors can rest easy knowing that the gifts they make will go to the charities of their choice and will also make a local impact. The campaign carefully vets each participating organization to ensure current tax-exempt status and service to the Lower Shore area.
“Each gift made to a nonprofit on Giving Tuesday makes a difference for the area we call home,” says Erica Joseph, CFES President. “With such a diverse range of nonprofits participating, everyone is sure to find a cause to support that is important to them.”
Donors can schedule their gifts beginning Nov. 25 and will have the option of donating to multiple nonprofits at once. Participating nonprofits are given access to online fundraising platforms, marketing campaigns, and incentive prizes. The Community Foundation provides the services for free to the nonprofits and covers the cost of all processing fees.
“The campaign is truly a collaborative effort,” states Joseph. “Each nonprofit works hard to make their fundraising goals a reality, and months of preparations are put in before the big day. Our primary sponsors, Shore United Bank and WMDT, provide invaluable support which allows the event to be a success.”
To learn more about the Shore Gives More Giving Tuesday campaign visitwww.ShoreGivesMore.org
The Richard A. Henson Foundation and The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore created a $250,000 matching challenge for nonprofits participating in the Shore Gives More Giving Tuesday event. L to R: Henson Foundation trustees Jon Sherwell and Tom Evans with Community Foundation President Erica Joseph. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Resident’s email turns into latest trail in Ocean Pines
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Ocean Pines pedestrians will now have another trail option with a new walking path from Pintail Park to Mumford’s Landing entrance by the community’s Yacht Club.
According to a press release issued by OPA, Bay Colony resident Ralph Ferrusi emailed the association to suggest creating a trail through the open woods near Pintail Park. This would allow pedestrians to avoid the heavily trafficked Ocean Parkway while accessing Mumford’s Landing.
Per the recommendation, OPA Senior Public Works Director Eddie Wells surveyed the space and determined it was suitable for a footpath. The release notes that upon Ocean Pines General Manager John Viola’s approval, the public works team trimmed branches, removed debris, and “cleared a quarter-mile path using leaf blowers.”
The OPA-issued release includes feedback provided by Ferrusi, an “avid hiker,” who, along with his wife, has ventured on treks like Nepal’s Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro’s Marangu route upon the trail’s completion. “A superb job, a great route that flows through the existing woods, drawing you along,” he said. “I can see
it becoming a popular Ocean Pines walking trail.”
The Pintail Park Trail was added to the association’s online guide, making it the seventh official walking path in Ocean Pines. The newcomer joins the one-mile-long Swim and Racquet Trail, the 2.5-mile South Gate Pond Trail 2 (Route 90/Library Trail), the one-mile South Gate Pond 1 Trail, the 2.5-mile Sherwood Forest Trail, the quarter-mile Bainbridge Park Trail, and the one-mile White Horse Park Trail.
The Ocean Pines Trails guide webpage says the community has many recreational opportunities, attracting visitors in Worcester County and throughout the state. Many of these activities include footpaths.
“Walking and jogging are among the most popular forms of recreation in The Pines and Worcester County,” the website reads. “It’s an inexpensive activity that you may enjoy whenever convenient. We encourage families to walk together and make walking a regular activity for all ages. Trails support an active lifestyle that improves health.”
More information on these walking areas can be found at www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/trails.
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, Primantistyled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-2897192, 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.
■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ CRAWL STREET
19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com
Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.
■ DISTRICT 24
BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & ICE CREAM, THE EMBERS
2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2893322, district24oc.com
Come visit all your culinary options at this block of fun, including the landmark Embers Restaurant with a new, innovative vision as well as Blu where fresh seafood is king. Be sure to stop in Jay’s for a tasty treat as well as an ocean of caffeinated offerings. There’s fun activities for kids of all ages here as well with a miniature golf course and an arcade.
■ PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com
$$ | 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
2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 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 410289-2525, 32palm.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!
■ THE BONFIRE
71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com
Celebrating 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.
■ FAGERS ISLAND
201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com
$$ | 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, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.
■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ
6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.
■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT
3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com
$$ | 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, 7:30-11:30 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
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms
in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets
■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY
13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | 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.
■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Sunday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs for $54.95. Serving breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to noon. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours. They are now taking reservations for the Thanksgiving buffet and also offering Thanksgiving take-out meals for $189.99 for 6 people and are featuring the Funsters for their NYE entertainment.
■ THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com
Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
■ TAILCHASERS RESTAURANT & DOCK BAR 12203 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6647075, tailchasersoc.com
$$ | 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 Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
FENWICK ISLAND
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, 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, Phillystyle cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for
lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, 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.
“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE
100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar
Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open: Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Kitchen closes at 4 p.m.)
The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open: Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
WEST OCEAN CITY
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL
12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | 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 ‘40sstyle 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, 410-213-1500
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.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, 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. MondayWednesday: 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.
OCEAN PINES
Try gluten-free blueberry muffins
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Confessions come in many flavors.
I decided to have some friends over and was planning on serving blueberry muffins. Then I found out that one of them has a gluten intolerance. No worries, I will replace the flour with a gluten-free flour.
Let us start out the conversation with, “What is gluten intolerance?” Gluten is a protein found primarily in wheat, barley, and rye. If a person has a gluten intolerance, the protein can cause digestive problems such as gassiness, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
So, the next logical thought is to avoid gluten. Cooking adjustments are necessary in every aspect and this can be challenging. In addition, cross- contamination must be considered. Cross-contact occurs when gluten-free food comes in contact with gluten-containing food, utensils, surfaces, or equipment.
Supermarkets are offering more selections when it comes to gluten-free foods. And there are apps that can help you find gluten-free restaurants. This is especially helpful when traveling and cooking is not an option.
Following are some tips that can facilitate the process of baking gluten-free dishes. First and foremost, follow recipes exactly. Baking is a science and improvisation is not advised unless you are an experienced baker.
Gluten-free flour is heavier than regular all-purpose flour. As a result, spoon the flour into the measuring cup as opposed to scooping the flour with the measuring cup.
Gluten-free flours tend to absorb more liquid than regular flour, so you may need to add more liquid to your recipes to compensate. This helps to keep your baked goods moist and prevent them from becoming dry and crumbly. Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients may hinder the rising process.
Gluten-free baked goods can stick to baking pans more easily than regular baked goods. Using a non-stick baking spray or parchment paper to line your pans can help prevent your baked goods from sticking.
Gluten-free baked goods may require different baking times. Generally speaking, gluten-free dishes cook a little faster. Occasionally check your baked goods to be on the safe side.
The debate of whether to use fresh or frozen blueberries will continue on. The juice of fresh blueberries can color the entire batter. There are those who proclaim the burst of freshness is more important. Dusting the blueberries in flour keeps the seepage at a minimum. If you decide to use frozen blueberries, keep them frozen until you add them to the batter.
In closing, Thanksgiving is upon us.
The dessert table will be filled with pumpkin goodies. A “fruity” treat adds variation and choice. A basket of glutenfree blueberry muffins is a thoughtful choice and will be greatly appreciated by those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Gluten-Free Blueberry Muffins
Ingredients
2 cups gluten free flour, plus 2 tablespoons
1 cup white sugar, plus 1/8 cup
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon each: ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and ground cloves
2 large eggs, room temperature ¾ cup half and half, room temperature
½ cup melted unsalted butter
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries 1/8 cup turbinado sugar
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin pan with paper baking liners and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and spices.
3. Add eggs, cream, butter, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Be careful not to over-mix.
4. In a small bowl, gently toss the berries with remaining 2 tablespoons of flour.
5. Carefully fold the blueberries into the muffin batter.
6. Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling each one to the top.
7. In another small bowl, combine turbinado and remaining white sugar.
8. Sprinkle each muffin with a dusting of turbinado sugar mixture. Only use half of the sugar mixture.
9. Bake approximately 23 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Remove muffins from the oven and immediately add the remaining sugar to the top of the muffins for a sugary garnish.
Secret Ingredient – Adjustment
Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.
— Charles R. Swindoll
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH SUPPORTING
OPERATION WE CARE
Last week, Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students collected donations in support of the local non-profit organization, Operation We Care. Items collected are to be wrapped into care packages and sent to deployed military and first responders. Worcester Prep proudly supports Operation We Care. Students collected many items from granola bars, canned pasta, powdered drink mixes, playing cards, baby wipes, toothpaste, and much more. Operation We Care was founded in 2007 by Jeff and Diana Merritt, who own Minuteman Press in Salisbury and are assisted by many volunteers. They pack over 2,000 care packages a year that are sent to deployed troops. Operation We Care strives to support active duty and veteran military through care packages, events, and various assistance outlets. Pictured from the left, Head of Upper School Carol Evans, students Teagan Weinstein, Isabella Rice, CJ Labin, Will Johnson, Caleb Walston, Kayley Adkins, Meredith Walston, Jay Moyer and Assistant Head of School/Athletics Director Michael Grosso.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, put aside any errant musings and give important tasks your utmost attention this week. Energy is better spent on others, so keep this in mind when you get busy.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, your coworkers are all excited and fussing over a new development. Maintain an even keel as you assess the situation. You can be curious, but be guarded as well.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, your love life is in a really good place this week, which enables you to spend some quality time with your special someone. A romantic dinner sounds like a good plan.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Your partner is the most important person in your life right now, Cancer. So much so that this week every bit of your attention will be focused his or her way.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, money could be burning a hole in your pocket, so you might want to go on a spending spree. Keep in mind that there are a few big-ticket purchases waiting in the wings.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
You don’t always have to be decisive, Virgo. Sometimes you can kick back and let someone else make decisions for a change. This is a great way to rest and recharge.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
A few jobs need to get done, Libra. But afterwards you should have plenty of time for some social interaction, whether that be attending a party or simply enjoying a night out.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, think about the things you want instead of what other people want. It’s alright to be a little selfish once in a while and put yourself first for a change.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, you could have fun this week and so may all the other people around you simply for being in your presence. This situation will continue in the days ahead.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, the next challenge on your list could be a big one. But if there is anyone who can handle the pressure, it is you. Don’t be afraid to call on friends if you need them.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, go out into the world and try a few new things. Your social energy and curiosity might peak this week, and you’ll need new experiences to feel satisfied.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Your finances might need an overhaul, Pisces. This could mean taking a new job or expanding what you’re doing to earn more. Start putting out feelers to gain information.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTIONS
The Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) recently inducted 33 new members. Pictured front, from left, are Preston Adkins, Renata Lovitt, Sam Bontempo, Marina Farlow, Catherine Cullen, Ayla Yonker, Sydney Todorov, Sydney Mize, Jamie Nguyen and Jake Timmons; second row, from left, Dawson Davis, Tyler Netting, Grant Crothers, Olivia Owens, Lena Parker, Emily Patrowicz, Anisha Batra, Isabella Spangenberg and Beckett Green; and third row, Jude Damouni, Joshua Greulich, Stephen Carullo, Jeremy Forman, Jay Moyer, Max Carpenter, Jake Campbell, Chase Ginnavan, Kain Crossett, Michael Hebert, Paxton Mault and Jude Anthony. Not pictured were Savannah Palmisano and Alicia Walker.
by Steve Green
FThe Adventures of Fatherhood
OMO is a real thing with kids. It stands for Fear Of Missing Out. I had to research to learn more about it. According to ChildNEXUS, FOMO is “a pervasive apprehension that others might be having rewarding experiences from which one is absent. FOMO is characterized by the desire to stay continually connected with what others are doing.”
I suppose everyone has a touch of this, but as we get older it becomes less and less important. I tend to like missing out on things nowadays. There’s no need to be anywhere and everywhere today, as I tend to embrace JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out), but I recall as a kid not wanting to miss shared time with friends at the movies, a party or sleepovers. With kids, as in the case of my 16year-old son, we have had several instances when he hits a state of panic when he finds out a group of his friends are in all one place and he can’t go. The comments go like this – “everyone is at the skate park,” “there’s a bunch of people at Island Creamery right now, I want to check it out,” “everyone is at the football game” or “how come everyone is at this party and I can’t go?”
My favorite comment late one summer night was, “Can you take me to the Outlets? All my friends are there.” It was puzzling. I reminded him how much he despises shopping and how tortured he seemed an hour before while at Dick’s in Salisbury for lacrosse equipment. Of course, he didn’t want to go shopping with his friends. They just want to walk around the place together without parents with their heads buried in their phones. We have all seen this.
Last summer it was a similar thing. We were on the beach in Ocean City and he questioned why we did not go to Assateague, showing a Snapchat map with hundreds of his friends scattered on the beach. He assumed they were all together when they were not.
When he had school recently and some of his friends did not, he had another fit. He hinted at skipping school because he didn’t have any tests. He thought better of it before I even said no way, remembering he had a lacrosse game. He did comment how he was just going to stay off Snapchat because it will just bum him out. I reminded him he doesn’t even take his phone to school so not be a problem.
This FOMO is rooted in social media, and the pressures it brings on. As adults, we understand there is some boasting that takes place. Some lives are not always the same as portrayed through social media. It can be about image cultivation and playing a part.
Parents get this and know it well. Young teens do not have the perspective yet. It’s important for us to be patient and aware FOMO can lead to feelings of isolation and paranoia. We just need to remind them of what’s real and not. It also would help if social media had an age limit.
very few years I like to share an essay called “Welcome to Holland” by Emily Perl Kingsley.
A friend’s recent post about the “loss” she has been feeling of late about her special needs child and the memorable experiences –those others take for granted — that have been taken from their family reminded me of it. She was particularly in her feelings due to a period of turmoil with her son.
We all have our unique journeys in this thing called life. It’s oftentimes not what we thought it would be. While there are magically memorable moments, there are other daily hurdles reminding us life is full of too many unimaginable challenges. It can be difficult at times to handle, let alone accept without unhealthy feelings. The piece by Kingsley applies to so many things in life and I think it’s worthy of sharing again.
I am often asked to describe the expe-
rience of raising a child with a disability –to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It’s like this……
When you’re going to have a baby, it’s like planning a fabulous vacation trip – to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It’s all very exciting.
After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, “Welcome to Holland.”
“Holland?!?” you say. “What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I’m supposed to be in Italy. All my life I’ve dreamed of going to Italy.”
But there’s been a change in the flight plan. They’ve landed in Holland and there you must stay. The important thing is that they haven’t taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of that.
Holland has windmills….and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.
But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy… and they’re all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say “Yes, that’s where I was supposed to go. That’s what I had planned.”
And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away… because the loss of that dream is a very, very significant loss.
But… if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn’t get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things … about Holland.
(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.)
For most, several boards a must for varying conditions
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) In recent columns we’ve talked about different types of surfboards, specifically broken down and categorized for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced surfer. Typically it’s not necessarily that simple but at least the offering was made as a starting point. It doesn’t take long for even the budding surfer to notice that having more than one surfboard might not be a bad idea. With that notion in mind we come to the thought and image of what has become known in the surfing world as a quiver.
When pondering the word quiver, most would probably think of archery and a quiver of arrows. In the case of surfing a quiver would be more like having a bag of golf clubs, as in using different clubs for different shots, such as a driver being different than a putter. The analogy in surfing would be using a different board for different wave conditions. An example could be using a wider, longer board for small, mushy wave conditions and then using a shorter, narrower board for large and steep wave conditions.
At a minimum a quiver would consist of two boards but can be many more. There’s a great picture of a complete quiver at the end of Shaun Tomson’s “The Surfer’s Code,” which is the book that was the basis for the recent “Surf Into Integrity” program at the Stephen Decatur Middle School. The quiver consists of eight boards from 7 feet to 9 feet. This collection of finely tuned surfboards covered waves from small to giant.
Many friends of mine utilize more than one board in their surfing. Ultimately it all comes down to the individual and whatever the surfer decides will provide the most fun and satisfaction in the waves they choose to ride.
— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.
Things I Like... vanishing vanishing OCEAN C C ITY
By Steve Green
Low-scoring football games
A long Thanksgiving weekend off Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
An old computer that’s still fast
A laundry and football Sunday
New furniture that feels old
New shoes that feel old
Looking forward to a day of rain
Examples of quiet philanthropy
Not mailing much
No-wait checkout lines
WiTh Bunk Mann
In 1911 Charles McGregor opened a general store on the northeast corner of Baltimore Avenue and Dorchester Street in the center of Ocean City. The concrete building had apartments on the second floor with retail space on the street level; the store advertised “fancy groceries and ladies and gents furnishing goods.”
Ocean City at the time was a seasonal resort (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and had a limited year-round population. With too little business to turn a profit McGregor closed his store in 1913 and found himself bankrupt the following year. A public auction was held to sell his remaining goods.
The building survived and in 1916 became the site of the town’s first bank, The Bank of Ocean City. It would continue banking services at that location until gifted by its Board of Directors to the Town of Ocean City in 2019. On September 6, 2024 following a ribbon cutting, the historic building opened as the new Museum of Ocean City.
Postcard image courtesy The Museum of Ocean City
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
HEAVENLY HATS SPIRIT
Ocean City Elementary School held its annual Heavenly Hats Spirit Day on Nov. 7. For a $1 donation, students, faculty and staff had the privilege of wearing a hat to school. This year, $612.00 was collected for the Heavenly Hats Foundation. Since 2001, the Heavenly Hats Foundation has donated more than 5,800,000 brand new hats to hundreds of hospitals and clinics around the United States to help those battling hair loss associated with cancer treatments. Pictured above left, above right and below right are some spirited displays..
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WORX SPEAKER
On Friday, November 8, a group of Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students attended this month’s WORX (Work, Observe, Research, Experience) seminar. The seminar featured guest speaker Allyn Kilsheimer, grandfather to ninth grader Chase Thompson. Kilsheimer shared his impressive background as an engineer and involvement in the reconstruction of the Pentagon following 9/11. In his presentation, Kilsheimer discussed all aspects of the destruction of the Pentagon on 9/11, including emergency stabilization, rescue assistance, demolition, and reconstruction of the over 1,000,000-square-foot structure. Kilsheimer, right, is pictured with his grandson and his parents, Timarie and Blaire Thompson.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
CUM LAUDE RECOGNITION
MARINES CORPS BIRTHDAY PARTY
The United States Marine Corps observed its 249th birthday November 10, and as is tradition Marines around the world observed the occasion. Here in Ocean City, the Leathernecks of Post 166 held their birthday celebration at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin with the traditional cake cutting and presentation of slices to the oldest and youngest Marines in attendance. The youngest was William Hoover, assistant
and
Worcester Preparatory recently installed four new members into the prestigious William E. Esham, Jr. Chapter of the prestigious Cum Laude Society. WPS is the only school on the Eastern Shore with an established Cum Laude Chapter where superior scholastic achievement is honored. Pictured, front, are Cum Laude inductees Lydia Schwartz and Danielle Carr and, back, Jackson Fernley and Allen Zhang.
Steward of Post 166,
the oldest was retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Jim Wright of Selbyville, shown in the photo. Left, Wright makes the traditional ceremonial cut into the cake with retired Master Sergeant Don Coffin.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Calendar
Fri., Nov. 22
MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
NOVEMBER HOMESCHOOL CREATIVE WRITING
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Helping students with their vocabulary, imaginative thinking and social enrichment. For ages 8 years and older. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994
Sat., Nov. 23
OCEAN PINES CRANKSGIVING
Ocean Pines Yacht Club, 1 Mumfords Landing Road, 9 a.m. Bike ride and food drive. Ride to Food Lion, Dollar General and the Ocean Pines Farmers Market to purchase items for donation to Sarah’s Pantry. 410-641-7052, cranksgivingop@gmail.com
PANCAKES WITH SANTA Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 10 a.m.-noon. Build your own pancakes bar, photo op with Santa, Christmas ornament craft and participants can mail letters to the North Pole. Tickets: https://book.singenuity.com/469/activity/details/2250/rates. 302-829-1549
GUEST MINISTER
Shiloh Ministries Inc, 209 W. St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring guest speaker Darby Slaton. The event is free and open to the public. Lunch is included. Bring food to share and bring a friend. Randy Walter, 443-513-6285, shilohministries@comcast.net
FAMILY LIBRARY
DAY: DINOVEMBER
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10 a.m. Come to the library for all things dinosaurs. For all ages. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CRAFT FOR A CAUSE
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Make a variety of crafts to donate to local charities. For ages 6-11years and 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOKS ON THE BAY
Residence Inn Ocean City, 300 Seabay
Lane, 12-4 p.m. Local and bestselling authors will be on display; selling, signing, and chatting. Free event but must pre-register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bookson-the-bay-tickets920384433617?aff=oddtdtcreator. 410-723-2222
BIG 5F RACE
Crawl St. Tavern, 19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 3-7 p.m. The race covers a mere five feet. Munchies, music, silent auction, prizes. Register at 3:30 p.m. Entry fee is $20. Benefiting Special Olympics. Pledge forms: https://crawlstreet.com/event/big-5f-race/. 443-3732756
FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.
FALL HARVEST HOME
St. Paul United Methodist Church - Educational Building, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 5 p.m. Auction, produce, refreshments, tasty treats, games and more. Free admission. Sarah Mitchell, 443-859-3125
Sun., Nov. 24
COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE
Ocean City Baptist Church, 102 N. Division St., 6-7 p.m. Giving thanks to God through worship, scripture, testimonies and prayer. Bring food goods, paper products and funds for the offering for the needy in the community. Desserts following service. 410-289-6573
BERLIN FLEA MARKET
Sundays - Uptown Emporium Parking Lot, 13 S. Main St., Berlin, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendor opportunities available. Julie, 410-726-9012; Bill, 410-629-9656
SEWING FOR A CAUSE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Mon., Nov. 25
AUTUMN TEA TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10 a.m. Every Monday in November, enjoy a cup of hot tea served in the garden for a relaxing start to your week. Test out new flavors and take a pack or two home with you. 410-632-3495
Continued on Page 62
Furniture • Exercise Equipment
Outside Play Sets • WiFi Security Cameras • TV Mounting
FOR FASTEST SERVICE: We need your address & contact information and exact brand name, model #’s and quantity. Email us a copy of your receipt/pictures.
Sasha@AtlanticAssemblers.com 302-569-9732
Continued from Page 61
STORY TIME: TURKEYS
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
WICKED PARTY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Crafts inspired by the movie Wicked and other famous musicals. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Join in for a Lego challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MAGIC MONDAY
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Magic the Gathering meet up, fourth Monday of each month. Teens and adults only. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 56:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
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, 302-242-7062.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Nov. 26
STORY TIME: TURKEY TALES AND GAMES
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SENSORY PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Sensory play encourages learning through exploration. For ages 0-5 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
HOMESCHOOL HISTORY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 12 p.m. Learn facts about different historical time periods through reading, writing and games. For ages 6-11 years. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MINI GOLF DAY
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Mini golf in the library for ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ARTSCAPE: ZEN
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 5:30 p.m. Casual meetup for artists of all levels. Basic painting and sketching supplies provided or bring your own supplies. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
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. 410-289-4725
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 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., Nov. 27
BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Held via Zoom call the third and fourth Wednesday of each month. For surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Cen-
ter, 410-641-9568
MOANA PARTY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Create some shiny crafts and board the boat for a whirlwind of fun. For ages 5 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
AUTUMN WATERCOLORS FOR KIDS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Create a seasonal work of art with watercolor paints. For ages 0-5 years and 6-11 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
COFFEE & CRAFTS - GLASS PAINTING
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Cheers to craft time. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. The goal of the support group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
Thurs., Nov. 28
3RD ANNUAL DIAKONIA TURKEY TROT (5K FUN RUN & WALK)
Atlantic Avenue & First Street, Ocean City, 8-10:30 a.m. Music, Thanksgiving Day fun and registration start at 8 a.m. Costume contest prior to race time. Prizes awarded for costume contest winners and winning runners/walkers. Cost is $30. diakoniaoc.org
44TH ANNUAL FREE THANKSGIVING DINNER
Ocean City Baptist Church, 102 N. Division St., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Menu includes turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, string beans, corn, cranberry sauce, pies, rolls and butter. Sign-up: OCBaptist.com. Call for delivery to shut-ins. 410-289-4054
ONGOING EVENTS
SEND LETTERS TO SANTA
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, Nov. 25 through Dec. 20.Children of all ages are welcome to drop off their written letters to Santa at the red mailbox. Make sure that letters have child’s name and address so Santa can respond.
DECEMBER INSPIRATION CHALLENGE
Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St. Art, photography or poetry competi-
tion for all ages. Pieces will be displayed in the library for viewing and voting by age bracket. The theme is “Envy.” Due by Dec. 20. 410-632-3495
WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Open Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 21 through Dec. 22.Open daily Dec. 23-31. Cost is $6 for adults and free to those 11 years and younger. Tour through thousands of sparkling lights and animated Christmas scenes. Pets welcome on Wednesdays. Scooter rentals ($10/two hours) and wheel chairs available on site: Scooters4-Rent.com, 302-280-6203. For more info: 410-289-2800, https://www.ococean.com/winterfest/. Weather cancellation hotline: 410-250-2124.
LIGHT UP THE PINES
Register between Nov. 18 and Dec. 13 to be entered into the drawing to win one of three $50 bill credits from Choptank Electric Cooperative. First 25 homes will receive Choptank Electric goodies. Residents may sign up after Dec. 13 and throughout the holiday season to have their homes added to the online map. Submit name, address and phone number via email to info@oceanpines.org or call 410-641-7717, Ext. 3014. Visit oceanpines.org for a map of participating homes.
TEENY ARTS
Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during November. A themed craft program available in the teen section all month long. November’s Teeny Art is “Rock Painting.” For all ages. 410-6323495
BUS TRIP TO NEW YORK
Spend the day exploring New York City on your own. Depart Ocean Pines Community Center at 5:30 a.m. on Dec. 7. Time in New York approximately 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Cost is $85 for transportation only. Reservations: 410-6417052.
CHRISTMAS TREE GIFT CARD RAFFLE
The Church of the Holy Spirit in Ocean City is raffling off three small artificial Christmas trees. Each tree is filled with gift cards including those worth $500, $300 and $200. Tickets are $5 each or three for $10. Drawing held Dec. 8 after the 10 a.m. service. For tickets: Marena, 443-944-3276.
Crossword answers from page 56
NOVEMBER 22, 2024 OC Today-Dispatch
* Early Deadline * For Thanksgiving Issue, Nov. 29. Deadline for Classifieds will be Friday, Nov. 22, 5 p.m.
NOW HIRING! PT Dental Hygienist for busy office in Ocean City, MD. Please call 410-213-1032.
Small Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047
Must have Tools, Transportation, Drivers License Experience
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.
YR RENTAL 39TH ST., OCEANBLOCK In front of Convention Center 2BR, 1BA, $1,500. Call Holiday Real Estate 410-524-7700
YEAR-ROUND RENTAL, 1BR, 1BA. Fully Remodeled! New custom tiled Walk In Shower, new vinyl flooring, granite kitchen counters, full size stove & refrig. Central air. Fully furnished. Private Parking. $1,850 nego. Includes Elec., Cable, Internet. Available immed. 410-603-9453
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
RENTALS
WINTER RENTAL NORTH OC 2BR, 2BA CONDO FURN., INDOOR POOL, RACQUETBALL
$1,200 +Sec dep. Utilities Included| Text or call 302-275-5719
WEEKLY RENTALS
$300-$500 per week. October-May. 301-331-2209
TOWN OF BERLIN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
We are looking for motivated individuals to come to work for the Town of Berlin. Overview of employee benefits: Members of the Maryland State Retirement System (LEOPS for Police Officers), a competitive health benefits package including a health reimbursement account, employer-paid life insurance, 100% tuition reimbursement, vacation accruals based on tenure, 12 sick days per year, 16 paid holidays per year, two personal days per year, and much more! Apply: Qualified candidates can submit a confidential Town of Berlin application, a resume, and three professional references to the Town’s Human Resources Director at kjensen@berlinmd.gov. Applications can be found under the employment section of our website at https://berlinmd.gov/employment/ or you can call 410-641-2770 and arrange to pick one up at 10 William Street Berlin, MD 21811. EOE/M/F/V/D
DONATIONS
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
YR, FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT
Ocean Pines. Full house privileges. Clean, safe & friendly. No smoking. No pets. Call 443-880-2486.
Houseshare. Furnished rooms in South Ocean Pines. All inclusive. $800 per month. Year-round. No smoking. No pets. Call 443-880-2317.
COMMERCIAL
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
Commercial Space for Lease.
2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.
AUCTIONS
The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned: B57S117-S173-S211-S311S636-S760-O8-O25-O40O92-O128-O145-O151O164-O165-O175. Units are being sold due to nonpayment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antiques and vintage items.
Date: Friday, November 29th, 2024 Time: 10:00 am
This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register. Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.
MISC./OTHER
How did you find me, This pillow hinged with my tears? One forgiving kiss! You have come so far, Please Babe, Please don’t go!
MISC. FOR SALE Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719
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
NETWORK
REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929 SERVICES
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - 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
BWW Law Group, LLC
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101
Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
SUBSTITUTE
TRUSTEES'
SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON
807 MARKET STREET POCOMOKE A/R/T/A POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated May 23, 2003, recorded in Liber 3940, Folio 562 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $63,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on
DECEMBER 3, 2024 AT 4:05 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.
The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.
Terms of Sale: A deposit of $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 responsible 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. 365037-1)
Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees
OCD-11/14/3t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION
B01-25 – Northside Park Fence Replacement
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Fence Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Northside Park Fence Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not re-
sponsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A pre-proposal meeting will be conducted on OCTOBER 29TH, 2024 AT 10:00AM AT NORTHSIDE PARK RECREATION CENTER, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MD, 21842 IN THE WEST GYM CONFERENCE ROOM The last day for questions will be on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH, 2024, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2024
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024, BY 10:00AM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Manager; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Northside Park Fence Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
OCD-10/10/9t _________________________________
JOSEPH E. MOORE ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of GAIL ELAINE OKLESSON Estate No. 20400 Notice is given that KELLEY ANN OKLESSON whose address is 7003 EVERSFIELD DR HYATTSVILLE, MD 20782-1048 was on OCTOBER 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GAIL ELAINE OKLESSON who died on OCTOBER 09, 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 thepersonal 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 APRIL, 2025
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 no-
tice, 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-11/7/3t
MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND BID SOLICITATION
B02-25
– TARRY A DECK REPAIR
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Tarry A Deck Repair and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Tarry A Deck Repair may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting will not be applicable for this Invitation to BID. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 2025 AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2025.
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25TH, 2025, BY 10:00AM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM.
BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Manager; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Tarry A Deck Repair) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the So-
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 11/15/2024
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
licitation.
OCD-11/7/3t
NOTICE of Public Hearing
Worcester County Water and Wastewater Rates Amendment
The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed amendments to the FY25 Water and Wastewater rates. Speakers will be allowed to address the County Commissioners for up to two (2) minutes. The public hearing will be held on:
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863
The requested water and wastewater rate amendment is a result of revised estimated expenses that are expected to exceed current revenues. Copies of the respective area’s current rates and proposed rates are available in the County Commissioners’ Office, Room 1103 of the County Government Center in Snow Hill, Maryland or online at www.co.worcester.md.us.
Amendments to the following service area rates will be considered:
• Assateague Point
• Edgewater Acres
• Landings
• Lighthouse Sound
• Mystic Harbour
• Newark
• Riddle Farm
be dated as of the date of delivery and will mature on January 15 in the years 2026 through 2045, inclusive, as more fully described in the Notice of Sale.
No bid for less than all of the Bonds will be considered. The Bonds will be awarded based on the lowest interest cost to the City, determined in accordance with the true interest cost (TIC) method. All bids must be accompanied by a good faith deposit in the amount of $94,400, payable by wire transfer to the City, or by a check or surety bond as provided in the Notice of Sale.
Copies of the Preliminary Official Statement and the Notice of Sale relating to the Bonds may be obtained from the Finance Director of the City, City Hall, 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, or from First Tryon Advisors, LLC, 122 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland 21403 (410-267-8811).
*Preliminary, subject to change.
OCD-11/14/2t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of MICHAEL SCOTT RAYMOND, Estate No. 20398.
OCD-11/14/2t
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. 20386 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EDMUND F. HAILE
Notice is given that Sarah E. Haile Gentry, 16828 Hardy Rd. Mount Airy, MD 21771-3223 was on November 1, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of: Edmund F. Haile, who died on September 20, 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 1st day of May 2025.
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.
Sarah E. Haile Gentry
Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT
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: November 07, 2024 OCD-11/7/3t
SUMMARY NOTICE OF BOND SALE
$4,720,000* MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF OCEAN CITY GENERAL OBLIGATION MUNICIPAL PURPOSE BONDS OF 2024
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Mayor and City Council of Ocean City (the “City”) will receive electronic bids via PARITY® for the $4,720,000* General Obligation Municipal Purpose Bonds of 2024 (the “Bonds”) until 11:00 a.m., local Ocean City, Maryland time on:
Thursday, December 5, 2024
or on such other date as may be selected by the Mayor. The Bonds will
Notices is given that Michele Nadeau, 369, Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD 21811-1526 was on October 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of: Mihael Scott Raymond, who died on April 11, 2024 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 29th day of April 2025.
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.
Michele Nadeau
Date of publication: November 07, 2024 OCD-11/7/3t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTOPHER RICHARD ESCHENBURG, Estate No. 20399. Notices is given that Jennifer Hetherington, whose address is 10415 Brighton Rd., Ocean City, MD 21842-9123 was on October 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Christopher Richard Eschenburg who died on October 21, 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 29th day of April 2025.
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.
Jennifer Hetherington Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT
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: November 07, 2024
OCD-11/7/3t
MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND NOTICE
OF APPROVED CHARTER
RESOLUTIONS 2024-01, 2024-02, 2024-03 AND 2024-04.
Pursuant to the provision of the Snow Hill Town Charter Section 108 and Section 4-304 of the Local Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, a PUBLIC HEARING was held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at the meeting of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill at the Old Fire Hall, 212 West Green Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, for Charter Resolutions 2024-01, 2024-02, 202403 and 2024-04.
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Charter Resolutions 2024-01, 202402, 2024-03 and 2024-04 were approved on October 29, 2024.
A fair summary of the resolutions are as follows:
1. Charter Resolution 2024-01, Amends Sections 18(b) and 74(a)(3) of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to include the head of the Planning, Zoning, and Building Department in the list of department heads.
2. Charter Resolution 2024-02, Amends Section 11 of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to revise and clarify the process for adopting ordinances. It will allow ordinances to be introduced at a regular or special meeting. At any regular or special meeting held not less than six days nor more than sixty days after introduction, the second reading can be held. It clarifies that in the absence of the Mayor the vote to pass an emergency ordinance must be unanimous by the Council. It eliminates the provision that emergency ordinances expire at the next regular meeting. It clarifies when an ordinance and budget ordinance go into effect. It clarifies that modifications do not need to be published.
3. Charter Resolution 2024-03, Amends Section 13 of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to revise and clarify the process for referendums eliminating the cross reference to Charter Section 11 related to emergency ordinances expiring which is revised by Charter Resolution 202402.
4. Charter Resolution 2024-04, Amends Section 58 of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to update the State law references and to eliminate the requirement that a bond shall be submitted to referendum by the voters of the Town of Snow Hill.
A complete text of resolutions is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, q2Maryland, 21863.
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HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ. COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, P.C. 313 LEMMON HILL LANE SALISBURY, MD 21801
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20411
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the ORPHANS court of BERKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA appointed BOYD BENJAMIN whose address is 140 SWINEHART RD COATESVILLE, PA 19320-1243 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of BARRIE B GEHRLEIN AKA: BARRIE LEE GEHRLEIN who died on FEBRUARY 16, 2024 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is HEATHER R KONYAR ESQ whose address is 313 LEMMON HILL LN SALISBURY, MD 21801-4238. 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 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-11/14/3t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20408
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ELLEN KATHERINE PIERCE FISHER
AKA: ELLEN K. FISHER
Notice is given that Robert Thomas Fisher, 104 Pine St., Berlin, MD 21811-1124, was on November6, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ellen Katherine Pierce Fisher who died on September 13, 2024, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of May, 2025.
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.
Robert Thomas Fisher 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: November 14, 2024 OCD-11/14/3t
REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF
MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20416 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET E. BORTNER
Notice is given that Lauren Draheim, 12823 Selby Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1705, was on November 12, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret E. Bortner who died on September 21, 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 12th day of May, 2025.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the cred-
itor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Lauren Draheim 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: November 21, 2024
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MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP
P.O. BOX 910115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS
NOTICE
TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JOANN STEWARD Estate No. 20417 Notice is given that COLLEEN D YEZEK whose address is 28 BRIARCLIFFE CT NEWARK, DE 19702-2214 was on NOVEMBER 12, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOANN STEWARD who died on OCTOBER 09, 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 12th day of MAY, 2025
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-11/21/3t
MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL
NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2024-16
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2024-16 was introduced for first reading at their regular meeting on November 12, 2024. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: CHAPTER 200, ENTITLED ZONING, ARTICLE II, ENTITLED DEFINITIONS; ARTICLE VIII, ENTITLED PERMITTED USES; ARTICLE IX, ENTITLED SUPPLEMENTAL USE REGULATIONS; AND ATTACHMENT 1 - TABLE OF PERMITTED USES OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND to address through reasonable zoning requirements the State’s legalization of adult use cannabis and creation of adult use cannabis dispensaries by addressing which zoning districts licensed dispensaries may be allowed in and the location of the same and to address the location for growers and processors of cannabis and to add new definitions related to cannabis. The second reading will take place on December 10, 2024 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
OCD-11/21/1t
NOTICE
OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 24-08
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 24-08 (Zoning – Detached Accessory Buildings and Off-Street Parking in Campground Subdivisions) was introduced by Commissioner Fiori on August 6, 2024.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ ZS 1 318(d)(1)E. (Amends the accessory building section to permit two detached accessory buildings on each campsite, one of which must remain unenclosed, eliminates the separation distance between accessory buildings and any other building or structure on the same or other lot.)
§ ZS 1 318(d)(1)G. and § ZS 1320(a). (Amends the off-street parking requirements for campsites in a campground subdivision.)
A Public Hearing will be held on Bill 24-08 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.
This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County
Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCD-11/21/2t
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
DECEMBER 16, 2024 AT 6:00 PM
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
RE: PUBLIC PROPERTY - ALLEY CLOSURE AND CONVEYANCE
A Public Hearing is scheduled for Monday, December 16, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council, in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842. The purpose of this public hearing is to consider the closure and conveyance of Bayview Lane between 1st and 2nd Street. The hearing will allow public input for Mayor and Council consideration as to whether or not it is in the public’s interest to determine that the property is no longer needed for public use and move forward with the abandonment, closure and property conveyance. Additional information is available online at oceancitymd.gov in the August 27, 2024, Mayor and Council agenda packet or can be obtained from the City Clerk’s office by calling 410-2898842.
OCD-11/21/1t
COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.
RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20423
Notice is given that the Orphans’ court of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania appointed Paul E. Hedin Jr., 805 West St., Lewisberry, PA 17339-9101 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Shirley L. Hedin who died on March 26, 2024 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates, Jr. whose address is 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.
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.
Paul E. Hedin, Jr. 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: November 21, 2024
OCD-11/21/3t
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
At 3:00 PM
BAAV 24-068 A request has been submitted for a variance from Code Section 38-73 requirements for nonresidential construction to modify minimum freeboard requirements of Section 38-71 for reconstruction of ACME Grocery Store with associated retail (Grocery, Retail B) and construction of a new retail pad site (Retail C) Locally known as 9507 COASTAL HWY – Parcel A – 11510-1870A in the town of Ocean City, MD
Applicant: OCTC Holdings, Parcel A, LLC
BAAV 24-069 A request has been submitted for a variance from Code Section 38-72 requirements for residential construction to modify minimum freeboard elevation requirements of Section 38-71 for construction of residential condo townhouse condominium units. Locally known as 9507 COASTAL HWY – 115-10-1870A – Parcel C in the town of Ocean City, MD Applicant: OCTC Holdings, Parcel
BAAV 24-070 A request has been submitted for a variance from Code Section 38-72 and 38-73 requirements for residential and non-residential construction to modify minimum freeboard elevation requirements of Section 38-71 for construction of residential townhouse condominium units and community building. Locally known as 9507 COASTAL HWY – 115-10-1870A –Parcel D in the town of Ocean City, MD
To all persons interested in the estate of MARK TERRY LAYNE Estate No. 20402 Notice is given that NICHOLE M. DAWSON whose address is 17210 TOBIAH WAY, MILTON, DE 19968-3348 was on NOVEMBER 12, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARK TERRY LAYNE who died on OCTOBER 23, 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 12th day of MAY, 2025.
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-11/21/3t
Legal Advertising
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20420 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ALAN LEON FOSKEY
Notice is given that Wanda Quillen, 4901 Scotty Rd., Snow Hill, MD 21863-3557, was on November 14, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Alan Leon Foskey who died on October 22, 2024, 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.
Wanda Quillen
Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott 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: November 21, 2024
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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20418
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA SHANHOLTZ
Notice is given that Laurel Garland, 22 Clover Dr., Georgetown, DE 19947-1876, was on November 12, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Barbara Shanholtz who died on August 29, 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 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.
Laurel Garland Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott 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: November 21, 2024
OCD-11/21/1t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20371 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THOMAS ALAN MEAD Notice is given that Susan T. Mead, 7117 Chandler Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-2436, was on November 04, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Thomas Alan Mead who died on September 05, 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 shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Reg-
ister of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the 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.
Susan T. Mead
Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott
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:
November 21, 2024
OCD-11/21/1t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF
APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of ALFRED F. JOHNSON Estate No. 20412 Notice is given that BETH J. MCLACHLEN whose address is 7509 NUTWOOD CT., DERWOOD, MD 20855-2232 was on NOVEMBER 08, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ALFRED F. JOHNSON who died on SEPTEMBER 28, 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 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of
Wills for Worcester County
ONE W MARKET STREET
ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of BEVERLY ANN GAULT Estate No. 20413 Notice is given that DAVID W. GAULT whose address is P.O. BOX 364, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-0364 was on NOVEMBER 13, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BEVERLY ANN GAULT who died on OCTOBER 23, 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 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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ARDEN LAW FIRM
CEDULIE LAUMANN ESQ. 1028 GENERALS HWY., STE. 100
CROWNSVILLE, MD 21032-1459
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20414
Notice is given that the Circuit Court of Louden County, Virginia appointed Susan McGovern, 20728 Edgebrook Ct., Ashburn, VA 201474641 as the Adminstrator of the Estate of Thomas P. McGovern AKA: Thomas Patrick McGovern who died on February 11, 2024 domiciled in Virginia, USA.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Cedulie Lau-
mann whose address is 1028 Generals Hwy., Ste. 100, Crownsville, MD 21032-1459.
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.
Susan McGovern
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: November 21, 2024
OCD-11/21/3t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL
SOLICITATION
B03-25 – Edgewater Avenue Revetment
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Edgewater Avenue Revetment and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Edgewater Avenue Revetment may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting will not be applicable for this Invitation to BID. The last day for questions will
be on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD, 2024 AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024, BY 3:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Manager; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Edgewater Avenue Revetment) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
OCD-11/21/3t
OF
NOTICE
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, December 12, 2024 AT 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(3)(a), 110-94(3)(b), and 110-94(3)(c) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be 0.20 feet from the front lot line; (2) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be 0.20 feet from the rear lot line; and (3) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be 3.6 feet from a side lot line. The property is described as Lot 5-A, Section A, of the Warren’s Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the south side of Middle Way Lane and is locally known as 9 Middle Way Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: MICHAEL MCMAHON (BZA 2704 #24-09400025)
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-11/21/3t
Planning your move on a budget
Reduce your moving stress and save money by doing research ahead of time
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) With inflation driving up the national average costs of moving, budgeting for this expense when selling your home is important. Below are some tips for having a smooth move when selling.
Try to pick an offpeak moving time – of course, in a hot market like we are in now, you may need to take what you can get. But, traditionally, moving during a slower time of the year, between November and February, can help keep costs down. And, usually picking a mid-week moving day can help increase your options and save money.
Less stuff equals less stress. Declutter before packing, because if you box up everything, you are paying for items you may decide to donate or junk when you reach your final destination. Moving is a time to purge,
which most people find is a stress reliever.
Research moving company options. Moving companies usually fall into three major categories: full-service (including packing, insurance, etc), self-service (you pack the boxes before the movers arrive) and specialized (can cover freight shipping for boats and cars).
Determine your budget before calling moving companies. Moving expenses can add up quickly, so keeping track of your budget is important to pick the right mover. You
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Elzey names new biz rep
Elzey Insurance and Financial Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Caleb Miller as Sr. Business Development Representative.
With an extensive background in strategic growth, financial services, and client relationship management, Miller brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and commitment to driving results. His expertise in market analysis and business strategy is ex-
can request a “not to exceed” moving quote, but remember to add in some extra cash for a tip (moving is a backbreaking job).
There is the option to purchase moving insurance, which can provide peace of mind for those antiques and valuables.
Moving companies usually offer you two options, or you can look into a third-party policy as well.
— Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City
pected to enhance the company’s ability to serve clients with innovative solutions and dedicated support.
AGH announces new hire
Atlantic General Health System recently announced that Gena Nance, FNP-C, has joined the network of provider practices to provide care at Atlantic General Gastroenterology.
Nance has strong ties to the Lower Shore and earned both her bachelor’s Continued on Page 74
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE
Continued from Page 73
degree and her master’s degree in family nurse practitioner studies at Salisbury University.
Upon graduation in 2012, she worked in primary care in the region and transitioned to the gastroenterology specialty in 2017.
She is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Delaware Coalition of Nurse Practitioners, the Nurse Practitioner Association of Maryland, and the American Gastroenterological Association.
CUSTOM-BUIL
Nance is currently accepting new patients at Atlantic General Gastroenterology, located within the Gudelsky Family Medical Center at 10614 Racetrack Road, in Ocean Pines.
To schedule an appointment, individuals can call 410-629-1450.
HOM A T 3 BR, 2 B
DAAYY/TIME
Fri-Mon 11am-4pm H Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 11amMon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 11amFriday 2-4pm S. Herroon
Plans ongoing for Berlin’s Route 113 connection goal
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2024) Berlin is moving closer to bridging the gap between communities divided by Route 113, as the Town Council unanimously approved the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the municipality and the Maryland State Highway Administration and a related grant agreement to further a neighborhood connection project at its meeting last week.
The community connection project, officially known as Bridging the Highway that Divides Berlin: Reconnecting Neighborhoods Split by US 113, is an initiative to improve Berlin’s walkability by constructing connectivity projects like a bike and pedestrian bridge over Route 113.
The design and planning stage will be funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant Program, created through the Inflation Reduction Act.
“It is a $1.2 million grant that will include evaluating how we can reconnect our neighborhoods across the divide of 113, so everyone together is really overcoming that highway in a safe way,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said.
Nov. 21 - Nov. 28
In addition to the Route 113 initiative, some of the money will be used for the Berlin Bikeway project. The Berlin Bikeway will place a shared-use bike and pedestrian path along the railroad in town.
“Collectively, these projects will help to remedy long-standing lack of safe access to schools, shopping, health, and medical services, as well as providing economic opportunities for Berlin’s residents, many of whom live in income-based housing,” the MOU reads.
“Project activities include facilitating community engagement, developing concept drawings, a feasibility study, and preliminary engineering for a bridge over Route 113 and advancing the Berlin Bikeway through design.
“The project will identify necessary sidewalk and crossing improvements in the area and potential connections to existing and proposed bike and pedestrian facilities in the Worcester County Greenways and Trails Plan, many of which are already in development.”
The Greenway and Trails Master Plan examines current and future bike paths and trails throughout the county to connect landscapes and local destinations. The Town of Berlin hopes
See BIKE PATH Page 75
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Bike path would link to Snow Hill
Continued from Page 74
their projects will fit neatly into the county-wide initiative.
“We are trying to make sure that Berlin’s plan is not just Berlin,” Tyndall said. “We want to fit into a larger pedestrian flow throughout Worcester County.”
The MOU approved at last week’s meeting lays out the responsibilities of the State Highway Administration and the Town of Berlin as the parties carry out the early stages of the projects.
For instance, the municipality must receive environmental clearance required by the National Environmental Policy Act and hold public hearings. SHA must “provide timely review and comment of the project design plans, specifications and estimates submitted by [Berlin], within 45 days following receipt by SHA,” and “reimburse [Berlin] within 45 days following the receipt and approval by SHA of each project invoice.”
Regarding the grant agreement, which is between the Town of Berlin, the Federal Highway Administration, and the SHA, as stated in the document, $250,000 of the grant will be used for phase one, which is planning, $350,000 is set aside for preliminary design, and $600,000 will be used for final design.
The grant is strictly for design and planning and does not mean a physical bridge will be built connecting the two sides of Berlin – at least, not yet.
“It will not result in construction,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said of the grant. The town will pursue additional grant funding when the time for implementation arises.
Additionally, Tyndall maintained that these agreements do not indicate the start of the project’s phase one planning. Instead, “it gets us on our way to phase one,” he said.
As the Route 113 design process continues, town officials are looking toward a bigger initiative: pursuing grant funds to connect the bike path to Snow Hill while the state and federal highway administrations are paying attention.
Tyndall credited this effort to Patti Stevens of the Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition, who also assisted with the NAE grant application process.
Councilmember Shaneka Nichols expressed concerns about the proposed Snow Hill connection, highlighting a potential weakening of the project’s emphasis in Berlin.
“I don’t want us to lose sight,” she said. “I think this is great for the bicycle path … I just don’t want Berlin’s connection to Newark and Snow Hill to get lost or even become a second thought to this Berlin Bikeway, which will eventually connect Berlin with Newark and Snow Hill. I want to make sure we keep the connection of Berlin as a top priority.”
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& Delaware
Proposed hotel permitted to use Sunset Park as fire lane
Downtown OC space will serve emergency vehicles while residents disapprove
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 22, 2024) City officials this week granted a developer’s request to establish a fire lane at Sunset Park, in exchange for property improvements and public access to a bayside boardwalk.
Despite objections from several in attendance at Monday’s meeting, the Ocean City Council voted 6-1, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor opposed, to grant a request from Christos Sarantis, developer of the Kyma Hotel property at 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., to use the neighboring Sunset Park as a fire lane for his project. In exchange for the modifications that must be made to the park, Sarantis has agreed to enhance the park’s landscaping and lighting, as well as grant the city an easement to a bayside boardwalk on his property.
“I’m just trying to be a good neighbor, do what’s right,” Sarantis told the council this week, “try to work everything through with the Bayside boardwalk to where it works for the town, and it also works for my project.”
Last year, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted to approve the site plan for a luxury, boutique hotel at 700 S. Philadelphia Ave. named Kyma Luxury Resort Hotel. As approved, the facility will feature 60plus units, an owner’s suite, amenities and a bayside boardwalk.
As the project approaches the permitting phase, Sarantis, through his attorney, Hugh Cropper, came before the Mayor and Council this week with a request to cut back a small portion of Sunset Park’s southerly trellis, replace the entrance curbing, and make the park a dedicated fire lane for the hotel. While the request was initially brought before the council in July, and revisited in October, officials agreed to move the matter to this week’s night meeting, when more members of the public could attend.
“This is a request for the non-exclusive use of Sunset Park and to do some very minor modifications to Sunset Park to accommodate that use as an emergency vehicle access,” Cropper told council members this week. “It’s our belief that these modifications are going to be incredibly minimal and have absolutely no impact on the operation of Sunset Park.”
In a report to the Mayor and Coun-
Residents against park’s emergency access
cil, staff noted that designating Sunset Park as a project’s fire lane would impose certain restrictions on the current use, as the fire lane must be clear of all fixed objects – including tents and food trucks. They also reported that a proposed fire lane would also permanently restrict any future development of the park. However, Fire Marshal Josh Bunting told officials this week he did not believe the developer’s request would affect the park’s current use, as it was designed to maintain fire access along its length.
“Really, this isn’t a transition into a fire lane,” he said. “It’s just a recognition of a fire lane that’s really always been there. It’s just underutilized.”
During his presentation this week, Cropper said the developer would pay for the modifications at Sunset Park in exchange for using the fire lane. He said his client would also improve the park’s landscaping and lighting and open his bayside boardwalk to public use during park hours, once the hotel is complete.
“Once the hotel opens for business, he’ll grant you a perpetual easement – which means forever for the non-lawyers in the group – open at the same time as Sunset Park,” he said. “We need to reserve the air rights above [the boardwalk], and we would ask to get a letter of support so we can serve alcoholic beverages on the beach out on the east side. Remember this is a unique property, that the bayside boardwalk is not right along the bayside. There’s substantial beach there.”
During public comments, however, several downtown residents asked the council to deny the developer’s request. Resident George Stoll highlighted the variances the developer had already been granted to build his hotel.
“I’m a little bit upset about
changes like this,” he said. “Not so much the change, but the use of the system to make their change what they want it to be. This is a lot like how you eat an elephant – one bite at a time. We’ve been doing this for three years, a bite at a time. Every time the elephant gets a little smaller, the developer gets a little fatter. It’s very disappointing for me to see this.”
‘Perhaps they did realize this and planned all along to ask to annex the town’s beloved Sunset Park. But granting a modification to a public park that belongs to the town is a bridge too far, and one more big ask when the fire lane should have been part of the original plan’
Resident Tammi Jester
Several in the audience echoed Stoll’s concerns.
“This is a small piece of land, and the developer and architect should
have recognized that it could not accommodate two fire lanes as required for a building this large,” resident Tammi Jester said. “Perhaps they did realize this and planned all along to ask to annex the town’s beloved Sunset Park. But granting a modification to a public park that belongs to the town is a bridge too far, and one more big ask when the fire lane should have been part of the original plan.”
While acknowledging the community’s concerns, Councilman Will
Savage said he believed access to the bayside boardwalk would improve safety and accessibility downtown and supported the city’s strategic plan. He also highlighted the improvements that would be made to the park, as well as the existence of the park’s fire lane.
After a lengthy discussion, the council voted 6-1 to allow Sunset Park to be used as a fire lane for the developer’s project. To offset the loss of flexibility the city would have in hosting events or making improvements to the park, the developer must provide the city with a recorded easement to allow public access to the bayside boardwalk located on the Kyma property. In exchange, the city will issue a letter of support when the developer applies for a liquor license at the property.
WPS VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
On Nov. 11, Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) 4th and 5th grades came together in a musical performance to celebrate veterans. The Veterans Day Program, directed by WPS Lower School Music teacher Joanie Brittingham, began with the Presentation of Colors led by guests from the American Legion. This year’s guest speakers were WPS lower school art teacher Cathy Roman’s father, Colonel Daniel Wells; WPS alum, Cadet 3rd class Ava Wilsey; and WPS parent Marine Major Rebecca Hagner. Throughout the program, the Musical Mallards performed the “Star Spangled Banner,” “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America.” Students in attendance were able to invite family members and friends who have served, or are currently serving, in the military and enjoyed a visit with them following the performance. Worcester Prep’s 4th-grade students, above, perform “America the Beautiful” during the Veterans Day Program.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Fourth-grade students Auggie Hall and Margot Hidell sing the “Star Spangled Banner” to begin this month’s annual Veterans Day Program at Worcester Preparatory School. Songs from the Musical Mallards were patriotic in nature for the event.
WPS 4th grader Grace Hornung was excited to have her grandfather, Retired Army Colonel Ed Rodier, in the audience at the annual Veterans Day program.
Following the Veterans Day Program, WPS 4th grader Adee Carmean (center) shared a special moment with her grandfather, Wayne Holston (left), and father, Hal Carmean (right), who both served in the Marine Corps. A member of the American Legion smiles in the background. The local Legion displayed the colors for the event.
WPS siblings 5th grader Jace Zervakos (left) and 2nd grader Harper Zervakos spent the morning with their father, CPL Joshua Zervakos of the United States Marine Corps (center), during the annual Veterans Day Program.
Buckingham gets more good news on funding front
Project now eligible for Built to Learn Act dollars
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) The Buckingham Elementary School replacement project will receive $5.5 million from the Built to Learn Act per a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Worcester County government, the Worcester County Board of Education, and the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA).
The Built to Learn Act of 2020 (BTL) authorizes MSA to issue up to $2.2 billion in revenue bonds to construct public school facilities throughout the State of Maryland. Now, Worcester County will receive some of that money as design funds for the replacement Buckingham facility.
The BTL MOU allocates $5,599,322 to Worcester County for the design of the Buckingham project. The agreement was unanimously approved by the school board at the body’s Tuesday, Nov. 19 meeting. The Worcester County Board of Education’s agenda states the $5.5 million will initially be utilized for “architectural/engineering design payments for the BES project with the remainder of funds to be utilized for construction contract payments.”
WCPS Facilities Manager Joe Price said that after the county government and education board sign the BTL MOU, MSA is scheduled to approve the design funding at its Dec. 3 meeting.
“The funds will be available immediately for us to begin schematic design on Buckingham Elementary School,” Price said.
“This is great news,” Board of Education President Todd Ferrante added.
Worcester County Board of Education member Jon Andes noted that the BES project was initially not eligible to receive BTL funds.
“I wanted to point out that when we originally started this process, the Built to Learn money was totally ineligible for this project,” he said. “...When we first started sitting down and having this conversation with the work group, the IAC’s position was that the Built to Learn money was not eligible for the Buckingham Elementary School project. Thanks to a lot of work by a lot of people, especially Mr. Price, all of a sudden, now we have the Built to Learn money available for the Buckingham project … That is money we did not have a year ago, and now we have it, so thank you Mr. Price.”
The newly constructed BES, which
School funding deal formalized
will not exceed 90,837 square feet, is expected to open by September 2030 and the subsequent renovation or replacement of Berlin Intermediate School soon after. Buckingham is expected to cost $73.7 million. The state, via the IAC, will provide $25.8 million, while the local government plans to provide $47.9 million. BIS’s cost estimate is around $80 million. The state has committed to $23 million, and the county commissioners will offer $57 million.
The IAC unanimously passed the MOU between the IAC, the Worcester
County Commissioners, and the school board for the funding and construction of BES and BIS at its Thursday, Nov. 14 meeting. That same agreement was green lit by the commissioners at their Oct. 15 gathering.
IAC Executive Director Alex Donahue said at the IAC’s Nov. 14 meeting that the funding and construction agreement “has a number of benefits.” First, it will eliminate any uncertainty that WCPS may have about changes to the construction plan, “thereby reducing a chance that these two high-need projects will be supplanted by other capital projects,”
Continued from Page79
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Students at Buckingham Elementary School could in 2030 be in similar learning accommodations as their counterparts at Ocean City Elementary, which was rebuilt before the Showell project.
‘A number of benefits’ in plan
Donahue said.
To avoid cost inflation, it also sets a completion timeframe and deadline for the two initiatives. Donahue continued, arguing that it saves a “greater amount of projected available county and state capital funds for other high needs projects in coming years by limiting how much WCPS can spend on these two projects” and commits the state to a certain amount of funding for each initiative.
“I don’t see any costs or downsides of this MOU to the state,” the IAC executive director said. “It is a win, win, win for the county, the school district, and the state. It has helped us bring [WCPS] forward onto a great track for replacing two of their old 1970s buildings that are very much outdated educationally and heavily worn and depleted despite great maintenance efforts and helps put them in a good position to move forward on other projects in following years that their portfolio has next in line.”
NOTICE OF LIVE AUCTION
Beach Equipment Franchise – North-End, Mid-Beach and South-End Available Parcels $500 Minimum Bid Requirement for each Parcel
A public auction will be held on Wednesday, D December 4, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City, Maryland. R Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. A p pre-auction discussion begins at 9:30 a.m. Auction begins at 10:00 a.m. The following north-section beach parcels will be auctioned:
NORTH-END BEACH PARCELS
85th, 86th and 87th Streets 88th, 89th, 90th Streets and 91st Street End 92nd End North, 93rd Streets and 9400 Condo Flying Cloud, Pyramid and Plaza Condos Century I, English Tower and Marigot Beach Condos Atlantis, Quay and Golden Sands Condos Capri, Irene and Rainbow Condos High Point South, High Point North and Sea Watch Condos Fountainhead, Carousel and 118 Street 119th, 120th and 121st Streets 128th, 129th and 130th Streets 131st, 132nd and 133rd Streets
ON AUCTION DAY, the successful bidder shall:
134th, 135th and 136th Streets 137th, 138th and 139th Streets 140th, 141st and 142nd Streets 143rd, 144th, 145th and 146th to MD/DE Line
MID-BEACH PARCELS
69th,70th and 71st Streets 72nd, 73rd and 74th Streets
SOUTH-END PARCELS
22nd Street 23rd Street
(1) Provide satisfactory proof of identity and legal age (i.e. Driver’s License or Government-issued Photo ID)
(2) Pay a One Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) n non-refundable deposit for each successful bid. Please bring cash, cashier’s checks or certified checks payable to the Mayor and City Council. PERSONAL CHECKS NOT ACCEPTED
On the dates specified below, the successful bidder shall:
(1) Submit a personal Credit Report on or before M Monday, December 9, 2024
(2) Sign a statement authorizing the Mayor and Council to make inquiry of personal background, financial and credit worthiness on or before M Monday, December 9, 2024.
(3) Pay 20% of the annual fee for each parcel less the $1,000.00 deposit to the Billing Office in City Hall on or before Monday, December 9, 2024
(4) Provide a b brief plan of management on or before M Monday, December 9, 2024, clarifying if you will directly oversee the operation or, if not, how day-to-day operations will be handled; providing details of your experience with the beach equipment rental industry; and advising if you have obtained necessary equipment and boxes or of your arrangements to acquire necessary equipment.
(5) O Obtain, at the operator's own expense, comprehensive general liability insurance coverage and products liability insurance coverage in at least the amount of $1,000,000.00 combined single limit, which insurance coverage shall name the Mayor and City Council as an additional insured, and a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage shall be furnished to the Mayor and City Council by the operator and be approved by Ocean City's City Clerk before contract endorsement.
(6) The second-highest bidder will have first right of refusal should the initial successful bidder neglect to meet credit, experience or management requirements. A sealed bid will be conducted if the second-highest bidder declines the award. The Mayor and Council may reject any and all bids for any reason it deems appropriate and may rebid upon such terms, conditions and manner it deems appropriate.
(7) Sign a threeyear contract (2025-2027) for each north-end parcel. Sign a two-year contract (2025-2026) for each mid-beach parcel. Sign a 1-year contract for each south-end parcel (2025).
An auction bid packet can be found at http://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/city-clerk/ or email dchavis@oceancitymd.gov to request the information. Please direct questions to 410-289-8842.
OC Elementary ranked No. 2 in state in report
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Ocean City Elementary School has been declared the second-best public elementary school in Maryland out of 854 facilities evaluated, according to a US News and World Report ranking.
US News determines the success orders of elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and universities and describes itself as a “recognized leader in college, grad school, hospital, mutual fund, and car rankings.”
According to the report, OCES, which services grades pre-k through fourth and is part of the Worcester County Public School system, slid into the second-place spot directly underneath Westbrook Elementary in Bethesda and immediately above the Baltimore County Pinewood Elementary.
The media outlet explains the placement methodology on its website. “Schools were assessed on their shares of students who were proficient or above proficient in their mathematics and reading/language arts state assessments,” the description reads. “Half of the formula assessed the scores themselves, and the other half incorporated the test results in the context of socioeconomic demographics. In other words, the top-ranked schools are all highachieving and have succeeded at educating all their students.”
Each school is given a score on a zero to 100 scale, “representing how well each school ranked within its state on a percentile basis.” For instance, an institution with a grade of 55.00 means that it performed in the 55th percentile “among all schools in its ranking, meaning 45% of the schools performed better than, and 55% of the schools didn’t perform as well as, that school.” OCES received a score of 99.88/100.
OCES Principal Julie Smith said she first learned of the second-place ranking on Monday, Nov. 18, when several parents of current and past students forwarded her the US News link.
“As soon as I read it, I burst into tears,” she said. “This school works so hard. This is such a special place. It has always been a special place.”
US News reports that OCES services 521 students across its six grade levels. According to the outlet, 77% of the young learners scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 92% scored at or above that level for reading.
These numbers outperform the state average. In Maryland, 42% of students tested at or above proficiency for reading, and 25% tested at that level in math. Comparatively, Worcester County Public Schools had
Principal: ‘Such a special place’
60% of learners test at or above a proficient level for reading, and 44% reached that same goal in math.
“The staff holds students to very high standards, but they are always achievable, and they are high standards that the students want to achieve,” said Smith, who was an English teacher at Stephen Decatur High School before transitioning to OCES as a vice president 11 years ago and later becoming principal. “Not just in academics but in having personal goals and how people treat each other and themselves. Not just academic standards but also social-emotional and behavioral ones. All teachers have those beliefs. It is about the whole child’s growth, and every teacher feels every student can get there.”
“It is all about differentiation and reaching kids where they are and elevating them to where they need to go,” the principal continued.
US News went on to highlight demographics and statistics pertaining to OCES. The student population consists of 51% females and 49% males. The facility enrolls 44% economically disadvantaged students, has a 23% minority enrollment, and has an 11:1 student/teacher ratio. There are 48 full-time teachers, 100% of whom are certified.
Smith added that she creates a positive environment for the entire school community as principal.
“It has been my goal since I began as principal to ensure that every person wants to wake up and come to school,” she said. “I want teachers to be excited to come to work, and I want students to want to come to school and I want parents to be excited that they get to send their children to OCES. I want the halls to be happy and the classrooms to be engaging. We are always working on that positive, happy atmosphere.”
The honor comes after Worcester County Public Schools was determined to be a top-performing system based on state assessments released at the end of last summer.
As determined by spring 2024 assessment data, Worcester County had the highest English Language Arts (ELA) scores of the state, with 69.4% of students testing at a proficient level.
Worcester’s math scores of 39.3% of learners performing at least proficiently placed them in second place behind Howard County, whose pass rate came in at a close 41.1%.
“We are very proud that Ocean City Elementary School has been recognized as an outstanding elementary school in our state,” WCPS Superintendent Lou Taylor said. “The school’s performance on state assessments continues to be a point of pride for our entire school system, and it is a well-deserved honor.”
Opinions
Bays Program deserves slack
It’s understandable that some Worcester County Commissioners are miffed at the Maryland Coastal Bays Program for taking money from the devil, as in a $125,000 handout from offshore wind developer US Wind, but sometimes the devil is in the details.
In this case, the details include the program’s future funding through the Environmental Protection Agency. As part of the EPA’s National Estuary Program, the Coastal Bays Program gets somewhere around half its funding from the agency, which right now isn’t looking as stable as it has been because of the nomination of former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin to head the EPA.
That has caused conservationist organizations to wonder what Zeldin will do as a budget-cutter and opponent of the EPA regulations. Although he has said he supports maintaining clean air and water, no one knows how that will play out when current environmental programs come up against his promise to reduce the agency’s budget.
With the Coastal Bays Program’s continued existence on the line, its personnel might be excused from taking money wherever they can find it. Sometimes, you do what you have to do to keep going and deal with the fallout later.
This is not to criticize Commissioner Ted Elder for lambasting the program’s director, Kevin Smith, for taking money from an industry the commissioners strongly oppose. We get it, because on the surface it does look like a slap in the county’s face.
Still, the bays program is not in a position to reject any legal contribution, considering the changes the federal government faces and this state’s own financial mess.
Besides, what matters here is not where the Coastal Bays Program got the money, but what it intends to do with it. Its people aren’t stupid, so it’s a safe bet that US Wind gets a nice thank-you note, while the program goes its own way.
Lizard People return
According to unimpeachable sources, which would be us on our very own website, we are in serious trouble.
Sure, you say, we’ve all known about that for a while, but this is different, way different, because the information I’m referring to comes from the federal government’s very own X-Files agency.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
That’s correct, this is the real deal, the explainers of the inexplicable, whose job it is to explain the unknowable to Congress, which struggles to know anything at all from time to time.
Nevertheless, this daunting task falls to — and this is its real name — the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office.
Now exactly what “All-domain Anomaly Resolution” means is a little unclear itself, except it does sound official and is therefore easier to fund.
Suffice to say it’s less difficult to give money to that office than to, for instance, “The Office of Spectacle-Wearing Egg Heads Who Say ‘That wasn’t a UFO, that was an electric plasma gas cloud.’”
The name was changed when the federal government decided to stop calling Unidentified Flying Objects what they were, and instead refer to them as Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena.
In the interest of full disclosure, I’ll admit that I initially thought Anomalous was a Roman emperor, as in Caesar Anomalous, but I was obviously wrong.
Anyway, the Anomaly Office told Congress
recently that it had received 757 reports of unidentified flying anomalies between May 2023 and this past June, but not to worry because it could explain 736 of them.
As for the remaining 21 things zipping around in the sky, the report said, “Ummmm, well, we don’t know, but we also have no evidence of Extra-Terrestrial Life, so there’s that.”
These assurances aside, I say 21 flying somethings that we can’t explain is not exactly cause for celebration, especially if you don’t know who or what, if anything, was on board.
It stands to reason that if they don’t know what these anomalies are, they also don’t know whether they were self-piloting or were being driven by, say, Mungo the Lizard King.
I’m well aware that most people don’t buy my long-held theory that the Lizard People are walking among us, but I do have a counter argument — Elon Musk.
Moving on, if the Lizard People are here, and I demand an immediate roll call in the House of Reprenstatives to see if anyone hisses, we could have real trouble on our hands.
And I’m not just talking about being eaten by a colleague, which would be unfortunate, maybe, I’m referring to that special lizard trait: just when you think you’ve got them, they drop their tales and run.
Come to think of it ...
***
Incidentally, I have no idea how that article got on our website, except to say we’re part of a national news network that shares stories, although I seriously doubt it will share this one.
PUBLIC EYE
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
Before attempts to apply significant new regulations to short-term rentals in Ocean City can be considered, enforcement means must be identified. Can requiring a five-day minimum length of stay for shortterm rentals in R-1 residential and MH mobile home zoning districts be monitored enough to be enforced? With there being 377 short-term rentals currently in the districts and surely on the increase annually, the realistic answer is no. Therefore, minimum lengths of stay under consideration deserve another look or not at all. Currently, for the districts mentioned, the proposal is five-day minimum lengths of stay from May 1-Sept. 30 and three-day minimums for the rest of the year.
The goal of protecting the residential communities has merit, of course, but placing restrictions on short-term rentals that will clearly reduce income for property owners who bought with investment in mind makes no sense if enforcement is not possible. It does not seem plausible all 377 short-term rentals will be tracked by the city to ensure compliance with a five-day minimum length of stay in the season. There are also 9,000-plus other rentals in Ocean City to monitor for other requirements like licensure.
A unified front of opposition made little difference before the Maryland Board of Public Works this week. The board unanimously voted to grant US Wind a tidal wetlands license to construct a new bulkhead and pier at the commercial harbor for the company’s operations and maintenance facility, which will serve as the hub for the offshore wind farm if it’s built.
Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman seemed to represent the body when she reminded those in attendance the request before them Wednesday was for the tidal wetlands license itself to allow improvements to the bulkhead and pier. She said, “It is not the actual operations and maintenance facility or the turbines themselves. We are not permitted to look at what this is actually being used for. We are looking at what is actually happening regarding the physical structure.” While that may be true, it’s impossible not to link this week’s smooth approval to the state’s robust support for offshore wind.
Additionally, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza is right when she disagreed with that position, pointing out the state’s code states, “The Board shall decide if issuance of the license is in the best interest of the State, taking into account the varying ecological, economic, developmental, recreational, and aesthetic values the application presents.” Carozza added, “The proposed O&M facility would eliminate commercial fishing as it removes the only facility for commercial vessel operators to offload their seafood catch, and therefore, would create a major negative economic impact.”
There has been a feeling of inevitability about this wind farm process for some time. Meanwhile, there are two glimmers of hope for anti-wind folks. First, there is the planned lawsuit against the federal government being led by the Town of Ocean City. In fact, a fundraiser is planned in Ocean City on Dec. 4 to raise money for the costly legal battle ($150/attendee). Finally, there’s the big unknown of what an administration under President Trump will do about offshore wind. Trump, who has said he “hates wind” previously, could easily slow this effort to the point it fades away. During his campaign, however, Trump said he would “end offshore wind on day one” through an executive order. ***
It's been a remarkable turnaround for Buckingham Elementary School over the last year. At this point last year, it looked unlikely Buckingham would receive any state funding, dooming the project. Over the last year, there have been multiple meetings, and the result is now a funding commitment in place – the $73.7 million needed to build a new Buckingham will be split between the county ($47.9 million, or 69%) and state ($23 million, or 31%). It was remarkable to learn this week the county is now magically eligible, after being told it was not initially, for $5.5 million for Built to Learn Act funding to assist with design costs. Equally surprising was Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC) Executive Director Alex Donahue’s rosy comments about the turnabout for Buckingham Elementary and Berlin Intermediate further down the road. Donahue previously said the county has “additional capacity” in other schools that keep Buckingham ineligible for state funds. At this month’s IAC meeting, Donahue said, “I don't see any costs or downsides of this MOU to the state. It is a win, win, win for the county, the school district, and the state. It has helped us bring [WCPS] forward onto a great track for replacing two of their old 1970s buildings that are very much outdated educationally and heavily worn and depleted ...”
The only downside at this point is the long wait as the new Buckingham is not expected to be open for students until 2030.
Reverend, parish seeking to restore Tyree’s former glory
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) When Rev. Dawn Hobson arrived as the pastor of Tyree AME Church, she was excited to learn about its historic belltower, eager to listen for its echoing peal as she rung it for the first time.
What came next was a jaw-dropping surprise that set the stage for the future of the entire church and its parishioners.
“I started pulling the rope, ringing the bell,” Hobson said. “I come to find out, after I had an engineer come in here and look at the building, that the bell tower is severely damaged. If I kept ringing it, the bell would have come down. That’s how much damage has taken place there.”
A leaky roof and time have conspired to leave the church’s 109-year-
old worship space beyond repair and structurally unsound. And it’s not just the termites encamped in the belltower.
Original wooden pews are blanketed in persistent mold. Pilings underfoot are failing. A bulky structural support pole is leaning, which caused the roof to shift, which made the thin wooden boards decorating the ceiling pop out.
In one corner of the sanctuary, illuminated by colorful stained-glass mosaics, odd roof angles have funneled rainwater through the walls, turning the floor into a brittle, perilous pitfall.
They’ve made some repairs, like installing a brand-new roof and HVAC system, thanks to grant funding. But the list is still long. Full renovations
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Senior Paster Rev. Dawn Hobson is pictured outside her Tyree AME Church on Germantown Road in Berlin on Nov 11.
The 109-year-old sanctuary of the Tyree AME Church, ruined by water damage and mold, has become structurally unsound. The church needs to raise another $200,000 to complete renovations.
BRIAN SHANE/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Church needs community help
Continued from Page 85
will take months. And Hobson – she goes by Rev. Dawn – is the one responsible for raising money to resurrect the sacred space.
She’s still short $200,000 of her fundraising goal.
“We still have to do some work that we’re not doing. I can’t fix all of these pews and so forth when the ceiling and the walls still have to be repaired. So, things have to be done in order,” she said. “We just need the community to help us to get the funds to finish the work.”
Renovations would include blowing out walls inside of the sanctuary, for new handicapped access and bringing entrances up to code; it also will make it easier to bring caskets into the worship area from the park-
ing lot. The pews need refinishing and the drywall needs replacing. The musty maroon carpet has to go. Rev. Dawn lingers a moment, her eyes sweeping over the room. “I can kind of see it. I want to see it different, you know? I want to see it maybe in blue or something. Wouldn’t that be nice? All the wood refinished and new light fixtures. But we’ve been working on it for a couple years now. Yeah, there’s a lot of work yet to be done,” she said.
In the meantime, thanks to the structural problems and lingering effects of the pandemic, the congregation is dwindling. Tyree used to be one of the bigger churches in the district. Now, some who have called this church home all their lives have slowly found other places to worship,
TOWN OF BERLIN PUBLIC NOTICE CASE NO. 9508 (s) BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND THE CONTINUING INVESTIGATION OF THE ELECTRIC FUEL RATE AND PURCHASED POWER COST ADJUSTMENT CHARGES OF THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SYSTEM OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN.
PUBLIC UTILITY LAW JUDGE’S NOTICE OF HEARING
An evidentiary hearing in the above-captioned matter will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., in the Maryland Public Service Commission’s 19th floor hearing room, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland.
The hearing will be livestreamed on the Public Utility Law Judge’s YouTube Channel, using the following link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYK5mu0UMAUOqSQowRq2TIQ.
Pastor: ‘There’s a lot of work yet to be done’
Rev. Dawn said.
Tucked away off Route 113, Tyree African United Methodist Church is a landmark in Berlin’s historic Germantown neighborhood. Open since 1915, it was built by congregants of another nearby church, New Bethel. Its name comes from Evans Tyree, a bishop of the AME Church who rose from enslavement to earning doctoral degrees in dentistry and ministry.
“The church was a place really where people did everything,” she said. “You know, they got a little bit of education here, before the Germantown school. They celebrated all their events in the church. The church was a central place.”
Rev. Dawn was appointed to this church in 2021. She grew up in Philadelphia and eventually moved to Bowie, in Prince George’s County, Maryland. In fact, that’s where she and her husband Kainan, a church elder, still make their home. Most church meetings are held virtually, and the couple travels two hours every Sunday for services and whenever they’re here during the week.
“It’s a really lovely congregation,” she said. “You know, you ought to come on Sunday and join us. We have fun in here and you know, it’s a good environment, good people. I’m really hoping that we, especially my oldest members, get to go back into the
sanctuary soon.”
Generations ago, Tyree was famous for its Camp Meeting. Congregants would come from across Delmarva for a festive weekend singing and praying. “There’d be food cooked and people would sleep out. People know about Tyree’s camp meeting from all over,” Rev. Dawn said.
She still wants her church to be a light in the community. Her hope is to connect with community partners –social services, the health department, housing offices, local police departments – to meet the needs of her congregation.
“It doesn’t mean the whole community needs that kind of support, but people know we’re available to help,” she said. “What we’re trying to do now is to become a central place. We believe that we can target what the real needs are of the community and start to meet some of those needs. We’re in that process now, but you can see that our church needs help.”
The news is not all bad. They have a full commercial kitchen, in a newer part of the building, used for holiday meal prep and soup kitchens. And Tyree still has a vibrant group of parishioners, young and old, who come every Sunday for worship service in a linoleum-floored community room they call Faith Hall – but Rev. Dawn wants more for this multipur-
pose space.
“We can see the potential for the kids to be in this hall, the teenagers, to practice for their plays and their dances and so forth,” she said, her voice echoing in the cavernous room. “It sets up really easily for any other type of activity that we want to have in here. So, a big part of our goal is to free this space up,”
For now, the work continues. Bit by bit, Rev. Dawn is still hunting down grants and collecting donations
in amounts big and small. Local civil engineer Harry How donated his services to troubleshoot. Inspections are being done, and architect’s plans are ready to go.
And, when the day comes, she hopes to ring the bell again, to welcome back worshippers into a restored and reconditioned sanctuary –one that could last another 100 years.
“And I’m going to invite everybody I can. Now, they won’t all fit in there, but I’ll invite them anyway,” she said.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Senior Pastor Rev. Dawn Hobson of Tyree AME Church on Nov. 11 stands outside the entry with her husband Kainan Hobson, a church elder.
The Battle of Hürtgen Forest raged 88 days
By Nick Wahoff Contributing Writer
This week, 80 years ago, American GIs were engaged in one of their toughest fights of World War II. The Battle of Hürtgen Forest, one of the longest battles in American military history, started Sept. 19 and did not end until Dec. 16, 1944. This 54-square mile area in Germany near the Belgian border, would be one of the costliest, and some say unnecessary, battles of the war.
On June 6, 1944, U.S., Canadian and British troops landed in Normandy, France. It took weeks of heavy fighting to break out of their Normandy bridgehead. At the end of July, Operation Cobra was launched by the American First Army, and along with concurrent British and Canadian offensives, the Allies broke through the German lines.
The fighting became a battle of maneuvers as the Germans had difficulty establishing static lines of defense. By Aug. 25, the Allies captured Paris and were pushing hard toward Germany.
In September, the Allies reached the German border and their Siegfried Line of defenses. The Siegfried, also known as the West Wall, was a shell of itself from what it was in 1939. Many of its weapons had been sent to be used as coastal defenses or to other fronts. Still, there were many strong points, bunkers, and dragon's teeth to hinder tanks and to challenge the Allies.
Also in September, the Americans fought and took parts of heavily defended Aachen, the first German city captured by the Allies. The fierce fighting in the city delayed the American advance westward.
The American First Army looked west to the Ruhr River Valley as its next objective. The series of dams along the river provided hydroelectric power to German industry. Also, opening the gates of the dams could flood the valley and could delay Allied troops for months.
The most direct route to achieve their goal was through the Hürtgen Forest. Heavily wooded with few roads, it hindered the use of air power and tanks in which the Americans had a decisive advantage. Still, American Gen. Omar Bradley and his fellow generals made the decision to take the direct route into the Ruhr Valley.
The Germans defended the Hürtgen Forest with only two divisions of approximately 5,000 men. With strong defenses, and troops heavily dug in, Field Marshal Walther Model thought they could hold off the numerically superior Americans.
Even as fighting in the city of Aachen continued, the Americans made their initial probes into the forest. On Oct. 5, the Allies launched an attack toward the village of Schmidt. After fierce fighting and heavy losses, the Americans were able to cut one of the main supply roads.
After 10 days of fighting, the Ameri-
American infantrymen move through Hurtgen on their way to the front lines. Company I, 181st Regiment, 8th Infantry Division.
cans had advanced less than 2 miles into the forest and had suffered 4,500 casualties. Maj. Gen. William G Weaver, commanding general, 8th Infantry Division, said, "In the (Hürtgen) forest proper, our gains came inch by inch and foot by foot, delivered by men with rifles — bayonets on one end, and grim, resolute courage on the other.
There was no battle of Europe more devastating, frustrating, or gory."
On Nov. 2, the American attack continued into the forest using the narrow Kall trail. It was too small for tanks and treacherous for the American supply vehicles. Still, after intense fighting, the towns of Vossenack and Schmidt were captured. The next day,
the Germans counterattacked with tanks and recaptured Schmidt.
The Americans moved up their own tanks to counter the Germans, causing some back-and-forth battles for control of the village. On Nov. 8, the Americans withdrew from Schmidt, giving the Germans a victory in the first part of
Continued
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
the battle for the Hürtgen Forest.
The Allies launched Operation Queen, an attack toward the village of Hürtgen and the Ruhr River, on Nov. 16. After heavy fighting and both sides sending in reinforcements, the village of Hürtgen fell on Nov. 29. Shortly after, the Americans moved into Kleinhau just a mile north.
Two U.S. companies of soldiers entered Langerwehe-Merode from the northeast section of the Hürtgen Forest but were soon pushed back by the Germans. More than 300 Americans of the First Infantry Division were killed during the battle.
The 2nd U.S. Ranger Battalion joined the fight and entered Bergstein near the Ruhr River. Soon after, they assaulted positions on Hill 400 just east of the town. This hill, part of the Siegfried line of German defenses, received its name because it had an elevation of 400 meters.
In heavy fighting, the Rangers took the hill and fended off multiple German counterattacks. The Rangers were relieved by the 13th Regiment, and on the last day of the battle, the Germans retook the hill. It was not until February of the next year that the Americans were able to capture it again.
On Dec. 16, just to the north, the Germans began their surprise Ardennes offensive, “The Battle of the Bulge.” This officially ended the Battle for Hürtgen
Forest. The price of the stalemate was high for both sides. The Americans had more than 33,000 casualties in the battle and Germans had close to 28,000 including prisoners of war.
Sgt. Ed Erving of the 5th Armored Division described the battle, "The Hürtgen Forest was the worst. Nobody liked the forest because of the tree artillery. German 88 artillery shells hit the tops of the trees and shrapnel would rain down on the American soldiers in foxholes below. Even guys dug in with tree branches over their foxholes were hit by shrapnel..."
Ernest Hemingway, author and American war correspondent, described his experience in the Hürtgen Forest, “It was a place where it was extremely difficult for a man to stay alive, even if all he did was be there. And we were attacking all the time and every day.”
The Battle for the Hürtgen Forest raged for 88 days. Gen. James Gavin, the 82nd Airborne Division commander, stated, "For us the Hürtgen was one of the most costly, most unproductive, and most ill-advised battles that our army has ever fought."
The Germans could not believe their luck when the Americans threw away their manpower and mobility advantages by going into the dense and well-defended Hürtgen Forest.
Next week: The Trial of Gen. Mario Roatta
OBITUARIES
CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL HYNES
Ocean City
Christopher Michael Hynes passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 9, 2024, at the age of 64. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Gertrude Hynes (nee Truss), his brother Patrick and his sister Kimberleigh Zoe Louise (nee Hofer). Both of his parents were active in the Ocean City community and his sister Zoe worked several summers at Phillips Crab House.
Chris spent many years living and working in Ocean City. In the late ’80’s he was the Maintenance Manager at the Best Western on 26th Street. He also was employed as a seasonal police officer during those years. He received his MP training during the time he served in the United States Army. Chris also worked with his father who was the Operations Manager at Second National Bank. Chris remodeled buildings and converted them into Second National Bank Buildings. The banks were all over the Eastern Shore during the 1980’s. Chris was very accomplished and was able to undertake any job with remarkable success.
Chris later traveled to California working for State Farm Insurance
earning the distinction of “Top Salesman” for several years. He subsequently returned to the Eastern Shore living and working in the Delaware area. He started his business as a Health Care Specialist opening “Vital Signs Health Care Services” which later became “Home Choice Health & Wellness.” He was a devoted caretaker and was praised by the families that he served. Chris is survived by two nephews residing in Texas and was a loving family member to several cousins in the Maryland area. He is buried at Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, Pa.
CHRISTOPHER TY HAGEL
Berlin
Christopher Ty Hagel, age 48, passed away on Monday, November 11, 2024, at his home in Berlin. Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, he was the son of Richard Lee Hagel and Margaret Frances Nelly.
Chris was full of life and had huge heart. His smile was contagious. He loved time at the beach, golf, and his family.
He is survived by his wife, Alexandra Hagel, two children, Adam Hagel
Continued on Page 91
C. Hynes
C. Hagel
OBITUARIES
and Jacob Ellis, two stepchildren, Matthew Reddick and Olivia Reddick, and a brother, Lee Hagel.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin. A visitation will take place from noon-1 p.m. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
DONNA JANE STOKES
Ocean City
Donna Jane (Onley) Stokes, 69, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family in the home she shared with her husband, Bobby Stokes.
Donna was born Aug. 23, 1955 to Wendell and Rosemarie Onley of Wilmington, Del. She was one of five children, attended Richardson Park and Conrad, and began working for DuPont until her retirement.
Donna is survived and will be dearly missed by her husband Robert Stokes, married for 43 years; her two sons, Dustin (Aly), Jason (Joy), stepson Robby (Marybeth); and her beloved grandchildren, Chappy, Poppy, Kaden and Knox; step grandchildren, Jaden and Isabella; two sisters; two brothers, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
Donna had a warm, caring and welcoming personality. She lit up the room with her contagious laugh and smile and was a delight to be around. She was a beautiful person that cared
for everyone before herself, especially her family. Donna loved spending time with family and friends and was always prepared for every special occasion. She loved all holidays, shopping, eating out, going to the beach, and boating (she had five boats named after her). She enjoyed watching her sons and grandchildren surf, fish, play softball and basketball. She was always smiling and laughing at her husband's sense of humor.
Remembrance service will be held at Krienen- Griffith Funeral Home, 1400 Kirkwood Hwy Elsmere, Del. on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 at noon. Visitation for friends and family will be held prior from 10:30 a.m.-noon. In lieu of flowers, consider donating blood or donating to the American Cancer Society in Donna’s honor.
A celebration of life will be held in Ocean City at a date to be determined.
JEFF D. WOLFF
Centreville
It is with a heavy heart that the Wolff family announces the passing of their beloved son, brother and uncle, Jeff D. Wolff, 58, of Centreville, Md., previously of Salisbury, Berlin and Frederick.
Jeff passed away peacefully on Nov. 9, 2024 in Centreville, entering the Kingdom of his Lord and Savior. Thus, ending a courageous 15-year
battle from the effects of a malignant brain tumor and subsequent treatments.
Jeff was born on Jan. 28, 1966 in Silver Spring as the eldest child of Walter L. Wolff Jr. and June F. Wolff. Jeff is survived by his mother, June F. Wolff, and siblings Glen C. Wolff (Katie) and Kimberly A. Hazuda (Scott) and his niece and nephew Caroline L. Hazuda and Reed S. Hazuda. Please join us for a Celebration of Life in early spring 2025, details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Assateague Island Alliance at assateagueislandalliance.org. For the full obituary, see fhnfuneralhome.com.
JENNIFER LYNN HUMPHRIES
Berlin
Jennifer Lynn Humphries, age 52, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, at Tidal Health in Salisbury, surrounded by family. Born in Montgomery County, she was the daughter of Barbara Helme Humphries, Howard Humphries and devoted stepmother, Kathleen Humphries.
In addition, she is survived by her two sisters, Janet Humphries Kon-
nick, and Jane Humphries Grout (David), and her loving nieces and nephews, Emma Konnick, Mason Grout, Robert Konnick, and Morgan Grout Jacobs (Cole). She was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, James Konnick.
Jennifer loved living in Ocean Pines and never knew a stranger. She had the gift of making light of every situation with her quick-witted sense of humor, even during her toughest battles. She had a great love and passion for teaching, all the family canines, Vincent Van Gogh and her daily Dunkin Donuts Iced Coffee (two creams and two sugars). Jennifer was a kind and generous soul, who loved her family and friends and was a true warrior.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Jennifer’s name be made to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (12221 Merit Drive, Suite 1950, Dallas, Texas 75251), or the Worcester County Humane Society (12330 Eagle’s Nest Rd. Berlin, Md. 21811).
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 5:45 p.m. at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Visitation will take place from 4-5:45 p.m. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
$1,595.
Donna Stokes
J. Humphries
Sports & Recreation
Seahawks survive playoff scare, will host Walkersville
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Stephen Decatur survived a second-round test last Friday night in the MPSSAA football tournament.
After crushing the team earlier in the year, Decatur had a difficult time getting by Wicomico High School at home last Friday. In the end, the team won 1914 and was able to stop the Indians on fourth down in the closing minutes of the game.
The evenly matched teams got scrappy early on and fought it out down to the finish.
“We were really battle tested at this game; an unbelievable game, we needed a close game,” Coach Jake Coleman said.
Decatur and Wi-Hi were tied 7-7 going into the second quarter. With
5:05 left on the game clock, the Seahawks scored another touchdown to grab the 13-7 at the half.
Wi Hi matched it in the third quarter inching ahead of the Seahawks by one point. Moments later the Seahawks scored again taking the last points of the game.
Senior Seahawk Trybe Wise said, “It was a close game but our defense got us back on top.”
The fourth quarter was a fight of the two teams’ defenses, both proved their strength. Neither team scored in the fourth quarter.
Coleman said the best play of the game was, “the last one, it was a good play by the defense.”
Senior Seahawk Davin Chandler had two touchdowns on the evening and Senior Seahawk Nathan Tapley had one score. Chandler had seven receptions
for a total of 205 yards and added 78 rushing.
“It was a great game. I’m really proud of the kids,” Coleman said.
High School in Berli against Walkersville High School at 6:30pm.
Decatur wrestlers preparing for another run at states
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) On Monday, wrestlers from Stephen Decatur High School’s team boarded a bus at their school and headed north for Sussex Central High School in Georgetown, Del. where they scrimmaged with the Golden Knights.
“It’s a tough sport so it’s a lot of work. Every year it is our goal to be in the State’s and go to the competition,” Coach Josh August said. “We have a lot of new guys and have to see how that plays out. We lost five seniors from the starting lineup. “
This year’s wrestling team has a lot of Seahawks to choose from. The gym was packed and the adrenalin was evident
“We have another 40 back at the school. We have a huge team this year. We have over 80 signed up and 17 girls, so we have a full girls team this year, too,” August said. “We have some duals set up with girls. It will be Bayside and we have some matches away, girls’ meets and girls’ tournaments. We have four returning state players for girls.”
At the scrimmage on Monday, Azariyah Johnson, defending Girls state champion, and second place state finisher Chaniah Bernier honed their skills and provided leadership for other teammates.
In the boys starting line-up, there are 17 returning with nine of them being starters and seven seniors.
Tonight’s 2A quarterfinal game is at the Louis H. Taylor Stadium at Stephen Decatur
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Junior Seahawk Braydon Bell controls a teamate during a scrimmage at Sussex Central Monday night.
Stephen Decatur defensive lineman Nathan Tapley, backed up by Payton Travers, stops an Indian player at midfield for a loss. Tapley also scored a touchdown on offense.
PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Above left, filling in for the normal starter under center, quarterback Blake Caccamo looks downfield during the home playoff win last Friday night. Above right, Senior Ezekiel Lawson carries the ball through the WiHi defense during the second half of last Friday’s home playoff win.
Mallards off to solid start with two early season wins
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Nov. 22, 2024) Basketball scrimmage describes two teams playing a practice game. Scrimmage gives coaches a pre-season look at their competition for the upcoming season as well as evaluating their team under pressure, testing players in various positions.
Last Thursday Worcester Prep invited Arcadia High School’s varsity girls basketball team for a scrimmage game that the Mallards won 36-33. It was an especially successful game for first season head coach Kelly Roberts who is leading this young team with just one senior.
“I wanted them to have a great opportunity to work together as a team and have a good experience and for them to have fun,” Roberts said. “Sometimes sports become too serious. They’re trying to win all the time and that’s not the main reason you want to play basketball.”
Mallard freshman Carolina Labin was the game’s high scorer with 12
SD wrestlers eye championships
Continued from Page 92
One of the starters is two-time state champion Elijah Collick. He said, “he’s going for three and will be working on top and immediate turnout.”
The beginning of the season is time to measure, review and set goals and see what your strengths and weaknesses are.
“Time for a good practice, this is another state championship team. Here they get to wrestle different guys. Some of these guys practice together off season,” August said.
Decatur’s first home match is Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. against Urbana High School.
points for Worcester Prep and sophomore Lyla Roberts added four. Juniors Anisha Batra and Sydney Mize each had six points in the game with Batra saving her best for the last quarter. The Yonker sisters, Ayla and Rani, had one basket each.
“I think they are more excited and happier and played well together as a team but during the opening I think we had to shake off the nerves a little bit,” Roberts said. “They are playing well together as a team and that was my biggest goal this year, I want them to have a good experience and fun.
This year’s captains are Mize and Batra. These two juniors are showing experience and leadership for the team. Roberts said, “all the girls fight for each other, they are all doing really well this year.”
On Tuesday, the Mallards defeated Sts. Peter and Paul, 23-22, on the road for a big win to the regular season. The team’s first home game will be Dec. 4 against Holly Grove Christian School.
Junior Ayla Yonker scores in the third quarter during the scrimmage against Arcadia.
(Above) Co-captain Anisha Batra drives the lane for two points in the fourth quarter. (Left) Sophomore Lyla Roberts puts back one of her four baskets on the night.
PHOTOS COURTESY
SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
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