5/17/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Disp a atch

Schools funded

Mostly, as commisioners vote 4-3 to budget $106M instead of the requested $107M. But nothing’s official until June 4. —Page 12

City Council proceeds with setting new rules. —Page 86

PHOTO COURTESY KIM JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Mr. Frisky Hooves and Annie Laurie cool down earlier this month during a hot spell at Assateague Island National Seashore.

Council to review parking changes

Code adjustments eyed for certain violations, new division within government

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Changes to the city’s parking code will advance to the full mayor and council for consideration.

Transit Manager Rob Shearman told members of the Ocean City Transportation Committee on Tuesday that several proposed parking code updates will advance to the city council next week. He said the changes will reflect the authority of a new parking division and increase certain parking violations, among other things.

“This is a summary of what we hope to bring to the council,” he told the committee, “and you should expect to see that this coming Monday night.”

Shearman said he worked with the city’s new parking manager, as well as the city manager and city solicitor, to update the current parking chapter. He said one of the proposed additions would grant Ocean City’s new parking division the authority to enforce the parking code.

“That’s a pretty important up-

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date,” he said.

Shearman said staff were also recommending increases in existing fines.

While handicap parking violations and fire hydrant violations currently result in $40 fines, those numbers would increase to $250 and $100, respectively.

“When the parking meter fine was changed from $25 to $50 several years ago, there were some other violation amounts that were kept lower than $50, which we need to update accordingly,” he said. “We don’t want, say, parking in front of a fire hydrant or parking in a handicap space to be less of an infraction than parking at an unpaid meter.”

Shearman said the update would also codify existing signed violations at Somerset Plaza and create a new citation for occupying more than one parking space. Another recommendation would be to issue a new citation for the same violation every 12 hours instead of every 24 hours.

“I think these are excellent recommendations,” Mayor Rick Meehan said.

Officials noted the proposed changes improve the town’s parking code and pave the way for a new parking division, which will be tasked with enforcing the regulations.

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Shearman said enforcement officers under the new parking division are currently in the training process.

“The path we’ve taken in looking for the right people has been more customer-service oriented than enforcement oriented, and the lead enforcement officer we have has a sales and marketing background, not an enforcement background,” he said. “We’ve done that on purpose. We’ve emphasized to them in their training that while we are ostensibly punishing people for messing up, we’re trying to do it in a way that is still welcoming and still protecting the visitor experience.”

Shearman also presented committee members with an update on parking revenues for the month of April. He said parking revenues from April 2023 to April 2024 had decreased roughly 30%.

“It’s primarily weather related,” he said. “But the overall numbers are small compared to what we are going to see this summer. So it doesn’t set us back that far in terms of the ability to catch up.”

Meehan agreed.

“It’s the same for everybody,” he said. “Our businesses and restaurants are behind. But those April numbers you can make up quickly if the weather changes.”

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Gov. signs offshore wind legislation into law

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Legislation facilitating the evaluation and approval of revised offshore wind projects was signed into law last week.

Last Thursday, Gov. Wes Moore, joined by Speaker of the House Adrienne Jones, Senate President Bill Ferguson and US Wind representatives, signed legislation that allows qualified offshore wind developers to apply for outstanding Offshore Renewable Energy Credits (ORECs) created as a result of changes in the market and to add additional capacity to existing projects, among other things. While local officials argue the legislation would provide funding to support projects off Ocean City’s coastline, others say it keeps the state’s offshore wind goals on track.

“Revisions outlined in House Bill

1296 seeks to streamline the approval process for revised project schedules and pricing, ensure the project is located in the authorized wind energy area, and those possessing offshore wind renewable energy credits can move forward expeditiously,” House Economic Matters Committee Chair CT Wilson, bill sponsor, said in a hearing this spring. “Moreover, the bill does not restart the process for the projects. Merely, it allows limited alterations to already approved plans, including the adjustment to turbine placement, generating capacity, installation dates and pricing within the existing statutory limits.”

Earlier this year, Danish company Ørsted announced plans to reposition its Skipjack Wind project, which was set to bring a 966-megawatt project off the Delmarva coastline. To that end, legis-

lation – cross-filed as House Bill 1296 and Senate Bill 1161 – was introduced in the General Assembly to require the Maryland Public Service Commission to open a revised round-two proceeding to evaluate certain offshore projects and authorize certain offshore wind projects to submit certain revised plans for project schedules, sizes and pricing, among other things.

“We lost half of the power because Ørsted stepped out,” Wilson said. “US Wind will hopefully bring at least a third of what Ørsted has left … It’s about being able to capture some of what has been lost.”

The legislation has been opposed by both county and resort leaders, who came before the General Assembly in February to share their concerns about turbine sizes and project subsidies.

“HB 1296 as proposed gives US

Wind the funding in the form of more expensive subsidies from Maryland ratepayers,” Ocean City Councilman Tony DeLuca said at the time. “So, unlike most energy projects, where the larger the project the lower the energy cost, under HB 1296 the project gets bigger and the price goes up.”

However, those supporting the legislation say it will allow offshore wind developers to overcome economic challenges and meet scheduling and pricing requirements set by state law. For developer US Wind, the legislation would assist the company in altering its Maryland offshore wind project, according to CEO Jeff Grybowski.

“This legislation is a game-changer for the Maryland offshore wind program,” he said in a statement Monday. “We are grateful for the unwavering support and stalwart leadership of Maryland’s leaders on this critical piece of legislation. US Wind is here to stay. I am very confident that we will build Maryland’s first offshore wind farm, first offshore wind manufacturing facility at Sparrows Point, and deliver this clean energy to the people of Delmarva for years to come.”

In addition to allowing qualified developers to apply for outstanding ORECs and add additional capacity to existing projects, the new law amends the POWER Act to add an additional solicitation to the state’s Department of General Services offshore wind procurement schedule and removes the cap on the amount of offshore wind energy the state seeks to procure.

Current budget amendments move forward

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Proposed budget amendments for the current fiscal year will advance to a first reading following council approval Tuesday.

Budget Manager Jennie Knapp presented the Mayor and Council this week with the first round of budget amendments for fiscal year 2024. The changes reflect adjustments to internal service, enterprise and general funds, as well as capital projects.

“The pension and OPEB funds, I did not make any changes at this time,” Knapp told the council. “You did approve the funding and the adjustments to the investment earnings, which will be made in budget amendment number two. Also, as a reminder for the OPEB trust fund, the town switched to the Medicare Advantage Plan for re-

tirees in calendar year 2022 and as a result there was no contribution to the OPEB fund in 2024.”

Starting with internal service funds, Knapp presented a budget increase of $123,336 for information technology, $205,851 for the service center, $382,500 for risk management and $3,122,745 for the vehicle trust. In the trust fund, the increase was a result of prior year purchase orders, additional vehicles for several departments, and the replacement of a trash truck, among other things.

“We replaced vehicle 322,” she explained. “That was a trash truck that had burned. It was $394,000. Twohundred-forty-seven thousand of that we got back as insurance and then we had to cover the remainder.”

Within the town’s enterprise funds, Knapp presented increases of

$16,111,081 for the water department, $3,260,892 for the wastewater department, and $4.4 million for the convention center, to name a few. Within the convention center fund, a bulk of the increase resulted from a refresh project at the facility.

“The convention center, we did a bond issue for the refresh project …,” she said. “We also had some additional expenses for the refresh project and those will be covered with increased revenue expectations at the convention center.”

Knapp also highlighted a $12,985,997 increase within the general fund budget. She also noted an increase of funding from fund balance of nearly $9.6 million.

“We are recognizing revenue sources that increased since the adopted budget, revenue that will exceed the budgeted amount, and

grants,” she added.

For prior year reserves, the town will bring forward $4.2 million in unspent advertising funds, capital maintenance transfers of $3 million, prior year purchase orders of $1.7 million, additional pension contributions of $687,000, transfer for fiscal year 2025 radio maintenance of $684,000, and a transfer of $350,000 to risk management, among other things.

“We did recognize other general fund revenue to reduce the amount of capital purchases in the budget, to reduce the funding from fund balance of the capital purchases that were in the budget,” she said. “And we did transfer money to the convention center for the town’s half of the COLA increase.”

Revenue sources that increased in fiscal year 2024 include income tax, amusement tax, additional grants, interest on investments, parking fines, Medicaid reimbursements, recreation revenue, and festival and special event revenue.

“I want to point out the festival and special event revenue, mostly that was for Winterfest and Sunfest,” she told the council. “The Winterfest increases we used to refurbish displays of $54,000 and for the New Year fireworks at the second location.”

While the town reported nearly $3.7 million in unanticipated revenue increases, it also reported $301,116 in reductions from revenue sources that came in under the budgeted estimate. Those revenue sources include corporation tax, real and personal property tax, penalties and interest, and the cable TV franchise.

“I do want to point out that the real property tax, we estimated $43,269,000. We actually received $43,214,000, which is 99.9% of the estimate,” she said. “We are very close, but we still have to reduce it a little bit.” Knapp also highlighted total expenditure increases and transfers to capital projects. After further discussion, the council voted 5-0, with Council President Matt James and Councilman Will Savage absent, to move the fiscal year 2024 budget amendments to a first reading.

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Primary narrows Wor. school board race to two candidates

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Incumbent

(May 17, 2024) Worcester County residents cast their ballots on Tuesday, May 14, in the Primary Election to narrow the field in a host of races.

Candidates for the Worcester County Board of Education District Five seat, John Huber, Dorothy Shelton-Leslie, and incumbent Elena McComas faced off in the Primary Election. The contestants with the highest votes, Leslie, who received 631 votes, or 44.19%, and McComas, who secured 561, or 39.29%, will run again in the November General Election, which is set for Tuesday, Nov. 5.

According to the Associated Press, current United States President Joe Biden obtained 3,530 delegates and was declared the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee. Former US President Donald Trump secured the Republican Party’s nomination with 2,142 delegates.

The Maryland State Board of Elections website released county-specific election data. According to the results, Biden obtained 2,375, or 85.19%, votes from registered Democratic Party ballot-casters in Worcester, while Trump received 4,601, or 85.97%, ballots from Worcester County registered Republicans.

In the race for US Senator, Democrats in Maryland’s First District chose Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks over Congressman David Trone. While the congressman was defeated statewide, he secured 65.35% of the votes for

Worcester County. Alsobrooks received 26.38%.

The Prince George’s executive is now set to face off with former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan in the November General Election. Hogan procured 2,635 Worcester County votes, or 49% of votes cat, to win against second-place candidate Robin Ficker (44%).

In the Maryland Congressional District One race, incumbent Andy Harris defeated contestants Chris Bruneau Sr. and Michael Scott Lemon with 49,151 state-wide votes and 4,361 Worcester ballots.

Democrat Blane Miller, who acquired 17,644 votes overall and 1,532 from Worcester County, will challenge Harris for his Congressional seat in the November General Election. Miller defeated Blessing Oluwadare in the primaries, who garnered 40% of the Maryland ballots. Worcester County voters could also vote for up to three District One delegates to the Republican National Convention. Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano received 29.73% of the ballots, Cecil County Executive Danielle Hornberger earned 27.72%, and Del. Kathy Szeliga (R-7A) garnered 27.51%.

Ballot-casters could select up to six delegates to the Democratic National Convention. Worcester County Democrat Laurie Anne Brittingham secured 17.56% of Worcester County votes, Del. Sheree Sample-Hughes (D-37A) garnered 16.47%, Talbot County Democrat Michele Dappert obtained 15.95%, Baltimore County Democrat Matthew Cody produced 15.09%, Wicomico County Democrat Connor Romblad collected 14%, and Wicomico County Democrat Jared

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Commissioners vote 4-3 to increase education funding

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) The Worcester County Commissioners voted 4-3 this week to fund all but $1 million of the school system’s $107 million budget request.

While a vote to fund all but $350,000 of the requested budget failed with just two votes, a motion by Commissioner Eric Fiori to fund $1 million less than the school system’s total budget request from the county passed 4-3. Commissioners Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting and Ted Elder were in opposition, arguing instead for a more modest request that would have funded not the proposed 6% teacher raises but rather 4% raises, the same as proposed for county staff.

“Every agency across county government was asked to reduce their ask,” Bertino said. “Why shouldn’t the board of education be held to that same standard? They recognize what the budget deficit is.”

During a budget work session Tuesday, commissioners worked to address the $10 million shortfall in the proposed fiscal year 2025 budget. While a staff committee made adjustments to eliminate most of the deficit, the commissioners still had a roughly $4 million shortfall when it came time to discuss the Worcester County Board of Education budget request. The school system presented a request for $108,191,112 in February. The county committee in recent weeks adjusted that to $107,312,390 following a health insurance buydown and an increase in other revenues. The county school system is expected to receive $26,942,056 in funding from the state and other sources.

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic quickly made a motion to fund all but about $350,000 of the school system request. He said the school system had advised that amount was tied to contractual positions and could be used to reduce the fiscal year 2025 request. When Bertino asked where that figure had come from, Mitrecic said it had come from the school system. Bertino asked if the county had received that information.

“We have not received any formal modifications to the budget,” Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Candace Savage said.

Bertino asked what impact Mitrecic’s motion would have on the budget shortfall. Savage said the county would still have a $3.9 million deficit.

Bertino said if Mitrecic’s motion passed the school system would be giving its employees a step and 6% COLA raises while county employees would be getting a step and 4% COLA raises.

“Further, to my knowledge there

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Education supporters turned up in large numbers to ask the Worcester County Commissioners to increase funding for public schools at last week’s budget public hearing.

Budget includes COLA of 6%

has been no explanation for the 108 additional employees that have been hired by the board of education over the last two years,” Bertino said.

Mitrecic said the cost of living had been increasing.

“I think we’ve scrutinized and looked at everything we can possibly look at it unless we want to take the budget over and do it ourselves,” he said, adding that because of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future the school system was required to get its starting teacher salary to $60,000 in the next two years.

Bertino noted that the school system’s budget request was $7 million over maintenance of effort (MOE), a state law that requires county at least fund schools at the same per-pupil funding level as the previous year. He said funding the schools at the increased level this year meant MOE would be up in future years.

“This hasn’t been easy. Many voices have been heard one way or the other with regard to the board of education budget,” he said. “Those voices had a right to be heard. They were heard. We heard many of them right here in this room last week. But to fund a request of over $7 million, that is far higher than maintenance of effort… That is more than we’ve ever funded over maintenance of effort. If we did a step plus 4% for our employees, that too would be a higher percentage over maintenance of effort than we’ve ever done. Nobody questions that the teachers and the support staff should have a raise. I would certainly support a step plus 4% as has been recommended for our staff. But the board of education has not answered some very fundamental questions.”

He said the $350,000 reduction was something that had come up in some commissioners’ conversations with school system officials but had not been approved by the school board.

“That’s been part of the problem,” Bertino said. “The board of education budget is presented, we have the vice president saying on two different occasions that he doesn’t even look at the budget because he doesn’t feel qualified. Yet we have the superintendent here saying one of three responsibilities of the board is the budget. But they rubberstamp it. Or at least most of them do.”

He said that while the school system had provided more information during this year’s budget process he hoped that would continue.

“We’re hoping we’ll continue to get more information so we can better understand where the money’s going,” Bertino said. “Their own board doesn’t understand where the money’s going. I don’t think it’s fair salaries get tangled up in that.”

Elder said he was torn. He said school system employees deserved raises but that pay scales were de-

cided by the school system.

“We don’t know for sure where all that money goes,” he said. “The positions they hire, even when we put them on MOE last year they hired all these other positions. You would think it would be a time for them to freeze the hiring when they were on an MOE budget. But they didn’t they hired more. They apparently had more money in that budget than what they were saying.”

Elder said he wanted to see a compromise between maintenance of effort and the full budget request.

“I think 4% would be very fair,” he said. “Especially where other employees, our employees, who are also funded by county taxpayers, get one funding while the board of education gets more. It’s not equitable, it’s not fair.”

Bertino said that while the school system wanted to give 6% raises across the board, increasing just those salaries that were below the $60,000 level would have cost $800,000. He acknowledged that there would be an accordion effect and other lower end salaries would likely have to be adjusted. Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said the county had faced something similar when minimum wage increased.

“What we did in that case is we

shifted the most impacted people up….,” he said. “If I had to postulate why they haven’t just increased their starting salary to $60,000 like we increased our minimum wage, they have to negotiate with the teachers union.”

Bertino said that according to the state, Worcester County’s local share of education funding was $73.3 million and the county funded $26 million more than that. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that maintenance of effort level funding wasn’t enough this year.

“That’s why I think the step plus four is fair,” he said.

Fiori said it was a difficult discussion.

“It’s difficult for us, it’s difficult for the teachers, the support staff, everyone whose raise in on the lines here,” he said, adding that the school system’s budget had never been challenged like this. “They’ve been running a very loose budget for a

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Members of Worcester United gathered outside the government center before last week’s public hearing on the county budget.

Approved motion funds all but $1 million

Continued from Page 14

number of years. The word rubberstamp has come up and I’d have to agree. I think their budget has been rubberstamped for years.”

He said the school system needed to update its financial operations.

“Employees of the board of education are suffering because their leadership has not done what we asked and not reorganized their financing… ,” he said. “There needs to be some massive fundamental changes. They need to add procurement position to purchase properly, to save taxpayers money. They need to operate with an attitude, that moving forward, we need to operate more efficiently… I’ve examined this as closely as I possibly can. With a few grants that may or may not come through I think a reduction of full funding by $1 million would be appropriate.”

Bunting said the county would still have a deficit if it funded the school system at that level.

“It’s unbelievable how easy it is for certain people to sit up here and spend taxpayer money,” Bunting said, adding that he’d initially supported maintenance of effort funding but was willing to consider the funding for a step increase and 4% raise. “You’re all awfully free with other people’s money. As a taxpayer I don’t

appreciate it.”

Bertino said that last year, the school system claimed the maintenance of effort budget had forced them to reduce proposed salary increases yet the school system was expected to end the year with a $900,000-plus surplus in salaries.

“Apparently there’s $1 million sitting in salaries that hasn’t been allocated to the staff who has made very clear to us they didn’t get the money they should have gotten last year,” he said.

Mitrecic said commissioners chose to fund the school system at maintenance of effort last year which didn’t leave the school system enough funding for the negotiated increases.

“The teachers and the support staff and the bus drivers still showed up on the first day of school to do their job. There was a negotiation made in good faith this year. If we reduce that number will the teachers the support staff and the bus drivers show up on the first day of school? Probably because they’re dedicated employees. If the WCTA decides they’re not going to settle for that, they can take the board of education to arbitration then they have to meet whatever that judge says they have to meet.”

He said the county was expected to end the current fiscal year with an $11

million surplus. He said last year there had been a $9 million surplus.

“Did we give that money back to the taxpayers? No we didn’t,” Mitrecic said. “Have we given money back to the taxpayers when we could have? No. We stashed that money away.”

Bertino said the county used that extra revenue to help fund capital projects, some of which were for schools. Elder said that just because revenues were high the last couple years didn’t mean they always would be. Staff confirmed that in this proposed budget, revenues had been increased significantly so they’d be closer to actual.

“I think the revenues we’re projecting this year are pretty accurate,” said Kim Reynolds, budget officer. “For a future surplus I don’t see it being as large as it has been in the past.”

Commissioner Diana Purnell spoke in support of the school system’s budget request. She said education officials were aware that improvements needed to be made.

“They did get down to the nitty gritty and try to do some things,” she said. “It’s evident that we’re not satisfied. It’s evident we want to keep it low but I tell you what when we start losing our teachers to other counties and to other states, we’ll wish we had given them a little bit more money.”

Bunting said nationwide, Maryland’s schools ranked 43rd out of 50 as far as progress and reiterated the fact that the county’s local share for education was $73 million. He said he supported the county saving to have a cushion when it was needed.

“I’m not asking to not give them anything but I do think 4% and a step is plenty,” Bunting said. “The information provided to us showed that it is plenty. You keep hearing it’s about the kids it’s about the kids. From what I’ve seen it’s not about the kids.”

Commissioner Caryn Abbott said the angry comments she’d heard from a small group throughout the budget process didn’t represent the community.

“I just want everyone to know that I will base my vote on what I feel is right and not based on being threatened or screamed at by a small fringe group,” she said.

Mitrecic’s motion to fully fund all but $350,000 of the proposed education budget failed with just two votes of support. Fiori’s subsequent motion to fund all but $1 million of the school system’s budget request passed 4-3. Fiori, Abbott, Mitrecic and Purnell voted in support while Bunting, Bertino and Elder were opposed. A final vote on the entire fiscal year 2025 budget is set for June 4.

Cannabis business regs. proceed

Resort to adopt language prohibiting cannabis shops in certain specified areas

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) City officials this week voted to move forward with an ordinance adopting certain restrictions for cannabis-related businesses.

During Tuesday’s work session of the Mayor and Council, officials voted to approve new state regulations on licensed cannabis dispensaries and to move forward with preparing an ordinance for adoption. The state legislation, passed in the Maryland General Assembly this spring, clarifies the authority of political subdivisions to impose certain distance requirements for cannabis businesses.

“The legislation specifically recognizes that the need may exist for the political subdivisions or municipalities to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public with the start of

these businesses,” Deputy City Manager JR Harmon said.

During the 2024 session, the Maryland General Assembly passed cross-filed bills that alter distance restrictions for licensed cannabis dispensaries and prohibits political subdivisions from establishing certain zoning requirements that are more restrictive than what existed prior to the legalization of adult-use marijuana, among other things. The legislation will allow the Town of Ocean City to adopt code language prohibiting a licensed cannabis dispensary to be located within 100 feet of an area zoned for residential use; 500 feet of an existing primary or secondary school or a licensed childcare center or registered child care home; 500 feet of a preexisting playground, recreation center, library, public park or place of worship; or 1,000 feet up to half a mile of another cannabis dispensary.

To adopt the new state restrictions, staff came before the council Tuesday seeking approval to move

forward with an ordinance. A motion passed in a 5-0 vote, with Councilman Will Savage and Council President Matt James absent.

In the November 2022 election, two-thirds of voters supported a statewide referendum to legalize recreational marijuana. And last May, Gov. Wes Moore signed Maryland’s cannabis reform bill into law, paving the way for recreational sales beginning July 1, 2023. The legislation essentially establishes an adult-use cannabis industry through the creation of tax rates and licensing framework.

To that end, town staff presented the council last summer with a resolution establishing a moratorium on the acceptance or processing of applications or site plans or the issuance of other zoning approvals or licenses for businesses that grow, process or sell cannabis. Officials said the moratorium – which was extended in March – gave the town more time to receive guidance from the state clarifying certain provisions of the Cannabis Reform Act.

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Eagle’s Landing clubhouse renovations eyed

Expansion of both sides of existing building suggested over two phases at $1.2M

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Plans for a multiphased renovation at the Eagle’s Landing Golf Course clubhouse will advance following this week’s council meeting.

The city council voted 5-0 Tuesday to move forward with a request for proposals for the first phase of renovations at the clubhouse and to prepare a resolution to forward fund up to $1.2 million for the completion of the first and second phases of the project. Officials say the first phase will include an addition to the east side of the clubhouse, while the sec-

ond phase will include an addition to the west side of the clubhouse.

“Over this last week or so, our staff has talked with the finance director and the budget manager to address strategies for funding this project and the recommendation would be for us to actually go to the bond market this year in order to do it,” Recreation and Parks Director Susan Petito said.

“What you have in front of you is phase one of what the renovations would look like. That phase would be about $700,000 and the other phases potentially could be more. We’re looking at a $1.2 million bond funding for the clubhouse renovations.”

Design work was recently completed for a proposed renovation project at the Eagle’s Landing clubhouse. The first phase of the project will include an addition to the east

side of the building, which will allow for additional kitchen and storage space, an eight-seat bar, new restrooms and new flooring, to name a few improvements. The second phase of the project will involve an addition to the west side of the clubhouse for a larger pro shop, an office area, and more storage.

To move the project forward, staff came before the council this week with a request to seek proposals for the project and ultimately award a bid to start renovations as early as this November. To finance the projected $1.2 million project, staff recommended the town go to the bond market in December.

“It will ultimately be paid back by the golf course,” Petito said.

Councilman Peter Buas questioned if the project was in the most

recent capital improvement plan. Petito said she didn’t recall it being in the plan, but that staff had gained the council’s approval last year to move forward with design and come back with a recommendation to proceed with construction.

Buas also questioned if there were any concerns with the enterprise fund’s ability to service the debt associated with the project. He noted the city is also using bond funding to pay for a flood remediation project at the golf course.

“With the flood remediation, they are looking to get a substantial amount of that as a grant,” City Manager Terry McGean replied. “And that will be debt service as well.”

However, McGean added that there could be an issue if the town did not receive grant funding for the flood remediation project.

“Depending on the grant funds, there may need to be some general fund money going towards that,” he said. “I don’t want to 100% commit to that.”

Buas said he didn’t want to see the city mix general fund and enterprise fund money for improvements at the golf course. Finance Director Chuck Bireley said there had been discussion of making the clubhouse project a “pay-as-you-go” project, but that it would have eliminated the golf course’s fund balance.

“If we combine the projects, bond them over 20 years, you are looking at an annual debt service of approximately $89,000,” he said. “That will buy them a significant number of years.”

Budget Manager Jennie Knapp agreed.

“The golf course should have a significant profit this year, and we have budgeted for them to have a profit in FY25 as well,” she said. “So we feel very confident that they can handle this debt service, and the debt service for the flood remediation. If we pay this up front, we are wiping out their fund balance, and that keeps us from being able to do some of these projects in the future.”

After further discussion, the council voted 5-0, with Council President Matt James and Councilman Will Savage absent, to move forward with a request for proposals for the first phase of renovations at the clubhouse and to prepare a resolution to forward fund up to $1.2 million for the completion of the first and second phases of the project.

“As the project progresses and as we learn more about the flood remediation, we should be cognizant of debt service before we proceed to phase two,” Buas added.

Hiring of seasonal OC police officers and aids on track

Total of 28 seasonals and 50 PSAs expected for ‘24

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Law enforcement officials say the department is on track to bring nearly 80 seasonal employees to Ocean City this summer.

During Monday’s Ocean City Police Commission meeting, Capt. James Grady provided members with a report on recruitment for the coming summer season. With testing now complete, he said the police department is expected to have 28 seasonal officers and 50 public safety aides (PSAs) this year.

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Members of the Ocean City Police Commission discuss seasonal recruitment efforts during Monday’s meeting.

In April, OCPD records drop in drug, weapons arrests

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) A discussion on weapons arrests and police activity highlighted a resort commission meeting this week.

On Monday, Capt. James Grady presented members of the Ocean City Police Commission with an update on police activity for the month of April. In addition to a review on service calls, officials also discussed the steady number of weapons arrests that continue to be recorded in Ocean City despite changes in state law that have impacted law enforcement’s ability to search vehicles.

“Our officers are still being proactive,” Grady told the commission, “and we’re getting them just from being proactive.”

Reviewing enforcement statistics for the month of April, Grady said custodial arrests decreased from 83 to 67, drug arrests decreased from 13 to two and weapons arrests decreased from 10 to nine, with the Ocean City Police Department seizing five firearms, three knives and one other weapon. Councilman Peter Buas, a commission member, said he was surprised by the number of weapons that continue to be confiscated.

“I’m surprised to see it’s about the same as last year …,” he said. “Is there any change in enforcement that’s notable?”

Grady noted that there hadn’t been any notable changes, but that several incidents over the last three

or four weeks had resulted in weapons arrests. In one instance, a car leaving an underage nightclub had been stopped and weapons had been found in a subsequent search. In another traffic stop, two weapons –including one potentially connected to a murder – had been seized.

“If you remember, we started a few officers on the Boardwalk as part of a pre-summer detail,” he explained. “When the Boardwalk died down, they jumped in the vehicle and stopped a vehicle that had four people. Two of them had handguns. One ran from the stop and that one was actually, we think, used in a homicide in the Annapolis area.”

Officials this week also reviewed service calls for the month of April, during which the department recorded 1,011 officer calls for service and 723 citizen calls for service. Traffic stops decreased from 738 to 570, citizen assists increased from 122 to 164 and fire-EMS assists decreased from 174 to 150. Grady also noted that 911 hangups and domestic disputes decreased and animal complaints doubled.

“I think the reason it was almost a 100% increase was we were in limbo …,” he said. “We were looking for a second animal control officer, which we have hired.”

In addition to reviewing the department’s report on police activity, officials also agreed to include a report on noise citations at future police commission meetings.

by OCPD Captain James Grady.

Numbers in line with last year

Continued from Page 21

“So we’re plus five in the category of public safety aides and right at the same level we were last year with our seasonal police officers,” he said.

For decades, the Ocean City Police Department has enhanced its workforce with seasonal officers and PSAs during the summer months. Simply put, seasonal officers are fully sworn, temporary employees with the same arrest powers as full-time officers on the force, while public safety aides act as civilian support staff within the town’s patrol and support services divisions.

In recent years, however, interest in the seasonal program has waned. And earlier this year, the police department announced it would do away with its seasonal officer program after this summer.

In an update Monday, Grady said the department had recorded 91 total seasonal officer applicants and 26 conditional hires. The tally, coupled with returning seasonal officers, brought the running total to 28 seasonal officers for the coming year.

“So we are right where we were last year with our seasonal officers,” he said.

When asked if all seasonal officers had completed academy training, Lt. Dennis Eade said three did not.

“It’s unfortunate that it happens,

but this is the place for it to happen,” he said. “I’d rather find out about it now, while we’re in training, then have them get assigned to a shift, work one, and then quit.

Officials noted that one officer had left because of homesickness and two had resigned. One had done so ahead of a required marijuana test.

“Usually in the past, it’s not for those types of things,” Grady said.

“It’s because they can’t qualify with their handgun or they can’t make it through defensive tactics, and we offer them a PSA change … These were kind of unique and not like those circumstances in the past.”

In terms of PSA recruitment, Grady said the department had 42 conditional hires and eight returning PSAs. He said that total number was five more than last year.

“The PSAs start today,” he told the commission. “With that PSA number, 14 of them are going to be assigned to booking and detention. That’s the bare minimum they need to get by downstairs and in our detention center. The remainder will go out on patrol. The patrol PSAs will be out on the road next Tuesday. But the front desk PSAs have to do two or three days of extra training for fingerprinting and putting arrestees in the sys-

Women show support for pride flag in Berlin

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(May 16, 2024) Berlin will once again celebrate June as Pride Month.

Mayor Zack Tyndall confirmed this week that the town would again be flying the pride flag and issuing a proclamation in honor of Pride Month. The news came after a trio of comments on the topic at Monday’s council meeting.

“I implore you to protect us and wave the pride flag proudly,” resident Betsy Love said.

Last year Town Hall flew the pride flag and the progressive pride flag. The pride

flag is the most well-known of the LGBT flags. Its six colors are symbolic: red equals life, orange symbolizes healing, yellow stands for sunlight, green for nature, indigo for serenity and violet represents the spirit of the LGBTQ people. The progressive pride flag adds the transgender and people of color who are members of the LGBT community as well.

At the close of Monday’s council meeting, Salt Water Media’s Patty Gregorio expressed concerns about comments that had been made during the town’s recent strategic planning input process, which was led by BEACON. One

comment called Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies divisive while another expressed disappointment with the “current mayor and his DEI agenda, hanging pride flags and claiming there is violence toward that group, none of which I’ve ever seen or heard of.”

Gregorio said she was the one who’d asked the mayor last year about putting the pride flag on town hall. She said the ensuing flag raising ceremony was heartwarming. She and her wife had funded the pride flags displayed on Town Hall.

“Honestly I was thrilled,” Gregorio said. “The proclamation has been dis-

played proudly in our office ever since.” Gregorio said most people were supportive but there had been some negative comments on social media. She said that there were threats of violence, “on a daily basis.”

“I was verbally accosted in a public restroom … To submit that comment to BEACON is just ignorant,” Gregorio said. Stephanie Fowler, Gregorio’s wife, said she’d been thrilled when the town displayed the pride flag last year because it was celebratory.

“The pride flag is not just for us. It’s also for the mothers, fathers, sisters and

a Venetian Bath and a tile Surround in the shower. Also a Mud Room, Laminate Wood Plank & Ceramic Tile Flooring. Photo is a similar home. $556,990

Citizen comment upsets speakers

brothers and aunts and uncles and cousins and friends and teachers of people in the LGBTQ community because when they see it they know their loved one is welcomed and safe,” Fowler said.

She said she’d heard the concept of prohibiting special flags discussed in Berlin through unofficial channels.

“Honestly I think such a policy would be too restrictive and quite frankly boring…,” she said, adding that could prohibit other flags like the POW flag. “To see the pride flag flown on town hall means that we are all represented in Berlin. That we are all welcome and accepted and safe and I believe that is a powerful and beautiful message to send to citizens and visitors alike.”

Tyndall said his office had entertained various flag and display requests in recent years. The town changed the color of certain lights for autism awareness and veteran service had displayed the Stephen Decatur High School flag as well as the pride flag. He said typically if there was a monetary cost the person requesting the flag or display was asked to cover that.

“There’s been no town outflow of funds to be able to do those things,” he said, adding that the requests were granted on a discretionary basis. “We do understand that what makes us all unique and what makes this such a great place to live … we’re all a little bit differ-

ent. We all can still come together around certain fun things.”

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said she was sorry to see any ill will brought toward anyone in the community. Councilman Steve Green said there had been dozens of comments related to the strategic plan and that some “hit some of us the wrong way as well.” He referenced the recently approved strategic plan’s goal of creating “One Berlin.”

“They are comments and opinions nonetheless,” he said. “We are a community of differences. I’m glad ‘One Berlin’ is the mantra that has stuck.”

WELCOME C

RUISERS

Stephanie Fowler of Saltwater Media carries the flags that were placed on the Berlin Town Hall last June.

PHOTO

OCEAN GLORY

OCEANFRONT LIVING CAN BE YOURS!

County teacher recognized by state for arts excellence

Lampman has worked at Cedar Chapel Special School for 20-plus years

(May 17, 2024) The Maryland Art Education Association and Worcester County Public Schools is recognizing the Outstanding (Career) Art Educators for the 2023-24 school year.

A news release from the school system said the honorees showed excellence in their profession, provided quality art education to our students, and exemplified the definition of a creator and innovator. The teachers work with students within the classroom, outside of the classroom, help increase public awareness of the arts, participate in professional development and help advance their professions.

The release said Worcester County officials were proud to recognize Cedar Chapel Special School’s MaryBeth Lampman as an outstanding educator.

She currently teaches art and

music to children ages 3 through 21. The release said she is constantly learning and growing in her profession, as this spring she attended the 2024 National Art Education Association’s art conference virtually, and as a member of the Worcester County Teacher’s Association, attended its state conference.

For more than two decades, Lampman has been teaching students with special needs. She has a calling for helping students and sharing her artistic creativity.

She brings compassion, kindness, and a personalized instructional approach to each student. Her commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom environment has significantly enhanced students’ learning experiences.

She is currently working with Cedar Chapel and Snow Hill Middle School on the United Sound program and was a past recipient of the Very Special Arts Kennedy Center grant for arts. She has recently received a Worcester County Arts Council grant to provide arts activities at “The Art of Autism,” an event sponsored by the Autistic Children’s Support Group of Worcester County, on June 8, at Windmill Creek.

MaryBeth Lampman

Berlin’s first speed camera site nearly ready for launch

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(May 16, 2024) A new speed camera on Flower Street will go live later this month.

Crews finished installing a speed camera on Flower Street near St. Paul United Methodist Church in early May. Berlin Police Chief Arnold Downing said citations would start being issued Tuesday, May 28.

“We’re just trying to keep the public safe,” Downing said. “I think this is one of the ways we can do it.”

The Town of Berlin started work-

ing with RedSpeed, a company that works with municipalities to provide automated traffic enforcement initiatives, last year. Speed studies conducted throughout town led Downing to recommend working with RedSpeed to have cameras added to Flower Street and Seahawk Road. While there were other suggestions, Downing said at the time those didn’t have the numbers to merit cameras. In order to receive a ticket through the automated system, motorists have to be going at least 12 mph over the speed limit.

Downing said this week crews installed the speed camera as well as associated signage in early May. While citations are not yet being issued, Downing did run the camera for three days to test it.

“It averaged 65 violations a day,” Downing said, stressing that violations were just those vehicles that were going more than 12 mph over the speed limit.

The camera is expected to go live May 28. Downing said that between now and then his department will be working to let the public know.

“This is our opportunity to get in front of it,” he said.

Those who live on Flower Street are eager to see if the camera will lead to less speeding. Downing said that while the dump and the schools in the area had kept Flower Street busy for years, the addition of Oceans East and the Willows had increased traffic even more.

“The neighbors want it to be live because of all the traffic,” he said.

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Two speed cameras on Flower Street are pictured this week.

Flower St. speeders targeted

“Technology is something that assists with manpower. We can’t be everywhere at the same time.”

Berlin Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols, who lives on Flower Street, is excited to see more speed enforcement in the neighborhood.

“Having the traffic camera operational on Flower Street is a great idea and excites me because there are countless speeders that travel Flower Street throughout the day,” she said. “Some are residents of the neighborhood and others are passing through, many traveling between the schools. Many people tend to overlook the fact that the speed limit is 25. The residents on this street visit one another by foot, children and families walk through the neighborhood all throughout the day. It worries me that these careless drivers could be the cause for a terrible accident due

to their reckless behavior.”

Downing said there are plans to add another speed camera to the end of Flower Street closer to Stephen Decatur Middle School as well as to add one on Seahawk Road near the high school.

“After that we’ll look at other locations,” he said. “

Downing said that even with the camera in place, officers would still be patrolling Flower Street to monitor speeding.

“We will be able to give the traditional tickets also,” Downing said, pointing out that those came with potential points on licenses and higher fines.

According to RedSpeed’s presentation to town officials last year, the camera citations will come with $40 fines that will be split between the town ($26) and the company ($14).

“VANISHING

OCEAN CITY”

• The history of Ocean City, Md., from its beginning in the 1870s to the present day. Over 500 photo images.

• A hardbound, 220-page coffee table book featuring cover by noted artist Paul McGehee.

• Over seven years in the making with personal memories of Ocean City’s locals and visitors. Recall your own favorite memories of Maryland’s famous beach resort.

• Revisit the old restaurants and long-vanished hotels, relive summer nights on the Boardwalk, go fishing on the ocean or the bay, and learn about the fires and storms that changed the town forever.

Vanishing Ocean City is available for $49.95 at select locations in Ocean City, Berlin, Ocean Pines and Salisbury. It can also be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com. Visit the website for further information and photos.

BOOKS AVAILABLE

OC Lifesaving Museum

Fager’s Island

Donaway Furniture

Mann Properties

Seacrets

Crabs To Go

Wockenfuss Candies

Berlin Auto Wash

Copy Central

The Buzzed Word

OC Chamber

Of Commerce

M.R. Ducks

Malibu’s Surf Shop

OC Art League

Caprichos Books

Kitty’s Flowers

Victorian Charm

Park Place Jewelers

Shrimp Boat

Framing Corner

Ocean Gallery

Mann & Gray Insurance

Skipjack Heritage Museum, Chance, MD

Cruisin’ underway in Ocean City with shows, parades

(May 17, 2024) The 33rd Annual Cruisin Ocean City got underway yesterday and runs through Sunday, May 19.

The nationally recognized event attracts more than 3,000 customs, hot rods, street machines, classics and more. While the main events take place at the Inlet parking lot and the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, there will be various citywide locations.

Scheduled to appear at this year’s Cruisin to help celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Happy Days will be Anson Williams and Donny Most, who will be at the event Friday and Saturday meeting and greeting fans.

Also joining the fun will be legendary designer and builder Chuck Miller, who will be at the event next Friday and Saturday. Miller will be displaying his builds,

The Bugs Buggy and The Red Barron, inside the convention center on Friday and Saturday. Additional entertainment includes Deejay Seaside Jimmy, Cruisin Gold Deejay, the 9th Annual Pin Up Contest, a Neon & LED light car show, a pedal car show, the 2nd Annual Husband Calling Contest, bingo, live music and much more.

Some of the country’s top national names will be showcasing their products in manufacturers midway at the Inlet parking lot including Advance Auto Parts, Advanced Motorsports, Advantage Lifts, AMSOIL, Barrett-Jackson, CarCapsule, Chevy Performance, Classic Auto Mall, Edelbrock, Erin’s Way, Hagerty Insurance, Morton’s Towing, National Parts Depot, OPTIMA, Pioneer Pole Buildings, Rommel Harley-Davidson, Stratus Auto Equipment, Summit Racing, Sundance Vacations, T-Mobile and Walsh & Associates Insurance.

At the convention center there will be CarCapsule, Gateway Classic Cars and Passanante’s Home Food Service along with a Car Corral, Swap Meet and vendors both inside and outside selling automotive merchandise, arts & crafts, jewelry, Tshirts and many other specialty items.

Inside the convention center on Thursday and Friday be sure to check out the Artwork Contender Showcase where select cars compete to be on future artwork. Spectators can vote for their favorite ride.

Additional Cruisin Ocean City highlights are the special Boardwalk parades on Friday and Saturday mornings. Cruisin cars will depart from 27th Street and head south along the Boardwalk, into the Inlet parking lot beginning at 8 a.m.

On Sunday, the Grand Finale Awards will take place at the Inlet. Before Cruisin comes to an end there will be more than 500 trophies, plaques and awards presented plus over 3,000 giveaways.

Spectator tickets are $15 a day for Friday and Saturday and $10 a day for Sunday, good at the Inlet and convention center. Children under 14 are free with an adult. Show hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday with the Grand Finale Awards starting at 2 p.m.

Event organizers released a statement ahead of the event this week reminding participants and those who come to the resort for the activities to be mindful of current laws and expectations.

“Cruisin Ocean City has always held safety as our number one priority,” the statement read. “The event does not tolerate unlawful activities or the disrespect of Ocean City. During Cruisin, the Town of Ocean City will be classified as a Special Event Zone where there will be increased fines for speeding, negligent/reckless driving, spinning wheels and alcohol related offenses. We encourage everyone that comes to Ocean City for Cruisin, both participants and spectators, to respect the town and abide by the rules. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. We look forward to a wonderful and safe Cruisin Ocean City for 2024 and years to come.”

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A row of classic cars ride along the boards in the rain during Cruisin’ Ocean City in 2023. This year’s event continues through Sunday.

Berlin completes extensive process on strategic plan

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) The Town of Berlin once again has a current strategic plan following approval by elected officials this week.

On Monday, the Berlin Town Council voted 4-0 to approve the final draft of its fiscal year 2025-2028 strategic plan. Mayor Zack Tyndall thanked Salisbury University’s Business, Economic and Community Outreach Network (BEACON) representatives for their efforts in putting it together.

“We said we wanted this before we passed a budget,” Tyndall said. “Now we have it.”

The town contracted with BEACON last year to conduct a threephase strategic planning process. The purpose of the plan is to look at the town’s strengths and weaknesses as well as its opportunities. The document should help guide municipal spending.

The plan’s mission statement talks about how the community envisions a town where heritage, culture, resilience, friendliness and well-being serve as guiding principles fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. There are six driving strategies, with ensuing action steps, that are meant to help the town fulfil its mission.

BEACON’s John Hickman told the council this week that the plan’s concept of “One Berlin” really got a lot of support throughout the process. The other big takeaway was the community’s concern with affordability. In response to feedback received from the public in recent weeks, Hickman asked if the town wanted to add its support for infill development somewhere in the plan. The council agreed.

Councilman Steve Green said he’d attended three of the four community input sessions and had been impressed overall with the thorough process and input.

“I think you all did a nice job of incorporating concerns that were expressed,” he said. “I’m very at peace with the document. My question is who is going to hold us accountable. I want to know how we are going to build in accountability for ourselves.”

Green said the Town of Ocean City, for example, linked most agenda items to sections of its strategic plan to show a correlation between the government action at hand and the connection to the guiding document.

Tyndall said the town would send digital copies of the plan to its committees and boards. He said a copy could also be left in the council chambers and the document would be available on the town’s website.

Councilman Jack Orris said

Five candidates seek open OPA Board seats

Two incumbents file to retain seats; officials issue statement after posts

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 17, 2024) Five Ocean Pines residents have thrown their hats in the ring for the two seats in the community’s 2024 Board of Directors election. Incumbents Director Jeff Heavner and President Rick Farr are among the campaigners.

Joining the sitting members in the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors race are Ocean Pines residents Jerry Murphy, who announced his candidacy on Friday, May 10, and Amy Peck and Sherrie Clifford, who

both filed on Wednesday, May 8. The contestants took to social media to share their efforts for office.

Farr announced his campaign for reelection on the Ocean Pines- Get Involved Facebook page. “I humbly ask for your vote for reelection to the Board of Directors in Ocean Pines,” he wrote. “As one local media source reported, ‘The Board of Directors, with Rick Farr as president, presides over one of the most prosperous and successful periods in the history of Ocean Pines.’ I appreciate our incredible residents of Ocean Pines and look forward to continuing my service to our community.”

Heavner’s wife, Anne Warner Heavner, urged voters, writing on Facebook’s Ocean Pines-Get In-

Council votes for strategic plan

Continued from Page 35

plan could be tied to various actions in the staff reports that typically accompany action items on the agenda.

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said she wanted to make sure the plan was reviewed relatively frequently.

Hickman suggested town officials review the plan periodically together. “You sit down and say how are we

doing,” he said. “One of the other steps, as you go through… for some items you may look for a champion either among yourselves as council people, there may be certain action steps you have a particular passion for. So you may be the champion.”

He added that the town could edit the plan as needed.

“Things change,” he said.

volved, that “… Jeff is not selfish with his time. He volunteers to rehabilitate rescued horses and support the growth of Ocean Pines. He has no personal agenda either; he just has a passion for making things better. Jeff is asking for your vote for his 2024 reelection. Experience and proven leadership to get the job done.”

Murphy, who campaigned last year but did not obtain a seat on the board, took to the same Facebook page to share his intention to run in the election. “I would love to serve the community that has been an integral part of my life for 50-plus years,” he said.

Clifford and Peck announced their campaigns on the Ocean Pines ROC Facebook page.

As the election draws near, the current Board of Directors met in a closed session on Thursday, May 9. The following day, the body released a statement regarding comments made on social media.

“…the Board is aware that Facebook commentary published on the ‘Ocean Pines ROC’ Facebook page and elsewhere has either implicitly or explicitly accused sitting OPA Board members, without basis, of engaging in corruption, fraud, ‘film-flam,’ and kickbacks,” the release reads.

Candidates Clifford and Peck no-

tably share their opinions of the board on the mentioned Facebook page. On April 26, Clifford called out the governing body and the Election Committee, which she claims has had secret meetings, for a lack of transparency .

The statement calls these comments, “baseless smearing of volunteer Board members … false and potentially defamatory … and serves no constructive purpose, does not advance healthy public discourse or debate, discourages participation in governance by qualified and talented volunteers who might consider running for the Board, and cultivates an unpleasant and counter-productive atmosphere and dynamic within our community.”

The statement was signed by President Rick Farr, Vice President Stuart Lakernick, Treasurer Monica Rakowski, and Directors Elaine Brady, John Latham, and Jeff Heavner. Director Steve Jacobs’ signature was missing.

For OPA homeowners intending to vote in the upcoming election, the eligibility deadline is Tuesday, July 2. The last day to cast ballots is Tuesday, Aug. 6, by 4 p.m., and the outcome will be announced on Thursday, Aug. 8. The candidate forum has yet to be scheduled.

County issues proclamation for May foster care month

Local social services staff, others recognized for effort made to support families

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) The Worcester County Commissioners recognized May as National Foster Care Month with a proclamation last week.

Commissioner Diana Purnell presented a proclamation for National Foster Care Month to Roberta Baldwin, director of the department of social services, and members of her team. Purnell highlighted the partnerships that exists between Baldwin’s department and members of the community to help families dealing with crisis situations.

“These ladies do a fantastic job in this county for our kids,” Purnell said. “We need to always be thankful for you.”

Baldwin thanked the commissioners and noted that she’d been in social work for 34 years.

“It is much harder now than it was when I was a young social worker,” she said. “It’s more challenging. The issues that our families and communities are facing are more challeng-

ing. The struggles are real and harder to overcome.”

Currently, Worcester County has six foster families. There are more children than that in foster care.

“So we really need the support of everyone,” she said. “We have to come together to make this work. It can’t just be the department of social services trying to do it alone. I appreciate your support and I hope I can send the message that together we certainly can accomplish this.”

The commissioners on Tuesday also recognized Terry and Alison Tinker as the 2024 Worcester County Foster Parents of the Year. The Tinkers have spent more than 30 years providing foster care to children in need. Alison Tinker said they decided to become foster parents because she was a stayat-home mother for her children.

“You make one sandwich you make three sandwiches, you know what I mean,” she said.

She added that her children had enjoyed it as well.

“It’s very rewarding,” she said. “It’s a worthwhile thing to do.”

For information on how to become a foster parent, contact the Worcester County Department of Social Services at 410-677-6849.

Frog

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Terry and Alison Tinker were recognized last week by the Worcester County Commissioners as the 2024 Worcester County Foster Parents of the Year. Alison Tinkler is pictured with members of the Department of Social Services that were also recognized as a part of May being National Foster Care Month.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club recently awarded five scholarships to Stephen Decatur graduating seniors at their recent meeting. Pictured, from left, are scholarship recipients Riley Nagler, Ella Gaddis, Simon Jain and Jackson Hershey, whose scholarship was funded by the West Ocean City Association. Not pictured are Saylor Amos and Foster Smith.

WEEKLY CLUB MEETING

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City member Ron Kline, retired Commander from the U. S. Coast Guard Steve McGee, and Kiwanis President Bob Wolfing are pictured during a recent weekly club meeting. McGee, a 25-year veteran of the Coast Guard, was the guest speaker at the meeting and delved into the history, design and operation of the cruise ships built by the shipyard for four decades.

MEMBERS

The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club recently installed new members. Pictured, from left, at the May meeting are President Gina Shaffer, new members Mary Jo and Larry Krause and past District Governor for the Rotary Club Cliff Berg. The club meets in person every first and third Wednesday at Don’s Seafood and Chophouse in Ocean Pines at 11310 Manklin Creek Road. Email the club at ocberlinrotary@gmail.com for more information.

AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP DONATION

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club recently presented a $1,000 check to the Worcester County Autism Support Group. Pictured, from left, are Optimist member Mindy Ouelett, Melissa

from the Autism Support Group, and Optimist Club President Christina Dolomount-Brown.

SHOE DRIVE DONATIONS

Worcester Preparatory School junior James Haley initiated a shoe drive with the WPS Volunteer and Environmental clubs that resulted in the donation and recycling of hundreds of pairs of shoes. He proposed the idea as a way to not only reduce the number of shoes in landfills but also help educate classmates on the impact that throwing shoes away can have on the environment. Haley is pictured, right, with classmate Travis Netting and a vehicle packed with donated shoes

WELCOMED

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY-BERLIN OPTIMIST CLUB

Esham

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER PREPARATORY SCHOOL

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR. NEW MEMBER

Pictured, from left, are Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Bob Wolfing with newly installed Secretary Jack McLaughlin and Board of Directors member Jim Ulman. The officers were welcomed to their new positions at the club’s May 1 meeting.

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY-BERLIN ROTARY CLUB NEW ROTARY CLUB

PHOTOS COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Scenes from the Art League of Ocean City’s First Friday reception on May 3 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. [Above] Winners of the "Texture" juried group photography show are pictured. From left, are Art League President John Sisson; Gwen Lehman, honorable mention; Don Lehman, honorable mention; show judge Jennifer Carter; Kathryn Redden, honorable mention; Kevin Moore, honorable mention; Carol Ward, third place; and James Altman, first place.

The Worcester County Commission for Women presented a special award to one of the winners of the Ocean City Film Festival for her movie, "Shark Week." Pictured, from left, are Coleen Colson, Adria Branson and Gwen Lehman.

Ms. Wheelchair Maryland, Dominique Sessa, of Salisbury, is pictured with Art League President John Sisson. Sessa is competing for the national title of Ms. Wheelchair America.

Kevin Moore won an honorable mention for his photograph in the show.

Sandy and Palmer Gillis of Ocean City are new sponsors of the courtyard exhibition area.

Artists with disabilities from the Salvation Army Delaware pose with pieces from their art show, which opened in Studio E.

Atlantic General opens second pharmacy site

(May 17,2024) On May 7, Atlantic General Hospital and Health System hosted an open house and ribboncutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of its second AGHRx RediScripts Pharmacy location in Ocean Pines.

Local elected officials, chambers of commerce and community members, RediScripts staff and Atlantic General leadership attended the event.

The new pharmacy inside the Gudelsky Family Medical Center in Ocean Pines offers a wide range of services to patients, including free comprehensive medication reviews, allergen-free medication flavoring options, immunizations for all ages, pharmacist-prescribed birth control, free Medicare Part D plan comparisons, pet medications, and more.

Along with prescription refills, AGHRx RediScripts Pharmacy also carries a variety of over-the-counter medication. At the new facility, patients have the option to either walk in or use the pharmacy’s drive-thru.

“We are very excited to have brought this much-needed pharmacy resource to Ocean Pines and surrounding areas,” Atlantic General Hospital President & CEO Don Owrey said in a news release. “The team at this new location are some of the best around, and look forward to fulfilling the pharmacy needs of residents for many years to come.”

More information about AGHRx RediScripts Pharmacy can be found at agh.care/rediscripts.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Atlantic General Hospital and Health System and other local officials cut the ribbon on the new AGHRX Rediscripts Pharmacy inside the Gudelsky Family Medical Center in Ocean Pines during a ceremony on May 7.

Ocean Pines to host Bay Day

(May 17, 2024) The Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) and the Ocean Pines Association will host the 5th Annual Bay Day festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday, May 19, at White Horse Park in Ocean Pines.

The mission of Bay Day is to inspire, educate and equip individuals with the tools they need to make a positive impact in our Coastal Bays watershed and how to get involved with local environmental organizations. This is also a great opportunity for our community to learn about all the amazing environmental efforts happening in the area.

Bay Day is a free family-friendly event that is guaranteed to capture the interest of all age groups through hands-on activities, free guided boat tours, live music by Joe Esham, food trucks, live animal exhibits, and more.

This year, over 30 environmental partners including the Delmarva Discov-

ery Museum, Protectors of the St. Martin, Assateague Island National Seashore, Chincoteague Bay Field Station, and the Phillips Wharf Fish Mobile will be participating in this event. There will also be free boat rides on the St. Martin River brought to you by the OC Bay Hopper.

The Exploration Station under the White Horse Park pavilion will offer opportunities to get involved in local community science projects, make environmental crafts and leave with items to better your backyards.

Go Green OC will collect compostable items during Bay Day. Individuals should freeze their food waste and bring it to the Go Green OC exhibit booth at the event. MCBP will be collecting household and office electronic waste such as remote controls and old phones, office supplies and batteries, all to be appropriately recycled following the event.

Former fire chief carrying on family’s legacy

By Steve Price

Contributing Writer

(May 17, 2024) This week we proudly recognize former Deputy Chief/Volunteer Fire Chief “Moe” Cropper. Cropper is representative of the many “legacy families” that for generations have provided service to our community and cites his family’s tradition of serving the residents and visitors of Ocean City as his reason for joining the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company.

He joined the OCVFC in 2004 as a cadet. He participated in the cadet program for four years, serving as a cadet lieutenant for three years. “Moe” joined the OCVFC in 2008, serving as an active firefighter for the past 16 years.

Cropper succeeded his father, David Cropper, as deputy chief/volunteer fire chief for the OCVFC, a position “Moe” held for four years. His uncle, Steve Cropper, is a gold badge member and served many years as assistant chief for the OCVFC. His grandfather, Turner Cropper, was also a member of the OCVFC. “Moe” currently works as a firefighter/EMT for the Berlin Fire Company.

During his 15 years of active service, Cropper has held a variety of leadership positions, including cadet instructor, lieutenant, assistant chief and deputy chief.He also served several years as a member of the board of directors.

Chief Cropper recalls two significant events during his career in the

fire service.

The first was a residential structure fire with entrapment on Branch Street in Berlin on the evening of April 17, 2014. Berlin Fire Company units arrived on the scene with heavy smoke and fire showing from the front of the house. Berlin police officers successfully removed a young girl from the building. Cropper, assisted by Assistant Chief Logan Helmuth, entered the structure, and successfully rescued a woman trapped on the second floor of the structure.

During the second event, Chief Cropper had command during an early morning blaze on June 22, 2021, at an unoccupied home on Harbor Road in West Ocean City. Two

Dysport & Daxxify

Management

firefighters were injured battling the fire, which destroyed a house, boat house and three other homes. Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office officials determined that the fire had been intentionally set and the suspect was later found guilty of all charges.

HormoneReplacement

Cropper cites his greatest accomplishments in the fire service as being the youngest volunteer fire chief in the history of the OCVFC, and being the son in the second father-and-son due to serve as chiefs of the volunteer fire company.

Cropper offers the following advice to cadets and other young men and women with an interest in joining the fire service.

“The OCVFC Cadet Program has proven to be an invaluable tool to mold fire service leaders. Both local and nationally recognized leaders have started in our Cadet Program –multiple volunteer fire company chiefs, Chief Ricky Riley, Battalion Chief Sam Villani, Jr., Chief Roger Steger, Jr., Bruce Angier, and many others. This proves the worth of the program. This program sets young firemen up for success – you can start here and go anywhere and be successful. You are given two ears and one mouth – listen but ask the right questions. The OCVFC gives more to you than you can ever give to them. Lifelong friendships are formed, and careers are started through the volunteer fire company.”

We thank Cropper and his family for their many years of service and commitment to the safety of our neighbors and visitors to our community.

For membership information or to learn more about the volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.

Moe Cropper

MAY 17, 2024 OC Today-Dispatch 47

MARKETPLACE

HIRING: Line

Staff, Food Runners, Cashiers, Carpenters and more Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

OC Hair & Nail Studio. Now accepting applications for Full or PT NAIL TECH & HAIR STYLIST. Sign on bonus w/established clientele. Please call 410524-7606 for interview.

SPECIAL EVENT SECURITY - Staff needed for events in Ocean City. Seasonal FT/PT help also. Please call 443513-4198.

PT/FT CASHIER/SALES ASSOCIATES

ANTIQUES STORES IN BERLIN, MD

Some Weekends Req 410-629-9656 or 410-629-1895

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER

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

Please email resume to kris.derickson@fbwband.com “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

TOWN OF BERLIN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND ZONING POLICE OFFICER

We are looking for motivated individuals to come to work for the Town of Berlin. We are currently seeking a Planning Director and a Police Officer.

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.

MARINE TECHS and BOAT YARD HELPERS wanted for West Ocean City boat yard. Call 410-213-2296.

Help Wanted: FT, Seasonal, Front Desk, Housekeeping, Laundry. Walk in to fill out application. Safari Hotel, 13th Street and Boardwalk. 410-289-6411

Ocean Aviation Flight Academy seeks Office Assistant

Growing Flight Academy with campuses in Berlin, Maryland and Georgetown, Delaware seeks Exceptional Candidate to join our team. Professional Friendly office environment. F/T Weekend availability is a plus. Year Around Position. Responsible for student interaction, dispatch and check in of flights, filing, retail sales and keeping our offices neat and clean. Must be customer oriented and be proficient in data entry and have good computer skills. Previous office or educational experience necessary. Please forward resume to mfreed@flyoceanaviation.com We prefer initial contact be through e-mail only. Qualified applicants will be contacted for in person interviews.

Currently Hiring Manpower For: Carpenter | Laborer | Painters Stucco & EIFS Mechanics Concrete Work

o Experience preferred.

o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus.

o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available.

Please Apply Online: https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

Cooks, Sous Chefs, A/V Techs, Painters, Maintenance Staff, Plumber, Security, Office

Cleaners Wanted for

Ocean City, MD

If you are a conscientious individual or team looking for great pay and minimal hours on summer Saturdays in OC, then we are the cleaning company for you. Exp. Preferred. Cell phone and vehicle required. 443-880-0525

Small Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047

Building Attendant. Full & Part Time. Day & Evening Shifts. Memorial thru Labor Day. Dependable, conscientious individual to monitor building, grounds, pool and parking. Send resume to Fred@paradiseoc.com or call 410-250-1111.

Cleaners - Vacation rentals needed for OC and Pines. Experience preferred but not required. OC Purifiers. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email

Karen@ocpurifiers.com.

Pool -

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

410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.

SEEKING WORK

Seeking Work: Small and Large Jobs. 44 years experience in construction. Patch work, landscaping, painting, etc. Call/leave a message, 443-754-7709.

NORTH

OC SUMMER SEASONAL

Single family home. 2BR, 2BA. Cleaning once a month and lawn care will be included. CALL KAREN 443-880-5727.

Waterfront Bayside - Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA Condo in North OC. 4 steps to ground level off your private balcony. Full kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony w/tables + seating for 6. Seasonal/ monthly Dec.-April, $2,200. Contact Julie 443-223-4623

SUMMER SEASONAL

RENTAL 2BR, 2BA Bayfront, Quiet 94th St. area. $13,000 for season. Call Beach Real Estate, 410-629-0224. Townhouse, 3BR, 2BA, $2100/month, utilities NOT included. Fully furnished. Long term lease only, 1+ years. Address: 438 Ocean Parkway, Berlin, MD 21811

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

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.

AFFORDABLE

TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS

Low and Moderate Income

~ Accessible Units and Facilities Available

~ Air Conditioning

~ Kitchen-Furnished w/Range & Refrigerator

~ Wall-to-Wall Carpet

~ On-Site Laundry Facilities

~ One Year Lease

Call Us Now To See If You Qualify! 410-641-0830

TTY users via MRS Dial 711

REEDY COVE APARTMENTS

Germantown Rd., Berlin, MD 21811

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Commercial Office Spaces

For LEASE / SALE

Historic District Berlin, MD. 360+ SF each $1200/mo each. 410-707-1540

Industrial Warehouse. Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom, yard and storage shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

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

WANT TO BUY

WANTED

and

MISC./OTHER

Angels never lie! If I give this moon my heart, My love will find you!

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 Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855407-6870

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

BUDGET MOVERS

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A.

1966 Greenspring Drive, Suite LL2

Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland 21093 (410) 238-2840

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

6 90th Street, Unit #1, Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from James T. Axe and Barbara K. Axe, dated May 3, 2018 and recorded in Liber 7208, Folio 365 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $191,250.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, Courthouse Door, on

Monday, June 3, 2024 AT 11:00 AM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The real property is known as 6 90th Street, Unit #1, Ocean City, MD 21842, Tax ID #10-321204 Tax Map 0115, Grid 0017, Parcel 1288A. Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $15,800.00 in the form of cash, cashier’s check, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustees determine acceptable, is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the rate of 4.5% per annum from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, or front foot benefit payments, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction an assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne

by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and 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 his deposit without interest.

NOTE: The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. Neither the auctioneer, the beneficiary of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustee nor his agents or attorneys make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of information.

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN DUE DILIGENCE WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the Substitute Trustees.

Mark H. Wittstadt and Justin T. Hoy, Substitute Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC

305 West Chesapeake Avenue, Suite 105

Towson, Maryland 21204

410-825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com www.auction.com

OCD-5/16/3t

COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC

1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

44 KING RICHARD ROAD BERLIN A/K/A OCEAN PINES, MD 21811

By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated March 11, 2005 and recorded in Liber 4385, Folio 296, modified by Loan Modification Agreement recorded on August 17, 2022, at Liber No. 84441, Folio 11, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $315,100.00, and an interest rate of 3.000%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on May 20, 2024 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $20,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey

insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

CGD File #: 459690

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RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of GERALDINE S MYERS Estate No. 20175 Notice is given that PAUL DAVID MYERS whose address is 6 STONEMEADOW CT OCEAN PINES, MD 21811-1630 was on APRIL 24, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GERALDINE S MYERS who died on DECEMBER 22, 2023 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of OCTOBER, 2024

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

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

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

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

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20169

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Fairfax County, Virginia appointed Dwight Bashir-Elahi, 7901 Oak St., Dunn

Loring, VA 22027-1014 as the Executor of the Estate of Abbas BashirElahi who died on December 02, 2023 domiciled in Virginia, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Nabil Bashirelahi whose address is 10321 St. Albans Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.

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.

Dwight Bashir-Elahi 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: May 02, 2024

OCD-5/2/3t

RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of PHILOMENA V MENEAR Estate No. 20179 Notice is given that PHYLLIS J CAVANAUGH whose address is 24 SANDY BRANCH DR SELBYVILLE, DE 19975-9494 was on APRIL 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PHILOMENA V MENEAR who died on APRIL 01, 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 OCTOBER, 2024

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101

Rockville, MD 20852

Carrie M. Ward, et al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.

MARY A. FINCH (DECEASED)

JOHN F. FINCH (DECEASED) 6 Meadow Street Berlin, MD 21811

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

Case No. C-23-CV-23-000184

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 30th day of April, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 6 Meadow Street, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 3rd day of June, 2024, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 27th day of May, 2024.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $400,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-5/9/3t

VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO 20187

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR COURT - PROBATE PART court of BURLINGTON, NEW JERSEY appointed ADAM V PUFF whose address is 59 GILL RD HAD-

DONFIELD, NJ 08033-3401 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of KARIN D VENEZIALE who died on MARCH 01, 2024 domiciled in NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES

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

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

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

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

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

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SOUTRY D. SMITH ESQ. HASSANI, FOCAS & FIFER P.A. 22 W. PENNSYLVANIA AVE., STE. 606 TOWSON, MD 21204-5005

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20010 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DAVID PERLMAN GOULD Notice is given that Amanda Brook Afable, 198 Wayne St., Apt. 3 Jersey City, NJ 07302-3332, was on January 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Perlman Gould who died on October 25, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of July, 2024.

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

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

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

claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Amanda Brook Afable 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: May 9, 2024

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20186 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES MANNING SMITH

Notice is given that Donna Louise Smith, 89 Watertown Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1716, was on May 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Manning Smith who died on April 15, 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 2nd day of November, 2024.

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

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

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

Donna Louise Smith 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: May 9, 2024

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LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

RENNA J. PATEL ESQ. 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20038

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate Court of Passaic County, New Jersey appointed Maureen McKenna Harris, A1 Suburbian Vlg., Wanaque, NJ 07465-1607 as the Executrix of the Estate of Joan McKenna AKA: Joan G. McKenna who died on December 05, 2022 domiciled in New Jersey, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Renna Patel whose address is 1321 Mt. Hermon Road, Suite B, Salisbury, MD 21804. 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.

Maureen McKenna Harris 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: May 09, 2024

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of CAROL ANN WOOLLAND Estate No. 20182 Notice is given that DAWN CATALDO whose address is 240 OCEAN PKWY., BERLIN, MD 21811-1901 was on APRIL 29, 2024

appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CAROL ANN WOOLLAND who died on MARCH 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 29th day of OCTOBER, 2024

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of TERESA LEE PERDUE Estate No. 20174 Notice is given that JOHN DAVID PERDUE whose address is 30103 SOUTHHAMPTON BRIDGE RD., SALISBURY, MD 21804-2476 was on APRIL 29, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of TERESA LEE PERDUE who died on APRIL 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 29th day of OCTOBER, 2024

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

IN THE ESTATE OF: DONNA M. MOYER

ESTATE NO. 20191

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Victoria L. O’Neill, Esq., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 200, Ocean City, MD 21842 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on June 04, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Phone: (410) 632-1529

Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: May 9, 2024 OCD-5/9/2t

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

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

Thursday, May 23, 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) and 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception from the front yard to build upon an existing dwelling that has a legally nonconforming front yard setback of 8 feet, rather than 10 feet required by Code; and (2) a special parking exception to waive 0.5 (1) parking space from the required three (3) parking spaces. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 7 of the plat entitled “Beach Village”. It is further described as being located on the

east side of Wight Street and is locally known as 14022 Wight Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: ROBERT WRIGHT AND TERESA RODRIGUEZWRIGHT (BZA 2684 #2409400007)

AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception from design standards to allow for 8 out of 42 required garaged parking spaces to have dimensions of 10’ X 18’. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, Block 108, of the plat entitled “Oceanbay City.” It is further described as being located on the north side of the 75th Street and is locally known as 110 75th Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, FOR BAYSIDE 75 (BZA 2688 #2409400010)

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-5/9/2t

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. 20195

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ court of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania appointed Michelle D. Leonard, 840 West Montgomery Ave., #507, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 as the Executrix of the Estate of Sandra Leonard AKA: Sandra A. Leonard who died on April 01, 2012 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates Jr., whose address is 6200 Coastal Highway, Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21824.

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.

Michelle D. Leonard 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: May 16, 2024

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROGRESS OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAMS WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland will conduct a Public Hearing to provide information on the new application for Housing Rehabilitation Grant CDBG Funding for FY25 which is funded under the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program; a federally funded program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services. It is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development.

The hearing will be held on: TUESDAY, May 21, 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 Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on community, economic development, and housing needs to be considered for submission of an application to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Citizens will have the opportunity to discuss proposed projects and to provide input on other needs to be considered.

Citizens will be furnished with information including but not limited to:

• the amount of CDBG funds available for State Fiscal Year 2025;

• the range of activities that may be undertaken with CDBG funds; and

• the proposed projects under consideration by jurisdiction.

The Maryland CDBG Program reflects the State’s economic and community development priorities and provides public funds for activities which meet one of the following national objectives, in accordance with the federal Housing Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, that:

1. benefit to low- and moderate-income persons and households;

2. aid in the prevention or elimination of slum or blight;

3. meet other community development needs of an urgent nature, or

that are an immediate threat to community health and welfare.

The hearing will be held at the Worcester County Commissioners Meeting, One West Market St., Room 1101, Snow Hill, MD 21863, (time) on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. The draft application will be available for the public to review on May 21, 2024, until June 4, 2024, at the Worcester County Government Building, One West Market St., Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD 21863, during normal business hours.

Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 3 business days advance notice to Candace Savage, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer at 410-632-1194.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ.

AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20114 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN P. SHIPLEY

Notice is given that Victoria L O’Neill Esq., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 200, Ocean City, MD 21842-6697, was on May 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John P. Shipley who died on November 22, 2021, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of November, 2024.

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

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

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

Victoria L. O’Neill Esq. Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street

Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: May 16, 2024

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20194 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD JOHN HAJEWSKI

Notice is given that Paul Edward Hajewski, 121 Augusta Dr., Ocean View, DE 19970-3277, was on May 07, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard John Hajewski who died on February 29, 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 7th day of November, 2024.

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

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

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

Paul Edward Hajewski 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: May 16, 2024

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JANET ELENE GOBBETT

Notice is given that Gary Lee James, 11014 Trappe Creek Dr., Berlin, MD 21911-3556, was on May 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Janet Elene Gobbett who died on April 03, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of November, 2024.

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

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

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

Gary Lee James 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: May 16, 2024

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JAMES E. CLUBB JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH ST. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20200

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANTHONY V. LOZZI

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VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20190

Notice is given that Toni Sprenkle, 4202 Rowen Ct., York, PA 174031359, was on May 10, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Anthony V. Lozzi who died on February 04, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their

objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

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

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

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

Toni Sprenkle

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: May 16, 2024

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20178 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF OLIVER E. ROBINSON III

AKA: OLIVER ELLWOOD ROBINSON III

Notice is given that John J. Robinson, 6928 Rock Hall Rd., Rock Hall, MD 21661-1235, was on May 09, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Oliver E. Robinson III who died on April 02, 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 9th day of November, 2024.

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written 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.

John J. Robinson

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: May 16, 2024

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SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20198 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CAROL LEE MILLER

AKA: CAROL L. MILLER

Notice is given that Sharon Lynn Kuba, 302 Aston Forest Ln., Crownsville, MD 21032-1628, was on May 09, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Carol Lee Miller who died on March 01, 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.

Sharon Lynn Kuba 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: May 16, 2024

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SHAFFER, MCLAUCHLIN & STOVER, LLC

ERIC E. MCLAUCHLIN, ESQ. 4690 MILLENNIUM DRIVE, SUITE 200 BELCAMP, MD 21017-1525

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20193

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Sussex County, Delaware appointed Justyna M. Rosenburg, 10710 Piney Island Dr., Bishopville, MD 21813-1452 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Robert Kurt Rosenburg who died on June 09, 2022 domiciled in Delaware, USA.

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.

Justyna M. Rosenburg 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: May 16, 2024

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MAUREEN F.L. HOWARTH AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

NOTICE OF TAX SALE

OF PROPERTY IN THE TENTH ELECTION DISTRICT, SUB-DISTRICTS 101-109, WORCESTER COUNTY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Town of Ocean City, Maryland municipal taxes and assessments under levies of the tax years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 on the properties hereinafter described being due and in arrears and un-

paid; and in order to compel the payment of the same, together with interest thereon, Attorney and Advertising Fees of $258, and the costs of attending the proceeding, as provided by law, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as the City Manager and Collector of municipal taxes in the Tenth Election District, Worcester County, Ocean City, Maryland as provided by the Acts of the General Assembly of Maryland (Tax-Property Article Section 14-808 et seq. of the Annotated Code of Maryland), the undersigned City Manager and Collector of Taxes, will sell at public auction, at City Hall, 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, on

FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2024 AT THE HOUR OF 10:00 A.M.

the below described properties: Item 1 10-247772 and 15638338252: Described as Holiday Plaza Condominium, Unit 307, 2801 Baltimore Avenue, Assessed to Alyas Abady and Ayesha Abady, Assessed Value $168,400, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $596.01.

Item 4 10-198747 and 13223729946: Described as Montego Bay Mobile Home Park, Lot 1550, Section 4A, Lot Size 3600 Sq. Ft., 13308 Colonial Road, Assessed to Bungarra, LLC, Assessed Value $125,200, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $894.79.

Item 5 10-099145 and 16303913088: Described as Ponte Vista Condominium, Unit 208, 735 Bradley Road, Assessed to Michael Davids Dawson, Assessed Value $218,600, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,151.57.

Item 6 10-141966 and 15909720508: Described as Sea Watch Condominium, Unit 1300, 11500 Coastal Highway, Assessed to Defrancesco Properties, LLC, Assessed Value $723,600, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,328.74.

Item 7 10-315883 and 15738149588: Described as Mako Condominium, Unit A, 803 142nd Street, Assessed to Raphael NII Darku Dodoo, Assessed Value $117,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $839.05.

Item 8 10-053706 and 11454357234: Described as Sand and Foam Condominium, Unit 8, 210 Trimper Avenue, Assessed to Erin C. Driscoll, Assessed Value $146,800, Wastewater, Bulk Pickup, Interest and Penalties Due $868.96.

Item 9 10-140579 and 2827520256: Described as Sea Watch Condominium, Unit 705, 11500 Coastal Highway, Assessed to Elmo M. Gayoso and Ofelia Loot Gayoso, Assessed Value $351,600, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,165.67.

Item 10 10-287472 and 12957745260: Described as Harbor Sails Condominium, Unit 406, Phase I, 169 Jamestown Road, Assessed to Christopher G. Guest, Assessed Value $142,400, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $810.78.

Item 11 10-205417 and 3448931124: Described as El Marlyn Condominium, Unit 3, 5 80th Street, Assessed to Robert J. Hoffman and Sherry Hoffman, Assessed Value

$145,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,196.73.

Item 12 10-085659 and 10666710866: Described as Beachcrest Condominium, Unit 21, 7601 Atlantic Avenue, Assessed to Kenneth B. Maher and Jennifer Maher, Assessed Value $214,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $823.59. Item 14 10-190134 and 928128398: Described as Montego Bay Mobile Home Park, Lot 1375, Section 1, Lot Size 3600 Sq. Ft., 13205 Atlantic Boulevard, Assessed to Nancy Carol Devaughn McLaughlin, Assessed Value $122,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $788.88.

Item 15 10-316650 and 8315949722: Described as San Remo Condominium, Unit 204, Building A, 5401 Coastal Highway, Assessed to Erick D. Rohl, Assessed Value $192,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,188.96.

Item 16 10-262623 and 4303940908: Described as Jamaica Condominium III, Unit 104, 12304 Jamaica Avenue, Assessed to Joan E. Seidenspinner, Assessed Value $123,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $768.46.

Item 17 10-139465 and 8580120058: Described as High Point North Condominium, Unit 6-E, 11400 Coastal Highway, Assessed to Suzanne M. Sheredy, Assessed Value $228,200, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $909.22.

Item 18 10-249325 and 6234338516: Described as Bradley on the Bay Condominium, Unit 203, Building A, Phase IV, 3701 Coastal Highway, Assessed to John J. Shipley and Patricia A. Shipley, Assessed Value $180,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,035.64.

Item 19 10-221595 and 14216133724: Described as Crab Cove Condominium, Unit 6, 607 Osprey Road, Assessed to Shawn D. Spurry and Kim M. Spurry, Assessed Value $195,700, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $962.38. OCD-5/16/4t _________________________________

HOLLY A. MUSSELMAN, ESQ.

201 W. PADONIA ROAD, STE. 101 PHOENIX, MD 21093

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20129 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LOUIS DAVID

Notice is given that Lisa Goretsas, 1103 Barley Cutter Rd., Hampstead, MD 21074-1510, was on March 28, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Louis David who died on January 05, 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 28th day of September, 2024.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present

the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

Lisa Goretsas 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: April 04, 2024

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

Eagles Landing Golf Course Event Pavilion

Mayor & City Council Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced vendors to provide for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Event Pavilion and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

Bid Documents for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Event Pavilion may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Scott Wagner, at swagner@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov 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 bids. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. The vendor are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-Bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 10 AM, located at 12367 Eagles Nest Road, Berlin, MD, 21811 (Eagles Landing Golf Course), for any questions concerning the Proposals Documents. A site walkthrough will immediately

follow. The last day for questions will be on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 3 PM. The Addendum will be posted by close of business on Monday, June 17, 2024

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, July 8, 2024, by 3:00 PM. and will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the Procurement Office Conference room, on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 10 AM. Bids are to be submitted to the Procurement Office 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the solicitation (Eagles Landing Golf Course Event Pavilion) 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-5/16/1t

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

That The Farmers Bank of Willards has filed an application to relocate our West Ocean City branch in Ocean City, Maryland to the new 611 Branch Ocean City location:

The Farmers Bank of Willards 9701 Stephen Decatur Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with the regional director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at the appropriate FDIC Office located at 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1200, New York, New York 10118 not later than May 31, 2024. The non-confidential portions of the application are on file at the appropriate FDIC office and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the non-confidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request.

OCD-5/16/1t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

Ocean Bowl Admin Building

Mayor & City Council Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced vendors to provide for the Ocean Bowl Admin Building and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

Bid Documents for the Ocean Bowl Admin Building can be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Scott Wagner, at swagner@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov by calling 410-723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procure-

ment-bids/ ) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda before submitting their bids. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. It is the vendor's sole responsibility to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-Bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at 9 AM, at City Hall, Community Conference room, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD, for any questions concerning the Proposals Documents. A site walkthrough will immediately follow. The last day for questions will be on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 3 PM. The Addendum will be posted by close of business on Monday, June 10, 2024

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, July 8, 2024, by 3:00 PM. and will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the Mayor and City Council Work Session held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 1 PM Bids are to be submitted to the Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Attn: City Manager; Room 230, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and must note the name of the solicitation (Ocean Bowl Admin Building) 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-5/16/2t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20199 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF TRACY M. NIKSICH

Notice is given that Jennifer Pastorius, 120 53rd St., Unit Q201, Ocean City, MD 21842-5395, was on May 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Tracy M. Niksich who died on April 30, 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 10th day of November, 2024.

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

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

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

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

Jennifer Pastorius 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: May 16, 2024

OCD-5/16/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

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

Thursday, May 30, 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) and 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception from the front yard to build upon an existing dwelling that has a legally nonconforming front yard setback of 8 feet, rather than 10 feet required by Code; and (2) a special parking exception to waive 0.5 (1) parking space from the required three (3) parking spaces. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 7 of the plat entitled “Beach Village”. It is further described as being located on the east side of Wight Street and is locally known as 14022 Wight Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: ROBERT WRIGHT AND TERESA RODRIGUEZWRIGHT (BZA 2684 #2409400007)

AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception from design standards to allow for 8 out of 42 required garaged parking spaces to have dimensions of 10’ X 18’. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, Block 108, of the plat entitled “Oceanbay City.” It is further described as being located

on the north side of the 75th Street and is locally known as 110 75th Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, FOR BAYSIDE 75 (BZA 2688 #2409400010)

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-5/16/2t

TOWN OF BERLIN NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING

May 28, 2024

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT

The Town of Berlin will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on community, economic development, and housing needs to be considered for submission of an application to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Citizens will have the opportunity to discuss the proposed project and to provide input on other needs to be considered.

The hearing will be held at the Mayor and Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Berlin, MD 21811 at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.

Citizens will be furnished with information including but not limited to:

* the amount of CDBG funds available for State Fiscal Year 2025

* the range of activities that may be undertaken with CDBG funds; and

* the proposed project(s) under consideration by the Town of Berlin

The Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is a federally sponsored program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services. It is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development in close cooperation with the Department of Business and Economic Development.

The Maryland CDBG Program reflects the State's economic and community development priorities and provides public funds for activities which meet one of the following national objectives, in accordance with the federal Housing Community Development Act of 1974, as amended:

1. benefit low and moderate income persons and households;

2. aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight;

3. meet other community development needs of an urgent nature, or that are an immediate threat to com-

munity health and welfare.

Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 7 days’ advance notice to Sara Gorfinkel, 410641-3858.

Zack Tyndall, Mayor OCD-5/16/1t

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

TUESDAY, JUNE 4, 2024

At 7:00 pm ORDINANCE TO AMEND SUBSECTION (C) OF SECTION 110-884, OUTDOOR DISPLAY OF MERCHANDISE STANDARDS FOR PROPERTIES FRONTING ON ATLANTIC AVENUE (BOARDWALK).

Section 110-884 - Outdoor display of merchandise standards for properties fronting on Atlantic Avenue (boardwalk).

. . .

(c) Outdoor display as described in sections (a) and (b) shall be subject to the following enforcement procedures:

(1) The business owner may be issued a municipal infraction with a fine of $500 for the initial violation. A confirmation letter and copy of the citation will be sent to the property owner.

(2) The business owner may be issued a municipal infraction with a fine of $1,000 for the second violation.

(3) The business owner may be issued a municipal infraction with a fine of $1,000 for a third violation. The display permit and the ability to display shall l be suspended for two weeks beginning the day after the third violation. A confirmation letter of the suspension and a copy of the citation will be sent to the property owner. The business owner must remove the outdoor display completely within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the suspension notice.

(4) Any further violations shall result in additional municipal infractions and shall result in the revocation of the outdoor display permit and the ability to display for four (4) months. The business owner must remove the outdoor display completely within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the revocation notice. After four months, the business owner may apply for a new one-year display permit provided the business owner is in compliance with subsection (5) below.

(5) No business owner shall be issued/re-issued a display permit if the the business owner has any outstanding, unpaid, municipal infractions.

(6) Failure to abide by the requirements set forth in this Section may result in the suspension or revocation of the violator’s business license as set forth in Section 14-38. APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING STAFF (FILE #2414100001)

At 7:15 pm ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTIONS 110-831.27

SUBSECTION (F) AND SECTION 110-865.25 SUBSECTION (6) OF THE DOWNTOWN AND UPPER DOWNTOWN DESIGN OVERLAY ZONE DISTRICTS, NONCONFORMING SIGNS, TO REMOVE THE SUNSET PROVISION AND MAKE ASSOCIATED AMENDMENTS

Section 110-831.27(f) - Nonconforming signs.

(3) Any nonconforming sign except those identified in subsection (f)(2) as prohibited signs and window signs shall be removed, replaced, or made to conform to the requirements of this division when it is:

a. Changed or replaced with another sign; however, the face or copy of a nonconforming sign may be changed without bringing the sign into conformity, providing such changes are nonstructural in nature.

b. Structurally altered so as to extend its useful life.

c. Expanded or enlarged.

d. Relocated.

e. Repaired or re-established after damage by more than 50 percent of its value at the time of the damage or destruction.

f. Modified in any way that would increase the degree of nonconformity.

(4) Nonconforming window signs which exceed the aggregate window coverage stipulated in subsection (e)(2) of this section shall be made to conform to the requirements of this section within one year after adoption of the ordinance from which this article is derived or within 90 days from a written notice of violation.

(5) Nothing in this section shall prevent ordinary maintenance performed on a nonconforming sign or sign structure.

(6) All existing unpermitted signs, not otherwise determined to be an existing permitted non-conforming sign, shall be removed or made to conform with the requirements of this division within 90 days from a written notice of violation.

Section 110-865.25(6) – Nonconforming signs.

. . . b.

1. All existing signs, which are identified in subsection (4) of this section as prohibited signs shall be removed within 90 days of the effective date of the ordinance from which this division is derived or within 90 days from a written notice of violation, with the exception of the signs described in subsection (4)c, (4)j and (4)k of this section.

2. Signs described in subsection

(4)c which obstruct the view in any direction at a street intersection in accordance with section 66-10 shall be removed within six months of June 20, 2016, or within 30 days from a written notice of violation.

3. Signs described in subsections (4)j and (4)k of this section (i.e. signs containing flashing, blinking, revolving or rotating lights and roof signs), must be removed within 18 months of June 20, 2016 or within 30 days from a written notice of violation.

4. All existing unpermitted signs, not otherwise determined to be an existing permitted non-conforming sign, shall be removed or made to conform with the requirements of this division within 90 days from a written notice of violation.

c. Any nonconforming sign except those identified in subsection (6)b as prohibited signs shall be removed, replaced, or made to conform to the requirements of this division when it is:

1. Changed or replaced with another sign; however, the face or copy of a nonconforming sign may be changed without bringing the sign into conformity, providing such changes are nonstructural in nature.

2. Structurally altered so as to extend its useful life.

3. Expanded or enlarged.

4. Relocated.

5. Repaired or re-established after damage by more than 50 percent of its value at the time of the damage or destruction.

6. Modified in any way that would increase the degree of nonconformity.

d. Nonconforming window signs that exceed the aggregate window coverage stipulated in subsection (5)b.5.v of this section shall be made to conform to the requirements of this section within one year after adoption of the ordinance from which this division is derived or within 90 days from a written notice of violation.

e. Nothing in this section shall prevent ordinary maintenance performed on a nonconforming sign or sign structure.

APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING STAFF (FILE #2414100002)

No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.

Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.

For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

JOSEPH P.

REAL ESTATE GATHERING

A small group of local female Realtors gathered last week for a lunch to reflect on their long careers in coastal real estate. The woman have each been in local real estate for 35 to 50 years. The group had lunch at the Atlantic Hotel to share memories and laughs. Denise Milko organized the event and even prepared a quiz of local history questions. The group also remembered colleagues who passed recently. Pictured, front from left, are Terry Looney, Milko, Kathy Panco and Charlotte Litzinger; and, back, Marlene Ott, Nanette Pavier, Candi

and

SUBMITTED

Noyes

Joanna Laslo.

Owner returns to kitchen at Crabcake Factory West OC

(May 17, 2024) After more than 30 years in the business, founder John Brooks is returning to the kitchen, this time in his West Ocean City Crabcake Factory to cook breakfast.

“Johnny has come out of retirement to head back into the kitchen this year for ‘Breakfast at West,’” said Staci Palmer from behind the bar at the West Ocean City location. “The buzz that breakfast is creating is exciting and much needed in West OC. We had some lines last year, but this season is already showing signs of another breakfast success story for Crabcake Factory.”

Crabcake Factory West will be serving breakfast on the weekends until Memorial Day weekend when it will move to daily through the summer season.

“When I started this place back in 1996 I was just coming off owning a late night live music bar for many years, and I was just totally burnt out on the late night grind of that side of the restaurant business,” said Brooks, the only owner Crabcake Factory has seen. “Three decades ago, it was a different story. We were the first bar to go smokeless which at the time was considered a death sentence and we were one of the first bars opening at

9 a.m. for the “original breakfast club” at 120th Street.”

The first location on 120th Street opened in 1996, Crabcake Factory Bayside in Fenwick Island followed in 2014 which was franchised to new owners in 2019 but still features many of Brooks’ recipes and employees.

“Crabcake Factory is and will always be about family,” said Gretchen Semiclose, manager of the Original Crabcake Factory on 120th Street. “It sounds cliché but there is nothing like the comradery between the employees and customer at these three locations.”

Brooks’ third Crabcake Factory West opened last year in West Ocean City, which is where Brooks is planning to work during the morning hours in the kitchen.

“We’ve been waiting for the this all winter,” said Kenny and Suzee Nolan from Ocean Pines. “We love all the Crabcake Factory locations for Breakfast but you can’t get near those places in season so this is a godsend.”

Though breakfast is a hallmark for the operation, the famous crabcakes continue to be the top sellers for the factory, which ships their namesake dish all over the country via its website at crabcakefactory.com. Last year

Brooks introduced the first recipe change in 28 years with their colossal lump crabcakes.

“We sell thousands and thousands

of crabcakes,” said Brooks. “It’s all about year-round consistency with us, but we know how to make the best crabcake around, so we did just that.”

Two of the signature bloody mary’s at the Crabcake Factory are pictured featuring lump crab meat, a soft crab, bacon and much more.

Free Chromebooks

In partnership with Worcester County Government and University of Maryland Extension, Worcester County Library officials recently announced that free Chromebooks are available to distribute to low-income households.

The Chromebooks have been provided by the Connected Devices grant program from the Maryland State Department of Housing and Community Development.

Only Worcester County residents 18 years or older may participate. One device is allowed per household.  In order to pick up a Chromebook, residents must provide photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, work or government ID, passport, etc.), proof of Worcester County residence, and proof of income eligibility.  Examples of income eligibility proof include (but are not

limited to) proof of benefit such as a SNAP or Medicaid card, an internet bill showing the federal Affordable Connectivity Program discount, or the first page of a resident’s most recent tax return, showing household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Visit the library’s website for more information at WorcesterLibrary.org.

Distribution is first come, first served. Call the Pocomoke Library 410-957-0878 to make an appointment or visit the Berlin Library from 46:30 p.m., May 22; or 1-4 p.m., May 29.

Volunteer fair

The Democratic Women’s Club of Worcester County are hosting a volunteer fair from 10 a.m. to noon, May 20, at the Ocean Pines Community Center’s Assateague Room.

Attendees are invited to come talk with representatives from 12 different community groups to find out how to volunteer or help out in other ways with local nonprofit groups, such as the Atlantic General Hospital Auxiliary, Meals on Wheel, and more.

NAACP event

The Worcester County NAACP is hosting “Playing the Sport of Baseball in the Negro League,” an event to keep alive the history of Snow Hill native William “Judy” Johnson and educate the community and young kids about the history of the Negro League Baseball, on May 25. The event is set from 1-3 p.m. at Stephen Decatur Middle School.

Former Satchell Page All Star Luther Atkinson and Former Newark Eagle Eddie Banks will also be inn attendance talking about their journey

in the Negro Baseball Barnstorm League.

Negro Baseball Goodwill Ambassador Rayner Banks will have his Negro League Baseball Exhibit on display.

Former Princess Anne Oaksville Eagles, Kirkland Hall, will also share his experiences playing baseball on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Pocomoke Fourth Friday

Downtown Pocomoke’s next Fourth Friday Street Festival is set from 5-8 p.m., May 24, within the two blocks of Market Street between Front and Second streets.

The block party-style event will feature local artists and vendors filling the sidewalks of Market Street sellinbg their work, which will include paintings, photography, jewelry, bath and body products, home decor, fashion and plants. Participating businesses and restaurants will stay open during the event hours.

This month’s theme is, “May the 4th Friday Be With You” celebrating all things Star Wars. Fans can enjoy special themed treats, merchandise, vendors, characters, and a 7 p.m. showing of The Empire Strikes Back” at the MAR-VA Theater. Costumes are highly encouraged.

Juneteenth in Snow Hill

The rich history of Snow Hill and its vicinity will be celebrated on June 15 through a dual event that pays tribute to the historic Masonic Hall and the significance of Juneteenth. The community is encouraged to join in a day filled with remembrance, entertainment, and cultural activities.

At 10 a.m., local leaders, residents, and visitors will assemble in front of the Snow Hill Library for the official dedication of the Masonic Hall as a Maryland State Marker. The acknowledgment underscores the Masonic Hall’s crucial role in Snow Hill’s history and its lasting importance to the community.

The Juneteenth Celebration will commence at 11 a.m. in Byrd Park. The event will include performances by local artists, musicians, and dancers, highlighting the diverse cultural fabric of Snow Hill. Through music, dance, and art, participants will celebrate the resilience and accomplishments of African Americans while embracing unity and freedom.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

No traffic on a road trip

Riding rollercoasters with my kids

Hard work paying off

A laughing roar from a ladies lunch

When my sons show my wife appreciation

Walks to clear the head before work

Farmers Market mornings in Berlin

The area’s crazy weather extremes

A pile of wood shavings

People who volunteer with youth sports

New shoes that fit like they are old

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

In the fall of 1969 Ocean City residents could drive to 112th Street and watch the beginning of a new era in the town’s history. There on the beachfront a uniquely designed building was being constructed by visionary developer John Whaley’s Caliban Corporation.

Known as the High Point (and later as the High Point South when the neighboring High Point North opened in 1972) at 11 stories high, it replaced the George Washington Hotel as Ocean City’s tallest building. Within a few years 17 other high-rise structures would go up between 94th and 118th streets and the area would become known as the Gold Coast. Construction abruptly ceased in the fall of 1973 as the gas crisis and overbuilding put an end to the heyday of condo sales. Within a year only a few of the existing high-rises would escape the auctioneer’s gavel. Today the Gold Coast is thriving again and property values are high.

While the High Point South is no longer Ocean City’s tallest building, it will always claim a place in history as the town’s first high-rise condominium. To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo of High Point South courtesy of Gail Whaley

Wolnik recognized as crafter of month for Pine’eer club

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 17, 2024) The Ocean Pines Pine’eer Craft Club, a group dedicated to creating handmade goods since 1974, has named treasurer and longtime member Jane Wolnik the May crafter of the month.

The artisan, initially a Quilters by the Sea member, joined the group in 2011 and stepped into the role of treasurer in 2013. She creates an array of gear for the club’s shop, specifically table runners, which remain a top seller. Wolnik also knits 18-inch American Girl Doll sweaters.

“I find quilting and knitting very relaxing,” she said. The Pine’eer Craft Club member maintains that she spends an average of three hours a day perfecting her creations.

The Pine’eer Artisan Gift Shop is not-for-profit. According to a press release issued by Ocean Pines Association’s Director of Public Relations and Marketing, Josh Davis, since the club’s inception, it has donated nearly $185,000 back to the community.

As the treasurer, Wolnik said their profits go toward the police department and public works, among other initiatives.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Crafter of the Month Jane Wolnick is pictured with some of her creations See RESIDENT Page 69

WITH BUNK MANN

Resident enjoys role of treasurer

Continued from Page 68

“Considering all our members and the various income sources, we depend upon accuracy,” she said. “The more careful we are with our pennies, the more we have to give back to the community each year. I like playing my part in that process.”

Wolnik moved to Ocean Pines in 2004. The crafter is originally from Wisconsin but moved to Maryland when her husband was stationed at Andrews Air Force Base in Prince George’s County from 1963 until retirement.

In addition to the Ocean Pines club, the resident volunteers with the Atlantic General Hospital Thrift Shop and participates in other community activities, including chair yoga.

To browse Wolnik’s crafts, The Pine’eer Artisan Gift Shop at White Horse Park is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays.

This year marks the club’s 50th anniversary. The group is always looking for new crafters; meetings are open to interested participants. For more information, shop managers Debbie Jiwa and Barbara Herzog can be reached by email at opcraftclub@aol.com.

by Steve Green

OThe Adventures of Fatherhood

ur son, Beckett, turned 16 years old last Sunday, which happened to be Mother’s Day. Every six years Beckett’s birthday falls on Mother’s Day. Truth be told, I don’t think Beckett or his mom really welcomes this fact, but it’s how the calendar falls.

It was entirely appropriate for Pam to share her special day with her son because she puts her kids first every day. Right or wrong, most of our daily lives revolve around our boys. While we each work and have community responsibilities, each day starts and ends with our boys. Being teens, Beckett and Carson, 14, like nowadays to have some space, which we are happy to provide to their moody souls.

I remember before Beckett was to be born we reflected on how it would be crazy if he was born on Mother’s Day. Back in the spring of 2008, I recall thinking this will be the last Mother’s Day Pam will spend without a kid in the house for many years. Since he was adopted from a birth mother in Pennsylvania, we were basically just waiting for the call for weeks with our car seat loaded and bags packed. Little did we know about the adventure ahead as we drove north on May 12, 2008.

The last 16 years have been a journey with our Beckett. There have been ups and downs but we are proud of the human being we are raising. He has a wonderful heart and displays empathy and compassion each day to varying degrees. There are blips along the way but we work and learn through them.

Because I like to cherish the little things, a quick story to illustrate his kind ways. While waiting for a ride to begin at Busch Gardens on his birthday, Beckett was seated next to a younger boy. As prone to do, Beckett began a conversation with the kid, who was clearly nervous. Beckett gave him a pep talk, sharing his first experience with his older cousin on the exact ride. As we chugged straight up the massive incline, I could hear (through

my closed eyes) Beckett talking up the boy who was frightened. At one point, I heard him say, “Hey, little man you do you, close your eyes if you want, it’s fine. Just trust me, everything will be fine.”

While we were dangling more than 200 feet up in the air on the Griffon ride, I could hear Beckett coaching him through it followed by screams of terror then delight. The two bonded and we rode it again before they slapped high fives and separated. It’s these interactions that make me think Beckett could be a teacher and/or coach at some point in his life.

These significant kid birthdays have a way of making parents a bit sappy, but all the words of advice given to me over the years remain fresh in my head. Some of the tips resonate to this day. The following are 10 tips listed on the parenting section of webmd’s website with my thoughts about each following.

1. Give kids some leeway: It’s important to remember mistakes and lapses in judgment are inevitable. It’s unhealthy for us and him to micromanage every action and interaction. The teen is a work in progress, just like me in fact.

2. Choose your battles wisely: Some things are just not worth the fight. Nitpicking will lead to resentment and anxiety. There are certain things I hold near and dear, but I have found lately I let many things go because it’s just not worth the battle in the grand scheme.

3. Invite their friends for dinner: I generally like my son’s friends and have enjoyed getting to know them. On the rare occasion he is hanging with a bad crowd, Pam and I try our best to be patient and consistent with him. However, there are limits if we sense certain friend groups will lead to bad decisions. We keep an open mind in the meantime generally.

4. Decides rule and discipline in advance: Punishments are not fun for the parents or the teens, but sometimes they are inevitable if expectations are clear and rules are blatantly ignored. Consequences must occur and they have evolved over the years.

5. Discuss ‘checking in’: Early on this

increasing independence train there were some hiccups on Beckett’s part as far as reciprocating communication. I remember his first sleepover years ago when he did not answer his phone or return texts when were “checking in.” He thought he would be embarrassed.

6. Talk to teens about risks: Because I struggled with this at this age, I have really tried hard to teach Beckett about his immortality. It may seem morbid, but I share stories of teenagers dying or getting hurt as a result of poor decisions with him. He needs to know.

7. Give teens a game plan: On New Year’s Eve last year, Beckett had a sleepover elsewhere with a big group of kids. I reminded him to call me, don’t text if things are not going well or you just want to come home for whatever reason. I told him no questions would be asked. He did not call but he knew it was an option.

8. Keep the door open: Pam and I have consciously realized we need to watch our reactions to things Beckett tells. We cannot criticize and interrogate if he’s sharing something with us even if it’s disturbing. It’s part of building trust, and I personally have learned he will shut me out if I react poorly to something he told me privately.

9. Let kids feel guilty: A consequence of a bad action or mistake often times is guilt. I think this is part of life for children, teens and adults. Guilt is a healthy emotion. When kids have done something wrong, we hope they feel bad, we hope they feel guilty.

10. Be a role model: Actions and words matter to our kids and they are watching how we handle ourselves. There have been several instances when I noticed Beckett copy something I did or said to someone. While he may not always listen to my advice, it’s nice to see something stick every now and again.

(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.)

Baklava light and easy treat to try

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

*This column is reprinted from Feb. 7, 2020*

(May 17, 2024) For those who are not familiar with baklava, it is a Middle Eastern pastry made of many sheets of phyllo dough that are brushed with butter and given one or two layers of a sweetened nut filling. The entire dessert is soaked with a honey syrup for a fabulous finale.

Many cooks are intimated by the process of making baklava. But in actuality, this dish is very easy to make. Following are some tips to facilitate the making of this traditional dessert.

Thawing your phyllo dough properly is key for successful baklava. Place the phyllo dough in the refrigerator for 12 to 14 hours, do not remove the dough from the package. Otherwise, the phyllo will become dry and brittle, making it difficult to work with. Unless you are able to work quickly, you might want to place the thawed phyllo dough sheets in between two damp tea towels before assembling the baklava. This step helps the phyllo sheets remain soft and pliable.

Do not skimp on the butter and sugar; this multi-layered dessert needs extra moisture and sweetness to penetrate the many sheets of phyllo dough. Cinnamon is the preferred spice, but a pinch of cloves, allspice, and nutmeg give the dish more depth of flavor.

Nuts are a key ingredient when the

subject of baklava. Most recipes call for walnuts, but the addition of pistachios and hazelnuts makes for a more interesting dish.

The following recipe may appear to be very detailed, but it does not take long to make.

In closing, baklava is light and perfect for the spring and summer seasons. If one loves honey and nuts, you must give baklava a try. Enjoy!

Baklava

6 ounces shelled pistachios, finely chopped, plus 1/3 cup for garnishing 6 ounces walnuts, finely chopped 6 ounces hazelnuts, finely chopped ¼ cup sugar

2 tablespoons cinnamon

DREAM HOMES

few pinches each (ground cloves, ground allspice, ground nutmeg) 16-ounce package of phyllo dough (thawed)

18 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Honey Syrup ¾ cup sugar

1 cup cold water

1 cup honey

1 ½ teaspoons vanilla juice of ½ lemon

1. Combine all of the honey syrup ingredients in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Cook until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

3. Combine nuts, sugar, and spices in a medium bowl.

4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

5. Clear off a large surface area. Make sure you have all of the ingredients and utensils handy.

6. Unwrap the phyllo sheets and carefully unroll onto a dampened tea towel (not too wet). Lay a second dampened tea towel on top of the phyllo sheets.

7. If the phyllo dough extends over your baking dish, trim the sheets with a pair of scissors to match the dimensions of your pan.

8. Using a pastry brush, brush a thin layer of butter over the bottom of a 13” x 9” x 2” baking pan. Place one sheet of phyllo dough on the bottom of the pan. Butter lightly, making sure you go to the edges. Repeat this process for the next 6 sheets, buttering the top of each sheet. Make sure you keep the unused phyllo covered with the dampened tea towel.

9. Sprinkle half of the nuts over the phyllo and gently spread them evenly with your hands. Be sure to spread the nuts to the edges of the dough.

10. Place another 5 sheets of phyllo dough, and butter each layer, one at a time.

11. Spread the remaining nuts over the phyllo.

12. Place 7 more sheets, buttering each layer, one at a time.

13. Using a pizza wheel, cut the baklava into 2-inch strips on a diagonal. Turn the pan at a 90-degree angle, and again cut into 2-inch strips on a diagonal. This will form a diamond shape which is more pleasing to the eye than the traditional square.

14. Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until golden brown.

15. As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour room temperature honey syrup on it and allow to rest for at least 3 hours. Serve immediately.

Secret Ingredient – Memory

“To observe attentively is to remember distinctively.” — Edgar Allen Poe

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Saturday, May 18:

Full Circle

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Friday, May 17:

Darin Engh & Monkee Paw

Saturday, May 18:

The Permilla Project & Beg 2 Differ

Sunday, May 19:

Heather Vidal & Colossal Fossil Sauce

Monday, May 20:

Nate Clendenen & Fil Rhythm Duo

Tuesday, May 21:

Jack Bannon & The Dunehounds

Wednesday, May 22:

Darren O’Neil & Lime Green

Thursday, May 23:

Kevin Poole Solo & Full Circle

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 17:

Dueling Pianos

Saturday, May 18:

DJ Giddy Up & Identity Crisis

CRABCAKE FACTORY

BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Sunday, May 19: Uncle Ward

Wednesday, May 22: Endless Ember

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, May 17:

Risky Business

Saturday, May 18:

Mike Pinto & Michael Sky (Ticket Event)

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, May 17:

Great Train Robbery, Hit Or Miss & RobCee

Saturday, May 18:

Other Brother Darryl, Radio Hero & DJ Groove

Monday, May 20:

Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Hector

Tuesday, May 21: Latin Night w/ DJ Patana

Best Beats On The Beach

IDENTITY CRISIS

Coins Pub: Saturday, May 18

RISKY BUSINESS

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, May 17

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Coconuts Beach Bar: Tuesday, May 21

THE WAY OUTS

Seacrets: Wednesday, May 22

PISTOL WHIPPED

Pickles Pub: Saturday, May 18

CITIZENS

Harborside: Saturday, May 18

GO GO GADJET

Seacrets: Thursday, May 23

CECILIA’S FALL

Fager’s Island: Monday, May 20

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Harborside: Sunday, May 19

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Friday, May 17: DJ Billy T

Saturday, May 18:

Rogue Citizens & DJ Donnie Berkey

Sunday, May 19:

Opposite Directions

Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, May 18:

Pistol Whipped

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wood

Wednesdays: Beats By Styler

Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, May 17 & 18: Surreal

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 17:

John McNutt Band, Jah Works, The Event Horizon, DJ Connair & DJ Bobby O

Saturday, May 18:

Light Up The Moon, Jah Works, Coming Alive, DJ Cruz, DJ Connair & DJ E-State

Sunday, May 19:

Light Up The Moon & DJ Bobby O

Monday, May 20: 9th Gear & DJ Wax

Tuesday, May 21:

Dear Zoe & DJ Wax

Wednesday, May 22: DJ E-State & The Way Outs

Thursday, May 24: John McNutt Duo, Cherry Crush Band, Go Go Gadjet & DJ Cruz

VISTA ROOFTOP

410-390-7905

13801 Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 17: Steve Kuhn

Saturday, May 18:

TBA

Monday, May 20:

Dave Crites

Tuesday, May 21:

Rick Artz

Wedenesday, May 22:

Taylor Knox & Brian

Thursday, May 23:

Michael Sky

ROGUE

MONKEE PAW Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, May 17

Rome’s fall overshadowed by France events

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(May 17, 2024) This week, 80 years ago, Allied 15th Army Group, under the command of Allied Supreme Commander in Italy, Gen. Sir Harold Alexander, was executing “Operation Diadem,” which called for the Allies facing the Germans in the Gustav Line to break through and head north, while those units in the Anzio beachhead would head east, trapping the German units retreating north.

Those armies included the Commonwealth’s Eighth Army, commanded by Sir Oliver Leese, and the U.S. Fifth Army commanded by Mark W. Clark. Both armies contained soldiers from many nations.

Gen. Leese’ Eighth Army contained three Indian divisions, a Polish corps, a South African Division, a Canadian corps, and an Italian corps. Gen. Clark’s Fifth Army, in addition to its American soldiers, included two British divisions, two Moroccan divisions, an Algerian division, and a French division.

Gen. Clark’s Fifth Army contained three corps. The VI Corps, commanded by Lucian K. Truscott defended the Anzio beachhead. The II Corps, and the French Expeditionary

Corps, commanded by Geoffrey Keyes and Alphonse Juin, faced the German line on the western side of the Italian Peninsula.

Opposing the Allied armies was Armeegruppe “C,” commanded by Field Marshal “Smiling” Albert Kesselring. Field Marshal Kesselring’s Armeegruppe “C” consisted of Fourteenth Army, commanded by Eberhard von Mackensen, which confronted Gen. Truscott’s VI Corps at the Anzio Beachhead, and Tenth Army, commanded by Heinrich von Vietinghoff, which confronted the balance of Allied forces facing north.

Within a week of the launch of “Operation Diadem,” the linchpin of the Gustav Line — Monte Cassino — had fallen. Gen. Truscott’s VI Corps began its breakout of the Anzio beachhead on May 23. The trap was being laid. Between the Allied forces attacking north and Gen. Truscott’s VI Corps attacking east, behind the Germans, seven German divisions were about to be trapped. But it was not to be!

Although Gen. Clark had been ordered by his superior, Gen. Alexander, to drive Gen. Truscott’s VI Corps behind the German defenses along the Gustav Line to trap the German Army, he instead, seeking the publicity that

the capture of Rome would bring, ignored his commanding officer’s order and directed Gen. Truscott’s VI Corps, on May 25, to turn its main line of attack 90 degrees to the left, and head for Rome.

Gen. Clark informed Alexander of his disobedience the next day — after it was a fait accompli! Gen. Truscott was amazed and disgusted. Gen. Alexander, ever the gracious Englishman, ordered Eighth Army to pass east of the city so that Clark would have it all to himself.

It was described by American his-

Continued on Page 75

This eliminated the possibility of trapping and capturing Gen. von Vietinghoff’s Tenth German Army defending the Gustav Line. Instead, Gen. von Vietinghoff’s Tenth German Army was able to retire in good order behind its next defensive position — the Gothic Line, north of Rome — when it might have been eliminated and the war shortened.

CROSSWORD

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, a friend of has made steady progress and exhibited significant personal growth. Continue to support this person’s pursuits and act as a source of encouragement.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Your happiness can bring joy to many other people this week, Taurus. Spread all of your positivity among those people who can use it the most. You will reap rewards as well.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

The people around you may be behaving in interesting and unexpected ways, Gemini. You don’t know what to make of this just yet, so sit back and watch the show.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, it is challenging to keep up with all of the comings and goings of the people in your social circle. It may take a little while for you to reconnect.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Let others see a side of you that you don’t often share, Leo. It is alright to be vulnerable at times, and this vulnerability actually may appeal to some new people in your life.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you have a tremendous amount of power at your disposal this week. You should use all of it wisely and not waste a drop. Others will be affected by your presence.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, expect to spot trouble on the horizon before other people around you. This gives you a head-start to take action and prepare yourself and others for what’s to come.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Pay careful attention to any and all financial transactions you make this week, Scorpio. You want to keep tabs on where your money is going and avoid as many mistakes as possible.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, a situation may arise this week in which you are expected to do more than you feel comfortable. Don’t let others bully you into action. Explain your hesitation carefully and respectfully.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

What is the point of power struggles if it alienates all of the people closest to you, Capricorn? Sometimes you must forego ego to maintain personal relationships and family harmony.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, try to interact this week with the people who may not necessarily agree with you or share your beliefs. It could be good to see things from different perspectives.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Positive energy is circling around you this week, Pisces. Those good vibes will put you in a mood to reach out to some people in your life who may have drifted away.

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 74

torian, Lt. Col. Carlo D’Este, “... as militarily stupid as it was insubordinate.” Actions like these earned Gen. Clark the sobriquet “Marcus Aurelius Clarkus.”

Gen. Clark explained, “I don’t think we intended to become the first army since the 15th century to seize Rome from the south, but we intended to see that the people back home knew that it was the Fifth Army that did the job and knew the price that had been paid for it.”

On June 2, der Führer informed Field Marshal Albert Kesselring, Wehrmacht commander-in-chief in Italy, that there would be, “... no defense of Rome.” He did not want another Stalingrad, nor did he want to offend the remaining few Italians loyal to Mussolini’s puppet government, although Il Duce wanted the capital, which had betrayed him, destroyed. After the war, Field Marshal Kesselring took credit for saving the city.

As the First Special Service Force, under Brig. Gen. Robert Frederick, was advancing toward Rome on June 3, 1944, it encountered resistance from the German Rear Guard on Rome’s outskirts.

Aware of the pending invasion of Normandy, and knowing that the publicity from that event would overtake his, Gen. Clark, wanting to enter Rome during daylight hours so that

his photographers could take good pictures, was a man in a hurry.

He and Maj. Gen. Keys, went forward to meet with Gen. Frederick, to determine the reason for Gen. Frederick’s “lethargy.” Gens. Clark and Keys encountered Gen. Frederick near the “ROMA” sign on the road to Rome.

Gen. Clark declared that he would like to have that sign for his office. At that time, a German sniper began firing at the three generals. While they were pinned down by the sniper, Gen. Frederick told his commander, “That is what is holding up the 1st Special Service Force!”

But Gen. Clark got his sign - and the glory of liberating Rome!

Later that evening, Gen. Frederick´s men began entering the city. One Thomas Garcia, upon seeing the Colosseum for the first time, exclaimed, ¨My God, they bombed that, too! Most of the Americans arrived the next day, and were bombarded with flowers.

Gen. Clark held his first press conference in the Italian capital on the morning of June 4, on the steps of the Capitoline Hill. He had ordered that no troops other than Americans enter the city and posted guards at all of the city’s entrances to enforce it. He wasn’t sharing!

In his speech, he noted that, “This is a great day for the Fifth Army and for the French, British, and American

troops of the Fifth who have made this victory possible,” omitting any reference to Eighth Army! At 6 p.m., more than 300,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square to hear Pope Pius XII thank God for sparing the city and implored Romans to not seek vengeance.

The Allied High Command had determined that the honor of entering the “Eternal City” first should go to the Canadians, because they had suffered the highest proportion of casualties of any nationality in the Allied army. Instead Gen. Clark sent them through the city at 3 a.m. on June 5!

American casualties, since the start of the operation on May 11, were 17,931, with total Allied casualties being more than 43,000 The Germans suffered 53,606 casualties during the same period. Rome was the first Axis capital captured by the Allies.

Events in France soon moved the Italian Campaign off the front page. By the time President Roosevelt announced Rome’s fall, Allied soldiers were storming the Normandy beaches.

Next: Fourth Battle of Changsha Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, where he practices law representing people accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and people who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com

Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, 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, 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ 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.

■ FISH TALES

2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com

Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.

■ HARBOR WATCH

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

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Celebrating our 40th anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open Thursday through Monday. Happy Hour: Thursday, Sunday and Monday, all night long featuring $10 select appetizers, $6 crushes, $4 select draft. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ 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.

■ THE WEDGE BAR

806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, www.thewedgeoc.com

$-$$ | Full bar

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Happy Hour, Sunday through Thursday, 3-6 p.m. Open Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 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, 410-5247171, 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.

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com

A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.

■ 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’S 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

CLOSED JAN. 21 AND REOPENING FEB. 1.

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

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

13117 Coastal 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

Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 49 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal 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, 410-2504900, 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, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Established 25 years ago but recently under new ownership. 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.

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

“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.

OCEAN PINES

■ 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. Thursday through Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB

1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, www.OPYachtclub.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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 410390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com

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

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST

Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500

Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80seat 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. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

■ SHRIMP BOAT

9724 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City, 410-213-0448, shrimpboatoc.com

Since 1989, a spot for locals and visitors to enjoy fresh local seafood straight off the boats. Dine-in seating also available. It’s all sourced local and fresh and a free shrimp sample available.

Mini-grant program now open

(May 17, 2024) Beach to Bay Heritage Area officials have announced guidelines and criteria for the organization’s Fiscal Year 2025 mini-grant program.

Made possible through financial support from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, the mini grants assist local heritage-related nonprofit sites and organizations with new programs, activities, products, events partnerships, exhibits, tours, events, and other initiatives that are consistent with regional goals and activities outlined in the Heritage Area Strategic Plan.

Maximum mini-grant awards are capped at $5,000. Visit the Mini Grants page at Mini Grants-BeachesBaysWaterWays.org for the application, guidelines and more.

Mini-grant proposals that include collaborative partnerships and enhance preservation, the stewardship of historical, cultural, and/or natural resources and economic development through heritage tourism are encouraged.

Examples of eligible projects include new heritage tours, maps, interpretive brochures and other heritage-related publications; educational public programs, exhibits, and/or events; and heritage tourismrelated website development. Oral

history projects are also eligible.

Heritage tourism-related programs for K-12 students, home-schooled students, and/or after-school educational programs, and educational seminars, workshops, and conferences that encourage or enhance preservation, revitalization, and interpretation of the area’s natural, cultural and historic resources are also eligible.

Beach to Bay Heritage Area officials encourages proposals that are consistent with regional thematic heritage-tourism related initiatives and those that include new technology, foster environmentally-friendly and sustainable practices at heritage sites, foster accessibility for visitors with disabilities, and/or create new heritage-related programming in the arts.

Generally, grants will be made as one-time awards, not for ongoing projects or annual activities. Other types of projects not specifically stated may also be eligible and should be discussed with the heritage area director. Applicants are encouraged to contact Lisa Challenger; info@beachesbayswaterways.org, to discuss potential grant projects before they begin filing out their applications. Applications are due (submitted via e-mail) no later than Friday, May 31.

Berlin to host classic vehicles

(May 17, 2024) Just a few miles away from the festivities of Cruisin’ Ocean City this weekend, the Town of Berlin is holding its own annual classic car event on Saturday, where the fire department’s 1924 Mack Model AB Chain Drive engine will be on display.

The Berlin Chamber of Commerce this week announced that the historic truck will be prominently featured at during the Cruisin’ Berlin car event.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the fire department’s acquisition of the engine, adding significance to this special occasion for both the department and community.

Attendees can expect to marvel at photos of the engine, buy exclusive commemorative T-shirts, challenge coins, and more at the event. The Berlin Fire Department’s Old Mack Committee will be present to engage visitors with historic information and answer questions about the engine.

Berlin Cruisin’ will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. , Saturday, May 18, in downtown Berlin. Bring your family and engage with classic car enthusiasts, while spending a day in Berlin browsing through the array of shops and dining at local restaurants.

Calendar

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

Fri., May 17

CRUISIN’ OCEAN CITY

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Also in the Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot. Featuring more than 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks. Entertainment, boardwalk parades and more.

https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. A fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK SIGNING FOR ‘THE MAKING OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST BILL FISHING TOURNAMENT’ WITH JIM MOTSKO

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

WALK WITH A DOC

South Gate Pond, Ocean Pines, 9-10 a.m. An AGH representative will give a brief discussion, then will lead the group for a walk around the park’s trail. First 10 to arrive, receive $10 Walmart gift cards. Alyce Marzola, 410-641-9268

CRAFTY SATURDAY: DINOSAUR STORYTIME AND CRAFT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Explore the world of dinosaurs. All ages. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BBQ CHICKEN

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Meet Jim Motsko, and co-author Joanne Guilfoil, and learn about the history of the White Marlin Open. Free admission for the book signing. 410-289-4991, emma@ocmuseum.org, www.ocmuseum.org

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘LIGHT YEARS FROM HOME’ BY MIKE CHEN

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Copies of the book can be picked up at the Berlin Library circulation desk. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., May 18

St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 11 a.m. Cost is $15 for 1/2 BBQ Chicken Platter with two sides, roll and drink or $12 for 1/2 BBQ chicken with roll and drink. Proceeds benefit St. Paul United Methodist Church Men’s Ministry.

CLOTHING GIVEAWAY, FOR MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN

Holy Trinity Cathedral (Anglican), 11021 Worcester Highway, Berlin, 1-3 p.m. The Clothing Ministry will be giving away the clothes that they have collected. 410641-4882

ORIGINALS ONLY

CRUISIN’ OCEAN CITY

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Also in the Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot. Featuring more than 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks. Entertainment, boardwalk parades and more.

https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city

PREAKNESS STAKES

Elks Lodge #2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave., Ocean City. Queen of Hearts drawing at 6:30 p.m. DJs JR & Marie from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Happy Hour until 6 p.m. Chili cheese dogs or sauerkraut dogs with fries and lite fare. Dinner offered from 4-7 p.m. Light fare includes wings, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, shrimp, fries and onion rings. 410-250-2645, https://www.elks.org/lodges/home.cfm ?LodgeNumber=2645

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 6-8 p.m. Live performances featuring original acts by local up-andcoming musicians. A donation of $5 is suggested. 410-524-9433, megan@artleagueofoceancity.org, https://artleagueofoceancity.org

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

Sun., May 19

CRUISIN’ OCEAN CITY

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Also in the Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot. Featuring more than 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks. Entertainment, boardwalk parades and more.

https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Berlin Fire Department’s 1924 Mack Model AB Chain Drive engine will be on display Saturday during Cruisin’ Berlin.

BAY DAY AT OCEAN PINES

White Horse Park, 235 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Boat rides, hands-on activities, live animals, exploration stations, environmental exhibitors, native plant giveaway, live music and food and drink vendors. Free admission. mdcoastalbays.org

CHURCH CONCERT

Saint Matthews by the-Sea United Methodist Church, 1000 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, 8:30 a.m. Eternal Vision Ministries performances 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Full concert at 6 p.m.

SPECIAL NEEDS DAY AT TRIMPER RIDES

Trimper Rides of Ocean City, 700 S. Atlantic Ave., 1-5 p.m. Trimper Rides is teaming up with the Autistic Children’s Support Group of Worcester County. Interested groups contact marketing@trimperrides.com for a special code and discount ride passes. 410289-8617

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays through Sept. 8 - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featuring more than 35 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat, eggs and more.

https://berlinmainstreet.com/farmersmarket/

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., May 20

VOLUNTEER FAIR

Ocean Pines Community Center - Assateague Room, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m.-noon. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Learn about rewarding volunteer opportunities in the area. Many local organizations represented including Assateague Coastal Trust, AGH Auxiliary, Cricket Center and more.

STORY TIME: ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE

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

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION: POETRY OF YOUR CHOICE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Bring a poem to share. The group meets twice a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LEGO MASTERS STEM

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Create a lego ship that can float on water. Drop in and design. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

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

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, 302-2427062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., May 21

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. A variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 05 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GENEALOGY WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. The workshop starts with a 20-minute lesson on genealogy research, followed by a Q&A. Bring a laptop, tablet or papers containing family information, if you can. Registration requested: 410-2084014.

STORY TIME: ‘SEASHORE’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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. 410289-4725

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., May 22

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2: CRUISING THROUGH ‘THE CHANGE’®

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Sequel to “Menopause The Musical®” Tickets cost $55-$75. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/521900 6/menopause-the-musical-2cruisingthrough-the-change-ocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center. 410-289-2800

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Takes place the third and fourth Wednesdays of each month. For surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568

EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Promoting the needle arts through sewing education, activities and textile crafts. For artisans of all skill levels. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STRANDED AT SEA: OC BAY HOPPER PROGRAM

OC Bay Hopper, 11703 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 12:30-2 p.m. Uncover the details of three 1880 shipwrecks. Costs $50 per person. Half of the proceeds will be donated to OC Life-Saving Station Museum. https://book.ocbayhopper.com/Experience, 410-289-4991

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, 410-

641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org

SWAP MEET

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Bring unwanted books, toys, puzzles or games to exchange for other to keep. For ages 6 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PAINT & SIP

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

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Thurs., May 23

STORYTIME: ‘THE POUT POUT FISH’ Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Why is the Pout Pout his so upset? Can his friends cheer him up? Be prepared for a fun, messy art craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

THURSDAY CRAFTERNOON: BIRD FEEDERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Make a beautiful feeder that will also brighten your garden. All materials provided. Register: 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5-6 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required for each class. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

Thursdays - Nick’s Kitchen + Bar, 14410 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 4-6 p.m. 215385-4993, BeachSingles.org

Crossword answers from page 74

Md. Realtors recap ‘24 legislation

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(May 17, 2024) In 2024, the Maryland General Assembly convened on Jan. 10 and adjourned on April 8. Maryland Realtors issued a recap of all of the pertinent legislation affecting the real estate industry. This week’s summary covers the “Housing” related legislation that passed.

HB 7/SB 203 Housing Innovation Pilot Program and Housing Innovation Fund (Effective July 1) — This new program provides funding for the public housing authorities and county governments to increase the volume of housing production and incentivize innovative solutions to the problem of housing scarcity.

HB 131 Housing Development Permit Applications - Local Reporting Requirement (Effective Oct. 1) —Each local jurisdiction with

at least 150,000 residents must compile annual reports relating to housing permit applications received and considered in that locality.

HB 534/SB 90 Live Near Your School Program – Extension ( Effective July 1) — This program, which provides current students and recent graduates with financial assistance to buy homes near the school attended, is extended to Sept. 30, 2030.

HB 538 Zoning Density and Permitting - Housing Expansion and Affordability Act (Effective Jan. 1) — Local jurisdictions will grant bonus densities and uses in specified zoning areas, which include those within 0.75 miles of rail transit, former state and U.S. military owed campuses, and lands owned by nonprofits, in exchange for a certain percentage of those units being dedicated as affordable housing. New manufactured homes and modular dwellings must be allowed in all single-family residential zones. The bill

also prohibits a local jurisdiction from imposing unreasonable limitations or requirements on qualified projects or requiring review at more than a specified number of public hearings.

HB 599 Housing and Community Development Financing Act (Effective July 1) — This bill establishes the Maryland Community Investment Corporation to apply for federal tax credits and make investments and financial assistance available to low-income communities.

HB 1203 Economic Development - Revolving Loan Program and Tax Increment Financing (Effective Oct. 1) — A Revolving Loan Program is established to make loans for real estate and infrastructure projects in sustainable communities, priority funding areas, and for transit-oriented development.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

Lower Shore Clinic rebrands as Healthport in Worcester

(May 17, 2024) The Lower Shore Clinic has rebranded with a new name and identity to become HealthPort.

The brand change reflects the nonprofit organization’s mission to deliver multifaceted primary care, mental health, and substance use treatment to clients throughout the region. HealthPort operates a health center outside Berlin in Newark and provides mobile services to Worcester County residents.

CEO Dimitrios Cavathas said in a news release that the HealthPort name centers on the word “port” – a haven for calm and hope.

“Our new brand draws from the sensation of arriving at a port – a place that feels peaceful and well,” he said. “It leans into the spirit of optimism we offer to our clients who, in many cases, are seeking trust in their health care decisions, safe harbor and direction in their lives.”

HealthPort partnered with Baltimore-based TBC and Delmarva’s We Are Limitless studios to execute the rebranding. TBC helped to develop the organization’s name, logo and website, while We Are Limitless is incorporating the new brand identity in exterior artwork at the health centers throughout the Eastern Shore.

Founded in 1979, HealthPort delivers health care services to more than 2,000 people in five counties. Cavathas said in the release that the name change will be seamless for HealthPort clients. He believes it will increase awareness of the organization’s care and services while increasing visibility in the community.

“Clients typically come to us through referrals by health care institutions, community health providers, health insurance plans, employers and families” Cavathas said. “We offer care to all residents of Delmarva who seek services. No one is turned away for inability to pay.”

HealthPort employs a team of more than 176 physicians, nurse practitioners, counselors, therapists, administrators and other staff mem-

See NONPROFIT Page 84

As a participating health care provider in Medicaid, Medicare and most major health care insurance plans, HealthPort is recognized by the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic. The organization is nationally recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities in eight categories of services.

May 16 - 23

on Harbour erro r, , 120th St., Bayside 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, T Toowns & SF - Nanette Pavier/Holiday 12346 Old Bridge Rd, West OC3BR/2BA Single Familystarting at $239,750Shelly Wilson/Salt Life 12346 Old Bridge Rd, West OC2BR/1BA Single Familystarting at $179,900Shelly Wilson/Salt Life 05 Lighthouse Avenue, Ocean City3BR/2.5BASingle Family$899,900Nancy Reither/Coldwell B eekhaven Dr 6937 Crre r.., Selbyville, DE 4BR/2.5 BASingle

Reither/Coldwell B 304 S Herroon Gull Court 4BR/4.5BASingle

Reither/Coldwell B Mumforrdds Landing Road, Ocean Pines 4BR/3.5BASingle Family$659,900Sandy Dougan/BHHS Pe 15 Brreeezeway Lane, Ocean Pines 4BR/3BA

$429,999 Debbie Bennington/BHHS 11000 Coastal Hwyy., Capri #1703, OC 2BR/2BA

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Dimitrios Cavathas, the CEO of newly rebranded HealthPort, formerly Lower Shore Clinic, is pictured.

Chamber names Hardwire’s Emily Tunis 2024 Rising Star

(May 17, 2024) The Maryland Chamber of Commerce recently honored Hardwire, LLC President and Chief Operating Officer Emily Tunis with its 2024 Rising Star Award.

quality and innovation in the field.

According to a news release, the recognition highlights Tunis’ leadership, innovative vision, and significant contributions to both the business landscape and the community. Chamber officials recognized Tunis at the organization’s annual Inspire MD dinner on May 9 in Baltimore.

The release said Tunis has been instrumental in driving Hardwire’s success as a leading manufacturing firm specializing in critical armor systems for military, law enforcement, and security applications. Her strategic direction has not only expanded the company’s product lines to include groundbreaking innovations such as the world’s lightest body armor and the Emergency Response Shield, but it has also fostered substantial job creation in an area historically marked by seasonal employment. Under Tunis’ guidance, Hardwire has flourished with a reputation for unparalleled

Tunis’ passion for STEM education and workforce development is also evident in Hardwire’s initiatives, including internships and partnerships with educational institutions. Her advocacy for regional economic progress further underscores her dedication to fostering growth and opportunity, the release said.

Beyond her role as an executive, Tunis is involved in supporting local organizations through board service and philanthropic endeavors, demonstrating her profound commitment to the betterment of her community. She is involved in the leadership of the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, the Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Washington and Lee University’s Science Advisory Board, and Worcester Preparatory School.

The Maryland Chamber of Commerce’s Inspire MD event celebrates outstanding business visionaries, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, recognizing their contributions to Maryland’s economic and social fabric. Along with honoring Tunis as a Rising Star, the event paid tribute to the courageous efforts of first responders, emergency personnel, and volunteers involved in the recent Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.

Emily Tunis

Nonprofit will expand to Salisbury location

Continued from Page 82

bers in Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset, Caroline, Dorchester and Talbot counties.

Primary care, including physicals, diagnosis of acute and chronic illnesses, and health education promotion and maintenance, is available at HealthPort’s medical center open Monday through Thursday at 505 E. Main St. in Salisbury. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are accepted. An independent pharmacy fills prescription medication requests to clients onsite at the facility for convenience and provides in-person pharmacist education and support for medications.

HealthPort’s outpatient mental health and addiction services, available seven days a week, are based at the medical center campus as well.

Staff provides individual counseling, group therapy, case management, psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and medication assisted treatment.

Group rehabilitation programs serve people with various disorders at five county-based locations, two in Salisbury (one for seniors), and one in each in Somerset (Princess Anne), Worcester (Newark), and Dorchester (Cambridge) counties.

HealthPort is also expanding to a third Salisbury location. Teaming with Delmarva-based Davis, Bowen & Friedel architects, the final phase of planning a $3.2-million facility at the corner of East Main and Ward streets is underway. This facility will be home to mental health counseling, weekend and evening trauma treatment, and healthy living practices such as yoga classes in a state-of-the-

art studio. Construction is expected to begin within the year.

HealthPort also offers safe and affordable rehabilitation and supported housing at 60 residential properties across three counties. Both supervised and unsupervised beds are available to assist individuals with maintaining the highest level of independence possible.

ment, rehabilitation, nursing care, peer support, housing, and substance abuse counseling. Telehealth options for both primary care and outpatient mental health counseling are also available to clients.

‘Clients typically come to us through referrals by health care institutions, community health providers, health insurance plans, employers and families. We offer care to all residents of Delmarva who seek services. No one is turned away for inability to pay.’

Mobile services are offered by HealthPort to residents throughout the Eastern Shore who are having difficulty accessing care through traditional office-based services. Assertive Community Treatment teams provide outreach by visiting homes, workplaces and other appropriate locations chosen by clients. The teams can assist clients with psychiatric services, employ-

Dimitrios

Cavathas, HealthPort CEO

Other HealthPort programs include residential crisis services in a community-based setting available year-round, 24hours a day; a healthy foods program to increase member access to fresh produce and nutrition and cooking education; specialized young adult mental health services for ages 19 to 29; and vocational services. For more information and to make an appointment, contact HealthPort at 410-341-3420, email referral@healthport.org or visit HealthPort.org.

Bus, tram advertising on pace to hit targets

Revenues increased from $416,905 to $428,555 since stats update in April

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Officials say they are optimistic bus and tram advertising will meet revenue projections for the coming year.

During Tuesday’s meeting of the Ocean City Transportation Committee, Transit Manager Rob Shearman presented members with new revenue projections for bus and tram advertising. He said the projections, which have increased $12,000 from the previous committee meeting, reflect new advertisers and additional tram ads.

“Overall, revenues are good,” he

said. “Yes, we budgeted ambitiously for the coming year but fingers crossed it looks like they are on target to hit it.”

In 2022, Ocean City hired Gateway Outdoor Advertising to replace Vector Media as its advertising contractor. The company has been tasked with overseeing advertising on the city’s bus and tram fleets, as well as digital advertising on the backs of the Boardwalk trams. The digital tram ads were a new element that Gateway officials introduced for last summer that did not quite take off due to technical issues.

‘Yes, we budgeted ambitiously for the coming year but fingers crossed it looks like they are on target to hit it.’ Transit Manager Rob Shearman

ability to produce the targeted revenues – Gateway has continued to produce promising advertising numbers in recent months. For example, since the last update at April’s transportation committee meeting, projected bus and tram advertising revenues have increased from $416,905 to $428,555.

“They have had a couple of new advertisers come on since we spoke with them last month,” Shearman explained.

creased by $5,500. Mayor Rick Meehan, who chairs the committee, said that once advertisements are displayed, it could encourage other companies to participate.

“I think once those ads are on the trams, it’s going to encourage others to do the same,” he said.

Despite a slow start – which resulted in officials questioning the company’s

Y Yoour Countertop Speccialists

Shearman noted that projected bus revenues have increased by nearly $40,000, projected tram static advertising revenues have increased by $200, and projected tram digital advertising revenues have in-

Shearman also told the committee this week that two of the eight digital advertising boards the town had purchased for the Boardwalk trams are broken. When asked if the town should purchase an additional board in the event that one malfunctions, Shearman said it was something to explore.

“They are expensive and not easy to keep on hand,” he said. “But if the reliability continues to be questionable then I think it makes sense to do that.”

Inspection timetable clouds rental changes

Council asks staff to review license transfers, timelines for inspecting properties

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) Resort officials this week agreed to move forward with proposed amendments that will allow the town to better regulate shortterm rentals, but not before a heated debate on certain changes to the licensing process.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council voted to direct the city solicitor to prepare an ordinance amending Ocean City’s rental housing code. While the changes will require usable on-site parking, as well as a declaration stating the number of bedrooms and parking spaces, officials this week asked staff to further review the inspection timeline and potential license transfers.

“I think we need to begin to take incremental steps to make this process better and to make shortterm rentals better, not just for the owner, the renter, but also for the community,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “But right now, we just need to move forward. Right now, we are just treading water.”

For months, resort officials have been discussing ways to regulate

short-term rentals in Ocean City. In February, for example, the council directed staff to recommend revisions to the town’s rental license program, with a proposal to divide licenses based on length of stay. Since that time, officials have explored potential short-term rental regulations.

Earlier this month, the council voted to approve a definition for short-term rentals and move forward with a proposed licensing structure that divides rental permits and sets fees. Back on the agenda for further discussion this week, Deputy Director JR Harmon said staff wanted the council to consider additional changes to the rental code, specifically the rental licensing and inspection processes.

“In Section 14-171, you notice the only changes in our code is recognizing what you endorsed last time and that’s the short-term rental definition of 30 days and under qualifying as a short-term rental and then of course a long-term rental then would be 31 days or more in a consecutive year,” he told the council Tuesday. “Turning your attention now to Section 14-174, you’ll notice we placed a short-term rental license in there.”

Harmon told the council this week that applicants seeking a rental license will now have to provide a declaration stating the number of

bedrooms and approved on-site, available parking. It will also require rental properties to maintain all required or approved on-site parking as parking available for use by the tenant.

“So that’s specifically for when we do inspections, we can do the enforcement,” he said. “We’ve been hearing the council talk about these garages and maintaining them for parking as well.”

Harmon said another amendment would be to set, by resolution, an annual license fee beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The proposed changes also give town staff 30 days – rather than the current 14 – to review a license application and inspect the rental property. He said staff had found it challenging to coordinate an inspection with property owners within the 14-day window.

“We don’t see it as an intent to slow down the licensing at all,” he said. “It’s just to make sure that we can coordinate and get it done.”

Councilman Peter Buas said he took issue with that specific change, as it could hurt buyers looking to rent their new properties.

“I’ve always kind of been of the opinion the town should issue the license immediately upon receipt,” he said, “and if the town wants to have that trigger an inspection process

EXPERIENCE

thereafter, that could happen in the first 30 days. That’s perfectly fine. But I don’t want to see a gap in licensure.”

However, Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said he had concerns about placing a tenant inside a unit without the proper inspection. He said it posed a life safety issue.

“I don’t want to have to displace somebody if we come upon a life safety issue during inspection,” he added.

Buas said there were some settlements that occurred within 30 days. He said it didn’t give buyers enough time to have the required inspections to rent their property immediately.

Councilwoman Carol Proctor said buyers purchasing an existing rental also needed to honor bookings made by the previous owner.

“Most of these condos and most of these properties that are on the market for sale already have the full summer booked,” she said. “They’re transferring on a day when one renter checks out and another renter is checking in and they’re settling in between.”

Staff, however, said the situation is no different under the current 14-day timeframe. Harmon added that one of the proposed amendments allows property owners to request an inspec-

Council takes issue with inspection timeline

tion at any time. The inspection would stand for one calendar year.

“So what it does is it gives the option to the buyer or seller … to ask us to come in and do that pre-inspection before sale,” he said. “Again, it would be within 30 days of the request for an inspection. We could come in and do our property maintenance inspection and then both the buyer and the seller would know any issues that would exist before settlement.”

During Tuesday’s council meeting, Councilman John Gehrig made a motion to prepare an ordinance for first

reading with three minor changes related to the code’s verbiage. The motion ultimately failed in a 2-3 vote with Buas, Proctor and Councilman Frank Knight opposed.

“I think there is a different way to do this than to have a 30-day period, potentially after closing and potentially hurting some of our residents and property owners,” Buas said.

While the majority of the council took issue with the new timeline for inspections, City Manager Terry McGean tried to allay their concerns.

“Thirty days doesn’t mean it’s

going to take 30 days,” he said. “We’re saying we’ll have it done within 30 days … If someone has a real hardship, we’ll try to get in earlier.”

Buas, however, questioned if more could be done to expedite the inspection and licensing process. He then made a motion to prepare an ordinance for first reading with the three minor changes discussed, but to remove the proposed 30-day inspection timeline. The motion also directed staff to explore license transfers and inspection timelines for future discussion.

For his part, Meehan said he believed Gehrig’s motion to be the better option. However, he encouraged the council to move forward with some form of the ordinance, as it would address the impacts of shortterm rentals on residential neighborhoods.

“I’d like to see it pass sooner rather than later …,” he said. “Overall, this makes a difference and I think it’s time to move it forward.”

Buas’ motion passed in a 5-0 vote, with Council President Matt James and Councilman Will Savage absent.

NOTICE TO MERCHANTS

Have you forgotten to renew your State of Maryland business license? To avoid paying the mandatory penalty, please renew your license by May 31, 2024. The office will be closed on Monday, May 27, 2024, in observance of Memorial Day under State Law. You can apply and renew business licenses online at Maryland Judiciary Business Licenses Online https://jportal.mdcourts.gov/license/pbIndex.jsp

Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland

Ocean City officials discuss changes to the resort’s rental licensing process during a meeting Tuesday as part of an effort to better regulate short term

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

9AM-1PM Beginning

WORCESTER COUNTY WATER AND WASTEWATER ENTERPRISE FUND FY 2025 REQUESTED BUDGETS AND ASSESSMENTS

The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed operating budgets, assessments, user charges and other charges for each of the 11 sanitary service areas operated by the Worcester County Department of Public Works, Water & Wastewater Division:

Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at 10:30am in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

Copies of the proposed operating budgets for the 11 sanitary service areas are available for public inspection in the County Commissioners’ Office in Room 1103 of the County Government Center in Snow Hill and online at www.co.worcester.md.us.

The 11 sanitary service areas and proposed changes to the user charges are as follows:

Assateague Pointe – increase from $106 to $117 per Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU) per quarter domestic water flat charge; increase from $163 to $179 per EDU per quarter domestic sewer flat charge; and increase from $30 to $50 per lot grinder pump flat surcharge and increase from $79.50 to $89.50 per EDU per quarter commercial sewer flat charge.

Briddletown – no proposed changes.

Edgewater Acres – increase from $196.60 to $215.60 per EDU per quarter domestic water and sewer base fee; Increase from $110 to $121 per EDU per quarter for domestic water flat rate and increase from $168.40 to $184.40 per EDU per quarter domestic sewer flat charge.

The Landings – increase from $277.50 to $318.50 per EDU per quarter domestic water and sewer base fee; increase from $44 to $50 per EDU per quarter Lewis Road domestic water base fee, increase in commercial water and sewer base fees ranging from $324.50 to $2,707.10 at present to $373.18 to $3,113.17 based on total EDUs, and increase from $267 to $307 per EDU per quarter accessibility fee.

Lighthouse Sound – no proposed changes

Mystic Harbour - increase from $215.00 to $243.00 per EDU per quarter domestic water and sewer base fee; no increase for domestic sewer flat charge, increase in commercial water and sewer base fees ranging from $249.70 to $2,079 at present to $282.16 to $2,349.27 based on total EDUs, increase from $58.50 to $60.75 per EDU per quarter for Sunset Village domestic water flat charge and increase from $53.75 to $60.75 per EDU per quarter for Oyster Harbor domestic water only. There is no Oyster Harbor Debt Service payment.

Newark - increase from $230 to $240 per EDU per quarter domestic water and sewer base fee; and increase from $286 to $301 per EDU per quarter commercial water and sewer base fee.

Ocean Pines – increase from $199 to $207 per EDU per quarter domestic water and sewer base fee; increase from $179.75 to $186.75 per EDU per quarter domestic sewer flat charge; increase from $154 to $160 per White Horse Park lot per quarter per domestic water and sewer flat charge; increase in commercial water and sewer base fees ranging from $257.46 to $2,143.60 at present to $267.76 to $2,229.34 based on total EDUs.

Riddle Farm - increase from $240 to $288 per EDU per quarter domestic water and sewer base fee; and increase in commercial water and sewer base fees ranging from $272.17 to $2,266.11 at present to $326.61 to $2,719.33 based on total EDUs.

River Run - increase from $167 to $192 per EDU per quarter domestic sewer flat charge; and increase from $62 to $71 per EDU per quarter domestic water base fee.

West Ocean City - no proposed changes.

In addition to user charges, assessments will be levied in

Snug Harbour service

Berlin brewery’s music request reduced by board

Owner’s license approved with slight modifications

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(May 17, 2024) The Berlin Beer Company moved another step closer to opening this week with an alcoholic beverage license approval from a local board.

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) on Wednesday unanimously approved a beer wine and liquor license for the Berlin Beer Company. Concerns from neighbors, however, prompted the board to reduce entertainment hours for the establishment from noon to 8 p.m. as opposed to the later hours requested by proprietor Adam Davis.

“You’re better off to get in with the vibe of the town than alienate the town,” BLC member Reese Cropper said.

Davis told the board this week about his efforts to restore the 100year-old building at 115 Broad St., the former Southern States, and his plan to operate it as a brewery. He said the building had originally been the town’s freight train station and had required extensive renovations.

“We redid everything,” he said. “We tried to retain as much of the history as we could.”

He said the craft brewery would produce about 1,000 barrels a year. The facility has a 500 square foot kitchen and will feature food. Davis said he planned to have family games and entertainment both inside and outside. Though his initial application sought to have entertainment until midnight, he told the board he modified that request in response to concerns from neighbors to 10 p.m. inside and 8 p.m. outside. He said Steve Green, a councilman who lives near the brewery, organized a meeting between Davis and neighbors. During that discussion, Davis agreed to seek reduced entertainment hours.

“It went well,” he said of the meeting. “It was just an open discussion. We want to be good neighbors. We want our neighbors to be our customers.”

Green sent a letter to the board in support of the modifications agreed to after the meeting with Davis. The letter read in part, “After hearing our concerns about noise emanating from the property as well as potential quality of life impacts, Mr. Davis agreed to modify his entertainment request. … We were pleased with the owner’s good faith attempts …”

Davis told the board the brewery would generally be open from 10 or 11 a.m. until 9 or 10 p.m.

“We’re not trying to have a concert venue,” he said.

Richard Holland, part owner of the

Berlin Beer Co. granted license for entertainment

Adkins Company, asked about parking at the brewery. Davis said the facility was required by the town to have 28 spaces and it had 30 spaces. Holland said that could be a problem. He said the Adkins Company let the public park on its property on the weekends. Holland is worried that on Friday afternoons, however, when Adkins Company is open and the brewery is open, there could be issues.

“We don’t want to be in a situation where people are parking on us to go to the beer hall and we’re not able to get to our materials,” Holland said. “Our only alternative in the future, if this is not a careful scenario with Berlin beer hall, there’s a right of way down Harrison Avenue. We own all of Harrison Avenue with this right of way. We would put a fence next to the right of way so there would be no parking… We don’t want to have a confrontation problem. If we do, we’ll take action.”

Oak Park told the board he’d lived in his home adjacent to Berlin Beer Company for 47 years and wanted to make sure the new business didn’t bring noise to the area.

“By definition our neighborhood is quiet and free from noise,” he said.

Neighbor Don Ferguson told the board he supported the business but encouraged Davis to work with a professional sound installation company so noise wasn’t a problem.

Davis told the board he’d added a fence in the back of the property and had enclosed the loading dock area to ensure noise wasn’t an issue.

“This is a craft beer brewery,” he said. “We’re not attracting the college crowd. This is a premium product. We shouldn’t have to worry about the type of crowd that would be causing a ruckus.”

BLC member Marty Pusey acknowledged Davis had requested a lot of entertainment. BLC member Charles Nichols said rather than including a DJ on his list of entertainment, Davis should simply call the board to request permission if the facility was holding a special event such as a wedding. Cropper made a motion to allow up to three-piece acoustic music from noon to 8 p.m. outside and inside. The board voted 3-0 in support of the motion.

ANOTHER FOAL

Assateague Island

National Seashore’s third foal of the year was born recently to Susi Sole, who is 9 years old. The foal represents Susi Sole’s fifth foal in as many years. Seashore officials remind visitors to maintain a school bus length’s away — approximately 40 feet — from all horses.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANN RICHARDSON

Worcester County students make Wor-Wic dean’s list

(May 17, 2024) A total 482 WorWic Community College students have been recognized for superior performance on the dean’s list for the fall term.

Students who maintained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while taking six or more credit hours during the fall term made the list.

The Worcester County students are as follows:

Berlin: Robert Baker, Caitlin Balassone, Lexi Berrie, Abigail Blankenship, Josh Blume, Lauren Bodolus, Shyniece Bratten, Kaitlyn Brittingham, Riley Calloway, Serena Camilleri, Julian Chambers, Katelyn Davis, Antonio Di Meo, Kimberly Duffy, Duncan Ely, George Eppard-Annis, Carter Fannin, Georgia Firor, Ella Gaddis, Chloe Ginman, Josh Glaub, Mason Glover, Hailey Golczynski, Ramona Gray, Jackson Halverson, Maddy Hamm, Chakirah Henry, Charletta Henry, Abigail Hernandez, Deliyah Holland, Alexis Hudson, Sarah Hyatt, Anamelina Juarez, Dylan Jung, Aiden Kane, Nathaniel Karvoski, Zach Ketterman, Rylie Kirby, Lexi Kliphouse, Tetiana Kovaliuk, Lindsey Laughlin, Jessica Lee, Laura Lewis, Takia Long, Colin Martin, Chloe Mason, Josselyne Maza-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WORCESTER COUNTY

SOLID WASTE ENTERPRISE FUND FY 2025 REQUESTED OPERATING BUDGET

The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed FY 2023/2024 Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Operating Budget as requested by the Worcester County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division on:

Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at 10:30am in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

The Proposed Budget maintains the current solid waste fees. Copies of the detailed budget are available for public inspection at the County Commissioners’ Office in Room 1103 of the County Government Center in Snow Hill or online at www.co.worcester.md.us.

WORCESTER COUNTY 2024/2025 REQUESTED OPERATING BUDGET

Chavez, Samantha McManus, Lauren Melnick, Olivia Olafsson, Dane Olsen, Josie Palmer, Shane Parks, Jake Parsons, Jonathan Pinkham, Katherine Rimel, Anthony Rozaieski, Jonathan Ruddo, Michael Sellers Jr., Hailey Smith, Jeff Spurrier, Taylor Takacs, Lauren Ward, Ashur Whitlow, Courtney Williams and Riley Wilson

Bishopville: Ryan Bontempo, Brad Boyer, Autumn Drew, Cole Espy, Ulyssa Jacobs, Mary Soghomonian and Lilly Zalewski

Girdletree: Kellyann Belka and Sienna Widmyer

Newark: Charlie Combs, Rebecka Keller, Briggs Pugner and Derrick Simpson

Ocean City: Jazmine Abu-Zaid, Elizaveta Adaeva, Dimitri Anthony, Lorelei Auker, Skylar Cook, Madelyn Dill, Michael Edwards, Kathleen Ewing, Dylan Gipe, Logan Gordy, Chelsea Hale, Tony Handle, Layla Hargrove, Alexandria Harkness, April Knudson, Jennifer Lilley, Jack Lowe, Tiffany McClain, Jake McElfish, William Melgar, Jeremy Mitchell, Willa Novelli, Maisam Omar, Timothy Passarello, Abbi Pytlewski, Peter Redding, Kayla Rocco, Jordanne Rochester, Braden Sisson, Casey Springman, Tina Walas, Kaitlin White and Katherine Witowski

Pocomoke City: Susan Bamonto, Haylee Bashor, Brooke Benton, Bradley Bloomfield, Raymond Chen, Gavin Dennis, Kyle Gillespie, Susan James, Josh Lankford, Zach Outten, Winter Rennick, Wynter Roberson, John Sigrist, Ava Skorobatsch, Sherita Taylor, Elizabeth Tull, Ashley Varghese and Christopher Villarreal

Snow Hill: Sean Alvarado II, Maddy Baumann, Krystal Beall, Lawrence Bonneville, Hayden Dinger-Tedder, Sloane Gould, Alexis Harper, Chloe Harper, Magnolia Harris-Blackburn, Logan Hurney, Emily Manning, David Mason, Kernighan Mitchell, Jasmyne Price, Sadie Todd, Lauren Tolbert and Eleya Weaver

Stockton: Samantha Eichhorn and Will Richardson

Whaleyville: Elizabeth Buppert and Sarah Burke

AGH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Atlantic General Hospital’s 31st Anniversary Celebration was held last Thursday evening at the beautiful West Ocean City home and property of George and Emily Tunis. The event is held annually to celebrate the hospital’s opening in May of 1993. All proceeds from the event are donated to the hospital’s foundation, which organizes the event and provides the dollars to the hospital to assist with operating expenses as well as capital projects. Above left are Emily, Brooklyn and George

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Tunis, Colin Coryell and Grace Tunis. Above right are Hillary Mozeik, Toni Keiser, Jessica Jersey and Laura Powell. Below left, Gail Whaley and Ryan and Cate Nellans. Below middle, Alyssa Maloof and Sara Hambury. Below right, Jessica Giardina, Chris Butler and Sue Carpenter.

Above left, Lindsey Harrington, Kourtney Duffie and Sara Evans. Above middle, Steven Sweigert and Terri Wright. Above right, Jonathan Bauer and Dr. Sean Hooker. Below left, Sarah DelliGatti, Ashley Furbay, Bill Hudson, Don Furbay and Dr. Brian DelliGatti. Below right, Rolfe and Ioana Gudelsky, Nick Nistazos and Rafo Correa.

Opinions

Abbott, Fiori do right by schools

Congratulations to County Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori, who joined colleagues Joe Mitrecic and Diana Purnell this week to form a majority in favor of better public school funding.

Voting on a motion by Fiori, the four commissioners agreed to give the schools all but $1 million of the $107 million the board of education had requested. Moreover, with Abbott and Fiori joining the two long-time supporters of schools, the former majority’s assault on the system’s independence and the abilities of its administration has ended.

It took some nerve for Abbott and Fiori to take the stand they did, considering the former majority’s attempt to paint the schools as woefully mismanaged and out of control. That clearly wasn’t true and the public agreed.

Also deserving credit for Tuesday’s decision is the thousand-member-plus Worcester United movement, whose successful counter-campaign helped show Fiori and Abbott how important school funding is to the public.

This is not to overlook the contributions of Mitrecic and Purnell. Their steadfast support of local education has been a hallmark of their years of service.

Interestingly, however, the budget brouhahas of the past two years are all but over anyway. Passed this year in the General Assembly and going into effect in July is the Transparency in Education Spending Act. This measure obligates all public schools to report more budget information to their county governments, which then must post it on their websites for public review.

Assuming the commissioners’ 4-3 vote sticks through June 4 when the county’s budget is formally adopted, everyone should emerge from this episode at least moderately happy. The schools get almost what they asked for, and the commissioners and the public will get a more open budget next year. That’s a much better ending than what many involved in this process expected.

Beware stinky elbows

I don’t stink and you don’t stink, or at least that’s what I used to believe. But now, given the increasing number of television commercials peddling whole body deodorant, I’m not so sure.

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

ASSOCIATE EDITORS CHARLENE SHARPE, BETHANY HOOPER

DIGITAL EDITOR MALLORY PANUSKA AMES

STAFF WRITER TARA FISCHER

Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net

SALES

ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN

Contact Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net

PRODUCTION

ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS

SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN

ADMINISTRATION

PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS web: oceancitytoday.com Facebook: facebook/mdcoastdispatch.com

By Stewart Dobson

According to these commercials, we don’t just stink here and there, as traditional thinking goes, we are head-to-toe stinky, and that includes knees, elbows and other semiarid areas of the human body that are more like joint upholstery than they are actual skin. Apparently, I’m the victim of a stinky upbringing, with parents who did advise me to wash behind my ears, but failed to mention that having stinky elbows is a leading cause of a sad and lonely life.

Ignorance is no excuse, as they say, but I honestly was unaware that to get along in this world, the human body overall must be disguised, smothered on otherwise masked by the clean tangerine aroma of a full body deodorant.

And all this time, I thought people left the room when I entered because of my big mouth and the opinions that come out of it. But no, it’s because I’m a stinker in an increasingly non-stinky world (in the physical sense, anyway).

It’s fact, according to manufacturers of nostinkum products, “society is struggling,” struggling, I tell you, with how to avoid the heartbreak of smelling like the inside of a zookeeper’s tennis shoe.

What has happened, manufacturers say, is that our ignorance of our personal odiferous-

ness was lifted when people returned to the office after a year of working at home. That was when they quickly discovered that the musty aroma they thought was mildew in the attic was actually the product of their own egregious elbow emanations, noxious kneecaps and whiffs of other whatnotery once thought to be non-aromatic.

Recognizing an opportunity, deodorant manufacturers sought to reinforce this realization of general reekiness and got the lines rolling on various whole body products to make working at the office possible.

It does make you wonder, though, why people only realized the nature of the situation at the office and not at home.

One would think that being called “Scratch n’ Sniff Dad” or Swamp Mom by their naturally stinky little kids would have driven home the point.

Of course, because people these days tend to believe anything they’re told, creating a commercial to remind us that we’re a bunch of stinkers isn’t that difficult:

“Wow, Bob! You smell like a box of burning rubber bands!”

“Thanks for letting me know, Shirley. I’ll run out and get some Masque of the Red Death whole body deodorant today!”

I’m not buying it.

One, I’m an old guy now, and tradition dictates that we’re supposed to have that certain air about us. And two, I’ve been taking care of the situation for years.

“Good morning,” says a co-worker. “Have you been out in the woods or is that a pine scent car air freshener hanging around your neck?”

PUBLIC EYE

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

There were some mild surprises in Tuesday’s primary election. It was not so much the results as much as it was the ease in which some candidates won.

Locally, the only significant race in the primary was for the Board of Education District 5. Though nonpartisan, the election narrowed the three-person field down to Dorothy Shelton-Leslie, a 40-plus year retired educator, and two-term incumbent Elena McComas, herself a lifetime teacher in retirement. There has been some confusion about how this primary would work, as citizens voted for just one candidate with the top two finishers advancing to November. Shelton-Leslie finished first with 631 votes (44%), followed by McComas with 561 votes (39%) and John Huber IV, 236 (17%). It was a significant vote of confidence for the newcomer. This race should be a fascinating one in the general election, which should see higher turnout as it will decide the next president. Statewide, it was known it would be a two-person race in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary between Prince George’s Executive Angela Alsobrooks and current western shore Congressman David Trone of Washington County. Alsobrooks, however, had an easier time than expected, riding the metropolitan vote. She received 54% of the vote (243,874) over Trone’s 42% (189,056). In the heavy blue state of Maryland, Alsobrooks will be the favorite in November over former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who received 62% of the vote (147,612) with Robin Ficker – the former sideline heckler at Washington Bullets home basketball games – scoring 30% (71,740). Alsobrooks, who is just 53 years old, is impressive, having served as county executive of Prince George’s since 2018 and previously as county state’s attorney for two terms. As a Republican governor, Hogan was successful as a moderate because he was able to work with Democrats. Swinging this long-time Democraticheld Senate seat to the right will be difficult, however.

In Worcester, Hogan did not cruise as expected, edging longshot Ficker, 2,635-2,391. Ficker’s robust marketing campaign could explain why. My house recycling bin received a nice load of 10 mailers from Ficker within the last two weeks compared to just a few from Hogan, who knows the shore is not going to decide his political future.

It was nice to see how the Worcester County Board of Education funding dialogue played out Tuesday. The discussion was divisive at times but reasonable with strong opinions expressed on both sides.

Ahead of the meeting, my suspicion was the Worcester County Commissioners would split the difference between the Maintenance of Effort level of funding (about $100 million) and the school board’s proposed request of approximately $107 million. For a while Tuesday, it looked like that prediction would ring true, as it was nearly what Commission President Chip Bertino was seeking when he suggested the county fund the school system at the level allowing for a step and 4% COLA for school system employees. Bertino and colleagues Jim Bunting and Ted Elder supported that approach as it mirrors the proposed raises in store for general county employees. The school system’s negotiated contract with the teacher’s union calls for a step for eligible teachers under 15 years of service and a 6% COLA to make up for last year’s 1.5% COLA for school employees.

After a failed motion by Commissioner Joe Mitrecic to fully fund the school system’s request minus $350,000, Commissioner Eric Fiori suggested subtracting $1 million from the total proposed budget. Fiori’s motion was seconded by Mitrecic and passed with Commissioner Diana Purnell and Caryn Abbott in support. Based on their comments, Fiori and Abbott seemed reluctant to increase education funding to the suggested amount but realized it was the right thing to support students, teachers and other education professionals. Fiori made it clear he thinks the school system needs a procurement officer because its financial systems and approach are antiquated. Abbott made it clear her vote had nothing to do with the postcards in her mailbox in support of education or last week’s protesters. This week’s decision by the county is a win for the school system, but it was not without some blunt talk. Fiori said he would not let his daughter’s lemonade stand operate under the archaic financial model the school system uses. Bunting came into the meeting wanting MOE again but realizing the votes were not there he said he would be flexible. He also brought up public safety concerns within schools. Bertino expressed amazement over the fact school board members, namely the current vice president, does not review the proposed budget before voting on it and sending it to the commissioners. The bottom line is common sense prevailed in the end, but feelings and opinions remain heightened.

More green space needed in Ocean City

Editor,

Our government leaders have failed us.

It's so ironic that the editorial cartoon in the April 19, 2024 OC TodayDispatch publication joked about overdevelopment in Sussex County, Delaware, when Ocean City government leadership is allowing every parcel of open land in the city to be highly developed.

Our city, county and zoning board leadership has allowed extremely dense building on three parcels of land in North Ocean City.

The first parcel is where the movie theater used to be at 143rd street and Ocean Highway. Could these buildings be any closer?

The second parcel of land is the land previously owned by Saint Andrews Church/ Catholic Church at 144th street and Ocean Highway. This was a beautiful open space that of course is now is being developed. How are two warehouses allowed to be built so close to residential homes; one of the rows of the new townhomes are 6 feet from the warehouses; residents will walk out the front door right into the warehouse.

The third parcel is at 141st street between Sinepuxent Avenue and Coastal Highway where the old Phillips restaurant was. Development has not started yet but surely not far off.

Allowing this over development will lead to many problems, including overcrowding, increased traffic and an absolute eyesore for north Ocean

City. Where is the parking for these properties going to be outside of their garages? Was there any thought to overdevelopment, density, noise pollution, eye pollution (four-story condos?).

Of course it’s too late to stop any of these developments, but residents of Ocean City have to recognize open and green space is key factor in quality of life as well as helping property values. Our government leaders are supposed to have the people’s best interest at the forefront, especially when considering development requests. Wouldn't it have been nice if our government leaders had recognized the impact more development in this area would have on density, traffic, infrastructure and property values!

I read with interest the article on developing the land parcel at 94th street and Ocean Highway. Wouldn’t it be nice if this parcel was preserved as green and open space? I am sure the surrounding neighborhood would very much welcome the open space!

Local and state governments are now purchasing open land to help preserve free space (e.g. look up ‘Crebilly Farm Friends’). I am challenging the Ocean City and county leadership to do the same here in Ocean City. Is our town going to be a totally concrete city from one end to the other (outside of a few park areas)?

Let's hope our leadership doesn't fail us again. All residents have to contact the city leadership and tell them we need to save open space in our city.

Rich Morgan Ocean City

Art league seeking entries for new ‘Skate/Surf’ exhibit

(May 17, 2024) The Art League of Ocean City is seeking entries for its June art exhibition, “Skate/Surf.” All media, both 2D and 3D, will be accepted.

The submitted artwork should explore surf/skate culture, drawing inspiration from the people, language, fashion, and lifestyle. Artists may submit up to two pieces with 32-by-40inches the maximum outside frame dimensions permitted. Entries must be wired and ready to hang or display.

Artists wishing to enter should make an appointment for a time slot during the art drop-off dates of June 1 or June 3, by going to OCart.org/call-for-entries. Drop-off location is the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside.

There is a $10 per piece entry fee for members, $20 per piece for non-members, and entry fees are non-refundable

The art league will award cash prizes for first place ($175) second place ($125) and third place ($100), plus three honorable mentions. The exhibit judge is Kathleen Hayes, an artist, photographer, silkscreen printer, mermaid-parader, surfer, and skateboarder from Long Island, New York.

Exhibit dates for the “Skate/Surf” show on the walls of the Ocean City Center for the Arts are June 7-29. All award winners will be invited to participate in the art league’s year-end “Best of 2024” exhibit in December.

More information is available by going to OCart.org/call-for-entries or

Local DAR chapter presents awards to HS cadet leaders

(May 10, 2024) The General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently presented awards to local high school students involved in cadet programs.

According to a news release, the group presented DAR Bronze JROTC Medals to Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Amber Jester from Pocomoke High School, and Cadet SSgt. Skylar Mur-

phy from Snow Hill High School. Recipients of the award are either junior or senior students in a secondary school JROTC program who have demonstrated qualities of dependability and good character, adherence to military discipline, leadership ability, and a fundamental and patriotic understanding of the importance of

SUBMITTED

PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Pictured, from left, are General Levin Winder Chapter member Pat Arata, Snow Hill High School

Cadet SSgt Skylar Murphy, and General Levin Winder Chapter member Carol Wanzer.

Pictured, from left, are General Levin Winder Chapter member Pat Arata, Pocomoke High School Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Amber Jester and General Levin Winder Chapter member Carol Wanzer.

DAR celebrates local students

Continued from Page 94

ROTC training.

Chapter members also presented a Silver DAR Outstanding Cadet Medal to Cadet Milagros Mil-Castro from Stephen Decatur High School.

The medal is awarded to a student for participation in a non-ROTC, military-affiliated cadet program funded by a school or privately and honors a cadet who has distinguished himself or herself through outstanding leadership, honor, service, courage and patriotism.

A DAR Youth Leadership Medal was also presented to Cadet Bentton Culp from Stephen Decatur High School.

The medal is awarded to a student who fulfills the qualities of honor, service, courage, leadership and patriotism.

The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. For more information, visit www.dar.org.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

General Levin Winder Chapter member Carol Wanzer is shown with Stephen Decatur High School Cadet Milagros Mil-Castro.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Pictured, from left, are General Levin Winder Chapter member Carol Wanzer and Stephen Decatur High School Cadet Bentton Culp.

Jolly Roger will celebrate 60th season on June 4

(May 17, 2024) Jolly Roger Amusement Parks® will mark its 60th anniversary and the start of the summer this Memorial Day weekend.

Splash Mountain Water Park will officially open on Saturday, May 25 at 10 a.m., joining the four other Jolly Roger Parks® that are already open for limited hours.

“This is a milestone moment where our community gets to honor and reflect on an Ocean City classic, one that has driven our resort forward,” said Steve Pastusak, Vice President of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks®. “It’s a joy for us to commemorate six decades of bringing families together, serving as a pillar of our community, and welcoming guests from around the world to enjoy our specialty — thrills, and adventures at our family-friendly parks.”

The official 60th Anniversary Celebration event will take place on June 4 at 5 p.m. For more information on Jolly Roger Amusement Parks® 60th Anniversary visit https://jollyrogerpark.com/60thanniversary/.

The grounds of the Jolly Roger Amusement Park on 30th Street have continually evolved over the last six decades from modest beginnings, left, to a vast operation that includes miles of track at Speed World, as well as the expansive Splash Mountain Water Park.

Md. Safe Boating Class set

June 4-6 at library in Pines

(May 17, 2024) The Ocean City Coast Guard Auxiliary is hosting a Maryland Safe Boating Course from 6-9 p.m., June 4-6, at the Ocean Pines Library.

The course is for both beginners and veteran boaters who want to refresh their skills. Certified instructors from the Ocean City Coast Guard Auxiliary are hosting the comprehensive class. All the required material is covered, along with information on local waters and nautical navigation.

The Maryland Boating Safety Education Act requires that anyone born after July 1, 1972, must possess a Maryland Basic Boating Safety Certificate to

operate a boat in the state. Those who attend the class, and pass the test will receive a Maryland Boating Certificate, which is NASBLA approved and valid in all states.

The $20 fee covers the cost of the course and materials.

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

Payment via PayPAL is also accepted.

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

OBITUARIES

IRISH KEMP (ROSALIE CHENOWITH)

Ocean City

Irish Kemp (Rosalie Chenowith), 98, passed away peacefully after a short bout following surgery to repair a broken bone.

She was born on Feb. 21, 1926, in Baltimore, to Lawrence and Mary Chenowith. Irish lived a full and vibrant life and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Irish met the love of her life, Ralph “Skip” Kemp, at Virginia Beach just before he was sent to the South Pacific by the US Navy during WWII. They married in 1946 when he returned from WWII and were married for 68 years until Skip passed in 2014. Irish was always proud of her Baltimore roots but quickly adopted Skip’s hometown, Washington, D.C., as her new home.

Irish was a busy mother, raising eight children in Hyattsville and New Carrolton while also working various jobs, including as a telephone operator, a teller at the Citizen’s Bank of Maryland and at the University of Maryland. She was also very involved at St. Marks Catholic Parish in Hyattsville, helping with the teen club and various other events. Irish had an artistic flare also and was never afraid to take a risk. She added color to her

life in many creative ways, including coloring the dull wallpaper in her kitchen with crayon with her youngest son and husband an entire weekend. She would not hesitate to add a splash of color to an old painting or match a lamp and even furniture to her new favorite color by adding some paint.

After raising eight children, Irish and Skip retired to Ocean City, but she was just getting started. Irish’s energy was non-stop, and she was often seen at most of the Senior Happy Hours in Ocean City, following her favorite musicians and even starting her own popular Senior Happy Hour at Harpoon Hannahs. She kept herself busy planning trips senior center trips to New York, Chicago, and Atlantic City. Irish also embarked on a new career as a journalist at age 64, writing a weekly article and taking pictures around town for the Ocean City Today newspaper called “Senior Slant” for some 25 years.

Irish had a great sense of humor and remained cordial with her sense of humor and her social energy to her caretakers until she passed. She lived a full life and set a great example for her family and friends.

Irish is predeceased by her husband, Ralph “Skip” Kemp and her oldest son Steve Kemp. She is survived by her children,

Continued on Page 98

A boater is pictured maneuvering a watercraft. The next Maryland Safe Boating Course is set June 4-6 at the Ocean Pines Library.

Irish Kemp

Continued from Page 97

Jeanne Napolitano, Donna Sanger, Patti Kemp, Mike Kemp, Paul Kemp, Kathy Poplia, and PJ Kemp; as well as 19 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren. She is also survived by one sister, Helen Winsor.

Irish will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

Family funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday May 31, at Queen of Apostle Catholic Church in Alexandria Virginia.

JAMES EDWARD HARRINGTON

Frankford, Delaware

James Edward Harrington, 75, of Frankford, Delaware, died Thursday, April 25, 2024 at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

He was born in Washington, D.C. and was the son of the late Robert Harrington and Margaret Ann (Flynn) Harrington.

He was a retired mechanic for the State of Maryland and a member of the Moose Lodge in Roxana.

He is survived by his wife, Emma Marie Harrington; a brother, Thomas Harrington; two sisters, Maureen Cathell of Berlin and Kathleen Porterfield of Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Harrington.

No services are planned at this time.

Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

ELAINE B. BEVIS (JAMIESON)

Berlin

Elaine B. Bevis (Jamieson), 80, passed away Saturday, May 11, 2024.

She was born in Central Fall, Rhode Island, to Andrew and Claire (Messier) Jamieson.

reading, gardening and spending time with her friends at the Cottages in Berlin where she lived for many years. Many people admired her for “sense of style” as she aged, as well as an infectious smile which she shared with all.

Her soul was attached to Charleston, Rhode Island, and there is where she wished to be remembered in a private ceremony with family later this summer.

DONALD ARTHUR DAVIS

She married her college sweetheart, Michael J. Iacona, with whom she had three children, Christopher (Stephanie) of Berlin, Mark (Kimberly) of Berlin, and Karen Guilmette (David) of Coventry, Rhode Island. She had five grandchildren, Joseph of Boston, Massachusetts, Delaney (Iacona) Hastings of Berlin, Morgan (Iacona) Sochowski, Jessica of Ocean City, and Alison Guilmette of (South Africa), Coventry, Rhode Island. She adored her two great grandchildren, Lucas Sochowski and Noa Hastings. She also leaves behind her twin brother, Bob (Judy) of Cincinnati, Ohio; and her sisters, Charlene Lee (Bill) of Hudson, New Hampshire, and Andrea Fram (Russ Shum) of East Freetown, Massachusetts; as well as many nieces and nephews and their families.

Elaine earned a teaching degree at Rhode Island College and later enjoyed a career in social work with Go Getters in Salisbury. She enjoyed

Berlin

Donald Arthur Davis, 78, passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury.

Born in Bishopville, he was the son of the late Marion Griffin Davis and Helen (Smack) Davis.

Donald retired from the Ocean Pines Public Works Department and enjoyed watching football, watching westerns, and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by two daughters, Diana Green and her fiancé, Billy Ressler, and Theresa Smullen and her fiancé, David Edmiston; a stepson, Billy Ray McCabe; a brother, Roger Davis (Kathy); a sister-in-law, Joyce Davis; a brother-in-law, Rodger Hudson; two grandchildren, Philip Green and Derek Hamad; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah McCabe Davis; a brother, Jack Davis; and two sisters, Mary Alice Hudson and Betty Lou Davis.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 18, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. A viewing will take place one hour prior. Interment will follow at Bowen Cemetery in Newark.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donald’s name to Coastal Hospice, PO Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

OBITUARY NOTICES

Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail:

editor@oceancitytoday.net

Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511

Donald Davis

Elaine Bevis

Sports & Recreation

Decatur claims Bayside, wins playoff thriller

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(May 17, 2024) Last Wednesday evening, Stephen Decatur High School’s varsity baseball team won the Bayside Championship 13-4 over Colonel Richardson High School at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury.

“We did what we needed,” Stephen Decatur Head Coach Rich Ferro said after the game.

The game was scoreless until the fourth inning. Brogan Eastlack was the first Seahawk across the plate. An explosive eight-run fifth inning all but clinched the win for the Seahawks.

In the sixth inning there was a pitcher change from Matt Wright to

Caleb Loring, “because Matt had an injury in the beginning of the year, he has plenty more games to pitch,” Ferro said.

The Colonels never had a chance. But, their four-run sixth inning didn’t go unnoticed by Stephen Decatur players and coaches. The Seahawks countered with four runs in the seventh inning.

“We hit what we needed and that was really great,” Ferro said. “We played good defense behind that and we played a pretty good baseball game. That’s all I can say. We played a really good baseball game.”

The final score of the Bayside Championship was 13-4. Stephen Decatur’s team has been 10-0 in their di-

Heading into the playoffs, Decatur blanked South River in the opening round, 6-0. Decatur then hosted Severna Park on Tuesday. Scoring started with Seahawks’ Wayne Hobgood hammering a long homer over the centerfield fence.

Pitcher Nate Brozonski pitched almost a perfect game allowing only one run during the first six innings.

“Really, really good performance by Nate Brozonski,” Coach Rich Ferro said. “He was fantastic today he was awesome he led the way. He’s built for this kind of stuff no nerves just confidence he really just wants to compete.”

Two Seahawk runners crossed the plate in the third inning. In the seventh inning, a Seahawk mound

change was made.

“Matt [Wright] our senior pitcher came in and took the game to the win,” Ferro said.

Severna Park responded with a run and added another before tying it 3-3 in the seventh inning.

The tie was broken in the eighth inning. Jackson Cheung came to bat, beat the ball to first, stole second and third, and made it home for the tiebreaking run. The win was Decatur’s 12th in a row.

“We were very fortunate,” Ferro said. “We had a couple of defensive miscues but luckily, we were still able to respond good offensively.”

As of Wednesday, Decatur was set to play Northern on Friday with the winner advancing to the Class 3A state semifinals.

vision.

PHOTOS COURTESY J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHYH

LADY SEAHAWKS ADVANCE TO FINAL FOUR

On the same night at home on Monday, Stephen Decatur’s men’s and women’s lacrosse team claimed Class 2A regional championships. The men’s game was decided in double overtime over Parkside. Decatur lost to a familiar foe on Wednesday in Kent Island, 15-11, ending the men’s season. On the women’s side, Decatur cruised by Bayside foe Bennett, 14-3, to win the 2A regional championship. On Wednesday, Decatur advanced to the state semifinals with a gritty 17-13 win over Hereford. Above left, Maribella Morse looks for a cutter in Wednesday’s victory over Hereford. Above right, Jill Burton converts against Bennett Monday. Decatur will play a familiar opponent Friday in Queen Anne’s, which defeated the Seahawks last week for the Bayside title.

PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s Wayne Hobgood slides into home for the third run in the third inning against Severna Park Tuesday.

Stephen Decatur’s Matt Wright throws the ball to Eric Braica in a pick-off attempt against Severna Park Tuesday.

SENIORS COMMIT TO COLLEGE SPORTS

Decatur softball advances in state playoff

By Bruce C. Walls

Contributing Writer

(May 17, 2024) Most sports have a slaughter rule of sorts that allows officials to stop a game and declare a winner if a competitor or team of competitors are losing so badly there is no viable or mathematical chance of winning. It’s a rare event, but it happens.

Last Thursday, it happened during the state regional quarterfinal softball game, when Stephen Decatur shut out Wicomico High School, 17-0.

You could see where this game was going from the start. Ryleigh Smith led the Seahawks driving in six runs with three hits starting with a three-run homer in the first inning. Smith doubled in the second and third innings adding two runs and one run to the Seahawks’ tally before officials pulled the plug.

Pitcher Madison McGinnis fanned 10 batters and only allowed a single batter to walk after five innings.

“Felt pretty good to pitch a shutout,” McGinnis said after the

game. “I could do it because I just had my team behind me.”

The varsity Seahawks exploded in the bottom of the third inning scoring 10 runs on six hits.

Right fielder Emily Blume swatted one into the glove of an opposing outfielder allowing a Seahawk runner to reach the plate for a sacrifice fly.

Also scoring for Stephen Decatur were second baseman Ava Snelsire, who singled in a run; first baseman Riley Hertzog, who doubled in a run; Kealyn Hugues, who grounded, scoring another one for the Seahawks; left fielder Julianna Woodall, who sizzled

one down the sideline to score one and send another Stephen Decatur runner across the plate on an error.

The Seahawks were perfect in the field with no errors. Last year they won the quarterfinals as well but lost in the semifinals.

“[The] girls played great today,” Head Coach Scott Kurtz said. “We understand we want to at least finish where we did last year and this is one step in that direction.”

Decatur advanced deeper into the playoffs with a 14-3 pounding of Kent Island Monday before playing host to North

on Thursday.

Caroline

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Stephen Decatur High School hosted a signing ceremony last week for senior student-athletes who plan to continue their sports careers in college. Pictured, seated from left, are Kiara Taylor, Keystone (softball); Emary Shepard, Queens (dance); Reagan Sterrs, Bridgewater (lacrosse); Addison McDaniel, Bridgewater (lacrosse); and Waylon Hobgood: Salisbury (baseball); and, standing, Evan Oglesby, Hood (golf); Eric Braica, Del Tech (Baseball); Kole Kohut, Hood (golf); Brogan Eastlack, Campbell, (soccer); Sean O’Halloran, McDaniel, (soccer) Parker Intrieri, Frostburg (wrestling); David Janney, Ursinus (soccer); Ryder Swanson, Roanoke (baseball); Jacob Hicks, McDaniel (soccer); Gavin Solito, Shepherd (football); and Careen Bolden, Frostburg (football).

PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur Lady Seahawks are pictured after a shutout win over Wicomico last week.

Worcester Prep seniors eye college sports

Dylan Simons commits to gymnastics team at U.S. Naval Academy

(May 17, 2024) Three Worcester Preparatory School senior student-athletes, Leah Gaito, Caitlin Williams and Dylan Simons gathered on Monday, April 29, to sign off on their commitment to collegian sports programs.

Leah Gaito, who joined WPS as a senior this year, has committed to play Division II Women’s Lacrosse at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsyalvnia, where she will study early childhood education.

She is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. In addition to playing lacrosse, Gaito has also excelled on the girl’s varsity basketball and soccer teams at WPS. She is the daughter of Anthony and Traci Gaito.

During the press conference, Caitlin Williams signed a letter of intent to play Division I Women’s Lacrosse at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, where she will study nursing.

This is her fourth year on the

WPS girls varsity lacrosse team as a starting goalie. She recently set a school record with over 500 saves and counting. Williams is an AP scholar and member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. She is a multisport athlete at Worcester Prep where she also plays varsity soccer. Williams is the daughter of Chris and Kelly Williams.

Dylan Simons has signed to join the United States Naval Academy, committing to the Division I Men’s Gymnastics team, and majoring in mechanical engineering.

Throughout high school, Simons maintained a 20-hour-perweek commitment to gymnastics rising to a Level 10 Maryland State Champion gymnast. He earned a spot on the WPS Head of School List throughout his Upper School years and is a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society.

In addition to gymnastics, Simons has also excelled on the tennis and cross-country teams. He is the son of Richard and Sharon Simons.

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Pictured, seated from left, are senior student-athletes Leah Gaito, Dylan Simons and Caitlin Williams, who gathered at an athletic conference on April 29 to sign off on their commitment to collegiate sports programs. Standing, from left, are WPS Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner, Assistant Head of School/Athletics Director Michael Grosso, Head of School John McDonald and Head of Upper School Carol Evans.