3/29/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

Knupp case returns for circuit trial

Appellate

court backs State’s Attorney Heiser on issue of court jurisdiction

Judges rule against circuit court judge’s finding that Heiser’s prosecution of Tyler Mailloux in the July 11, 2022, hit-and-run death of Gavin Knupp should have gone to Worcester District Court instead. — Page 3

Daycare worker indicted

Heather Ward, who worked in an infant classroom in a Berlin daycare center, faces 90 charges related to assault and child abuse after a Worcester County Grand Jury indicted her this week.— Page 24

Your Community

EASTER, SPRING CELEBRATIONS: Got kids? There will be multiple ways to keep them entertained this weekend, with a host of events taking place in Ocean City, Berlin and Ocean Pines. See story on Page 29

PHOTO

Whatever this beach fox found on the Boardwalk that was intriguing enough to warrant a good licking is no longer evident, suggesting the fox either ate it or was simply verifying common scents.

Mailloux decision overturned

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) The case against a local man accused in the hit-and-run death of Gavin Knupp will continue in Worcester County Circuit Court following an appellate court opinion this week.

On Wednesday, the Appellate Court of Maryland reversed a ruling from Worcester County Circuit Court in the case against Tyler Mailloux, 23, a Berlin man charged last year in the 2022 death of 14-year-old Knupp. The opinion, issued by Judge Rosalyn Tang, argues the lower court had concurrent jurisdiction and erred in its ruling to dismiss charges against the defendant.

“When the State filed the information in the circuit court to include offenses charged in Counts 9 through 17, which undisputedly arose out of the same circumstances as offenses charged in Counts 1 through 8, the District Court was divested of exclusive original jurisdiction in the criminal case, and the circuit court had exclusive original jurisdiction over all the offenses …,” the opinion reads. “We, therefore, hold that the circuit court erred in dismissing the information filed in the circuit court on the ground that exclusive original jurisdiction lay in the District Court.”

Last April, 17 traffic charges – including failure to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury and failure to immediately stop a vehicle at the scene of an accident involving death – were filed against Mailloux in the death of Knupp, who was struck and killed by a motorist in a black Mercedes while crossing Grays Corner Road on July 11, 2022. Knupp was returning to a vehicle driven by his older sister and died from injuries sustained in the collision. Mailloux allegedly fled the scene and did not return, according to charges filed.

During a motions hearing in Worcester County Circuit Court last August, Mailloux’s attorney argued the district court had “exclusive and original jurisdiction” and that the judge should either dismiss the case or transfer it to district court. The Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, however, argued state statute provided exceptions allowing the case to be tried in circuit court, including that the penalty for such charges exceeded three years. Following the hearing, Judge Brett Wilson granted the defense’s motion to dismiss the case, and the matter was immediately appealed.

Last month, the Appellate Court of Maryland heard oral arguments from both the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the Public Defender, Mailloux’s legal counsel. In the opinion issued Wednesday, the appellate court reversed the circuit court ruling to dismiss over lack of jurisdiction. The reported opinion is considered a binding legal precedent to be cited in future cases, according to a statement from Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser.

“While we were always confident that our arguments were correct and firmly grounded in statute and case law, we are grateful for the reported opinion of the Appellate Court,” Heiser said in the statement. “Their decision clearly confirms that when there is concurrent jurisdiction, prosecutors retain the discretion to choose where to file charges. We intend, as we always have, to prosecute all charges against Mr. Mailloux in the Worcester County Circuit Court as soon as the case can be scheduled for trial.”

The appellate court has ordered that the Worcester County Circuit Court reversed the judgment and the cost of the appeal be paid for by Mailloux. A statement from the Knupp family through their attorney Neil Dubovsky applauded the ruling.

“We are immensely gratified by the unanimous reported opinion from the Appellate Court of Maryland confirming that this case can move forward in the Circuit Court for Worcester County. We remain supremely confident in Kris Heiser and her team and that support has once again been vindicated,” the statement reads. “While this process has been frustrating at times, we remain resolute in our commitment to holding those responsible for Gavin’s death accountable. In the immortal words of Dr. Martin Luther King, ‘the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.’ Today’s ruling helps bring us closer to justice and for that, we are appreciative.”

During oral argument last month, Mailloux’s attorney, Assistant Public Defender Celia Davis, asked the appellate court to uphold the circuit court’s decision in the matter. She argued that charges should have first been filed in district court.

“The plain language of Section 4-301 is the original enabling statute for the district court of Maryland, and it sets forth exactly what cases should originate in that court,” she said at the time.

“And it sets forth in part A a general category of traffic and boating offenses, and in part B it enumerates 25 offenses, including the offenses charged in this case.”

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

“I would urge this court to give plain meaning to the term ‘exclusive,’ meaning limited or dedicated, and ‘original,’ meaning that's the court that has the power to decide the case first. That's what those words mean …,” she said.

“The term exclusive original jurisdiction does not define where the case must be tried, it defines where the case starts … In fact, the state has not brought us any examples of cases with these particular charges that started in the circuit court. They always start in the district court.”

SUNDAY

Local Legion set to dedicate new rooftop addition

(March 29, 2024) Officials with a local American Legion post say they are eager to welcome members to a new rooftop bar and patio, which will open next week.

Last year, American Legion Synepuxent Post 166 in Ocean City embarked on its most significant project since the organization’s building was completed in 1954 – the construction of a rooftop bar and patio. Now, after months of work, post members will celebrate its completion with a soft opening on April 1 and a dedication ceremony on April 19.

“We’re very excited and relieved that it’s finally completed,” said Post Commander Tom Wengert.

Post officials say the idea for a new rooftop bar and patio was spurred by growing visitation to the post building. With a growing local membership and more visiting veterans taking advantage of the post’s offerings, Wengert said officials began taking steps to pursue an addition.

“To enhance the Legion for our veterans, which this is all about, we decided the next step would be to build a tiki bar overlooking the highway,” he said. “That way our veterans can come at their leisure. And when there are special events here, where else can you go and have a fantastic view?”

The idea was soon brought before the post’s house committee, chaired by Fi-

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor See ROOFTOP Page 6

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Rooftop addition opening planned

nance Officer George Barstis. And after several meetings, officials agreed to seek price estimates for the work.

“We got three estimates,” Wengert explained. “We didn’t take the highest, or the lowest. We took the one right in the middle. The one in the middle was D&B Construction, which did [the project] across the street. So we had something to look at.”

For his part, Barstis said the new outdoor bar and patio will provide additional seating for members. He said he also hopes the addition will inspire younger community members to join the post.

“We also hope it will spur some younger folks, as far as recruiting,” he said. “You can see there is a lot of gray hair here. A young veteran and their family coming off the beach can come here and have lunch.”

Decked out in a patriotic theme, the new facility features red, white and blue furnishings and seating for 140 people. The bar, officials say, was custom-made to include commemorative coins and emblems of each branch of the military.

“Everybody’s been waiting and talking about it,” Barstis said. “Now that everything’s set up and you can see it, the excitement is building.”

On April 1, the post will have a soft opening for members, featuring a lim-

ited menu and a full bar. An invite-only dedication ceremony will be held on April 19.

“It won’t be a full menu on April 1 …,” Barstis added. “The goal is we will be ready to go full board on Memorial Day weekend.”

Officials noted the post’s operations would not be possible without the support of veterans and volunteers. Last year, for example, the post held numerous events and raised more than $300,000 for local charities. The post also provided $51,000 in scholarships to 21 students.

“We’re pretty proud of what we do,”

Barstis said.

Officials said more information on American Legion Synepuxent Post 166 can be found on the organization’s Facebook page and website.

The post is also encouraging new members to join. American Legion members must be a veteran, honorably discharged; Sons of the American Legion members must be the son of a parent or grandparent honorably discharged from the military; and American Legion Auxiliary members must be a grandmother, mother, sister, spouse or direct female descendant of American Legion members.

Harbor pier for US Wind project brings concerns

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) US Wind presented revised plans this week for a smaller pier and reduced bulkhead work at a proposed operations and maintenance facility at the West Ocean City harbor, but opponents say they still have concerns about the project’s impacts on navigation, jobs, and the surrounding community.

In a public hearing held at WorWic Community College Tuesday evening, the Maryland Department of the Environment collected testimony on a tidal wetlands license application the agency received from US Wind, the developer of the offshore wind project off the coast of Ocean City. While the applicant had initially submitted plans to construct a 625-foot-long by 32-footwide concrete pier and replace 435 feet of bulkhead at 12929 and 12933 Harbor Road, US Wind Director of Permitting Todd Sumner told attendees the company was proposing a reduction in work.

“Specifically for the pier reduction, US Wind is proposing to reduce the length of the new pier from the original 625 feet to 174 feet, a reduction of 451 feet. US Wind is also proposing to reduce the bulkhead renovation work from the original 435 feet to 381 feet, which is a reduction of 54 feet,” he said. “The reduced pier and renovated bulkhead structures would not encroach into the existing federal channel or turning basin.”

US Wind reports the proposed operations and maintenance facility – featuring office and warehouse space, a marine coordination center, and quayside and berthing areas for crew transfer vessels – will support its wind projects within a relatively close range to where the turbines will be located offshore. The facility will be constructed on two commercial waterfront lots currently owned

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SUBMITTED IMAGE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

An updated schematic of the pier slated for the West Ocean City harbor for US Wind’s project is pictured.

Proposed pier in harbor viewed as ‘industrialization’

Continued from Page 8

by Martin Holdings LLC and James and April Reese.

As part of the project, US Wind has planned upgrades to the existing pier structure and bulkhead, which was the subject of Tuesday’s public hearing. While a handful of attendees spoke in support of the project, an overwhelming majority shared their objections to US Wind’s revised application, as well as the location of the public hearing.

“The main point I think we would like to make is it is a little disappointing, if not a little insulting, to have a public hearing 30 minutes west of the project site in a neighboring county that is completely unaffected by the proposed project,”

said Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young, representative for the Worcester County Commissioners. “I do want to say the last-minute change in the scope 10 days ago, while it appears favorable, should have triggered a rescheduling of this public hearing because it is substantially different than what many of us focused on.”

Local representatives on Tuesday shared their many concerns with the project, among which were the impacts on spawning grounds, navigation, tourism and the commercial fishing fleet. Terry McGean, city manager for the Town of Ocean City, said he did not want to see the harbor become Sparrows Point, a shipyard and industrial complex in Baltimore.

“This project will displace our existing commercial fishing fleet, which is already struggling for survival,” he said. “It’s bad enough that US Wind already wants to destroy their fishing grounds. Now they want their dock space as well.”

Pat Schrawder, district representative for Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, echoed McGean’s statements, adding that the project would impact those who live and work in the area. She said the Worcester County Commissioners created a special marine district years ago to protect commercial fishing.

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“To learn that the Italian-owned company, US Wind, has applied for an operations and maintenance facility in the district, at which our commercial fleet docks, is doubly concerning …,” she said. “Industrialization of our ocean is now threatening to consume our harbor.”

Several members of the local fishing community also came forward this week with objections to the project. They said the operations and maintenance facility would take away fish houses currently located at the site and would impact navigation, both on the roads and in the channel.

“You have hundreds of recreational fishers hitting the harbor out there, they are going to travel through that harbor,” Ron Smith, president of the Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association. “When you have ships that size, it’s going to cause chaos, something is going to happen.”

Jerry Leuters, member of the Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association and administrator of the Ocean Pines Anglers Club, said he was concerned the project was just the start of what will become a larger pier and facility.

“Things will change, this is a foot in the door …,” he said. “Despite what’s laid out now, it’s not going to stay this way.”

Several attendees also questioned certain aspects of the project, in-

cluding ownership of the two properties, the number of US Wind vessels docked at the pier, and the decommissioning of the offshore wind project, among other things. Supporters, however, argued the project would bring jobs and economic activity to the area.

“We have been following this project quite a bit, and as much as we empathize with the impact it may have on our fishermen we also think this will bring an economic benefit to some local businesses and small businesses in the area,” said Salisbury resident Jay Walker, representing a local fraternity. “So we think it will help our environment and our businesses.”

Dr. Noah Bressman, fish biology professor at Salisbury University and an expert on mummichogs, added that he believed the bulkhead work would benefit the local environment, as it would prevent erosion an preserve marine habitats.

“It is my expert opinion that the environmental impacts associated with this project have been exaggerated and misinterpreted,” he said. “While there will be relatively shortterm disturbances, as there will be any time you dig up and build structures in the water, this specific project to remediate the bulkhead will protect the shoreline from erosion and degradation over a long period of time and allow it to be functional for a long period of time, instead of its currently limited lifespan.”

The deadline to submit public comments on US Wind’s tidal wetlands license application is 11:59 p.m. on April 9. Comments can be submitted by email to robertm.simmons@maryland.gov or by mail to Maryland Department of the Environment, Attn. Miles Simmons, 201 Baptist Street, Suite 22, Salisbury, MD 21801.

A final report and recommendation on US Wind’s permit application will be sent to the Maryland Board of Public Works, which will make a final decision at a future meeting.

PHOTO BY BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young speaks to the panel at Monday’s hearing.

Split commission approves Wawa in Berlin

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 29, 20024) The Berlin Planning Commission voted 4-3 to approve a site plan for a Wawa at the intersection of Route 50 and North Main Street.

In what was the commission’s third meeting on the project in four months, the commission agreed to approve a Wawa site plan featuring an updated design that developers said incorporated elements of Berlin. Those in opposition to the site plan felt developers could have done more.

“We have examples of other Wawas across the country that would suit me better,” commission member Ron Cascio said. “To me it’s not acceptable.”

In 2021, the commission approved a site plan for Athena Properties, the parcel on the corner of routes 818 and 50, that included a 7-Eleven and a hotel. In

December 2023, developers returned to the commission asking for approval of a Wawa instead of a 7-Eleven. Those developers returned to the commission this week to present updated plans they said incorporated aspects of Berlin’s architecture. Steve Fortunato of Bohler Engineering said the commission hadn’t been specific in its guidance but that Wawa designers had removed extra signs from the building and simplified the facia and use of materials. The updated design also features more red brick and windows added to the building’s side.

“This is a one off,” he said. “This is different from all the new models.”

Commission member Newt Chandler noted that the new design even featured brick pumps under the fueling canopy.

“That’s a nice touch,” he said.

Cascio said developers hadn’t changed the form of the building. Commission member Erich Pfeffer agreed and pointed out the property was a landmark entrance to Berlin.

Developers said the commission had asked not for changes to the footprint but rather changes to the exterior of the building at the last meeting. Fortunato said it had been hard to figure out how to adjust the building at all without specific architectural guidelines.

“What is a challenge here is we had six different opinions,” he said, adding that the commission’s most specific direction had been to walk around downtown Berlin to look for architectural elements that could be worked into the Wawa design.

Attorney Dirk Widdowson said he questioned how buildings like the Rite Aid and Goose Creek had been ap-

proved, as they didn’t work in elements of the town’s architecture.

“You’re dictating a lot more than you did for any of those buildings,” he said, adding that a convenience store had been approved for the site in 2021. “It’s a convenience store. We certainly can’t make it something it’s not.”

Commission member Austin Purnell said he had looked at more recently approved buildings, such as the Dollar General and the police station and felt the new Wawa design fit in.

“It’s tied in with the red brick,” he said. “Generally speaking I like it.”

Commission member Pete Cosby said he’d been on the commission when the Rite Aid was approved.

“We were less experienced and more sympathetic,” he said, adding that he went along with it and as a result had to look at the building for the last 20 years. He noted the proposed Wawa building could be improved by a cupula or gable and said he didn’t like the white risers on either side of the proposed building.

Fortunato said if that had been voiced at the last meeting designers would likely have removed them.

Attorney Regan Smith said it wasn’t fair to expect developers to return to the commission every few weeks in response to a member’s criticism. Property owner Spiro Buas said the process so far had been extremely frustrating.

“Why is the standard not the same?” he said. “You can’t keep changing what you want.”

He added that the need for a light at the intersection, one of the early concerns regarding the project, had been addressed with the state’s confirmation that a traffic signal would be installed by the fall of 2026.

Berlin resident Andy Grunden spoke in support of the project and said a lot of workaday people wanted the Wawa in town.

“Leaving it as it is right now, a little corner warzone is what it resembles, is just unacceptable,” he said.

Attorney Peter Buas said site plans were meant to be subject to planning commission review but within the confines of the code. The project even when it was a 7-Eleven was code complaint he said.

“I think we can agree this plan is better than the original 7-Eleven site plan,” he said.

Though there was talk among commission members about a conditional approval that would require the developers to incorporate a gable or similar element on the roof of the structure, Widdowson said that would not work for Wawa. He said the project team was asking for a vote Wednesday night, not a conditional approval, as that would be turned down by Wawa.

The commission went on to vote 43, with Cascio, Cosby and Pfeffer opposed, to approve the site plan as presented.

Mold suspicions close building at OP racquet center

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 29, 2024) Mold concerns have led to the closure — and partial reopening — of the Ocean Pines Racquet Center while an inspection continues.

At an Ocean Pines Board of Directors meeting last Saturday, Racquet Sports Advisory Committee members advocated for a proper expansion of the racquet center building and a mold inspection, which led to the board temporarily closing the facility pending a comprehensive health evaluation.

“At the Board of Directors meeting, it was brought to the board’s attention by Racquet Sports Advisory Committee (RSAC) members Karen Kaplan, Suzanne Russell, and Cathy Noble that there were significant concerns regarding suspected mold in the Racquet Sports building, and they made a claim that it made people sick and caused employees to quit,” Ocean Pines Association President Rick Farr said in a press release issued by Director of Public Relations and Marketing Josh Davis.

The directors decided to temporarily close the racquet center on Sunday. Following discussions with the association’s insurance specialist and a preliminary inspection on Monday, which found no mold, the courts reopened for players. The building will remain inaccessible until an environmental consultant completes an indepth assessment and any issues are resolved.

Per the building’s closure, racquet sports members are not required to check in, Davis said. OPA is formulating a revised check-in process that will be communicated with residents once it is decided. The bathrooms are closed, but temporary accommodations are available near the adjacent dog park.

“While we understand this closure may inconvenience those who regularly use the center, we believe this proactive measure is necessary to safeguard the well-being of our community members,” OPA General Manager John Viola said in a release. “We will closely monitor the situation and provide updates on the reopening.”

RSAC member Suzanne Russell emphasized the need for the health evaluation, citing a 2015 situation in which the golf course building was discovered to contain mold while undergoing renovations. OPA was forced to tear down the entire facility and start from scratch. The incident led to increased project costs, which RSAC is trying to avoid.

The RSAC members also advocated for properly expanding the racquet center building. Russell

TARA FISCHER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

While the courts remain open, the Ocean Pines Racquet Center building stays closed as officials investigate mold allegations introduced by Racquet Sports Advisory Committee members at a March 23 OPA Board of Directors meeting.

Racquet sports committee hopes for facility expansion

proposed that the $150,000 funding approved for the initiative be used for a proper investigation of mold issues, “professional architectural conceptual plans to provide cost estimates… and a licensed structural assessment of the building’s soundness…all of which should be done before any project is started.”

According to Russell, the committee was presented with a drawing that would double the facility’s size at a May 11, 2023, meeting, and the group voted seven to zero in favor of the proposed plans. However, RSAC was later told that construction could not be expanded beyond the building’s footprint and that a considerable amount of the two-story expansion would be lost to stairs and elevators.

Russell argued that county-level research revealed permits could be easily obtained for the initially planned racquet center development. The committee, therefore, voted at their March 14, 2024, meeting to pursue a “long overdue and greatly needed expansion to the racquet center building.” Members argue that the current building is undersized and cannot meet the members’ demands, nor can it keep up with increased participation.

“Today, we have nearly 500 members with five different racquet sports being played,” Russell said. “That number is expanding quickly since pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America. The existing building is no longer sufficient in size to meet the racquet sport’s growing membership.”

The RSAC member highlighted the

need to increase the building’s size, claiming that functions had to be moved to the community center’s Assateague Room and the Golf Club’s meeting spot. She also claimed that the proposed bathroom enlargement leaves little space for pro-shop offices and worries that the facility’s structural soundness is compromised, given its age. The committee maintains that the board-approved renovations do not address these issues.

Karen Kaplan continued these sentiments. She argued that the building needs a proper central HVAC system, as the current one does not sufficiently ventilate, an upgraded checkin site with windows for employees to monitor players, cameras, and improved shade amenities.

The committee member also expressed her concerns about the quality of work this project will receive, as funding is only $86 per square foot. “That does not seem nearly enough to do a proper HVAC, new flooring, new walls, and possible mold remediation,” she said.

Kaplan argued that a proper expansion would increase the racquet center’s revenue and make it self-sustaining. Some ideas include offering breakfast food and drinks prepared by the Ocean Pines Yacht Club or the Clubhouse Bar and Grille, holding additional tournaments, selling more equipment and apparel from the pro shop, and cross-marketing to other amenities, like the swim club.

The next OPA Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Saturday, April 20, at the Golf Club Meeting Room.

STILL AT IT

It may have been chilly in March, but the Town of Ocean City’s Public Works crews continued to clean the beaches daily.

Utility’s substation plans approved near OC Library

Battery storage system moves ahead with conditional use permit

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) Resort planners last week approved a site plan for a battery storage substation to be located behind the Ocean City library.

Last Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission approved a site plan for a proposed battery energy storage system (BESS) at 112 100th Street. Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said the substation is allowed in the R-2 medium density residential zoning district by a conditional use granted to Delmarva Power

& Light (DP&L).

“You are all probably familiar with this because it has gone through conditional use and a land swap so that the parcel DP&L had had a permanent conditional use on now belongs to the Mayor and City Council, and the conditional use has been extinguished from that site,” Gordy said.

In 2022, the Mayor and Council approved a conditional use permit allowing Delmarva Power & Light to establish a BESS, contingent upon completion of a land swap agreement with the Town of Ocean City.

Simply put, the utility company owned the northerly lot at 100th Street, while Ocean City owned an adjacent lot of a similar size immediately to the south. As part of the land swap, the town would acquire the northerly parcel – which is contiguous with other town-owned property – while Delmarva Power & Light would acquire the southerly parcel for the installation of the BESS. Officials have argued the swap would be beneficial to both the town and the utility company, as a BESS would provide a fallback energy source in the resort during times of peak energy use.

IS AT AN ALL TIME

RECORD HIGH

In an update last year, the town shared that there had been delays regarding the land swap and that those issues were being worked through. To that end, the council in October agreed to extend its conditional use agreement with Delmarva Power & Light as a result of that delay. On the agenda last week for site plan approval, Gordy told commission members the site plan submitted featured the BESS and related property improvements at the southerly lot, including fencing and landscaping. She said Delmarva Power & Light had submitted a plan that situated the equipment at the farthest possible distance from both the library, to the east, and the Our Place at the Beach condominium complex, to the west.

“You’ll see the fence, you can see the structures,” she said. “It has been designed in a way so that it is as far away from the library and as far away from the residential complex as possible. They’ve worked diligently with us to try and do all of that.”

Gordy also highlighted the parking spaces that will be added to the sight. She said the town’s comprehensive plan supported the development.

“Staff recommends approval of the site plan as presented, subject to the conditions of the conditional use permit,” she concluded.

After further discussion about fencing materials and landscaping, the commission voted 4-0 to approve the site plan.

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Violence in schools stats show big drop

Based on numbers reported to state Dept. of Education

Although the argument continues between the Worcester County Board of Education and county law enforcement officials over the crime rate in local schools, data collected by the school system and reported to the state shows a precipitous drop in violent incidents following a spike going into 2023.

The lowest number of reported incidents was in the 2013-14 school year, while the highet occurred in 2005-06.

At right, the charts show totals for the first semester of the current year, although they are trending down from last year.

Court hears OC hotel’s site plan challenge

Neighboring properties object to determination of resort zoning administrator

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) A disagreement over a proposed hotel’s nonconformity and site plan was debated at length in a court hearing last week.

Last fall, shortly after developer MHROC Property Owner LLC gained site plan approval for a 230-room hotel between 13th and 14th streets in Ocean City, Harrison Hall Hotel Inc. and several nearby property owners filed a petition for judicial review in Worcester County Circuit Court challenging the zoning administrator’s determination of nonconformity, as well as the site plan’s proposed access to accessory uses on the ground floor. Following a hearing last Thursday, Judge Leah Seaton said she would issue an opinion at a later date.

“I haven’t seen more than one or two cases this complicated,” she said.

On Sept. 19, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission voted to approve a site plan for a proposed Boardwalk hotel between 13th and 14th streets. As proposed, the hotel presented to resort planners called for 230 rooms, but with less square footage and fewer amenities than what was initially presented under the Margaritaville brand.

Two weeks later, when the Mayor and Council voted on first reading to grant air rights to the developer, G. Hale Harrison and attorney G. Macy Nelson, representatives for Harrison Hall Hotel Inc., brought forward questions about the property’s nonconformity and accessory uses. Later that month, Harrison Hall Hotel and nearby property owners filed a petition with the court.

During a hearing last Thursday, Nelson challenged the project’s site plan approval. He argued the site’s 45-room nonconformity, which allows the developer to build a 230room hotel, had lapsed in April 2023, or months before the site plan was approved in September.

“The essence of this case is how large of a hotel does the town’s zoning ordinance permit,” he said.

Nelson told the judge last Thursday that the project would be located on an oceanfront block, 35,500 square feet of which was once home to the Beach Plaza Hotel, which closed in April 2021, and the Bocon Apartments, which closed in September 2021. During the planning process, he said the town’s zoning administrator had conducted a nonconforming use determination, which revealed a 45-room nonconformity on the 35,500 square feet.

“My clients then sought judicial review of that approval,” he said.

Nelson also took issue with the developer’s use of the nonconformity, arguing a portion of the property’s use was changed from apartments to hotel rooms. He also argued the developer was using the nonconformity on the entire 85,000-square-foot block.

“The uses subject to nonconforming use are to the east of the alley, and now they want to use it on the west side of the alley on land not subject to the nonconforming use,” he said.

“This illustrates unequivocally that this doesn’t conform with the code …,” he said. “We’re asking the court to reverse or vacate the approval of the site plan.”

Attorney G. Macy Nelson

In addition to the nonconformity issue, Nelson said his clients also took issue with the developer’s site plan, which had shown Boardwalk access to the retail shops on the hotel’s ground floor. He said the site plan did not meet the town’s access requirements.

mination on the existence or extent of a nonconformity.”

Fischer added that the zoning administrator did not find two uses on the property – apartment and hotel –but rather described the property as an “integrated resort.”

“They are both permitted in the R3 zone and they are treated as integrated uses,” he said.

In regard to exterior access to the Boardwalk, Fischer said egress is not determined during the planning phase but rather during the permitting stage, when more detailed drawings are presented.

“The requirements of the site plan relate to the site, not building or fire code issues,” he said.

Attorney Bruce Bright also spoke on behalf of his client, the Town of Ocean City. He said the zoning administrator had acknowledged the last use of the property was in September of 2021.

“That fact is not in dispute,” he said.

Nelson noted, however, that his clients were disputing the timeline for the nonconformity, which expires after two years of a property sitting “idle or unused.”

“They argue the two-year clock starts to tick in September of 2021 … ,” he said. “We say the two-year period starts to run when the Beach Plaza closed in April of 2021.”

Nelson said the developer used that Sept. 20, 2023 deadline to submit a site plan, which he said had several shortcomings. When those issues were pointed out, the developer submitted a revised site plan, which was approved days later at the Sept. 19 planning commission meeting.

“This illustrates unequivocally that this doesn’t conform with the code … ,” he said. “We’re asking the court to reverse or vacate the approval of the site plan.”

For his part, attorney Kurt Fischer, representing MHROC, said the zoning administrator has the authority to determine the existence and extent of a nonconformity. He added that the petitioner had an opportunity to appeal the decision to the board of zoning appeals but had failed to do so.

“They appeal from the September 19, 2023 site plan approval but everything they complain about is the September 21, 2021 determination letter from the zoning administrator …,” he said. “The planning commission’s authority does not extend to the deter-

Bright also told the judge that the density permitted under the code allowed the developer to build a 230room hotel on the 85,000-square-foot lot. He noted, however, that the nonconformity was on the 35,000 square feet once home to the Beach Plaza and Bocon Apartments.

“They are trying to appeal, out of time and in the wrong place,” he said.

When asked why the petitioner did not appeal the case to the town’s board of zoning appeals, Nelson said he had opted to appeal the case to the circuit court.

“Everyone argued the circuit court was the correct method,” he replied.

Following a two-hour hearing, the judge opted not to rule from the bench, but to issue an opinion at a later date.

“It’s a complicated issue,” the judge said.

Berlin officials support infill development

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) Berlin officials agreed that growth areas need to be adjusted as Worcester County begins a review of its comprehensive plan.

The Berlin Town Council this week held a work session with the Berlin Planning Commission to discuss growth at Berlin’s borders. The two bodies agreed to let county officials know that growth areas currently depicted around the town in the comprehensive plan are too large and need to be adjusted.

“We just need to build the Berlin wall and say no,” said Ron Cascio, a member of the town’s planning commission.

The current Worcester County Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 2006. In early March, the town received a let-

ter from Worcester County officials advising municipal officials that during the next year a consultant would be working with the county’s planning commission to update the plan.

“As we begin our review, it is important that we begin discussions with each municipality to get your input on existing and proposed future growth areas surrounding the town of Berlin,” the letter reads. “One of the most important goals of the county’s current plan is to maintain the rural and coastal character by continuing the county’s concentrated development pattern. To achieve this goal, we must continue to support sustainable growth by infilling existing communities and identifying appropriate areas for future growth.”

Mayor Zack Tyndall said the ques-

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tions the town was tasked with answering were whether the current growth areas were adequate and whether or not they were in the wrong place. Cascio and Matt Stoehr, the only two members of the planning commission present, said there was space for infill development within the town’s current borders and that the county’s growth areas outside Berlin needed to be adjusted.

“We have determined we should not annex any more properties,” Cascio said.

He referenced planner Dhiru Thadani’s visit to Berlin and his emphasis on infill.

“For a small town to function as a small town size matters,” Cascio said.

Cascio said there were still areas for development within town limits. He suggested the ice plant area as well as the grain tower area.

SPECIALS

Councilman Dean Burrell said he understood the desire for Berlin to remain quaint but questioned how the town would address growing operating costs without an increase in property tax revenue. He added that increasing the tax rate would burden existing residents.

would only further increase the town’s operating expenses, as there would be more people that would need services like trash collection and police protection.

“Tax dollars are more impactful when they’re compacted,” he said.

Tyndall said officials would need to determine how to address the need for revenue. Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said she felt it made sense for the town to stick with its current borders. Councilman Steve Green said he understood the commission’s desire to see growth areas like the one on Libertytown Road eliminated but brought up the possibility of commercial growth. He said the area on Route 50 near the auto parts store and Royal Farms seemed a reasonable place for commercial businesses to go.

“That’s an area I’d be open to hearing an annexation,” he said.

Cascio agreed there were suitable places for commercial development but that developers needed to work in the town’s architectural style.

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“We do not want to be a town where people who live here cannot afford to live here,” he said.

Cascio said that annexing property

“We think there are no brainers in some commercial districts like Route 50,” he said.

The council is expected to work Monday’s discussion points into a response to the county’s letter.

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Berlin Planning Commission Chair Matt Stoehr, right, and commission member Ron Cascio are pictured during a work session with the Mayor and Council March 25.

CHARLENE SHARPE/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Grand jury indicts former childcare worker

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) A Berlin woman faces 90 charges, including 10 felony child abuse charges, related to her time working in the infant classroom at a local daycare.

A grand jury this week indicted Heather Lynn Ward, 40, who is facing numerous charges related to her time working at Berlin Activities Depot/Education Station. The charges pertain to nine children who were under Ward’s care and supervision at the daycare.

“The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office maintains an unwavering com-

mitment to protecting children and will continue to work hand in hand with Child Protective Services and our other community partners to ensure that reports of child abuse are thoroughly investigated, and those responsible are held accountable,” Sheriff Matt Crisafulli said.

In November, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) and Child Protective Services (CPS) launched an investigation related to an eight-month-old baby who was admitted to Atlantic General Hospital with a broken tibia.

“During the investigation, it was determined that the injured child was an attendee of the Berlin Education

Station Childcare Center,” a release from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Investigation reads. “Video surveillance footage from the child’s classroom revealed actions by an employee identified as Heather Ward that appeared to cause the injuries to the child. The video footage additionally revealed other concerning interactions with several other children under her care.”

As a result of the investigation, on March 26 the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office presented the case to the Worcester County Grand Jury. Ward now faces 90 charges, including 10 felony counts of child abuse and 80 misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault, with offense dates ranging from Oct. 2, 2023, to Nov. 1, 2023. The charges include 10 felony counts of child abuse as well as

misdemeanor charges such as reckless endangerment, second degree assault and neglect of a minor.

Carmella Solito, owner/operator of Berlin Activities Depot, said the charges were gut wrenching.

“I am outraged and appalled that the person could allegedly commit such abhorrent acts,” she said in a statement. “The betrayal cuts to the core of everything I believe in and have worked towards at Berlin Activities Depot. Providing a safe, nurturing environment for children is my life’s work and highest calling. That’s why I believe nobody wants justice more than me.”

Solito said the charges did not reflect the “values, dedicated staff, and loving caregivers who make up the Berlin Activities Depot family.”

“We have zero tolerance for any abuse or mistreatment of children in our care,” she said. “Parents put their utmost trust in us, and we will stop at nothing to uphold that sacred responsibility. I ask for continued patience and understanding as we continue to fully assist law enforcement as the investigation continues. Protecting children must be our shared priority as we seek accountability and justice. I promise we will not rest until every necessary action is taken to ensure no family ever has to relive this nightmare.”

According to charging documents, police met with Ward in December and showed her surveillance video from the daycare classroom.

“Ward stated from what she saw in the videos that I showed her, she didn’t believe she broke the ‘kids’ leg,” charging documents read. “She was told by the staff at the Education Station that it didn’t look like she broke her leg.”

At that point parents of other children who were in Ward’s classroom on Nov. 1 were shown video of their children’s interactions with Ward, and in mid-January, police obtained video for the Bees classroom during Oct. 1 to Nov. 13. The charging documents go on to identify numerous interactions between Ward and the baby whose leg was eventually broken.

“(The child) moved in her crib. Ward immediately turned and pushed down on (the child’s) body twice. 12:05:25— (The child) moved again, Ward pushed down on (the child’s) body and then slapped her twice. Ward repositioned (the child) so her head was at the opposite end of the crib. 12:08:16—Ward punched (the child) on the head area two times and slapped her,” according to charging documents.

Heather L. Ward

Board of ed updated on programs

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 29, 2024) The Worcester County Board of Education hosted a meeting on March 19, where personnel presented new programs in the school system, such as The Nest Early Learning Center and efforts to establish Buckingham Elementary as a community school.

Career and Technical Education Coordinator Brian Philips and Early Childhood Coordinator Diane Shorts gave a presentation of the Nest Early Learning Center, a Worcester County preschool education program.

Phillips said the center replaced an outgoing early childhood education program at Worcester Technical High School and was also formed to meet the demands of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.

“In the blueprint, pillar one is early childhood,” Shorts said. “One of the big things is we need to prepare every student for is kindergarten when they enter our school system. To do that, we need to build childcare centers and pre-k programs within the public schools.”

Philips and Shorts applied for the Maryland State Department of Education’s Maryland Rebuilds Grant and were awarded $1.3 million on Jan. 4, 2023. The funds allowed the center at

WTHS to hire a director, put in a $330,000 playground, and revamp and construct a space into The Nest.

The center also acts as an apprenticeship and childcare workforce pipeline. According to the presentation, which cited the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, childcare employment needs were estimated to increase by 6% annually from 2021-2023, equating to 170,100 job openings occurring each year over the next decade.

The Nest will encourage high school students to gain hands-on early childhood education experience for a minimum of 480 hours to earn a Child Development Associate status, as the state now requires anyone working in the industry to receive this certification. The grant money allowed The Nest to create the youth apprenticeship program with 12 students. They are paid $15 an hour.

The Early Nest Learning Center has one director, two teachers, and two assistants. It also offers yearround childcare for 40 preschoolaged children, part-time and full-time services, iPads, Apple TVs, field trips, Brightwheel Childcare Software, and promotes school readiness and academic achievement.

School partnership programs were also discussed at the meeting, particularly the initiative to restore Buck-

ingham Elementary as a community school. BES Principal Chris Welch and school counselor Staci Aperance presented their efforts in the last five years to accomplish this.

“Our students at Buckingham work so hard, and they deserve our going above and beyond for them, which is exactly why we need these partnerships,” Aperance said. “We have made so many good relationships in the community, and they help us fund all the extra things we like to do.”

The Berlin Fire Department, the Berlin Library, Pops Pizza, and others help fund the school’s summer and after-school programs. According to Welch, the fire department creates a giant waterfall with its equipment during the off-season session.

Additionally, the school pays minimal fees for its Girls on the Run program because of the United Way, which Welch says is a vital group for the girls to run and build self-esteem in a community of common interest.

Other community-sponsored events include swim lessons, the Big Brother/ Big Sister mentorship program, and half-day attendance incentives.

“These are things we wouldn’t typically be able to do for our kids because of a budget crisis, but we can do thanks to our community partners,” Welch said.

Go Green OC’s efforts hitting new heights

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) Go Green OC will reach a new milestone this year as it begins its seventh season of composting in Ocean City.

Last week, Go Green OC announced the start of its seventh season in Ocean City. This year, the organization will welcome nearly two dozen participating businesses, including a hotel and the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

“We are 100% satisfied with our growth, as well as our partnership with the Town of Ocean City,” said Go Green OC founder Josh Chamberlain.

In 2018, Go Green OC partnered with The Hobbit Restaurant owner Garvey Heiderman to launch a composting program that invites local businesses to divert food waste from the town’s waste stream. Each season, volunteers collect food waste from participating businesses and haul it to a farm in Bishopville, where the food is turned into compost.

Since its inception, the program has grown, with new businesses joining and more food waste collected. In its first year, for example, the program converted 2,000 pounds of food waste from one restaurant. Last year, 24 volunteers collected 353,000 pounds of food waste from more than two dozen businesses.

“People are really making serious

changes, and we love that,” Chamberlain said.

As the 2024 summer season nears, Go Green OC has begun collecting for its seventh season in town. This year, however, the first hotel – Hilton Garden Inn – and the convention center will join the list of participating businesses.

At the hotel on 28th Street, Chamberlain said plastics will be replaced with compostable products and food waste would be converted. At the convention center, all events and activities will become “zero waste.”

“The convention center itself will compost everything from catering to events in the halls, all leftover food will be composted,” he said. “And the concession stands will have compostable products. Our goal is to be zero waste. So everything you pick up and consume will be compostable.”

While the program began last Friday, Chamberlain said he is eager to see what the new season brings. He noted that this September, the organization is expected to reach 1 million pounds of food waste diversion since the start of the program. He added that Go Green will also be participating in both the Oceans Calling Festival and the Country Calling Festival.

“They donated a lot of money to us and we really depend on that to grow the program,” he said. “Without them, it’s

very hard.”

Chamberlain noted that the program relies on volunteers and grant funding to support composting efforts in Ocean City. He said money is also needed to expand the compost program.

“We’re at the point we need serious money to really begin to expand,” he said. “We can only do so much with free

volunteers and one truck.”

Chamberlain, however, said he is excited about the process Go Green OC has made. He noted that the organization’s efforts have put Ocean City on the ecotourism map.

“We’re becoming a voice in the zerowaste space …,” he said. “We are already becoming a model.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ocean Compost LLC owner Garvey Heiderman is pictured with a pile of composing materials collected through the Go Green OC program.

Easter events this weekend

(March 29, 2024) There are no shortage of traditional as well as unique ways to celebrate Easter this weekend in Berlin, Ocean Pines and Ocean City.

The following is a recap of some events on tap:

Ocean City

Ocean Promotions is bringing back the annual Easter Art & Craft Show and Kids Fun Fair on Friday, March 29 and Saturday, March 30, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

Admission to the event includes the arts and crafts fair as well as many games and contests as well as face painting and visits with Beanny the Easter Bunny. Pay-as-you-go options will include the bounce houses and obstacle courses on site as well as a mechanical bull.

The entertainment schedule each day includes multiple Easter egg hunts for different ages, a limbo, hula hoop and musical chairs contest and Cascading Carlos teaching juggling.

The Easter Art & Craft Fair will feature dozens of vendors offering a variety of gift, food and art options.

Berlin Spring Celebration

Breakfast with the Easter bunny, a bonnet parade and an egg hunt highlight this Saturday’s Berlin Spring Celebration from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Berlin.

“We are thrilled to announce the return of one of our favorite family events, and all of the fun that comes with it,” Ryan Nellans, executive director of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce said. “We are welcoming back lots of familiar faces, including the Shake it Up Jam! and children's book author Katie Ruskie. Our egg hunt on the Taylor House Museum lawn and our Midway on Main Street are back and better than ever with even more prizes, all made possible by our sponsors, Bradley Atlantic Insurance Management, Taylor Bank, and Jolly Roger Amusements.”

The day kicks off early, with the Berlin Fire Company hosting “Bunny Brunch” from 8 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. The event, which is $5 for kids under 10 and $10 for adults, will be held in the upstairs event hall at the station on Main Street. All-day parking will also be available at the firehouse, where cash donations will be accepted.

The Spring Celebration itself will begin with some fanfare, as a bonnet parade will run from the firehouse to the festival grounds on Main Street at 10 a.m. There, the best bonnets will win prizes and then children will be invited to visit the games that will make up “Midway on Main Street.” An egg hunt is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on the lawn of the Taylor House Museum.

The Spring Celebration will also include live music from Shake it Up Jam! and appearances by Lollipop the Clown.

In the days leading up to the Spring Celebration, Nellans noted that the town’s paper egg hunt was still underway.

“If you don't already know, our paper egg hunt is still going until we draw two winners, who will each receive a $100 gift card to the best Ice cream in the United States - Island Creamery,” he said. “Forms for the hunt are available at the Berlin Visitors Center at 14 S Main St.”

For more information, visit the Berlin Spring Celebration event page on Facebook. Nellans said volunteers are still needed for the event and those interested should call 410-641-4775 or email berlinmdchamber@gmail.com.

Ocean Pines

On Saturday, March 30, the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks group will welcome residents to their Spring Celebration and Easter Egg Hunt at White Horse Park. The holidaythemed function will offer carnival games, food, a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, and a special Easter Bunny visit.

The event is free and will include three Easter Egg hunts, differentiated by age. The 1, 2, and 3-year-olds will begin their search at 11:30 a.m., the 4 to 6-year-olds will start at noon, and the 7 to 10-year-olds will round out the hunts at 12:30 p.m.

The annual Easter Magic celebration will return to the Farmers and Artisans Market on Saturday, March 30. Early spring produce, flowers, and baked goods will be available for purchase.

New and returning merchants are expected to bring an abundance of fresh and homemade seasonal goodies to the event.

Ocean Pines Association Director of Marketing and Public Relations Josh Davis said DelVecchio’s Bakery will offer Easter eclairs, breads, and scones. The booth will sell cookies, pies, cupcakes, and hot cross buns.

Belinda White of Pies Etcetera will have handmade chocolate-dipped peanut butter eggs, and Maureen Meushaw, owner of Pocket Farm, will sell fresh eggs from her pasture-raised laying hens.

Snyder’s Produce and Beautiful Things will return to the market on March 30, where owner Debbie Snyder will offer spring bedding plants, Easter flowers, and patio planters.

New sellers plan to participate in this year’s Easter celebration. Fika Coffee will provide shoppers with a variety of coffee beans, Davis said. Salt Marsh Dry Goods and owner Michelle Kemp will also make their first Easter Magic appearance.

“Kemp creates reusable products for the kitchen and home,” market manager David Bean said in a press release issued by Davis. “For those looking to replace paper options for cooking and cleaning, Salt Marsh Dry Goods has sustainable options. Their home-sewn sustainable items include reusable replacements for paper towels, napkins, baby wipes, makeup removers, coasters, trivets, and crochet dish cleaners.”

The Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market occurs each Saturday in White Horse Park. Shoppers can browse the booths and vendors from 8 a.m. to noon. More information about Ocean Pines’ springtime and Easter activities can be found on the official Ocean Pines Association website.

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Photos with the Easter bunny will be offered in Ocean City at the convention center Friday and Saturday.

Berlin turns down ‘Prom on Main’ concept

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) Stephen Decatur High School’s plan to hold prom on Main Street failed to get the approval of elected officials this week after business owners voiced concerns and logistics issues arose.

Business owners told the Berlin Town Council Monday night they couldn’t afford to lose business on a Saturday in April after a slow and wet start to the year, especially with only a month’s notice.

“We could’ve come up with a cool idea,” said Larnet St. Amant, who owns two retail stores in the downtown area. “We could have welcomed it but no one asked us.”

Mayor Zack Tyndall told the council on Monday that he’d been in communication with Decatur teacher

Jamie Greenwood regarding the possibility of holding prom on Main Street on April 27. Greenwood, who has been organizing prom for close to 20 years, told officials the convention center in Ocean City didn’t let local groups book events more than six months in advance. While the April 27 date was discussed with convention center staff, it was before it could be formally booked. The school found out in February that the date was no longer available as the preference goes to larger bookings.

“What happened, happened,” Greenwood said. “I can’t change it. We’re looking for some help.”

Since late February, Greenwood said he’d been working with Tyndall on plans to hold prom on Main Street. He said the street would be closed to allow for setup at noon April

27 and would remain closed until about 11 p.m. The area would close to the public at 5 p.m. as shuttles began to drop students off for prom. Those shuttles would return students to their vehicles following the prom ending at 10 p.m.

“I want to disrupt as little as possible,” Greenwood said.

Councilman Jack Orris asked what the fire company thought of the plan.

“This is the first stop,” Tyndall said.

Orris asked what town businesses had said.

“This is the first stop,” Tyndall repeated.

When asked what he thought, Police Chief Arnold Downing said the event would be a heavy lift but could be done. Greenwood said the school traditionally worked with the

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office on prom and that they would have officers present as well. As far as town staff costs associated with the event, department heads said up to 10 public works employees would work overtime during the event in addition to the police coverage. Greenwood assured the town that the school would be able to contribute financially, as ticket sales in the past had covered the cost of food at the convention center.

Greenwood stressed that in his time leading the prom effort, there had been very few issues with student behavior at prom. Fellow teacher Michelle Hoffmeister agreed. She said that in the wake of the pandemic, students were just so grateful to go to events that they behaved well.

Greenwood noted that students and staff would have wristbands on and those wristbands would be cut off when they left.

“Once you leave, you’re done,” Greenwood said. “You’re not allowed back in.”

Business owners, who packed the council chambers, were quick to express concerns with the proposal. Matt Borelli of Sterling Tavern said there had been no communication from the town to the business community about the prom. He said Saturday was typically a good day for business in Berlin and that with a rainy winter, it would hurt businesses to give up a spring Saturday. He said it was unlikely teenagers would be spending money at Main Street establishments. He added that when Decatur’s state champion football team had paraded through town, one of his employees’ cars had been jumped on and covered in hot chocolate.

“I don’t think the business district is where it should be done,” he said. Borelli said if he accepted the fact that he wouldn’t do much business during prom and closed, his staff would lose a day of pay.

“If the town doesn’t stick up for us on this, it’s going to be tough,” he said. Borelli said another day of the week, even a Sunday, would be better. Greenwood said the school wanted the April 27 date because students had already rented tuxedos and made hair appointments.

St. Amant was adamant that the event could have been pulled off fantastically if the business community had been brought on board from the start. Instead, she said the event had been sprung on merchants despite the fact that they were in town working every day.

“Who’s got my back in this room?” she said. “No one came to me.”

She said she’d love to support the idea but that there had been no time to prepare. Another merchant said the purpose of the town’s other events was

to bring shoppers to town, something the prom would not do. The concept of student safety was also discussed, as she pointed out that people walked their dogs up and down Main Street constantly and that people lived in the apartments above Main Street.

“We can’t do this in five weeks,” she said.

“We hear you,” Tyndall said.

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said her daughter was a senior at Decatur but she wasn’t able to support a prom on Main Street. She said she had too many concerns about what could happen.

“I want my child to have a prom but it’s not happening on Main Street,” she said.

Greenwood said the prom couldn’t be held on the football field because it

was a turf field and couldn’t be pierced.

Councilman Jack Orris suggested the group focus on the rain location, which Greenwood said was under a tent on the parking lot at Berlin Intermediate School.

“Our decision here tonight is whether the prom plan proceeds downtown,” Councilman Dean Burrell said. “It is not to figure out what needs to happen if it’s not held downtown. That’s not our responsibility.”

Cindi Krempel, representing the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, said having the prom on a Saturday in April would be a financial burden for businesses. She suggested Stephen Decatur Park as a location. Laura Stearns of the Atlantic Hotel said she knew prom was a difficult topic because emotionally everyone wanted to support it.

“I want nothing more than for them to have a nice prom,” she said. “But understand what it’s like as a business in the town of Berlin.”

She said businesses this year had dealt with bad weather, an increase in minimum wage and a jump in food costs.

“We have to put the emotional part aside and think what’s the best thing for the town of Berlin,” she said.

Resident Sara Hambury said she often planned events for Atlantic General Hospital and said she felt a tent was key for any outdoor event, especially one expected 600 individuals. Another resident, Jody Hallman, who said she also had a child at Decatur said parents were not aware of the prom problem and should be engaged.

“I struggle that this is now the town’s issue,” she said, adding that there were parents who owned hotels and other suitable sites that might be able to step up.

Greenwood thanked the Berlin community for the input provided. He said he understood the difficulties small business owners faced as he grew up in his family’s restaurant business. He said he’d discuss the possibility of a grand march as well as using the park or the rain location, with his prom planning group.

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Business owners and residents are pictured at this week’s Berlin Mayor and Council during the Decatur Prom discussion.

Water billing change approved

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 29, 2024) A change in the town’s utility code will advance to a second reading.

Last week, the Ocean City Council voted 6-0, with Councilman Peter Buas absent, to approve the first reading of an ordinance that adopts procedures for water consumption billing when a water meter malfunctions. The ordinance was first introduced at a meeting earlier this month.

“It is our goal to modify the code by adding a section that will acknowledge and provide a mechanism for us to bill individuals when we discover there's a malfunctioning meter,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins explained at the time. “Obviously this has gone on in the past. It will continue to go on in the future.”

In a work session March 12, Adkins presented council members with an ordinance that provides a method to codify the public works department’s practices for when a water meter malfunctions. While he acknowledged that meters fail, Adkins said the proposed code amendment

would allow the town to recoup some of the lost revenues when they do.

“Normally when we're doing a quarterly reading is when we would discover that we have what we call a zero-read meter,” he said. “That means months have gone by that we would have been unable to capture revenue. So we are suggesting a code amendment, as indicated in your agenda packet, that would allow us to do a three-year averaging over that quarter in fairness to both the municipality and to the property owner.”

With no further discussion, the council voted unanimously to move forward with the proposed ordinance. Last Friday, the council once again voted unanimously to approve the ordinance on first reading.

The council last week also voted to authorize the submission of a grant application to the Federal Transit Administration through the Maryland Transit Administration Annual Transportation Plan. The town’s application includes funding requests for two articulating buses, bus preventative maintenance and a zeroemission transition plan study, among other things.

DISTRACTED DRIVING TARGETED

An assumed construction worker turned out to be a trooper with the Maryland State Police last week along Route 589 near Manklin Creek Road and on the side of the Route 50 bridge heading into Ocean City. The operation was on the lookout for distracted driving violations. Through communication, the team was able to pull over 120 drivers, the majority of which were texting on their cell phones.

Roof replacement work delayed

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(March 28, 2024) County officials delayed approval of a roof project at Snow Hill Middle School and Cedar Chapel Special School after expressing concern with construction plans.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week agreed to delay approval of a roof replacement project at Snow Hill Middle School/Cedar Chapel Special School until their first meeting in April. They told education officials they’d like to see the old roof demolished, not just left intact under a new roof.

“I know it’s not what you planned but you can make it work,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said.

Superintendent Lou Taylor approached the commissioners last week seeking approval of a $3.7 mil-

lion roof replacement project. He said the school system had received bids for the project and wanted to proceed through the Garland/DBS turnkey project delivery method. Worcester County Public Schools would purchase the roof material directly from Garland, resulting in savings through an elimination of contractor overhead and elimination of sales tax on the materials purchased, according to Taylor.

“We have realized a savings of nearly $1.2 million though retrofitting the Snow Hill Middle School roof in lieu of demolishing the existing roof that’s there,” he said.

Taylor said the school system was requesting $2,034,462 from the county for the project, as the state would be funding $1,849,462.

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic asked about the anticipated savings. Joe Price, the school system’s facilities planner, said the county would be saving on the cost of demolition of the existing roof.

“Putting the new roof over the old roof, the structure can handle it,” Price said.

Mitrecic said he wasn’t a supporter of putting a new roof on top of an old roof.

“You’ll lose the new roof quicker that way,” he said.

Price said tearing off the existing roof would add about $909,000 to the price of the project. Mitrecic maintained that as a builder, he didn’t think a roof over a roof was the way to go. Commissioner Eric Fiori agreed.

“Full tear-off would be my recommendation,” he said.

Bertino said the school system should return to the board of education to seek approval of the change before returning to the commissioners for approval. He said once the increased price and updated project plan was approval by the board of education, the commissioners could consider approval at their April 2 meeting.

“I understand your situation but this way we can go at this in the correct way,” he said.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ham with cherry port glaze nice for Easter

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(March 29, 2024) Easter is here and entertaining is in full swing.

Grilled leg of lamb will be my holiday offering, but I want to offer another choice of protein.

Ham is popular during this time of the year and is affordable.

Fresh hams are essentially a large joint of fresh pork that is neither cured nor smoked. They have a meatier flavor and a more pork-like color than fully cooked hams.

A flavorful brine that includes salt, light brown sugar, bay leaves, peppercorns, cloves, and apple cider not only add to the moisture but locks in tenderness. I am a huge fan of brining and highly recommend this step if one is preparing a fresh ham.

Pre-cooked hams are cured with either a dry rub or wet brine, and most often smoked. These types of ham have already been cooked, which saves time for a busy cook.

Country hams or Virginia hams are dry-cured, smoked, and aged during a period that can range from a few months to more than a year. Their distinctive, salty flavor is used for

specific dishes that complement the unusual high sodium content.

Boneless or bone-in ham is the question of the day. As the meat cooks, the bone releases its natural juices, deepening the depth of taste. A boneless ham may be easier to carve, but does not have the flavor or wow factor.

A large, pre-cooked ham can take hours to cook which can result in dry meat. Following are two tips for reducing oven time and increasing moisture retention. Place the original ham (in its original wrapping) in warm water for 90 minutes. This raises its internal temperature and decreases the cooking time.

Secondly, cooking a ham in an oven bag or covered in tin foil reduces the oven time and at the same time seals in its natural juices. That being said, I decided to research the use of oven bags, and found some directions that contradicted each other.

Some recipes suggest using a tablespoon of flour in the bag to keep it from exploding in the oven. But at the same time, instructions mentioned slitting the bag to avoid it from breaking. As a result, I went straight to the professionals and contacted Reynolds Wrap Customer Service.

The Reynolds Wrap representative

was very polite and quite knowledgeable. He informed me that the recommended slits prevent the bag from exploding.

The flour, on the other hand, keeps the bag from melting. In addition, the oven bag should not be use in oven temperatures above 400 de-

grees.

The crust of the roasted ham is important to the presentation and overall textural experience. Always cook ham with the fat side up: this allows the exterior to develop a good sear. The fat juices also continually baste the ham.

Crust, glaze of ham important Eastern Shore

Glazes are synonymous with ham. Fully cooked hams come with a premixed glaze. I find that most of the glazes are very sweet with little depth of flavor. Adding your own glaze takes very little time and can be a delicious addition.

Glazes should be applied toward the end of the cooking process. Typically, glazes contain a lot of sugar and are prone to burning. Remove the ham from the oven 15 minutes before it is done. Apply the glaze and return the ham to the oven.

The final step is to lightly flame the exterior of the ham with a butane torch for a wow factor. This piece de resistance for a gorgeous finale is optional.

There are countless recipes for glazes. The following cherry port glaze pairs wonderfully with theme of spring. The sweetness of the cherries and richness of the port adds a whole new dimension to the ham. Happy Easter!

Easter Ham with a Cherry Port Glaze

Ham

1 (7 to 12-pound) spiral bone-in ham 1 large plastic oven bag

Glaze recipe

Ingredients

1 packet of glaze that is included with the ham any drippings from the cooked ham

1 ½ cup ruby port

1 ½ cup packed dark brown sugar

1 cup cherry preserves

2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger ¾ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon crushed dried rosemary ¼ teaspoon black pepper

1. Bring ham to room temperature.

2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

3. Follow the instructions on the cooking bag.

4. Cook ham 15 minutes per pound. The interior temperature should reach 145 degrees.

5. While the ham is cooking, combine the cherry port glaze ingredients except for the ham drippings. Reduce it by half.

6. Fifteen minutes before the ham is done, remove it from the oven. Carefully remove the baking bag, and place the ham on a baking sheet.

7. Add the drippings to the glaze and pour it over the ham. Return to the oven for the last 15 minutes.

8. Flame the ham for a grand finale.

Secret Ingredient – Focus “A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

John ‘Clifford’ Birch shares local memories

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(March 29, 2024) This week we are pleased to recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member John “Clifford” Birch.

Capt. Birch recalls that his love for the OCVFC was “in his blood” from an early age. His father, Jack Birch, served as a member of the OCVFC for many years after he was recruited to help fight the Plimhimmon Hotel fire in 1962. Clifford’s mother also joined the OCVFC Ladies Auxiliary.

Clifford served the Ocean City community as a master plumber and small business owner for 23 years, beginning his plumbing career in 1972 before retiring in 2014. He and his wife, Terri, now reside in Little River, South Carolina.

Clifford joined the OCVFC as a member of the cadet program in 1967 at the age of 14. During his years as a cadet, he served as the secretary-treasurer and later as president. Birch then joined the OCVFC at his earliest opportunity (at the age of 18) in January 1972. During his years of active service, Clifford served as lieutenant and later captain on Ladder #706. He was also a cadet instructor and a member of the Muster Committee and the OCVFC Muster Team.

Captain Birch recalls several memo-

rable events during his years as a member of the OCVFC:

“My most significant memories were the long nights in the early ‘70’s fighting the suspicious hotel fires while assigned to Engine #708 under Capt. George Hurley. I remember working with Capt. William Steger, Jr. in the use of Ladder #706 in successfully pulling a family of four from the 10th floor balcony during a fire at the Sheraton Hotel on 101st Street in Ocean City. I certainly will never forget losing Jeff (F/F Dieter) at the Saute Café fire. And in 1985, I recall seeing our firefighters jumping on top of our fire engines in the 12th Street alley while fighting a building fire as the storm surge (waves) from Hurricane Gloria rushed between the buildings.”

Clifford cites his greatest accomplishment in the fire service as the privilege of working with the best firefighters and fire officers in the world. He is also grateful for the opportunity to respectfully care for Engine #708 and being part of the OCVFC Muster Team. He is perhaps most proud of winning the annual “Speed Drill” competition three years in a row with the outstanding crew of Ladder #706.

Given the opportunity to pass on advice to the members of the cadet program or other young men or women

with an interest in the fire service, Birch replied: “Get all the training you can. Always strive to earn the respect of your fellow firefighters and the citizens you protect. Wear the uniform of the OCVFC

with pride and never forget the long and proud history of the OCVFC.”

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

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member John “Clifford” Birch, standing in center, is pictured in the mid-1980s with members of the crew from Ladder #706 celebrating a speed drill win.

Art League announces film festival winners

(March 29, 2024) The Art League of Ocean City, producers of the annual Ocean City Film Festival, recently announced the winners of the eighth installment of the event, held March 7-10 at venues across the resort.

The Audience Choice first place winner is “The Echoes We See,” directed by Andrés Mejia of Halethorpe. The film is about school lockdowns and their effect on students.

The second place Audience Choice winner is “The Dogmatics,” a feature film about the 1980s rock band, directed by Rudy Childs of Rockland, Massachusetts.

The Audience Choice third place winner is “Ray of Sunshine,” a Maryland-made film directed by Tyler Jennings and Jon Kemmerer, about abused siblings who rebel.

The fourth place winner is “Father’s Day: A Kirk Franklin Story,” about the popular gospel singer, directed by Josh Chamberlain of Berlin.

The fifth place winner is “Gull,” a film from the 2023 Ocean City Film Challenge, directed by Brian Hooks.

The Women’s Commission of Worcester County awarded Adria Branson of Valley Lee, and her film “Shark Week,” with a special Best Film by a Female Director Award.

The Best of the Fest awards went to See AWARD Page 40

Directors of the film “Gianna” accept a Best of the Fest award during the Ocean City Film Festival at the beginning of March.

PHOTOS COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

The director and star of the film, “The Echoes We See,” accepts the first place Audience Choice award.

Award recipients recognized

Continued from Page 39

the following:

“Chasing Justice” by Drew Petrimoulx of Washington, D.C., about prison abuse.

“Dreaming of…” by Adrián De Jesús of Alexandria, Virginia, about a loved one’s death.

“Salted Earth” by Ben Hemmings of Ottawa, Canada, about sea level rise and encroaching salt.

“Of One’s Own” by Jack Calvin Girdod of Westminster, about speed dating in the LGBTQ community.

“Personalized Futures” by Max Delfino of Chicago, about algorithms deciding the future.

“Gianna” by Brooke Linsalata, a Maryland-made film about a young

tomboy.

“Encore Learning, 20 Years and Growing” by Sheri Ratick Stroud and Rich West of Falls Church, Virginia, about learning later in life.

“First You, Then I” by Ashleigh Coffelt of Los Angeles, about a toxic relationship.

“Reminder” by Akin Bagcilar of Istanbul, Turkey, about cleaning up after ourselves.

“A Life at See” by Elisa Mand and Bente Rohde of Kiel, Germany, about crabbermen.

The film festival is an annual production of the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City. More information about the festival and upcoming opportunities is available at OCMDFilmFestival.com.

PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Tyler Jennings, left, the director of the film “Ray of Sunshine” accepts the third place Audience Choice award at the Ocean City Fiolm Festival.

Worcester County Fair preparations now underway

Major revamping planned for annual summer event •

(March 29, 2024) Now under the management of Worcester County Recreation and Parks, this year’s Worcester County Fair will take place Aug. 9-11 at John Walter Smith Park at 6022 Public Landing Road in Snow Hill, adjacent to the Worcester County Recreation Center.

“With decades of experience in event management, WCRP professionals are thrilled to lead this year’s fair, which promises to include a vibrant revival of community activities to attract families and individuals of all ages,” Brianna Dix, the county’s tourism and economic development advertising and destination marketing specialist said in a news release. “With a diverse lineup of performances, demonstrations, and activities spanning all three days, we’re urging residents and visitors alike to save the date and to join us for the festivities.”

Fair hours will be 4-9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 9; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 10; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 11.

The kids’ area will feature crafts, inflatable jump houses, and carnival games provided by the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department. The main stage will host live entertainment, including a kickoff performance by Jimmy Charles on Friday evening, and performances by Eric Tobiassen and the Homeschool Dropouts.

Attendees are encouraged to explore the fairgrounds, including the indoor exhibits by the Maryland 4H Extension office, which will be housed at the Worcester County Recreation Center.

“Our office encourages visitors to also explore other family friendly events, such as the Blessing of the Combines in Snow Hill on Saturday, August 3, and the Great Pocomoke Fair in Pocomoke City from August 911,” Dix said.

Parks staff invite farm families and children to participate in the fair's livestock events or 4H craft categories. The entry forms will soon be available to the public, with increases in all premium costs. Stay updated by checking the Worcester County Fair Facebook page or the website at worcestercountyfair.org.

The Worcester County Fair is accepting applications for craft vendors, food vendors and business sponsors. Apply online at worcestercountyfair.org.

For more information about the fair, contact Event Coordinator/Parks Superintendent Jacob Stephens at jstephens@co.worcester.md.us or 410-632-2144 ext. 2521.

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March 29, 2024

MARKETPLACE

Worcester County Health Department

Come Join Our Team!

We are currently seeking a quick learner who enjoys working in a fast paced & team oriented environment in Snow Hill, Maryland!

PERSONNEL ASSOCIATE II - Full Time, State Benefits. The main purpose of this position is to assist with recruitment activities for the Worcester County Health Department as well as process payroll & timekeeping. This position will also perform a variety of human resources functions accurately and effectively as directed while maintaining the strictest level of confidentiality. Background check required.

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by April 2, 2024.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1221.

TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND CODE COMPLIANCE OFFICER

The Town of Snow Hill is accepting applications for the position of Code Compliance Officer. Responsibilities include: enforcement of various Town codes; inspections; issuance of permits; processing of complaints and staffing of various committees. Preferred candidate is IRC Certified and has familiarity with IBC, IEBC, Energy Code, ADA, and other applicable codes; has good organizational skills, excellent communication skills and is available to attend night meetings.

Salary commensurate with experience. This is a full-time position with Town benefits, health insurance and Maryland State Retirement.

To request an application form, send resume with salary requirements to: csullivan@snowhillmd.com or Town of Snow Hill, Carol Sullivan, P.O. Box 348, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

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

Seeking Housekeeper F/T, YR. Seatime Condominiums, 135th St. Apply in person.

410-250-2262

Help WantedCook with 2-3 Years experience required. Honest, dependable, reliable. Flexible schedule - Full or Part-time. Weekly pay checks. Friendly work environment. Serious inquires only. Open daily 12:00 p.m. American Legion Post #166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, MD

PGN Crab House 29th St. & Coastal Hwy. Now Hiring for

• Waitstaff • Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am.

Currently looking for two part-time Pool Attendants Seasonal May 24 through Sept. 2. Shift Monday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm and 4-10pm. Duties include enforcing the pool rules as posted and checking pool bands. Send resume to Kristin.moore@ atlantisocmd.com

Now Hiring Summer 2024 Positions for Sun Outdoors

Ocean City!

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

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

HERKER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

An Innovative Approach to Property Maintenance

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

- OFFICE ADMINISTRATOREXP. REQUIRED: Customer Service, MS Word & Excel, & knowledge of basic office procedures. Bi-lingual & strong math skills are a plus.

- FIELD MANAGERCustomer Service, MS Word and Excel, Outlook, and marketing skills. Bi-lingual & Strong Math Skills are a plus. email resume to Gherker@comcast.net & Gherker@herkerinc.com

Smal Engine Mechanic

Year-round.

Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047

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

AA/EOE

• Fuel Dock Attendant

• Dock Hand

• Ramp Attendant

• Maintenance

• Boat Yard Attendant

Apply online: DelawareStateJobs.com

Look For A Rewarding Summer Job? Coastal Kayak is hiring all positions! No experience necessaryjust the desire to learn! Coastalkayak.com for more info and application.

Now Hiring Year-Round GM Position

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

Bottle Shop

OFFICE MANAGER/SALES

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

Candidates should have a customer-service background, and be extremely detail-oriented. This is a chance to shine with your multi-tasking tools, and to build and maintain a customer base. You must be proficient in Microsoft Office, have strong communication skills and a terrific work ethic. This is your golden opportunity to join a winning team.

E-mail resume with OFFICE MANAGER in the subject line to: AdSales@coastalpoint.com

AUTOMOTIVE - MARINE

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

Locations in: Ocean Pines, Clarksville & Long Neck.

Great Pay & Benefits.

Call: 302-344-9769.

AUTOMOTIVE GREAT OPPORTUNITIES

Busy Tire & Service Centers Now hiring for: - Service Associates (will train) - Exp. Technicians

Locations in: Ocean Pines, Clarksville & Long Neck.

Great Pay & Benefits.

Call: 302-344-9846

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.

Thunderbird Beach Motel Now hiring all shifts and positions. Competitive pay. Apply in person starting March 26. 32nd St. Baltimore Ave., Monday through Friday from 9am-3pm.

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.

Help Wanted Full-Time Maintenance Person for a small community in the Berlin area. General maintenance knowledge needed. Good pay and benefits. Call 410-6415102. Large equipment experience helpful.

Office Adminstration for Condo Assn. Duties include answering phones, dealing with owner inquiries and other duties as assigned. Quickbooks experience pref. Mon., Wed.-Fri. from 8am to 4pm. Send resume to kristin.moore@ atlantisocmd.com

Condo For Rent. 2BR/1BA, washer/dryer, central heat and air. Includes boat slip. 15th bayside, YR, $2200 + utilities. First and last month required. 410-430-7675

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

Fully Furnished Townhouse, 4BR/2BA, Living Room, Dining Room. Water, Electric and Cable not included. $2100/month.

Located at 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD 21811. 410-456-0272

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

Seasonal Weekly Rental (ONLY). Single family home, Berlin, 4BR, 3BA, $625/per night. Call 484-319-7188 for details.

Looking For 4-Month

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

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

Furnished Room, Montego Bay, for a male, preferably 20’s to 30’s for house share. Young man on premises with cat. $700 rent, $700 security, all utilities are included - excluding cable.

Background check, references and employment verification. Available April 1. Call Mary Ellen, 973-270-3613.

COMMERCIAL

Industrial Warehouse.

Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

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

Commercial Space For Rent West OC 2500 sq. feet. rental@ ocsandyfeetretreat.com or 910-448-1693

ROOMMATES

Seeking Roommate To Share Home - Bayview Estates, Selbyville, DE. 5.7 miles to beach. $850/ month all inclusive. Private bedroom, shared bath, kitchen, living areas, outdoor space, W/D, with community pool. 302-386-7818

Seeking Room For Rent or Live with Roommate, 57, male, moving from Baltimore, looking to live in OP/Berlin, starting June. Please call Phil, 443-388-2868

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

BOAT -

Yact,

Call 443-880-7453.

The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned: B28S785-S226-O101-O103O136-O145-O151. Units are being sold due to nonpayment of rent. Common items in units are household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Saturday, March 30, 2024

Time: 10:00 am

This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register.

Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.

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.

Real Estate

THE COASTAL REAL ESTATE RESOURCE Coastal Association of Realtors - OC Today-Dispatch

Published by OC Today-Dispatch for the Coastal Association of Realtors. Advertising in this publication is limited to members and affiliated members of the Association.

The COASTAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (CAR) is a trade organization for real estate professionals in Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset Counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Its membership consists of more than 1,000 REALTORs® and affiliate members serving the home-buying and homeselling needs of the public since 1957.

The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark, which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics.

The COASTAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS is located at 314 Franklin Avenue, Suite 106 • Berlin, MD 21811. Phone: 410-641-4409. On the Web: www.coastalrealtor.org

OC TODAY-DISPATCH is the leading newspaper publisher on the Maryland coast, with OC Today-Dispatch publishing weekly on Friday, Bayside Gazette and Ocean City Digest publishing on Thursdays and Real Estate, the Coastal Real Estate Resource publishing key weekends throughout the year.

On the Web: www.oceancitytoday.com

Editor......................................................................... Stewart Dobson

Executive Editor................................................................ Steve Green

Account Managers....................... Mary Cooper, Renée Kelly, Terri French

Classifieds/Legals ........................................................... Taylor Sloan

Art Director....................................................................... Cole Gibson

Senior Page Designer....................................................... Susan Parks

Senior Ad Designer............................................................ Kelly Brown

Publisher..................................................................... Christine Brown

Administrative Asistant.......................................................... Gini Tufts

Coastal releases statement on NAR settlement proposal

Maryland already followed many aspects of agreement

The following statement was released by the Coastal Association of Realtors (CAR):

Coastal Association of Realtors received the announcement that National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the plaintiffs had reached a proposed settlement agreement Friday March 15th, from NAR interim CEO Nykia Wright.

This settlement would end litigation of the claims brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions,” reported CAR CEO Bernie Flax.

Wright gave this comment, “NAR has worked hard for years to resolve this litigation in a manner that benefits our members and American consumers. It has always been our goal to preserve consumer choice and protect our members to the greatest extent possible. This settlement achieves both of those goals.”

There are strong grounds for the court to approve this settlement, but we can expect the court review process to take several months or more. In large class action settlements, objections and opt outs are

common, and the plaintiffs and NAR will handle them as they come.

Chris Jett, CAR member and Maryland Realtors state treasurer said, “It’s important to note that the settlement is still subject to final court approval, so no immediate changes are being implemented in the state or within our industry. Realtors will continue to clearly educate and document in writing to both Buyers and Sellers what our services are and the value we bring to the table.”

One of the main terms in the proposed settlement is that all buyer’s agents will utilize written buyer agency agreements. The good news for Maryland Realtors is that Maryland law has required the use of written buyer brokerage agreements since Oct. 1, 2016. Maryland is one of only seventeen states that currently have this agreement in place with their consumers.

Continued on Page 4

Furnished & turnkey. Inviting & comfortable atmosphere. Live the dream in this 2 BR, 2 BA condo. Fully updated unit has views of bay with lots of natural light. Updated kitchen has granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances & lots of cabinetry. BAs now have safety improvements. Primary suite with private BA. 2nd bedroom for guests or home office. Private balcony with panoramic bay views. Bonus - condo comes with home warranty protecting your investment. Boat slips are free for owners to use with up to a 25-foot boat. Extra Bonus - Condo offers an exclusive opportunity to store

Chris Jett

Continued from Page 4

“Maryland law required licensees to change from the previous industry practice of Presumed Buyer Agency to requiring written Buyer Agency Agreements years ago. Our membership is well prepared for this settlement term because we already provide this high level of transparency and professionalism to buyer clients in Maryland,” said Lauren Bunting, CAR 2024 President Elect.

The settlement makes clear that NAR continues to deny any wrongdoing in connection with the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) cooperative compensation model rule (MLS Model Rule).

NAR has long maintained that cooperative compensation and NAR’s current policies are good things that benefit buyers and sellers. They promote access to property ownership, particularly for lower- and middle-income buyers who can have a difficultenough time saving for a down payment.

Brigit Taylor, our 2024 CAR President remarked, “In real estate, there will always be two sides to each transaction. CAR, NAR, and Maryland Re-

altors stand behind the need for both the Seller and the Buyer to be represented by a professional who knows their market, the communities, how to get a home ready for sale, and how to prepare each party on the process of a home sale or purchase.”

With this settlement, the fact is that compensation to either Buyer or Seller brokerage in Maryland has not changed, compensation has always been and continues to be negotiable through discussion based on services provided between the parties. Coastal Association of Realtors is confident our Realtor members and the buyers and sellers they serve will continue to reach the common goal of achieving the American dream of homeownership for everyone.

Brigit Taylor Lauren Bunting

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• Updated HVAC with UV Light air purifying system.

•145 feet water frontage with direct bay views & southern exposure.

•6 decks off the home for privacy & water views.

•Elegant foyer marble flooring, beautiful Bayfront views & swimming pool in courtyard.

•1st level kitchen with access to pool area and seating.

•1st floor Bay front office or playroom for the kids.

•Home elevator or spiral stairs to 2nd level.

•2nd level chef’s

•Kitchen

•3

10002 COASTAL HWY #211 MARIGOT BEACH OCEAN CITY

733

Coastal welcomes new members

The Coastal Association of Realtors welcomed eight new members during new member Orientation on Thursday, Feb.15.

New member orientation is a requirement for all members of the Coastal Association of Realtors.

Attendees are introduced to services provided by the association. The class is held quarterly.

“We're thrilled to welcome the

newest additions to our Realtor association,” said association President Brigit Taylor.

“As we expand our network, we're excited to bring onboard dedicated professionals who embody our values of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. Together, we'll continue to elevate standards in the industry and foster success for all members.”

New members of the Coastal Association Realtors are (top row from left) Stephana Riha with Century 21 Harbor Realty, Richard Berman with Rutherford Realty, Jessica Stroble with Sheppard Realty Inc., Mason Sullivan with Long & Foster Real Estate, Salisbury (Bottom from left) Tim Howard with Laird & Associates, Miracle Creighton with Long & Foster Real Estate, Salisbury, Cristin Corbin with Redfin, Stephanie Radtke with Long and Foster.

Tim Meadowcroft

The Coastal Association of Realtors has announced its award of $8,500 in grants to local charities via its Coastal Realtors Foundation during its latest round of funding.

Since 2019, the foundation has given almost $86,000 to local charities in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties.

The following 13 organizations received grants in the latest round of funding:

• Community Players of Salisbury

• Epoch Dream Center

• Habitat for Humanity of

Worcester County

• Hands & Hearts Ending Homelessness

•Humane Society of Wicomico County

• Ocean City Museum Society

• Rackliffe House

• Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services

• Smith Island United

• United Needs and Abilities

• United Way, Lower Eastern Shore

• Worcester County Humane Society

•Worcester Youth and Family Counseling

The Coastal Realtors Foundation is a charitable fund held by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.

The association raises money for the fund through an annual charity golf tournament as well as other efforts throughout the year.

The fund is accessible to members of CAR through an application process administered by the association and reviewed by a members committee.

Grant recipients must be 501(c)3 organizations and must be located in Somerset, Wicomico, or Worcester counties.

"Coastal Realtor members, with their deep-rooted commitment to community, are not just selling homes, said Coastal President Brigit Taylor “they're building foundations of support for our neighbors by granting hope and resources to local charities they champion."

Grants are awarded three times a year, and the next deadline is June 15.

Terri Bradford

Associate Broker, GRI 410-430-6875

Licensed in MD, DE • PO2Team.com • Powerof2@PO2Team.com

2nd level. Laundry Room, 2 walk-in closets and overflow guest parking area. $324,900

3BR 2BA IN WATERFRONT COMMUNITY

Enjoy this waterfront community in Rehoboth Bay MHP with many community amenities. Doublewide home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, with many new updates. Enjoy the nice lot with plenty of room outside. Large spacious deck to enjoy the wonderful outside setting, large side yard and U shaped driveway. This end lot has many possibilities to enjoy the outdoors. Amenities for community include community pool, boat ramp, marina, tennis, playground. Buyers must submit a park application and be approved for residency. Plenty of outside storage space for all your beach chairs. Buyers should do their own due diligence to measure property and confirm all information to their satisfaction including but not limited to schools, sizes, tax information. $190,990

Lynette

Bridges-Catha

CRS, PMN, GREEN, SRES

Licensed in MD, DE 443-497-3128 Cell

Smilin4shore@comcast.net

cell 443-614-7167

Beach Block Top Floor Condo

13700 COASTAL HIGHWAY • SEASIDE RETREAT #402 NORTH OCEAN CITY • $789,000

Stunning 3 BR 3 BA top floor unit in desirable Seaside Retreat Condominium building. Open floor plan seamlessly connects to Beautifully decorated Living, Dining & Kitchen areas. You will enjoy sitting on expansive 50 ft balcony (the largest balcony in the building) to enjoy awesome Ocean Views. Secure building & amenities include roof top pool with panoramic ocean views, exercise room & private storage locker for your beach essentials. This unit is lovingly cared for & enjoyed by family & friends, it has never been in a rental program, however the building does allow rentals. HVAC units replaced in 2021 & Water Heater in 2020. This will be sold furnished with a few exemptions. Start your family memories in this prime location. Steps to the beach & dining, shopping & all Ocean City has to offer.

SCHEDULE YOUR SHOWING TODAY!!!

2 80TH STREET #202

DIAMOND HEAD OCEAN CITY $309,000

Diamond Head the perfect Mid Town Beach getaway! This extremely well-maintained unit features updated kitchen with newer appliances, tiled backsplash, vinyl flooring, new electric base board heating updated baths, new furnishings. The building has undergone improvements which includes new windows, sliders, vinyl railings, walkways and decks recoated, & building repainted. Steps to the beach, wonderful Ocean Front pool, walking distance to great restaurants & shops.

427

14TH STREET #401 M HARBOUR ISLAND OCEAN CITY $799,000

Rarely available from the original owner - top floor unit of M building! Large condo with panoramic bay views from multiple balconies. Recent upgrades include full renovations of BRs. This could be your year-round residence or excellent rental income potential. Rented for 1st time beginning August 2023. There are rentals booked in 2024 that a buyer must honor. Rentals booked for the 2024 season are available in listing documents. The seller makes no warranty or representation as to the condition of the fireplace chimney, it is offered as is. The HVAC system was replaced in 2017 and the water heater in 2021.

DIRECT OCEAN FRONT CONDO

11700

COASTAL HWY #812 THE CAROUSEL OCEAN CITY $829,000

This is your opportunity to own in the famous Carousel building! This direct oceanfront condo offers stunning ocean views while the building provides unmatched amenities. The Carousel is a great place to vacation year-round with activities for all seasons. Relax by the outdoor or indoor pools, unwind in the game room or take a cruise around the famous indoor ice-skating rink. Enjoy a meal in the exclusive restaurant inside the Carousel after a day at the beach. There is excellent rental potential! The refrigerator was replaced in 2023, the water heater and washer/dryer were replaced in 2022.

CELL:

Buyers Will Love This!

JUST LISTED 3BR, 2BA RANCHER ON 4.09 ACRES

33152 MOUNT HERMON ROAD PARSONSBURG, MD

Perfect for a family with a desire for acreage. This Rancher-style home has a new roof & new composite deck. Detached oversized 1-car garage with lots of additional storage, in addition to a storage shed. Driveway can accommodate many more parking spaces. Picture your family get-togethers celebrated on this amazing property with room for plenty of outdoor activities: cornhole, badminton, horseshoes, picnics & crab feasts. Plus, plenty of room if you wanted to add a pool or a barn for horses. Endless possibilities! Don't miss this one-of-a-kind property. It won't last long!

$325,900

JUST LISTED MOVE-IN READY TOP

12301

Stunning top floor unit with amazing views of wide canal & bay. Deeded boat slip #D106 is directly below unit. Open deck with retractable awning & storage shed. Fully updated condo with new kitchen & bath. Stainless-steel appliances & tiered granite counters with breakfast bar. New engineered hardwood flooring, plantation shutters & brand-new designer furniture, including living room queen-sized sofa bed & 2 double beds in BR make it a turnkey move in. Full-sized stacked washer & dryer. Perfect location - walk to beach, shopping, restaurants & community pool is just steps away. Brand-new top-of-the-line sliding glass door to balcony was recently installed. New deck just completed by condo association. Looks beautiful!

$349,000

4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000

www.rosenberg-assoc.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

6060 WORCESTER HWY. SNOW HILL, MD 21863

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Jessica C. Richardson dated May 30, 2002 and recorded in Liber 3352, folio 234 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

APRIL 9, 2024 AT 3:55 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #02-006138 and #02006111.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $10,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, re-

captured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses 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. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale.

If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, the deposit shall be forfeited, to the Trustees for application against all expenses, attorney’s fees and the full commission on the sale price of the above-scheduled foreclosure sale. In the event of default, all expenses of this sale (including attorney’s fees and the full commission on the gross sale price of this sale) shall be charged against and paid out of the forfeited deposit. The Trustees may then re-advertise and resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser or may avail themselves of any legal or equitable remedies against the defaulting purchaser without reselling the property. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 23000851-MD-F-1.

Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees

NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF BILL 24-02 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 24-02 (County Government – County Ethics Law) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on March 5, 2024.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

Amending the County’s Ethics ordinance, § CG 5-103, et seq. of the County Government Article, to comply with State law as follows:

1. Add the definition for “Quasigovernmental entity”.

2. Disclosure and prohibition of

gift acceptance from associations engaged in representing counties or municipal or corporations.

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

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

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

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

7. Disclosure of certain business interests.

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

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-3/14/3t _________________________________

ELIZABETH A. GREEN ESQ. BREZA & ASSOCIATES, LLC

11019 MCCORMICK RD STE 400 HUNT VALLEY, MD 21031-1407

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20098

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN INSKIP MEUSHAW JR.

Notice is given that James A. List Esq., 11019 McCormick Rd., Ste. 400, Hunt Valley, MD 21031-1407, was on March 06, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Inskip Meushaw Jr. who died on February 05, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of 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.

James A. List Esq.

Personal Representative

True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: March 14, 2024

OCD-3/14/3t

REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20104

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOANNE ELIZABETH COX WELLING

Notice is given that Mary Jo H. Dean, 1818 215th St., Mount Ayr, IA 50854-8952, was on March 07, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joanne Elizabeth Cox Welling who died on January 31, 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 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.

Mary Jo H. Dean

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:

OCD-3/21/3t

OCD-3/14/3t

REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20108

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET MARTONICK

Notice is given that Erin Jeanne Clemens, 129 Sandyhook Rd., Ocean Pines, MD 21811-1621, was on March 07, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret Martonick who died on January 27, 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 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.

Erin Jeanne Clemens Personal Representative True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

March 14, 2024 OCD-3/14/3t _________________________________

REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of BERNICE JUNE KENDALL Estate No. 20106 Notice is given that

RAYMOND JOSEPH KENDALL

whose address is 11736 MAID AT ARMS LANE BERLIN, MD 21811

was on MARCH 05, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of BERNICE JUNE KENDALL who died on FEBRUARY 08, 2024 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/14/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JESSE JAMES MITCHELL

Estate No. 20107 Notice is given that TRICIA MITCHELL whose address is 1012 BACCHARIS DRIVE, SALISBURY, MD 21804 was on MARCH 07, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JESSE JAMES MITCHELL who died on JANUARY 31, 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 SEPTEMBER, 2024

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-3/14/3t

IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR)

BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

IN THE ESTATE OF:

JOHN P. SHIPLEY SR. ESTATE NO. 20114

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 Highway, 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 April 09, 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: March 22, 2024 OCD-3/21/2t _________________________________

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 GEORGE PETER DONALD CALOMIRIS Estate No. 20115 Notice is given that JOANN DEOUDES CALOMIRIS whose address is 11000 COASTAL HWY UNIT 912 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on MARCH 13, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE PETER DONALD CALOMIRIS who died on FEBRUARY 14, 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 13th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/21/3t _________________________________

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RICHARD LEE COLE Estate No. 20117 Notice is given that ROBERT K COLE whose address is 1303 N BALTIMORE AVE UNIT 8 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on MARCH 14, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RICHARD LEE COLE who died on FEBRUARY 25, 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 14th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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

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

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

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/21/3t

State of Connecticut

Court of Probate, Northern Fairfield County District

NOTICE

TO ASHLEY KAYLA ROUNDS

Pursuant to an order of Hon. Steven Boa DeMoura, Judge, a hearing will be held at Northern Fairfield County Probate Court, 1 School Street, Bethel, CT 06801 on April 4, 2024 at 3:30 PM on a petition for Removal of Guardian of the Person concerning a certain minor child born on February 16, 2018. The court's decision will affect your interest, if any, as in the petition on file more fully appears.

RIGHT TO COUNSEL: If the above-named person wishes to have an attorney, but is unable to pay for one, the court will provide an attorney upon proof of inability to pay. Any such request should be made immediately by contacting the court office where the hearing is to be held.

By order of the court

Jacqueline Buckle, Chief Clerk OCD-3/28/2t

MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ.

WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP

P.O. BOX 910115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20118

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES E. THOMPSON

AKA: JAMES ERVIN THOMPSON JR.

Notice is given that Susan Koso, 184 Elm St., Amesbury, MA 019133423, was on March 14, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James E. Thompson who died on February 10, 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 14th 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.

Susan Koso

Personal Representative

True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: March 21, 2024 OCD-3/21/3t

ALFRED L. BRENNAN JR. BRENNAN AND BRENNAN ATTORNEYS AT LAW, P.A.

825 EASTERN BLVD. BALTIMORE, MD 21221-3504

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20085

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WALTER RICHARD SMITH

Notice is given that Sherry Cline Dougherty, 12201 Burncourt Rd., Unit 303, Timonium, MD 210938194, was on March 12, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Richard Smith who died on February 10, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of 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.

Sherry Cline Dougherty

Personal Representative

True Test Copy

Terri Westcott

Register of Wills for Worcester County

One W. Market Street

Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: March 21, 2024

OCD-3/21/3t

PUBLIC AUCTION OF FEE

SIMPLE PROPERTY BY THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF REAL ESTATE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN COOPERATION WITH THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION

Under the provisions of Section § 8-309 of the Transportation Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

AUCTION TO BE CONDUCTED: Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 11:30am on the premises. The Auction will commence with registration beginning at 11:00am. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. In the event of inclement weather, the auction will be rescheduled to Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

SUBJECT: The former Robinson, Et Ux property. Auction to be held for ± 1.003 acres, located at 7575 Worcester Highway, Newark, Worcester County. The apparent zoning is Agricultural. For further information on any zoning matters, please contact Worcester County Planning Dept at 410-632-1200. In responding to this ad or for the purpose of any questions, please refer to MC# 23-1127.

TERMS OF SALE: A deposit in the form of a certified or cashier’s check in the amount of $12,500 shall be required from the successful bidder at the time of the Auction and shall be made payable to MDOT State Highway Administration. The balance of the purchase price is to be paid at the time of settlement or the deposit may be forfeited to MDOT SHA, and the property disposed of in whatever manner MDOT may determine, without any further obligation or liability to the buyer.

Settlement must occur within 90 days of “Notice of Approval of Sale” by MDOT. Any request for extension must be submitted, in writing, within 60 days of “Notice of Approval of Sale,” to the Chief, Office of Real Estate and Economic Development (ORED). An extension may be granted at the sole discretion of the ORED Chief and may require an additional deposit from the buyer. MDOT reserves the right to reject any and all bid offers.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: All property information contained herein is subject to independent verification by any and all interested parties; whereas it is believed to be accurate it is in no way warranted. A requested bid offer is only a starting point for the Auction and may not be accepted by MDOT if it is not com-

mensurate with the appraised value of the property, or there could be other reasons for the rejection of bid offers.

This sale is governed by the Offer for Purchase of Fee Simple Property. Any questions regarding the Auction may be directed to:

Ms. Mashel Wakil

Team Leader, Real Estate Services

Office of Real Estate and Economic Development Maryland Department of Transportation

7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover MD 21076

Phone: 410-865-1234

Toll-free: 1-866-242-9405

mail: mwakil@mdot.maryland.gov OCD-3/28/2t

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B

SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 20120

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KENNETH F. SIMMS

Notice is given that Penny L. Simms, 107 123rd St., Ocean City, MD 21842-8904, was on March 19, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Kenneth F. Simms who died on March 01, 2022, 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.

Penny L. Simms 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:

March 28, 2024

OCD-3/28/1t

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20119

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH EVANS STINE

Notice is given that Craig Stine, 840 Tremont Dr., Downingtown, PA 19335-4128, was on March 14, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph Evans Stine who died on March 10, 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 14th 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.

Craig Stine Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

March 21, 2024

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

The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, April 1, 2024 on site at 2733 Byrd Road, Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Thursday, April 18, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked " Bid Solicitation – Concrete Pad at Pocomoke City Transfer Station.” in the lower left- hand corner.

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

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-3/28/2t

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 PAUL KIRK JOHNSON SR Estate No. 20126 Notice is given that PAUL KIRK JOHNSON JR whose address is 108 CHERRY LEA LANE BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 was on MARCH 21, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PAUL KIRK JOHNSON SR who died on DECEMBER 09, 2023 with a will.

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/28/3t

Spencer Ayres Cropper

Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, MD 12842

Oceana Condominium Association c/o Ayres, Jenkin, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Plaintiff

vs.

Diana J. Brooks

Byron L. Brooks, III 8203 Atlantic Avenue, Unit P-8, Bldg. 2 Ocean City, MD 21842

Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY

STATE OF MARYLAND

CIVIL CASE NO.

C-23-CV-23-000273

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County this 25th day of March, 2024, that the foreclosure sale of Oceana Condominium, Unit P-8, 8203 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, made and reported by Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 22nd day of April, 2024, provided a copy of this Order is published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once in three successive weeks, before the 15th day of April, 2024.

The Report states that the total proceeds from the sale of the property to be Ten Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($10,500.00).

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk Circuit Court

JOSEPH SEARING whose address is 8253 SEA BISCUIT RD SNOW HILL, MD 21863-4306 was on MARCH 22, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SYLVIA THERESA BRATTEN who died on MARCH 09, 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 22nd day of SEPTEMBER, 2024.

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/28/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

OCD-3/21/3t

BID SOLICITATION

CONCRETE PAD AT POCOMOKE CITY TRANSFER STATION

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for a concrete pad at the Pocomoke Homeowner Convenience Center in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of 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

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-3/28/3t

RACHEL B HARRIS

P O BOX 62

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of SYLVIA THERESA BRATTEN AKA: SYLVIA T PALMER

Estate No. 20128 Notice is given that

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, April 11, 2024 At 2:00 p.m.

PW 24-013 A request has been submitted to extend two piers by 1’5” and one mooring pile by 1’5”. The south pier will be a channelward extension of 14’10” and the north pier will be a channelward extension of 15’3”. The single mooring pile will extend a total of 15’ channelward. The southernmost poles will not be moved and remain in exact location.

The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1505 ST LOUIS AVE Parcel # 3349 -34 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Acres R Us, LLC

PW24-015 A request has been submitted to construct a 3.5’ x 15’ extension to an existing 3.5’ x 35’ shared pier for a total length of 50’, to move existing lifts towards pier end and install one mooring pile. All construction not to exceed maximum channelward extension of 50’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 639

BAYSHORE DR UNIT 5 Parcel # 5335 -5 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: John Thomas & Carol Hoffman

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 24-016 A request has been submitted to remove existing 4’ x 35’ pier and construct a new 6’ x 45’ pier; relocate existing lifts further channelward. All construction not to exceed 47.5’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 615 PENGUIN DR Parcel # 4481 -53 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Timothy & Bonnie Moore

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 24-017 A request has been submitted to repair with vinyl replacement ~40’ of deteriorated timber bulkhead using batter piles, reconstructing an existing 4.5’ x 40’ dock over batter piles; construct a new perpendicular 6’ x 48’ pier, relocate boat lift to end of pier and to install one (1) new boat lift and two (2) PWC lifts with associated pilings a maximum of 50’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 503 HARBOUR DR Parcel # 8020A1573B- in the Town of Ocean City,

Maryland.

OWNER: Paul Konschack

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart, JSH, Inc.

PW 24-018 A request has been submitted to construct a 6’ x 16’ parallel dock and a 4’ x 34’ perpendicular pier and install one (1) boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 40’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 905 EDGEWATER AVE

UNIT 3 Parcel # 3739 -3 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Duane & Michele Starnes

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 24-019 A request has been submitted to install one PWC lift and one boat lift on existing pilings a maximum channelward extension of 33’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1907 MARLIN DR Parcel # 3301 -91 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Stephen Pulley & Kathleen Sardella

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. OCD-3/28/2t

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.

JOHN E. ROBERTS (DECEASED)

56 Coastal Drive Berlin, MD 21811-9620

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

Case No. C-23-CV-23-000018

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 20th day of March, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 56 Coastal Drive, Berlin, MD 21811-9620, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 22nd day of April, 2024, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 15th day of April, 2024.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $57,000.00.

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-3/28/3t

ARLETTE K BRIGHT ESQ

THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B SALISBURY, MD 21804 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of STEPHEN GENUA Estate No. 20127 Notice is given that JONATHAN DAVID GENUA whose address is 11129 WORCHESTER DRIVE NEW MARKET, MD 21774 was on MARCH 21, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of STEPHEN GENUA who died on OCTOBER 27, 2023 with a will.

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

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

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

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

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

any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/28/1t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY,APRIL 11, 2024

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

6:30 p.m. Case No. 24-25, on the lands of Phillip Hamblin requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 2 feet) for an open deck addition in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(18) and ZS 1-318, located at 8505 N. Longboat Way, Tax Map 33, Parcel 347, Lot 225A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 24-24, on the lands of Andrew Wagner, requesting a special exception to allow 6-foottall fencing in a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), & ZS 1-305(k)(3) located at 8248 Shire Drive, Tax Map 32, Parcel 243, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 24-26, on the lands of Aaron Lovegrove, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Ordinance to allow a fence within the 100’ buffer, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3-104(c)(4) and NR 3-111 and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m)(1), located at 12357 Hidden Bay Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 37, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 24-27 on the lands of Joseph Serman, Jr., requesting a variance to a front yard setback from 50 feet to 20 feet (to encroach 30 feet) and a variance to the front yard setback from 60 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 35.7 (to encroach 24.3 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-201(b)(5) and ZS 1-305, located at 7628 Public Landing Road, Tax Map 64, Parcel 51, Tax District 2, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Re-advertisement of Case No. 24-11, on the lands of Joseph Bordenski, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 15.05 feet (to encroach 14.95 feet) and a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 35.46 (to encroach 14.54 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential Dis-

trict, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located on Snug Harbor Road about 1,002 feet east of the intersection with Meadow Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Section A, Lot 21, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 24-29, on the lands of George Tunis, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a special exception (transient use) to allow a special event in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1-105(c)(5), ZS 1116(c)(3) and ZS 1-337, located at 12942 Old Bridge Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 487, Lots 24, 25, 26 & 27,Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case No. 24-28, on the lands of Tina Warren, requesting a special exception to allow a kennel for the boarding of household pets and variances to the separation distance of 200 feet from all property lines for an outside pen to 20 feet from the right side property line (to encroach 180 feet), 55 feet from the front property line (to encroach 150 feet), 28 feet from the left property line (to encroach 172 feet) and a variance to the lot width of 200 feet to 149.1 feet (to reduce by 50.9 fee t) in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-201(c)(30), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325, located at 10052 Hayes Landing Road, Tax Map 32, Parcel 358, Lot 3, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

OCD-3/28/2t

GARRET SHELLER ESQ LAW OFFICE OF J. GARRET SHELLER, LLC

1 PLAZA E STE 703

100 EAST MAIN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801-4913

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20105

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DOUGLAS ALLAN ROLLINS

Notice is given that Carole J. Rollins, 670 94th St., Ocean City, MD 21842-4902, was on March 05, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Douglas Allan Rollins who died on January 18, 2024, without a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Reg-

ister of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

Carole J. Rollins

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: March 28, 2024

OCD-3/28/1t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WALTER J. DENNIS Estate No. 20121 Notice is given that DENISE LANE whose address is 10419 GEORGETOWN ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811 was on MARCH 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WALTER J. DENNIS who died on MARCH 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 19th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

OCD-3/28/3t

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

To all persons interested in the estate of JOANNE RUTH MILES Estate No. 21023 Notice is given that DONNIE MATTHEWS whose address is 6067 PETERSON ST., CHINCOTEAGUE, VA 23336-2826 was on MARCH 20, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of JOANNE RUTH MILES who died on FEBRUARY 18, 2024 with a will.

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

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

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/28/1t

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, April 11, 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(3)(c) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception from the western side yard for a proposed dwelling to be 0.69 feet from the side property site line; and, (2) a special yard exception from the front yard for a proposed dwelling to be 0.34 feet from the front property site line. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 24A, Section A, of the Warren’s Park Co-op Plat. It is further described as being located on the south side of Middle Way Lane and is locally known as 47 Middle Way Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: CINDY FRIDLEY (BZA 2683 #24-09400006) at 6:10 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 Plat – Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland”. 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)

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

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-3/28/2t _________________________________

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-01

Notice is hereby given that Ordinance No. 2024-01 was passed by the Council of the Town of Berlin on Monday, March 25, 2024. The Ordinance may be petitioned to referendum so long as the petition is filed not later than April 15, 2024. The title of the Ordinance is as follows: MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 2024 SERIES A - AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN, A MUNICIPAL CORPO-

RATION OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND (THE “ISSUER”), PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THREE MILLION EIGHT HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,800,000.00) OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, TO BE KNOWN AS THE “MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 2024 SERIES A” (OR BY SUCH OTHER OR ADDITIONAL DESIGNATION OR DESIGNATIONS AS REQUIRED BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION IDENTIFIED HEREIN, THE “BONDS”), TO BE ISSUED AND SOLD PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF SECTIONS 4-101 THROUGH 4 255 OF THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND, AS AMENDED, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING ALL OR A PORTION OF THE FUNDS NECESSARY FOR (I) FINANCING, REIMBURSING AND/OR REFINANCING COSTS OF THE PROJECTS GENERALLY REFERRED TO BY THE ISSUER AS (A) ELECTRIC AMI METER SYSTEM AND (B) PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING, (II) FUNDING A PORTION OF A CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND/OR OTHER RESERVES, AND/OR (III) PAYING OR REIMBURSING ISSUANCE AND OTHER COSTS RELATED TO THE BONDS; PROVIDING THAT THE BONDS SHALL BE ISSUED UPON THE FULL FAITH AND CREDIT OF THE ISSUER; PROVIDING FOR THE DISBURSEMENT OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF THE BONDS AND FOR THE LEVY OF ANNUAL TAXES UPON ALL ASSESSABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE ISSUER FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON THE BONDS AS THEY SHALL RESPECTIVELY MATURE OR COME DUE; PROVIDING FOR THE FORMS, TENOR, DENOMINATIONS, MATURITY DATE OR DATES AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF THE BONDS; AND PROVIDING FOR RELATED PURPOSES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE METHOD OF FIXING THE INTEREST RATE OR RATES TO BE BORNE BY THE BONDS, THE APPROVAL, EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS, AGREEMENTS, CERTIFICATES AND INSTRUMENTS, AND THE MAKING OF OR PROVIDING FOR THE MAKING OF REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS CONCERNING THE TAX STATUS OF INTEREST ON THE BONDS.

RATION OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND (THE “ISSUER”), PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THREE MILLION EIGHT HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,800,000.00) OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, TO BE KNOWN AS THE “MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 2024 SERIES A” (OR BY SUCH OTHER OR ADDITIONAL DESIGNATION OR DESIGNATIONS AS REQUIRED BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION IDENTIFIED HEREIN, THE “BONDS”), TO BE ISSUED AND SOLD PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF SECTIONS 4-101 THROUGH 4 255 OF THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND, AS AMENDED, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING ALL OR A PORTION OF THE FUNDS NECESSARY FOR (I) FINANCING, REIMBURSING AND/OR REFINANCING COSTS OF THE PROJECTS GENERALLY REFERRED TO BY THE ISSUER AS (A) ELECTRIC AMI METER SYSTEM AND (B) PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING, (II) FUNDING A PORTION OF A CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND/OR OTHER RESERVES, AND/OR (III) PAYING OR REIMBURSING ISSUANCE AND OTHER COSTS RELATED TO THE BONDS; PROVIDING THAT THE BONDS SHALL BE ISSUED UPON THE FULL FAITH AND CREDIT OF THE ISSUER; PROVIDING FOR THE DISBURSEMENT OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF THE BONDS AND FOR THE LEVY OF ANNUAL TAXES UPON ALL ASSESSABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE ISSUER FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON THE BONDS AS THEY SHALL RESPECTIVELY MATURE OR COME DUE; PROVIDING FOR THE FORMS, TENOR, DENOMINATIONS, MATURITY DATE OR DATES AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF THE BONDS; AND PROVIDING FOR RELATED PURPOSES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE METHOD OF FIXING THE INTEREST RATE OR RATES TO BE BORNE BY THE BONDS, THE APPROVAL, EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS, AGREEMENTS, CERTIFICATES AND INSTRUMENTS, AND THE MAKING OF OR PROVIDING FOR THE MAKING OF REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS CONCERNING THE TAX STATUS OF INTEREST ON THE BONDS.

MBS PERFORMANCE

The Ordinance can be viewed in its entirety during regular business hours at Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Monday through Friday, 8:00

The Ordinance can be viewed in its entirety during regular business hours at Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM or on the Town website at www.berlinmd.gov.

OCD-3/28/2t

to 4:00 PM or on the Town website at www.berlinmd.gov. OCD-3/28/2t

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Fifth through eighth-grade students at Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School recently performed “My Son Pinocchio, Jr.” under the direction of Jackie Selba. (Above) student Mia Genga plays the Blue Fairy during a scene of the performance. (Below left) Students are shown performing during a scene. (Below right) Students Elizabeth Lovell plays Gepetto and Maisie Murphy plays Pinocchio during a scene.

Beach to Bay Heritage Area graduates certified guides

(March 29, 2024) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area recently offered a Certified Interpretive Guide training class that certified participants through the National Association of Interpretation.

According to a news release, the association provides training and networking opportunities for interpreters of natural and cultural heritage. The instructor, Jaime Bunting, led the 32hour course over two non-consecutive weekends at the Museum of Eastern Shore Culture in downtown Salisbury. Participants had to demonstrate proficiency in interpretation by successfully developing a program outline and delivering a presentation.

The interpretive guide course is designed for individuals who regularly lead interpretive programs and want to learn more about the fundamental principles of interpretation. During the course, the release said participants learned how to develop and deliver purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, organized and thematic programs and left ready to facilitate experiences that will inspire engagement with the world.

Bunting said in the release she always looks forward to working with interpreters and enjoys helping them work through the process of creating more relevant, meaningful, and engaging programs for their visitors and audiences.

Participants who attended the training were from Chesapeake Ghost Tours, Maryland Coastal Bays Program, Sustainable Visions, Purnell Museum, Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum, Experience Smith Island, Furnace Town Historic Site and Downtown Salisbury.

“The participants were really engaged and excited to participate,”

said Lisa Challenger, the executive director of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. “They were fortunate that the Beach to Bay Heritage Area underwrote the cost of the training through a Maryland Heritage Areas Grant.”

Japan stages multi-pronged invasion of India

Attack on Kohima began during same time other units invaded select areas

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(March 29, 2024) This week, 80 years ago, the Japanese 31st Infantry Division, commanded by K toku Sat , began assaulting Kohima as part of the Japanese Invasion of India. Gen. Sat ’s 31st Infantry Division was a part of the Fifteenth Imperial Japanese Army, under the command of Lt. Gen. Renya Mutaguchi.

While Gen. Sat ’s 31st Infantry Division attacked Kohima, the other two divisions in Gen. Mutaguchi’s Fifteenth Imperial Japanese Army, 15th and 33rd Infantry Divisions, commanded by Gens. Masafumi Yamauchi and Motoso Yanakida, attacked Imphal.

Today, Kohima is the capital of the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland and has a population of 100,000. Kohima was an important link in the road to Dimapur, which was a major Allied supply depot, and the eastern terminus of the railroad supplying Manipur and the planes

flying the “Hump” into China. Today, Dimapur has a population of 106,000. Kohima is located in a pass linking Burma and India.

Gen. Sat ’s 31st Infantry Division was ordered to capture Kohima, which would isolate Imphal from its supply source of Dimapur. Gen. Sat considered his superior, Gen. Mutaguchi, to be a “blockhead” and had little faith in the coming operation, going so far as to tell his staff they might all starve to death, since they were not well provisioned and had no arrangements to receive any.

Rather, they were to live off the land and whatever they captured from the Allies. Gen. Mutaguchi was so confident of success that he provided his troops with only 20 days’ rations.

Gen. Sat ’s 31st Infantry Division began crossing the Chindwin River on March 15, 1944. At that point, the river runs roughly parallel with the Burma/Indian border on the Burma side. Because of a lack of transport, the division left half of its artillery.

After crossing the Chindwin, the division headed through the jungle for Kohima, which, at the time, was defended by the Assam Regiment, which had been in existence for less

than three years. The Assam Regiment was raised from the citizens of the Indian state of Assam and was supplemented by the units of the Assam Rifles, which was more of a border patrol organization.

Beginning on April 1, the Assam Regiment began contesting the Japanese advance of the division’s 58th Regiment, commanded by

Major Gen. Shigesabur Miyazaki, toward Kohima. By April 3, the Assam Regiment had fallen back to Kohima. It was reinforced by a battalion of The Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment and a battalion from the 7th Rajput Regiment, from 5th Indian Infantry Division, commanded by Harold R. Briggs.

The Kohima defenders now num-

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH King George VI, left, Major General John Grover, right, and several officers at a railway station are pictured at Gloucestershire on April 1, 1942.

Memorial at Kohima remembers the fallen

bered about 2,500 effectives and were under the command of former Chindit, Col. Hugh Richards. Gen. Briggs’ 5th Indian Infantry Division was one of the few Allied divisions to have fought the Italians (in East and North Africa), the Germans (in North Africa) and the Japanese (in Burma and India).

Gen. Sat ’s men launched their first attack on Kohima on the night of April 4. Kohima was 5,000 feet above sea level, surrounded by high junglecovered mountains. Two days later, the siege began in earnest. By April 8, the Japanese had surrounded Kohima.

Some of the most intense fighting occurred at, or near, the residence of the district commissioner, Sir Charles Ridley Pawsey. After a successful attack on the commissioner’s bungalow, the focus of the assault was switched to the commissioner’s tennis court, which was located on a slight hill.

The defense was strengthened by the arrival of A Company of the 4th Battalion, Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment, commanded by Maj. Tom Kenyon. For the next two days, the Japanese attacked every 30 minutes. B Company of the 4th Royal West Kents, commanded by Maj. John Winstanley, relieved A Company on April 12.

On April 16, just when it seemed the Japanese would overrun the Commonwealth position, Allied reinforcements, in the form of 161st Indian Brigade, commanded by David Wilson, arrived. The next day, Gen. Mutaguchi told Gen. Sat that Gen. Sat ’s starving men must take Kohima by April 29 — because that was the Emperor’s birthday!

The tennis court was held by Maj. Winstanley’s West Kents until April 18, when they were relieved by D Company of the 1st Punjab Regiment, commanded by Maj. Gavin Dunnett, a part of the 2nd Infantry Division, commanded by John Grover. The Punjabis were attacked almost immediately. One officer described the battle as, “a grenade match ... played across the bungalow’s tennis courts.”

Gen. Sat ’s 31st Division was ordered to stay put by Gen. Mutaguchi. On May 25, Gen. Sat notified his superiors that he and his division would be leaving on June 1, unless they received desperately needed supplies. Finally, on June 2, defying his superior, Gen. Sat told headquarters that, “Our swords are broken and our arrows gone. Shedding bitter tears, I now leave Kohima.”

The 64-day siege of Kohima was over. Gen. Sat was relieved the next month and replaced by Lt. Gen. Tsuchitaro Kawada. Declining the invitation to commit suicide, Gen. Sat demanded a court martial. However,

the Japanese brass, fearing adverse publicity, declared him mentally unfit for further command.

The Commonwealth had suffered 4,000 casualties, while the Japanese lost 7,000. Adm. Lord Louis Mountbatten, the Supreme Allied Commander in the theatre, described Kohima as, “...probably one of the greatest battles in history... in effect the Battle of Burma... naked unparalleled heroism... the British/Indian Thermopylae.”

At the Commonwealth Cemetery at Kohima, there is an inscription which reads, “When You Go Home, Tell Them Of Us And Say, ‘For Your Tomorrow, We Gave Our Today.’”

Next week: Liberation of Odessa

Friday, March 29

30

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

View of the Garrison Hill battlefield, the key to the British defenses at Kohima.

Virtual poetry reading

Wor-Wic Community College is hosting a free, public virtual poetry reading by Aricka Foreman at 7 p.m., April 11, via Zoom.

Foreman is the author of “Dream with a Glass Chamber” and “Salt Body Shimmer.”

She has earned fellowships from Cave Canem, Callaloo and the Millay Colony for the Arts. Her work has appeared in RHINO, Buzzfeed, James Franco Review, THRUSH and “Furious Flower: Seeding the Future of African American Poetry.” She serves on the

board of directors for The Offing, a literary magazine, and lives in Chicago. Visit the events section of worwic.edu for more information.

Historic Sites Tour

The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum Historic Sites Tour will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 11.

The event will feature a tour of some of Ocean City’s oldest sites. At each walk-in location, a docent will be on-site to discuss the unique history of the building.

The Historic Sites Tour is a

fundraiser that will help strengthen and grow the George and Suzanne Hurley Memorial Scholarship Fund.

New this year, when tickets are bought online early, there will be an option to sign up for one of two guided tours of select sites included in the tour.

Guides will walk participants through old downtown Ocean City for about an hour-and-a-half from the inlet to City Hall and back down the Boardwalk to the life saving-station museum, a 1.5mile trip.

The guided tour will not take participants to all of the sites of the Historic

Sites Tour, which can be visited individually before or after.

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

Pocomoke spring festival

The 10th Annual Downtown Pocomoke Spring Festival is set from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this Saturday, March 30, in the Downtown Pocomoke area. Hosted by the City of Pocomoke and the Downtown Pocomoke Association, the free event will feature vendors lining the sidewalks of Market Street.

Children are encouraged to bring

their Easter baskets to walk through the Easter Egg Loop where local churches and nonprofits will pass out treats for the kids.

Families can also visit the Easter Bunny from noon to 2 p.m., at the gazebo in the mini park on the corners of Market and Second streets.

Other children’s activities include a bounce house, petting farm, spring crafts and games.

Families are encouraged to take a free tour of the Sturgis One Room School House and visit the Delmarva Discovery Museum while they are downtown.

There will also be a car show hosted by Eastern Shore Cruisers in the Downtown Pocomoke Farmers and Flea Market parking lot on Market Street.

For more information visit downtownpocomoke.com or the Downtown Pocomoke Association Facebook page.

Boat wrap recycling

Worcester County Public Works will host two free events to recycle boat shrink wrap.

The events will take place the week of April 30 through May 4 and again the week of June 3 through 8 at the

Worcester County Central Landfill, at 7091 Central Site Lane in Newark, during normal business hours.

Both events will be open to all Worcester County residents and businesses. To participate in the program, the shrink wrap must be free of all rope and door/window openings. Only the wrapping may be recycled. Vehicles transporting the shrink wrap material will be required to weigh in and out on the landfill scales, so an accurate weight can be recorded. There will be no charge for the weight of the shrink wrap.

For more information, contact Worcester County Recycling Manager

Bob Keenan at 410-632-3177 or bkeenan@co.worcester.md.us.

Heritage celebration

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area’s Annual Celebration is set from 4:306:30 p.m., on May 8, in Salisbury.

The theme will be “Civil Rights on the Shore: An Evening of History and Song” with Clara Small and Tenor John Wesley Wright.

The event will include hors d’oeuvres and a selection of wine and beer, all at the Chipman Center in Salisbury. Tickets cost $30 per person.

Coastal Bays working on new OC Boardwalk exhibit

(March 29, 2024) The Maryland Coastal Bays Program recently acquired the use of an outdoor enclosed exhibit space owned by the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum at the south end of the Boardwalk.

The exhibit sits beside the benches that face the inlet, Assateague and Sinepuxent Bay, and will be revealed this summer.

According to a news release, the multi-year exhibit will be visible yearround to both residents and visitors and provide opportunities to educate and tell stories about the estuary system that makes Ocean City a unique place to visit and live. The exhibit will be partially funded through gold sponsor Harrison Group and silver sponsor Old Pro Golf.

“We are so grateful to the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum for providing this space and to the Harrison Group and Old Pro Golf for funding the exhibit,” Kevin Smith, the executive director of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program said in the release. “The opportunity to share this incredible exhibit with the multitude of visitors to the inlet provides a unique opportunity to showcase the rich diversity of landscapes, fish and wildlife that inhabit these coastal wa-

ters, and the land that surrounds them. We hope that this will enrich their visit to Ocean City and provide them with a stronger sense of place.”

The exhibit will include a 16-foot wrap-around mural of the bay’s habitats to paint a vibrant picture of the Coastal Bays estuary. Local artist Leslie Belloso is currently completing the mural.

People will also be invited into the display by using 3D fabrications and models of the marsh and the plants and animals found in the bays’ waters, and interpretive signage to spark interest to visitors to learn more about the watershed.

Phase two of the exhibit interpretive plan will include QR codes that will link to English and Spanish audio and a webpage to provide a deeper opportunity for connection with the watershed.

“The incorporation of QR codes will allow people to not only read, but also listen about the watershed as they view the exhibit, and will provide a space for additional online learning resources and a virtual interactive exhibit component for continued education back home,“ Liz Wist, MCBP education coordinator, said in the release.

CROSSWORD

PHOTO COURTESY MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM

The outdoor enclosed space pictured at the south end of Ocean City Boardwalk was recently acquired by the Maryland Coastal Bays Program for an exhibit set for reveal later during the summer season.

Ashore eyes first season after renovation

(March 29, 2024) After an extensive off-season spent conducting a massive transformation, Ashore Resort & Beach Club is excited to announce its inaugural summer season.

With the completed comprehensive property-wide reimagination, the resort has established a new standard for destination travel along the Maryland coast, receiving recent acclaim by USA Today as one of the “10 Best New Hotels Across the US” for 2024. With exclusive beachfront access, the resort’s prime location is thoughtfully positioned to offer guests the best of both worlds – secluded beachfront serenity and convenient access to the vibrant energy of downtown Ocean City.

To celebrate the kick-off to the 2024 season, Ashore Resort is offering guests up to 30% off using code 14KICK. Offer valid for stays from April 29 to June 27.

“There’s a genuine buzz and sense of collective pride at Ashore Resort & Beach Club as we gear up for our first summer season now that the full transformation is complete,” said General Manager Kane Kennedy. “Our team is eager to welcome guests and create memorable summer moments, whether it’s through our coastal-inspired dining outlets, vibrant lineup of events and activities, or just the simple pleasure of a picture

perfect day at the beach. We’ve curated a range of experiences to keep guests thoroughly entertained throughout their stay in Ocean City.”

The resort’s lively programming for locals and travelers will kick off on Memorial Day Weekend. Guests will be able to enjoy daily live music, happy hour specials, weekend brunch with a build-your-own-bloody mary options, beachfront cookouts to celebrate the patriotic weekend, beachfront yoga and food and beverage service on the sand and rejuvenating Recovery IVs every weekend in partnership with East Coast IV’s. A comprehensive list of seasonal

happenings can be found on the resort’s website, which is also where guests can learn more about exclusive packages organized to serve out-oftown guests coming for major Ocean City events like Oceans Calling Festival on Sept. 26-29 and the Country Calling Festival (Oct. 4-5.

Ashore Resort features 250 fully renovated guest rooms and suites, including 15 spacious multi-room suites, designed to cater to individuals, families, and groups of all sizes. Guests can enjoy modern de´cor, plush bedding, and private balconies offering stunning beach views.

Culinary enthusiasts will delight in

the resort’s five new coastal-inspired restaurant concepts from newly appointed Executive Chef Nathan Leonard. The five options include the upscale Tide Room offering ocean views with indoor and outdoor dining; the Wahoo Beach Bar with live bands, beach menu and cocktails served in signature coconuts; The Tap Room offering a late night menu and place to watch all the sports action; gourmet coffees and culinary delights from Ashore Things; and an indooroutdoor beach club called The Shore Deck, offering a place to work and relax from morning to late night.

Ashore Resort & Beach Club offers one of the only Ocean City destinations for beachfront weddings, making it a top choice for brides and grooms looking for a coastal affair. With 14 meeting rooms and 40,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor function spaces, Ashore Resort provides the perfect setting for any event, complemented by bespoke services and attention to detail. The Ballroom and picturesque Beachside Pavilion serve as ideal backdrops for memorable gatherings, such as wedding receptions, private beach parties and team building activities. For information on special events at Ashore, please contact Katie Kosgrove at kcosgrove@ashoreresort.com.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The view at the Tide Room restaurant at the Ashore Resort & Beach Club on 101st Street is pictured on a sunny day.

HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTEES

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, communication with a spouse or a loved one is vital this week; otherwise, you risk arguments for no reason at all. Sit down and have some frank conversations about your needs.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, when you face adversity you should rest assured that you can handle anything that is thrown at you. Although, you may need a little help from some close friends or family.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, others may not understand who you are and could make assumptions that are inaccurate. They may just need some more information to get a clearer picture.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, many elements of your life are starting to level out this week. That can be a comfort to you because you seemingly have been running around for some time and could use a break.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, others have nothing but good things to say to you this week. Bask in their kind words and adoration, and use this as motivation for future endeavors.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

With no big events on the horizon, you may want to manufacture one to have a reason to party, Virgo. Start planning your guest list and come up with a fun theme to get behind.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, while you should be mindful of your goals, you also can support those around you as they pursue their own. Serve as inspiration to people in your life right now.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, this is a good time to start tackling some projects around the house that have been put off for some time. Redecorating and remodeling can be an inspiration right now.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Take a step back and reevaluate your approach to a situation because the way you have been doing it just hasn’t yielded the results you expected, Sagittarius. Take suggestions and tips.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, high energy may have you swinging at the fences every time you try to tackle something. You may want to dial things back and take a more measured approach.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Various transitions in your life could temporarily disrupt your daily activities, Aquarius. You’ll find a new groove soon enough that will feel comfortable and provide you with what you need.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t take stock of what all the naysayers have been dishing out, Pisces. You know yourself better than others and recognize what you are able to accomplish. Get started on plans.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

On March 21, a total of 23 Worcester Preparatory School students were inducted into the Pablo Picasso Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica and Societe Honoraire de Francais Chapitre Bastille at the WPS Spanish and French Honor Society Induction Ceremonies. (Above) Spanish Honor Society members Anisha Batra, Ansh Batra, Samantha Bontempo, Ashton Browne, Jeremy Forman, Leah Gaito, Renata Lovitt, Paxton Mault, Maggie McCabe, Sydney Mize, Jay Moyer, Olivia Owens, Emily Patrowicz, Lilly Phillips and Ayla Yonker are pictured. (Below) French Honor Society inductees Kain Crossett, Catherine Cullen, Jude Damouni, Marina Farlow, Michael Hebert, Jamie Nguyen, Lena Parker and Sydney Todorov are pictured.

Local nonprofits, agencies to host Trails Day event

(March 29, 2024) Members of the public are invited to participate in Celebrate Trails Day on April 27, in Snow Hill, by exploring the newly established trail system with Pocomoke River State Park and Forest. The scenic trails will eventually link Snow Hill to Pocomoke River State Park at Shad Landing.

“This is an exciting time, and our town is thrilled to invite citizens and tourists alike to enjoy the beautiful countryside connecting the state park to our community,” Snow Hill Mayor Michael Pruitt said in a news release.

The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Lower Shore Land Trust office on River Street in Snow Hill, with a brief welcome and educational displays, followed by a short walk through town to Byrd Park. Starting at 10 a.m., attendees can engage with representatives from local organizations, receive maps, and gather information on recreational offerings within Worcester County.

Around 10:30 a.m., attendees will be invited for a short walk to the start of the Summerfield Trails at the end of Dighton Avenue. The entrance is accessible only to pedestrians and cyclists. No parking is available at the trail en-

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

MARCH FOR MEALS RECOGNITION

Each March, “March for Meals” proclamations throughout the nation celebrate the historic day in 1972 when a national nutrition program for seniors was added to the Older Americans Act. At a recent meeting, Worcester County Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Jim Bunting, Joe Mitrecic, Chip Bertino, Eric Fiori, Ted Elder, and Diana Purnell are pictured presenting the March For Meals proclamation to Terrell Crosby, the kitchen assistant at the Worcester Commission on Aging who helps with the production of more than 700 meals per week. The organization is responsible for the Meals On Wheels and Congregate Meals programs in Worcester County.

trance. All vehicles must park at Byrd Park or the Lower Shore Land Trust. Attendees may take a self-guided walking or cycling tour throughout the Summerfield Trails system.

Maryland’s Coast, in collaboration with Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development, is organizing

and hosting the event alongside the Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition, Delmarva Trails and Waterways, Pocomoke River State Park and Forest, Lower Shore Land Trust, and the Town of Snow Hill.

For further information about the event, contact Maryland’s Coast of-

fice at tourism@co.worcester.md.us or call 410-632-3110.

For a comprehensive list of Celebrate Trails Day events, visit railstotrails.org/celebrate-trails. For a complete integrated trail map, visit delmarvatrailsandwaterways.com/tr ail-locator-map.

‘One World … One Breath’ workshop planned April 27

(March 29, 2024) In hundreds of cities and in more than 80 nations, people gather for tai chi and qigong teach-ins and exhibitions simultaneously, making a peace ring around the world. The annual event is World Tai Chi and Qigong Day.

Ocean City is one of those cities and its part of the worldwide event will take place at 10 a.m., April, 27, on 125th Street at Northside Park.

has been proven to help heal.

Practioners of tai chi in Ocean City will join counterparts from other countries at their own local time around the globe. The purpose of the observance is to bring together people across ethnic, racial, religious, and geopolitical borders in celebration of personal and global health and healing, as well as world peace. The event will start at 10 a.m. in Australia.

The motto of the celebration is “One World … One Breath.”

A report issued by Harvard Medical School has called Tai Chi “moving medication” (instead of moving meditation) for the many health issues it

Tai Chi (a choreographed set of intentional moves) and QiGong (literally “breath practice”) can boost immune function by 50%, according to the report, while also increasing brain size, reducing depression and anxiety, lessening or eliminating chronic pain, helping to prevent colds and flu, lowering high blood pressure, and improving sleep.

To observe or participate in World Tai Chi Day at Northside Park, all anyone has to do is be there. No registration is required.

For more information, see worldtaichiday.org or email Kim Reed at kim@radiantmotionforhealth.com.

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, March 29: Marcella Peters

Saturday, March 30: DJ Giddy Up & Dueling Pianos

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Sunday, March 31: Margot & Valerie

Wednesday, April 3: John Remy

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

March 29

Friday, March 29: Josh Pryor & The Contraband

Saturday, March 30: Fuzzbox Piranha

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, March 29: DJ Greg & DJ RobCee

Saturday, March 30: Betty White Stripes & DJ Stinson

Monday, April 1: Bryan Clark

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Friday, March 29: DJ Billy T

Saturday, March 30:

Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Wax

Sunday, March 31: Bob Wilkinson

DJ

BEATS

DJ

PHIL

DJ

Seacrets: Saturday, March 30

Seacrets:

Who’s Where When

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, March 30: Black Dog Alley

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wood

Wednesdays: Beats By Styler

Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts.

On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, March 29 & 30: Crash The Limo

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, March 29: Dear Zoe Duo, Kicking Sunrise, DJ Connair & DJ Bobby-O

Saturday, March 30: South Penn Dixie, Hot Dammit, Hometown Radio, DJ E-State & DJ Cruz

Thursday, April 4: DJ Connair & Full Circle Duo

VISTA ROOFTOP

410-390-7905

13801 Coastal Hwy.

Friday, March 29: Steve Kuhn

Saturday, March 30: Dave & George

CRASH THE LIMO

Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, March 29 & 30

FUZZBOX PIRANHA

Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, March 30

FULL CIRCLE DUO

Thursday, April 4

BLACK DOG ALLEY Pickles Pub: Saturday, March 30

HOMETOWN RADIO

MARGOT & VALERIE

Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sunday, March 31

CECILIA’S FALL

Harborside: Saturday, March 30

BETTY WHITE STRIPES Fager’s Island: Saturday, March 30

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Meeting new people

Easter week services

The Terns Landing community in OP Southern exposure views

A reasonable disagreement

60 Minutes when it’s objective

When my tournament bracket does not need to be tossed after the first weekend

Reducing a monthly bill Days without a lot of emails

A church service with a lot of kids

Boardwalk biking mornings

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WITH BUNK MANN

Softball was a popular sport in Ocean City in the 1970s and early ‘80s and many local establishments sponsored teams. Both men’s and women’s teams played for trophies, fun, and bragging rights. The games drew large crowds and the skill level of the players was incredibly high.

Games were played on the old city ballfields between 3rd and 4th streets. Some of the team sponsors read like a page from an Ocean City history book – Mario’s, the Jackspot, Phillips Crab House, and the Paddock. An Irish House team from the late 1970s is pictured.

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

Photo image courtesy Bob Jones

Crawl Street Tavern plans Ocean Vibes concert series

(March 29, 2024) Crawl Street Tavern announced this week an Ocean Vibes Summer Concert Series beginning next month.

Located in downtown Ocean City, the Crawl Street Tavern is gearing up to host an unique lineup of reggae/rock artists. Kicking off the series will be Aaron Wolf with Irie on April 5. Tickets are $10 ahead and $15 at the door.

“We’re thrilled to bring the spirit of reggae to Ocean City,” said Wendy DiBuo, owner of Crawl Street Tavern. “Our goal is to create an immersive experience that celebrates the essence of this iconic genre, while providing an unforgettable summer getaway for our guests. In addition to the captivating performances, Crawl Street Tavern will also offer refresh-

ing drinks, perfectly complementing the island ambiance.”

Ocean Vibes Reggae Concert Series schedule continues on May 18, Mike Pinto, $10 tickets in advance and $15 at the door; June 1, Kash’d Out & Michael Sky, $25 advance, $30 at the door; June 6, Sons of Paradise, $10 tickets in advance and $15 at the door; June 13, Drifting Roots & Alific, $10 tickets in advance and $15 at the door; July 27 - Dale and the ZDubs, $10 tickets in advance and $15 at the door; and Aug. 8, Elephants Dancing with The Harbor Boys, $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

With limited tickets available for each show, music lovers are encouraged to secure their spot early at crawlstreet.eventbrite.com.

https://ocmdbridal.square.site/product/ocean-city-luxury-wedding-expo-2024/471

Hurley Memorial Scholarship now seeks applications

(March 29, 2024) The Ocean City Life Saving-Station Museum is accepting applications for the George and Suzanne Hurley Memorial Scholarship, now through May 13.

The $2,000 scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior of Stephen Decatur High School, Worcester Preparatory School, Pocomoke High School or Snow Hill High School who plans to further his/her education in the fall at a fouryear accredited college or university in Maryland. The scholarship is nonrenewable.

According to a news release, the scholarship was established in memory of two people who were the heart and soul of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum from its beginning. Their dedication to documenting the history of Ocean City and preserving the 1891 U.S. Life-Saving Station that houses the museum spanned almost 40 years.

Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation from a non-family member (do not use teachers or counselors) and a copy of the college acceptance letter. An interview may be required. The applicant must have an unweighted GPA of at least 2.5 that must be certified by a school counselor. The essay is required.

More information, and the nomination form, can be found at ocmuseum.org/support-us/scholarship.

by Steve Green

OThe Adventures of Fatherhood

n World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 in a previous year, my wife posted on Facebook, “Autism is a journey we never planned, but we sure do love our tour guide.”

Although she doesn’t claim to be the writer in the family, her words were incredibly poignant.

The concept through the upcoming Autism Awareness Month of April is to recognize people living with Autism and those impacted by it. The goal is to increase understanding and acceptance through education. The Town of Berlin this week issued a proclamation in recognition of April as Autism month, and it was a highlight of my time at town hall for Carson, who despises crowds and being the center of attention, to join us in front of the room for the reading of the proclamation. Pam and I briefly talked about whether Carson would come up and we were fine with whatever he decided.

The last thing most individuals with Autism have any interest in is the limelight. Carson did great and even smiled nicely for the camera.

Prior to becoming a parent to a special needs child, I admit to knowing little about Autism. I hadn’t invested much time in learning about special needs individuals because I had no connection to them in my life. It all changed in 2009 when Carson was born and something was different. The experience with him differed greatly compared to his older brother Beckett.

When he was 3 years old, we learned through genetic testing he had a duplication of chromosome 7. It’s an abnormality with no cure resulting in major developmental delays, anxiety, social phobias, speech and language delays, ADHD, psychological impairments and cardiac and renal defects. A few years later, after we realized his therapies and care would not be covered by insurance, we were advised to seek an Autism diagnosis. I remember it like it was yesterday. The doctor walked into the room, observed Carson and tried to connect with him, summing up in 10 minutes the diagnosis

was warranted. We had the slip of paper we needed for insurance.

It’s oftentimes easier to explain our child as autistic. It doesn’t matter to me. I could care less about labels. I just want the best for him. If having a diagnosis of Autism will allow him access to more services, it’s fine.

All I know is our family is on an uncomfortable roller coaster ride of a journey. We have incredible highs and disturbing lows. We have tremendous anxiety caused by distractions over doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, insurance conference calls to ensure a service gets covered and disturbingly random behaviors only special needs parents can fathom.

National Autism Association posted on its social media recently, “Even if a person with Autism cannot speak or respond, they still hear your words and feel your attitude. So be kind, compassionate and uplifting … always.”

In my world, thanks largely to the school system and this empathetic community, Carson faces much more acceptance than ignorance. It’s not something to be taken for granted. It might not always be that way. He is different. Though he never wants to be the center of attention, he often makes himself so because of his own actions and uniqueness.

On one hand, I admire him for doing his own thing. Though I wish he didn’t need them to feel secure and manage his anxiety, I am impressed he is comfortable enough with himself to carry a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal every day into school. He gets a few looks from schoolmates, and I understand why. He’s 14 years old after all.

Most of all I worry about his future as well as our own. I hope we are on a path of eventual independence for him. It will look much different than his big brother’s life, but my dream is for him one day to be able to manage his own life. He will realistically always need his parents and assistance. We read stories of special needs kids being able to live in assisted facilities and in apartments near their

families while holding down jobs. We hear other accounts where the kids remain always with their parents.

The key to life is patience. It’s difficult, but critical to wading through the daily challenges with our guy. Accepting and having an awareness of our reality –rather than trying to change and fix him — is important because it’s the only way to ensure he lives his best life today and tomorrow. He’s awesome in many ways, but struggles to get through life without a ton of help.

There will be many incredible online posts and graphics about Autism over the next month. Many are worthy of sharing, but here’s one I found online that hits home.

Why Neurodiversity? Neurodiversity is more than just a term – it’s both a fact and a movement. It’s the concept that all “brain wiring” – or neurological difference – is, and should be recognized, respected and celebrated as part of what is considered a normal variation in humanity.

Labels such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome and many more neurodevelopmental differences would come under this banner, helping us understand their individuality and overlap, but removing the stigma of deficits and disorders and with it the notion that such things can or should be cured.

Embracing neurodiversity is a journey towards finding new language, new understanding and new acceptance for thousands of people in our region and millions more across the globe. It’s a movement that will nurture, celebrate and advocate for all forms of communication and expression, promoting any support that allows autistic people – and any others – to live life fulfilled, happy and on their own terms.”

(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.)

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, 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 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, blackoutalley.com

Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

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

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

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-6811, Papistacojoint.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. With a family atmosphere you can enjoy building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their homemade authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 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

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. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

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!

■ FAGERS ISLAND

201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com

$$ | Full bar

Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

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

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

CLOSED JAN. 21 AND

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.

■ 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 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal 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.

■ ORIGINAL GREENE TURTLE

116th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 410-7232120, originalgreeneturtle.com

This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs! Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more!

■ 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.

■ TIDE ROOM AT ASHORE

10100 Coastal Highway, located inside the Ashore Resort, Ocean City, 410-524-7500, tideroomoceancity.com

$$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Serving dinner with oceanfront indoor and outdoor dining. The 2024 season brings live music, happy hour, a new weekend brunch and specials for locals, service industry and first responders. Enjoy locally sourced cuisine from new Executive Chef Nate Leonard.

■ 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 selec-

tions 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.

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 410641-7222, www.OPYachtclub.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. 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 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

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

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

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

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

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST

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

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.

STUDENT WINNER

Worcester Preparatory School sixth grader Emma Mealy stands next to her acrylic painting “May Reflections,” that received a third place award in the middle school category of the Shirley Hall Youth Art Show held March 1 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

Art League welcomes new photographers to Studio B

(March 29, 2024) The Art League of Ocean recently welcomed photographers Susan Koster and Brandon Martin to Studio B at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. Both are residents of Ocean Pines.

Koster has studied photography for more than 20 years, working professionally as a photojournalist for local and national newspapers, magazines, marketing and advertising agencies.

She became an award-winning outdoor photographer after college and specializes in the techniques of macrophotography, tilt shift, abstract, and long exposures.

Martin is an award-winning, selftaught artist who has studied photography for more than 25 years, getting his start in Poland at age 13. Since then, he has traveled the world, photographing Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Martin pursues the crafts of long exposure photography, abstract photography, and impressionistic photography to create unique art pieces. He is also a watercolor painter and a skilled woodworker.

“Our shared love for photography, the outdoors, and travel, led us to collaboration,” Martin said in a news release. “Having the opportunity to transfer the beauty of the seas and the skies and the ethereal feel of the beach onto various mediums and

print and to create one-of-a-kind art for others to enjoy is our passion. Whether we are working together oceanside or in the heart of nature mountainside, we live for the medium and hope that you see it shine through in our award-winning collections of fine art.”

Studio B and the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St. bayside, are open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends with free admission. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.

PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH New Art League of Ocean City photographers Susan Koster and Brandon Martin, both of Ocean Pines, pose with their cameras.

Ricky Cole was so very loved and all of you proved that on March 10th when we celebrated his life in the greatest little beach town on the East Coast. A HUGE thank you to the Purple Moose Saloon. Bobby, Johnny and the entire staff without you and your generosity this couldn't have happened.

The outpouring of love was matched only by the donations of food and supplies. A special thank you to The Cork Bar and Grill, The Pit N Pub, Bull on the beach, The Bearded Clam, Pickles Pub,Crawl Street Tavern, Sello's, OC Wasabi, Southside Deli, Crabs To Go, Harborside, Cantina Los Agaves, Buxy's , Soriano's , Coral Reef Café, Atlantic Stand, Malia's Café and the Market Street Deli (Pocomoke). And to countless others who just showed up with food to join in the love. A special Thanks to all of our friends and family who went to work in their own kitchens to assure we had enough food to feed the over 400 people that attended and to a few special angles Pam Holbrook, Dianne Redman, Kim Bunting and Terry Koshi who took charge of all that food and kept things running smoothly.

A special thank you to Billy Amar for the incredible picture slide show that you worked so hard on. And to those who showed up to help in every way you could, from the bottom of our hearts Thank You!

Anyone interested in making a Donation in Ricky's name Please consider:

Atlantic General Hospital Pastoral Care/Clergy 9733 Healthway Drive Berlin MD 21811

Or by making a blood donation at any local blood bank.

From all of us to all of you

Live, Laugh and Love BIG

Life is so very short

Rest Easy Ricky

We love you

Michael & Denise DeRoche, Tracy King & Family

Jim & Kathy Cole, Michael & Hollie Strawley

PHOTOS COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY ART LEAGUE RECEPTION

The Art League of Ocean City’s monthly First Friday reception and exhibit opening was held on March 1 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. The art league awarded $1,500 to three women artists to create bodies of work from concept to fruition with a grant from the Women’s Fund of the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. (Above) Pictured, from left, are artist Jeri Alexander, Art League Executive Director Rina Thaler, Community Foundation Executive Director Erica Joseph, artist Sue Bromm, Women’s Fund members Susan Purnell and Shelbie Thompson, artist Lisa Tossey, and Women’s Fund member Gayle Widdowson.

(Above) Photographer and artist Carol Ward poses with her photography on metal piece, “Steamed,” which won a third place award at the First Friday reception. (Below) Artist Rhonda Ford poses with her oil painting, “Crabby Sunrise,” which won a second place award. (Bottom left) Photographer Greg Poulos poses with “Cuban Dance 2,” a photography piece that won an honorable mention award. (Bottom right) Artist Nina Michelsen poses during the reception with a piece she created.

Calendar

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

Fri., March 29

40TH ANNUAL HOME, CONDO AND OUTDOOR SHOW WITH ART AND CRAFT FAIR

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hundreds of ideas and products for homes and outdoor spaces. Get advice, compare and take advantage of Show Specials. Also a craft show with handcrafted decor and gifts. www.oceanpromotions.info, 410-2138090

EASTER KIDS FUN FAIR

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring continuous activities, games and entertainment including Juggling shows, Easter egg hunts, limbo contests and photos with the Easter Bunny. Schedule of events: www.oceanpromotions.info. 410-2138090

GOOD FRIDAY SELF-GUIDED PRAYER STATIONS

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin. Held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Come and go as your schedule allows. 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com.

MAHJONG CLUB

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

JOLLY ROGER AMUSEMENT PARKS PIER OPENING & PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Jolly Roger at the Pier, 401 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 2-4 p.m. Free Easter pictures with the Easter Bunny. https://jollyrogerpark.com/easter-sale/, 410-289-4902

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin, 7 p.m. Good Friday service. https://stpaulsberlin.org/events

Sat., March 30

40TH ANNUAL HOME, CONDO AND OUTDOOR SHOW WITH ART AND CRAFT FAIR

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.-5

p.m. Hundreds of ideas and products for homes and outdoor spaces. Get advice, compare and take advantage of Show Specials. Also a craft show with handcrafted decor and gifts. www.oceanpromotions.info, 410-213-8090

EASTER KIDS FUN FAIR

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring continuous activities, games and entertainment including Juggling shows, Easter egg hunts, limbo contests and photos with the Easter Bunny. Schedule of events: www.oceanpromotions.info. 410-2138090

AUCE BREAKFAST BUFFET

Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, 7-10 a.m. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

TRIMPER RIDES GRAND RE-OPENING

WEEKEND

Trimper Rides of Ocean City, 700 S. Atlantic Ave., 12-5 p.m. Featuring the Easter Bunny and Trimper Troupe. Indoor rides only. https://www.trimperrides.com/trimper-news/easter-at-trim per_rides/, 410-289-8617

JOLLY ROGER AMUSEMENT PARKS PIER

OPENING & PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Jolly Roger at the Pier, 401 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 1-3 p.m. Free Easter pictures with the Easter Bunny. https://jollyrogerpark.com/easter-sale/, 410-289-4902

EASTER VIGIL SERVICE

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin, 7-11:59 p.m. Easter Vigil service. https://stpaulsberlin.org/events

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

Sun., March 31

EASTER SUNRISE WORSHIP

Assateague State Park, 6915 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 6:30 a.m. Free breakfast after service at Bethany United

Methodist Church. In case of inclement weather, updates will be post on the church’s Facebook page: Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin. 410-6412186

EASTER SUNDAY CELEBRATION

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. Services held 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to commemorate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. https://stpaulsberlin.org/events

EASTER WORSHIP

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin. 10 a.m. Free breakfast before service at 8 a.m. Egg hunt for all ages follows worship. The service will also be livestreamed at https://bethanyberlin.org/worship/. 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com

TRIMPER RIDES GRAND RE-OPENING WEEKEND

Trimper Rides of Ocean City, 700 S. Atlantic Ave., 12-5 p.m. Featuring the Easter Bunny and Trimper Troupe. Indoor rides only. https://www.trimperrides.com/trimper-news/easter-at-trim per_rides/, 410-289-8617

JOLLY ROGER AMUSEMENT PARKS PIER OPENING & PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Jolly Roger at the Pier, 401 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 1-3 p.m. Free Easter pictures with the Easter Bunny. https://jollyrogerpark.com/easter-sale/, 410-289-4902

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., April 1

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

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

STORY TIME: DRAGONS

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

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

BLOOD DONATION DRIVE

Newark Volunteer Fire Co, 8338 Newark Road, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Appointments are suggested by calling the Blood Bank of

Delmarva, 888-825-6638 or online at delmarvablood.org. Walk-ins welcome, time permitting. Ava, 443-523-4081 or Jackie, 443-735-4275

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION: ‘HUMAN PERSONALITY’ BY SIMONE WEIL

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. The group meets twice a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. They are reading from Book 5 of the Great Conversations Anthology. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WARHAMMER

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Meet to play Warhammer. Use the library’s armies or bring your own. Tutorials and demos will be available, so novice and veteran players alike are welcome. For ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650

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

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE!

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 7 p.m. Prizes may include appliances, vacations and possibly a new car. Purchase tickets:

https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/828402 17/the-price-is-right-live-ocean-city-ocperforming-arts-center. Doors open 6:30.

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., April 2

OCEAN CITY COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8 a.m.-noon. Free health fair for the community. The event includes various free health screenings, health education and guest speakers at 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Alyce Marzola, 410-6419268

STORY TIME: FROGS

Worcester County Library - Berlin

CALENDAR

Continued from Page 75

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

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.

Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring any questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PASTA LIKE A PRO

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2-4 p.m. Learn how to make pasta dough, then hand-form into southern Italian shapes. Cook the pasta and eat with a paired sauce. Registration required. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BASEBALL FEVER IN BALTIMORE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Author Mark Millikin discusses the 1969-71 Baltimore Orioles and how star players and other created baseball magic in Charm City. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ANIME CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m. Celebrate appreciation for anime and manga. Monthly themes will include trivia games, Japanese snacks and arts and crafts. For ages 13-16 years. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MARYLAND SAFE BOATING COURSE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6-9 p.m. Takes place April 2, 3 and 4. Successful attendees receive a Maryland Boating Certificate which is NASBLA approved and valid in all states. Fee is $20. Register: 410-935-4807, CGAUXOC@gmail.com.

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,

Wed., April 3

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Have fun making music, singing songs and playing. For ages 0-2 years. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SLIME PARTY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Learn what slime is and make your own slime to take with you. For ages 611 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

AROUND THE WORLD IN 30 INSTRUMENTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 11 a.m.-noon. Aodh Og O’Tuama of Cork, Ireland and Christy Martin of California perform traditional and original from the Celtic lands, Medieval & Renaissance Europe, India and the Americas. 443-783-6164

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5-6 p.m. Group provides discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Patti Yocubik, 410-641-4217, pyocubik@alanticgeneral.org

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 6-7 p.m. A safe place for caregivers to share similar challenges and rewards of providing care for adults who have a serious illness. Nicole, nfry@atlanticgeneral.org, 410-641-2626

CELTIC, FOLK & WORLD MUSIC CONCERT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6-7 p.m. Aodh Og O’Tuama of Cork, Ireland and

Christy Martin of California perform traditional and original from the Celtic lands, Medieval & Renaissance Europe, India and the Americas. 443-7836164

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., April 4

CPAP MASK FITTING

Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. For patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Free service. Appointment required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-6419726.

STORY TIME: MS. ANGIE’S FAVES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Join in for some of Ms. Angie’s favorite books for National Library Week. Stick around for some crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Meet new friends and play chess. Bring your boards and join the game. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JOB FAIR

Wor-Wic Community College, Guerrieri Hall, 32000 Campus Drive, Salisbury, 14 p.m. More than 40 area employers will participate in the fair. Attendees do not need to register to attend. Come dressed to meet prospective employers. Bring resumes. www.collegecentral.com/worwic, 410-334-2903

PREVENTING COGNITIVE DECLINE: COOKING AND LIFESTYLE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Nutritionist Kelly Williams cooks some recipe ideas and talks about promoting a healthy lifestyle for mitigating cognitive decline. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

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

ONGOING EVENTS

TEEN STEAM STATION

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during April. Create jewelry using binary code, construct a flying glider, design your own city out of recycled material and more. Challenges change each week. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, all day, March 18-28. Stop by to grab a scavenger hunt sheet and search the library for reading rabbis. Finish the hunt to reveal a secret message. For ages 0-5 years and 6-11 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STEAM STATION

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during March. Each hands-on activity will focus on art, math, science, engineering or technology. Create jewelry using binary code, construct a flying glider, design your own city out of recycled material and more. Challenges will change each week. For ages 11 years and older. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CRAFTERS & VENDORS NEEDED FOR FAIR

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

OCEAN CITY - BERLIN ROTARY CLUB

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

2024 JUST WALK CHALLENGE

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

OCEAN CITY CHAPTER OF THE SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF ITALY

Meets every month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Membership is open to individuals of Italian descent and their spouses. www.sonsofitalyoceancity.com

Crossword answers from page 64

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Wor-Wic job fair

The Wor-Wic Community College career services office is hosting a public job fair from 1-4 p.m., April 4, on the third floor of Guerrieri Hall at the college campus in Salisbury.

More than 40 area employers are set to participate, including Atlantic General Hospital, Harrison Group, the Maryland Natural Resources Police, NASA, Ocean Downs Casino, Salisbury Christian School, Pepsi Bottling Ventures, TidalHealth, the Town of Ocean City, WMDT and Wicomico and Worcester counties.

Attendees do not need to register to attend, but they should come dressed in interview attire and bring resumes to give to prospective employers.

Job seekers can visit collegecentral.com/worwic and submit a resume prior to the fair for a free critique.

Visit the events section of worwic.edu or call 410-334-2903 for more information.

Top client advisor

Deeley Insurance Group recently announced Hope Thomas as the agency’s top client advisor for the month of February.

The distinction is awarded to the associate with the strongest sales performance. This is the fifth time in 12 months that Thomas has earned

the title.

Thomas joined Deeley in October 2016, after years with The Baltimore Sun and The Ocean City Visitors Guide as an advertising representative. Her areas of insurance expertise include retail, hospitality, condominiums and community associations.

Originally from Dundalk, Thomas has owned a home in Ocean City for 28 years and moved to the area full time in 2006. She enjoys working on houses, spending time with her husband and her dog, and watching “Home Town” on HGTV.

For Good Fund grants

Taylor Bank is accepting applications for the first round of grants from its For Good Fund.

In 2023, the bank introduced the For Good Checking Account. For customers who enrolled, a portion of every debit card transaction was directed to the For Good Fund. From those contributions, roughly $15,000 will be awarded in this cycle to nonprofit organizations that strengthen and enhance local communities. Individual grants will range from $1,000 to $5,000.

Applications are available at taylorbank.com/for-good-fund as of April 1. Completed application must be sub-

Continued on Page 78

NEW LISTING 2 BR, 2 BA COTTAGE in BAY VISTA

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 10AM-NOON

• Cottage w/2 BR, 2BA & open floor plan.

• Foyer & BA floors updated w/ LVP flooring.

• Primary BA new sink vanity & toilet.

• Sold furnished w/all draperies. A few exclusions.

• HOA of $920 a year includes grass cutting, common area landscape maintenance, streetlights & trash removal.

7 WINDSWEPT DRIVE • MYSTIC HARBOUR BERLIN • $339,900

• Bay Vista Owners can opt to join Mystic Harbour community pool membership for just $400 per year.

DOWNTOWN OC MULTI-UNIT PROPERTY • NO HOA OR CONDO FEES

603 SAINT LOUIS AVENUE OCEAN CITY $579,900

•

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 1-2:30PM

• Large 4,680 square foot lot, garage space, zoned R-2

• 2 BR/2 BA unit upstairs

• Efficiency Apt. with 1 full BA downstairs & ground floor garage/storage space.

• Open grassy area, future addition of off-street parking spaces. currently th

• Driveway has 1 car off-street parking.

• Extensively renovated 1940’s build in '98. Roof approx. 5 years old.

• One block off bayfront Edgewater Ave. & 2 blocks off ocean.

• Opportunity to own beach condo & have rental unit income.

Md. program offers homeownership options

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(March 29, 2024) The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development announced earlier this month that applications

are open for the Utilizing Progressive Lending Investments to Finance Transformation, or UPLIFT, program.

The program will address homes impacted by appraisal gaps by accelerating the pace of new construction and rehabilitation of quality affordable housing in strategically identified communities across Maryland.

“UPLIFT is a critical program in the state’s efforts to revitalize disinvested communities, and we’re excited to work with our local partners to make sure it’s a success,” Secretary Jake Day said. “This program will increase homeownership opportunities, address the appraisal gap, and improve quality of life, opening new pathways to work, wages, and wealth for more Marylanders.”

UPLIFT was funded for $10 million through the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, which will be deployed as framed by HB625 (known as the “Appraisal Gap Bill”) passed in the 2023 legislative session. Through the program, selected developers will build, sell and rehabilitate quality affordable housing in targeted neigh-

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Continued from Page 77

mitted by June 1.

Focused on supporting low-income communities, the For Good Fund was created to support local nonprofits, with an emphasis on:

• Neighborhood Development –programs that create affordable housing opportunities, support vulnerable homeowners, and help revitalize neighborhoods.

• Workforce Development and Education – programs that promote fi-

borhoods in accordance with design and construction standards that ensure quality, timely production and accountability.

UPLIFT will accomplish a variety of related goals, including:

• Increasing homeownership in disinvested neighborhoods

• Upgrading housing for legacy homeowners in appraisal gap neighborhoods

• Revitalizing currently disinvested neighborhoods

• Reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions from the Maryland housing stock

• Expanding employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for Maryland workers and businesses, especially those from historically disadvantaged demographic groups

UPLIFT builds on the department’s Homeownership Works, or HOW, pilot program, created in 2021, which is investing $10 million into new construction and rehabili-

tation projects in two Maryland neighborhoods, Johnston Square in Baltimore and Pine Street in Cambridge. The four homes, valued at about $24,000 pre-rehabilitation, are now entering the market priced in the low $300,000 range.

UPLIFT projects are required to be in both a Low-Income Census Tract and in an area designated as a Maryland Sustainable Community. Locally on the Eastern Shore, the areas that qualify include Cambridge (noted above as one of the neighborhoods receiving HOW funds), and also Salisbury, Princess Anne, Pocomoke and Snow Hill.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis dependent on funding availability. Projects must meet the Threshold Criteria detailed in the Program Guide.

To learn more about the UPLIFT Program visit dhcd.maryland.gov/HousingDevelopment/Pages/UPLIFT.aspx.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

nancial literacy and provide skills training for young and economicallydisadvantaged residents.

• Basic Human Services – food, housing and fuel programs, and others that provide immediate and longterm solutions for those facing economic hardship.

Applicants must be nonprofit organizations recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in good standing with the IRS. Taylor Bank will prioritize organizations serv-

ing Worcester County; Sussex County, Delaware; and Accomack County, Virginia.

The bank’s giving committee will evaluate each grant request for financial sustainability, leadership, collaboration, overall impact, and more.

Taylor Bank is administering the program through a donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.

To learn more, visit taylorbank.com or email forgood@taylorbank.com.

iGaming bill concerns legislators

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 29, 2024) As the Maryland General Assembly’s 2024 legislative session nears completion, Senate and House lawmakers in Annapolis address increased tax discrepancies between the bodies’ proposed budgets.

On March 14, the Maryland Senate passed its version of the $63.1 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2025, which avoided imposing additional taxes.

On March 21, the Maryland House of Delegates passed its own financial plan, which raised fees for Marylanders. Senator Mary Beth Carozza (R38) said these differences must be reconciled before they reach Governor Wes Moore’s desk on April 1.

The Associated Press reported that the House’s new taxes and fees are part of a $1.3 billion package to help fund transportation and education.

According to Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C), the proposed budget raises the vehicle excise tax from 6% to 6.5% and changes a vehicle trade-in exemption to apply only when a car is exchanged for an electric or hybrid model. Uber and Lyft rides that originate in Maryland will be charged 75 cents for a gas-powered automobile or 50 cents for the zero-emission alternative. The registration fee will also be more expen-

sive for heavier vehicles.

The delegate argued on the House floor against the vehicle tax increases, arguing that additional fees are continuing to make things unaffordable for Maryland families. He also offered amendments to the budget, but none were accepted.

The drafted financial plan includes a combined reporting tax change. Per the adjustment, affiliates of large corporations would be forced to add profits together. Hartman said this would prevent multistate companies from avoiding taxes.

The Associated Press claimed the alteration is a tool to fund the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a costly plan that allocates large amounts of public education to increase teacher salaries, support struggling schools, and expand early childhood learning.

Hartman expressed concerns regarding the combined reporting tax adjustment. “This will make people reconsider establishing a business in Maryland,” he said.

Some House members defended the tax impositions. Montgomery County Democrat and House majority leader Delegate David Moon told AP that the fees are necessary to reestablish Maryland’s economic competitiveness and attract businesses by improving transportation

conditions and enhancing childcare.

“We’ve put our best foot forward to try not to put broad tax and fee increases on the table,” he said. “Everything is surgically aligned with a particular reason.”

Carozza said the House also aims to collect $300 million through iGaming, which would allow individuals to access all casino games via a computer or mobile device. The legislation was filed separately from the budget to address the state’s growing structural deficit.

“This growing structural deficit is largely due to the need to meet the funding goals of the Blueprint education plan, which increases education funding by $3.8 billion annually over 10 years and is already causing tremendous hardship at the local level,” the senator said. “We need to extend timelines on the Blueprint and give our local jurisdictions and local Boards of Education the flexibility they need to ensure affordability and transparency.”

Hartman worries that iGaming could lead to an increase in gambling addictions among Marylanders. AP reported that Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-46) did not plan to pass it this year.

The legislative session’s last day is Monday, April 8.

local leaders

IAC to discuss Buckingham plan with

(March 29, 2024) A state agency that oversees school construction is expected to meet with local officials next week.

On Thursday, April 4, at. 1 p.m., the Interagency Committee on School Construction (IAC) is scheduled to visit Snow Hill to meet with the Worcester County Commissioners and the Worcester County Board of Education. The IAC is expected to discuss state funding for the construction of a new Buckingham Elementary School as well as school construction and maintenance funding as a whole.

Commissioner Chip Bertino expects the meeting to be informative for all parties.

“I’m glad we’re having a meeting so we can all be on the same page when it comes to capital improvements,” he said.

In October, the commissioners voted to pause the replacement of Buckingham Elementary School. The decision came after it was learned the state last February advised the school system it would not be providing

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor See

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Continued from Page 79

funding for a new school because of excess capacity at adjacent schools.

In the months since the commissioners’ decision, area residents have advocated for a new school, contacting IAC members and even holding a march, and county officials accompanied IAC representatives on a tour of Buckingham, which was built in 1978 and has five portable classrooms.

“When the IAC toured Buckingham, there was a closed door meeting in which President Bertino and I attended,” said Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer. “This upcoming meeting is an opportunity for all seven of the commissioners to hear what we heard and better understand how the IAC operates and ideally how we can optimize the funding we receive from the state.”

Community members say a new facility has been needed for years and they were of the understanding it would be built after a new Ocean City Elementary School was constructed in 2005 and a new Showell Elementary School was built in 2020.

Melissa Reid, a longtime Buckingham teacher, is hopeful next week’s meeting will get the process for a new school moving again.

“What I’m looking forward to is information from the state on a way forward for funding because Buckingham Elementary School students deserve the same level building that Ocean City and Showell students received and we need that building sooner rather than later,” Reid said.

CHARLENE

Shoppers

County planning waterline flushing in West OC, beyond

Spring dates announced to test infrastructure within select local communities

(March 29, 2024) The Worcester County Water and Wastewater Division of Public Works will be flushing waterlines in Assateague Pointe, Edgewater Acres, Nantucket Point, Deer Point, Landings, Mystic Harbour, Newark, Ocean Reef, Riddle Farm and West Ocean City Service Areas 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. during select days this spring.

The following dates are proposed for the flushing, but are subject to change:

April 22-May 3 – Assateague Pointe, Deer Point, Mystic Harbour, Ocean Reef, and West Ocean City

May 14-15 – Newark

May 16-Edgewater Acres and Nan-

tucket Pointe

May 6-10 – Riddle Farm

According to a news release, routine flushing of the water system helps reduce the frequency of discolored water. Public works crews open and close the hydrants and flush out the built-up iron deposits. Sometimes the process can lead to temporary increases in suspended iron, which should settle within a few hours of the flushing.

Please be aware that, even on dates the water lines in residents’ sections are not set for flushing, it is still possible to experience discolored water. If area residents notice that their water becomes cloudy, there are advised to allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear.

For more information, call the water and wastewater division at 410641-5251.

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•Well-Maintained

Students’ book with surfer eyes April release

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 29, 2024) Students in a former second-grade class at Showell Elementary School, collaborating with their teacher and a professional surfing icon, are about to become published authors when their environmentally conscious book is released on April 16.

For Showell teacher Mackenzie Keyser and other instructors worldwide, 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic created exceptional classroom engagement challenges. As virtual learning became the new normal, so did a lack of focus.

To remedy the issues, the secondgrade educator contacted surfing icon Kelly Slater via Instagram, hoping to inspire her students. Keyser claimed that despite her shock, he responded and spent two hours on a Zoom call with the class. The teacher said the athlete was especially agreeable because of his connection to Ocean City. His mother is from Maryland, and he grew up visiting the tourist town.

Slater engaged the students with his stories of surfing worldwide, mainly the trash he noticed in the ocean. Keyser said the kids kept returning to that conversation throughout their lesson on coral reefs.

The chat with Slater spurred a larger initiative. Through a program with the Ocean City Surf Club, the class adopted

the 15th Street Beach and would pick up litter that lined the shore.

“The kids will never walk past a piece of trash again,” Keyser said.

The second graders also wrote and illustrated a book about the importance of keeping our coasts clean. After getting back in touch with the professional surfer, Keyser read him the story. She said he loved it and was immediately committed to getting it published. Di Angelo Publications, a Los Angeles-based company, spearheaded the project.

According to the business’s founder, Sequoia Schmidt, Slater worked with the organization on another book, “In Deep: The Collected Surf Writings” by Matt George, for which he wrote the forward.

Schmidt stated that a month after that book came out, she heard from Slater urging her to look at Keyser’s children’s book. She was put in touch with the educator, who sent over “the cutest children’s book ever.”

“We have never done a kid’s book illustrated by a classroom, and I loved that all the kids were involved,” the founder said. “I messaged Kelly, and I was in and said, ‘Let’s do this immediately.’”

Di Angelo Publications brought in Slater to write the forward. Keyser also wrote a lesson plan that is included in the book, which includes suggestions on

how to teach the impact trash has on the environment and extension activities like water filter creation and art projects. Schmidt maintained that the project’s goal is to “transcend the physical copy and inspire other classrooms to take the initiative to clean up their local beach.”

The picture book was entirely illustrated and written by the second-grade students. “The publisher has been the unsung hero,” Keyser said. “They took on this project and fully funded it…the kids did the drawings and the words. The publisher kept it their work and made it more amazing.”

A few handwritten parts were switched to text for legibility, but Schmidt appreciated the “amazing illustrations” and already formulated story.

The founder of Di Angelo Publications said that much legwork had to be done to get the venture off the ground. Keyser was tasked with obtaining permission from the parents and presenting the initiative to the Worcester County Public School Board of Education.

The book is approaching publication, and Schmidt is hopeful it will be in as many schools as possible.

“It has been such a fun process,” she said. “…To have the community support it as much as it has, like local surf

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH A Showell Elementary School second-grade class illustrated and wrote a book on the importance of keeping our beaches clean after a conversation with surfing icon Kelly Slater, which will be released April 16.

shops and bookstores, who have been placing orders. The grassroots approach is a huge part of marketing a book, where a community takes something on. That has been wonderful to see.”

The book “Keep Our Beaches Clean: What If Everybody Did That?” will be released on April 16. It is available for pre-order through the official website of Di Angelo Publications, diangelopublications.com. A portion of the profits will go to the Kelly Slater Foundation, whose mission is to “raise awareness and financial support for existing social and environmentally conscious charities.”

Hospital leader provides updates

Owrey: ‘We are trying to expand access to more primary care’ services

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 29, 2024) Atlantic General Hospital and Health Systems hosted a panel on Thursday, March 21, at the Ocean Pines Community Center to update residents on the facilities’ changes and upgrades.

AGH President Don Owrey moderated the event and detailed the healthcare system’s priorities. “At Atlantic General Hospital, we focus on five pillars,” he said. “The first is strengthening our core service. We are a community hospital, and we are focused on ensuring that our patients receive high-quality, efficient, and safe care.”

The president maintained the importance of skilled medical staff. In September 2023, pediatrician Cristian Salgado joined the team at the new Gudelsky Family Medical Center, which is located near the Ocean Pines South Gate entrance. Gastroenterologist Scott Itzkowitz was also hired in February. He is a military veteran who spent time on the Navy and Army side of healthcare.

Primary care recruitment is a pri-

ority for the hospital system, as the need for more family and internal medicine remains. According to Owrey, patients are leaning into urgent and emergency care as a result.

“We are trying to expand access to more primary care,” the president said. “The inability to tackle this issue is one of the things that has most disappointed me in the twenty-plus months I’ve been here. Primary care is a strong foundation for strong healthcare, and we are working on that.”

The facility is also introducing new technology. In September 2022, AGH became the first hospital on the Eastern Shore to offer Mako SmartRobotic joint replacement surgeries. The machinery allows surgeons to deliver increased accuracy and a higher quality of care.

The hospital implemented new video equipment for minimally invasive procedures that require highly complex monitors. The system also plans to upgrade MRI and CAT scanning technology in fiscal year 2025, which providers need to diagnose and treat patients.

Owery said that AGH is focused on increasing and strengthening its workforce. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals have become burnt out, leading to a short-

age of doctors, nurses, and physician assistants. The hospital has attempted to remedy this issue by partnering with Wor-Wic Community College’s nursing program. It has also eliminated all agency staffing, which uses outside businesses to facilitate hiring.

The facility has reduced harm events, including falls, medication errors, and infections, by 50% over the last year. Additionally, the Joint Commission designated the hospital as a Center for Excellence in Orthopedic Care in fall 2023.

Recruitment is at the top of the system’s priority list. AGH aims to partner with the University of Maryland School of Medicine to establish a scholarship that requires awardees to commit to working on the lower Eastern Shore post-residency.

TARA FISCHER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Atlantic General Hospital and Health Systems President Don Owrey updates residents on changes and improvements being made to the Worcester County healthcare facilities.

AFTER SCHOOL ART CLUB

PHOTOS COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY Snow Hill Elementary School students pose with pieces they made during their after school art club, an outreach program of the Art League of Ocean City.

Berlin Intermediate student Jacob Boden poses with a silhouette he created.

Berlin Intermediate students Natasha Gonzalez-DeRocher and Nola Gisriel pose with silhouettes they made.

Berlin Intermediate students Natasha Gonzalez-DeRocher, Kiley Mikulski, Nola Gisriel, Aaliyah Manning, Zoey Brown and Meara Emerick pose with silhouettes they made.

Anyone born after July 1, 1972 must hold a state certificate to operate vessels in Maryland waters, such as the coastal bays.

Safe boating course set for April 2-4 at library in Pines

(March 29, 2024) A Maryland Safe Boating Course is set from 6-9 p.m., April 2-4 , at the Ocean Pines Library.

Hosted by the certified instructors from the Ocean City Coast Guard Auxiliary, the comprehensive course will cover all required material to become licensed to operate a boat and 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

of Maryland. Those who attend the class and pass the test will receive a Maryland Boating Certificate, which is NASBLA approved and valid in all states.

A fee of $20 covers the cost of the course and materials. Checks should be made payable to USGCAUX 12-05 and mailed to USCGAUX 12-05, PO Box 1682, Berlin, MD 21811.

Payment through PayPAL is also accepted.

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

Hospital appreciation on National Doctors’ Day

Editor,

As we celebrate this year’s National Doctors’ Day on March 30, I want to express my sincerest appreciation for all that our physicians do on behalf of their patients, our hospital and this community.

Every strong health care system relies upon the compassion, expertise and steadfast commitment to patient care exemplified by its physicians. And, Atlantic General Hospital and Health System is fortunate to have such a highly capable and qualified staff of physicians serving our hospital and providing for the health care needs of our community.

This Doctors’ Day, it’s important to reflect upon the significant impact they have made in the lives of our patients and their families. Each and every day, they make a difference. Their ability to heal transcends medical treatment – they bring comfort, hope and reassurance to those in need.

Their dedication, commitment and professionalism in caring for the needs of our community does not go unnoticed and is certainly not taken

for granted.

On behalf of the hospital administration, staff and board of trustees, we say thank you to Atlantic General Hospital and Health System’s physicians for all that they do.

Sincerely, Donald Owrey

(The writer is the President & CEO of Atlantic General Hospital and Health System.)

Thoughts on Ocean City’s ethical quandary

Editor,

I had no plan to write this piece prior to reading two of this week’s articles in Ocean City’s recently combined papers. One dealt with the present ethical quandary of the town, the other dealt with the heroic moral certitude of a courageous act. None of us are perfect but we expect more from our public officials and trust they are representing our interests. The pier deal serves as a good example of unethical practices by the Mayor and Council and may add clarity to the current debate.

Now back to the town’s ethical quandary. Last week Pete Wimbrow

Continued on Page 88

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 87

inked a riveting piece on the 80-year anniversary of the “Great Escape.” During World War II 76 men escaped from Stalag Luft III a German prisoner of war camp for allied flyers. However, 73 were apprehended and paid the ultimate price. The heroic act showed a moral certitude that sharply contrasts with the cowardly ethical machinations of our town council’s inability to articulate a clear understanding of what is ethical.

Rather than clarity Mr. Gehrig and City Solicitor Ms. Stansbury add ambiguity by trying to make political behavior subjective, as outlined in an article written by Bethany Hooper (March 22, 2024). Their machinations on ethics are hard to stomach, let alone understand.

Mr. Gehrig says “When we have expenses entertaining, is it a violation of ethics to have expenses to entertain other elected officials(?)” Also, “Gehrig then asked how the ethics policy would affect an official’s ability to accept gifts” (P. 6, col.2, Para. 3, Hooper article.) Gehrig was also concerned about retaliation. Why if he was acting ethically?

Mr. Gehrig in December of 2019 voted to extend the pier lease by another 25 years (with nine years remaining on the original lease) on the approximately 5.7-acre pier property, that housed approximately 28 busi-

nesses. The pier property is the most valuable property in Ocean City while your private company (D3) is paid, handsomely, to manage all the websites of the franchise leasehold. That was and is, at the least, unethical. Your business relationship should have caused you to recuse yourself from any involvement in the pier deal.

Prior to that vote Mr. Gehrig sat on a three-person committee that met privately with franchise leaseholder for almost a year. That was unethical.

In December prior to the final vote, your committee neither received nor solicited any competitive bids for the 25-year lease extension of the City owned property. Mr. Gehrig. That was unethical.

You told me you never reviewed the leases or income received by the franchise leasehold received during the year to determine a fair rental price for the city. That too Mr. Gehrig was unethical.

Mr. Gehrig it was unethical to extend a lease that still had 9 years to run, wasn’t it?

It was unethical to extend the pier lease for 25 years when it still had 9 years to run.

The council’s failures on the pier lease may have cost the town tens millions over the next three decades. Are you getting a better idea of what

ethics are Mr. Gehrig? Mayor you would never take money to extend and protect the pier deal, right, would you?

The council’s failure to get clear title on the pier property, the town’s most valuable possession, further muddies the water, reducing the importance of the town. Name me another deal done by the council that was negotiated for 11 months in private, was never bid out, was not evaluated to determine a fair price for the city, was negotiated nine years before the lease expired and added 25 additional years on top of the nine, that’s 34 more years into the future. Thirty years still remain. Mary Knight and Dennis Dare sat on the committee with Gehrig that met in private for 11 months and negotiated the pier deal. Neither of them ran for reelection adding to the appearance of impropriety.

Ms. Stansbury, our legal representative, takes the opportunity to add more ambiguity to the definition of ethics “I believe what it would do is it would allow us to actually go in and amend this ordinance . . . and put something in here that would be perhaps less stringent than the state code.”(P.4, para. 3 Hooper article). Also, Stansberry said “there are some gifts elected officials can accept and some gifts they must report.”(Hooper reported Stansbury said at p.6 col.2

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Para.5, Hooper article) What about the gifts they shouldn’t accept Ms. Stansbury?

Ms. Stansbury later failed to release the minutes from the closed meetings the committee of three held (Gehrig, Dare and Knight) over the pier deal, despite the advice to release the minutes by the Open Meetings Compliance Board.. That was unethical. You are presently withholding anything in writing from the state, such as the audit itself, regarding our ethics code revisions it would also be unethical, so please make it public. Ms. Stansbury, I understand your law firm makes a lot of money off the town, but you don’t work for the council’s best interest, you work for the town, that is the people not in the meetings.

Although we put forth the best hopes for honesty in our elected officials the reality of our politician’s ethics tells a different story.

During the 2010-2019 alleged and actual misconduct by legislatures in the United States Congress was “13 bribery and corruption, 16 sexual harassments, 22 campaign and election violations, 62 ethics violations and 10 other crimes” (Govtrack.US) .... . the consequences of these actions were. . . During the 2020’s there have been 1 contempt of Congress, 2 reprimand, 3 resignations, 4 censure, 5 pleaded in court, 1 expulsion and 68 fined by House/Senate.”. (Govtrack.US, Legislative Misconduct Database). We have six years to go to complete the 2020’s! Also look at the illegal allegations swirling around both presidential candidates.

The Council’s failure to bid out the City Solicitor position after we lost Guy Ayers was also unethical, depriving the town of applications from young lawyers from Harvard and Yale with no political ties to the town.

Having a double standard by allowing councilmen to remain on the council when they live outside of Ocean City unnecessarily darkens the residency rule and is unethical.

The pier deal irreparably hurt the town and taints all those Ocean City politicians involved in the approval

Continued on Page 91

Stay informed with our digital newsletter

Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC TodayDispatch delivers? Our five-days-a-week digital newsletter might be just what you need.

We are developing an in-your-morningemail product (with updates for breaking news) and invite you to give it a try when it debuts in the spring. If you sign up now, you’ll get a free three-month trial subscrip-

Needed urgently: place for a prom

Got room for a large crowd of well-behaved high school students? If so, please contact Stephen Decatur High School’s prom organizers, who found out early this week that the Town of Berlin just couldn’t handle shutting down Main Street on a Saturday night for a private event amid many logistics questions.

That’s understandable, considering that a blocked off street and clear sidewalks, probably, would mean quiet cash registers in all the shops, stores and restaurants in the town’s commercial center as well as traffic and public safety concerns.

It wasn’t that downtown businesspeople were unsympathetic, because they did understand the situation and were loathe to be portrayed as prom scrooges. Still, there’s a fine line between profitability and not making it this time of year, when commerce, like everything else in early spring, is just starting to bud. A lost Saturday night is a tough thing to absorb when operations are financially fragile.

Similarly, the Berlin Town Council felt for the kids, but its members were apprised of the Main Street prom plan too late to do much about it, and the convention center booking personnel in Ocean City would have been able to figure something out if they had known in time.

And no, the school itself couldn’t accommodate the event, because it will be the site of the after-prom party, the purpose of which is to allow the celebration to continue under safe circumstances.

It’s a disappointing turn of events all around, for the promgoers as well as all the people who had little choice but to turn them down. But there is some hope.

As of late this week, convention center personnel pledged to do their best to find a way and a venue for this high school tradition to continue in a way that will remain memorable for those not far removed from leaving these school days behind.

So, anyone, anyone at all, who has some ideas, feel free to pass them along.

PUBLIC EYE

And Moses came down from Mt. Sinai after 40 days and nights and read from the stone tablet to the people assembled before him:

“... and Thou Shall Not Commit Adultery, Going Forward.”

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

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Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES

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web: oceancitytoday.com Facebook: facebook/mdcoastdispatch.com

By Stewart Dobson

A voice from the crowd rang out, “Excuse me, but ‘going forward’ starting when exactly?”

Going forward.

I hate that term almost as much as I do “transparency” and “clarity,” both of which occupy a position in the ranks of stilted expressions right below “shared,” which should be stricken from written English.

In fact, I have a poster in my office on writing that explains “share” versus “tell.”

Without going into detail about what the poster says, this being a family publication and all, a fair summary would be that one person shares an indelicate health situation with another person, who responds, “Now I have it, too! Thanks for sharing!”

Anyway, without adding clarity or transparency to the above, I was annoyed this week to read the following statement by baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred on the purchase of the Orioles by David Rubenstein:

“...as a Baltimore native and a lifelong fan of the team, [Rubenstein] is uniquely suited to lead the Orioles moving forward.”

Well, where else is he going to lead them?

Granted, Mr. Rubenstein is an amazing individual, but I don’t think he’s mastered time

travel just yet, so he won’t be leading the Orioles going backward.

Among the reasons for that, aside from time being notoriously resistant to visitors from another era, there is the possibility that someone would slide into second, kill a butterfly, thus leading to some kind of global calamity that would bring the world to an end before we get to find out if pitcher John Means will have his mojo back when he returns from elbow surgery.

I suppose what bothers me about the incessant use of “moving forward, is that the people who employ it apparently think it actually contributes something to a sentence.

That’s just not true, except maybe in the case of something like, “GET OUT OF THE WAY! The train is moving forward ...” blap.

Realistically, moving forward is so useless in a sentence that it could be replaced by anything and still leave the meaning of what’s being said intact.

Manfred could have said, “Rubenstein will lead the Orioles, E-I-E-I-O,” or “Rubenstein will lead the Orioles, doo-dah, doo-dah” and we would still know what he meant.

I understand that people say it to make an otherwise mundane announcement sound more official or profound or something, but I lean toward Shakespeare’s observation that “brevity is the soul of wit.”

That is, of course, unless you need just the right word count to fill a specific amount of space on a page, in which case you do your best, moving forward.

And I share that with you, not just for purposes of greater clarity, but also in the spirit of full transparency.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

Whenever an old hotel is slated for redevelopment, there seems to be an inevitable bit of nostalgia and uproar on social media. When it comes to last week’s news the Flagship in Ocean City would be demolished this fall after one last summer, the comments were a bit intense, confirming change is hard for many.

The hotel will be replaced with a new eight-story, 135-room Springhill Suites by Marriott, a large restaurant, pools and a pool bar. Demolition is expected to start in September and construction will take about two years. About 300 comments followed a Facebook share of last week’s article. A handful of comments welcomed the upgrade and progress, but most lamented the change.

One comment read, “I really think people just need to leave places be. A lot of these are memories for people. I know things change and change is good but old hotels and restaurants are core memories for people. Seeing new places takes away from that coming back to OC feeling away.”

Another read, “As an Ocean City local I feel it is becoming more like Atlantic City and it isn’t a family resort anymore. Most people can’t afford to come visit on vacation. Tell me why it is cheaper to fly to Puerto Rico and stay for a week then to stay in OC for a weekend, or even go on a cruise?”

A positive comment was, “God forbid the current owner, a local family business mind you, re-invests millions of dollars into their property and turn it into a nicer place. For the life of me I don’t understand so many people’s obsession with keeping old rundown buildings around. It’s not a historical landmark … it’s a motel.

For me, the nostalgia is understandable, but there comes a time when the cost to maintain old, seasonal hotels is not worth it when balanced by the consumers’ demands for modern amenities.

Whether the charges related to the tragic passing of then-14-year-old Gavin Knupp were filed in the right manner was finally decided this week by a Maryland appeals court. It took eight months to get the case back on track after a visiting Worcester County Circuit Court judge last August sided with attorneys for suspected motorist Tyler Mailloux and dismissed the case over “exclusive original jurisdiction” issues. The lower court judge ruled the 17 charges – including two felonies — should have been filed in district court, not circuit court. The appeals court overturned the ruling Wednesday in an unanimous decision.

In statements released after the opinion was handed down, State’s Attorney Kris Heiser, who should count this as a major victory for her office, and the Knupp family expressed optimism moving ahead for justice. Heiser said in part, “We intend, as we always have, to prosecute all charges against Mr. Mailloux in the Worcester County Circuit Court as soon as the case can be scheduled for trial.” A statement from Knupp family attorney Neil Dubovsky read in part, “In the immortal words of Dr. Martin Luther King, ‘the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.’ Today’s ruling helps bring us closer to justice and for that, we are appreciative.”

Some concerns were received this week regarding a headline, “Money found to fund Worcester County summer school program,” in last week’s issue. The article detailed how the summer academies in county schools would now take place officially (albeit scaled down a bit) thanks to a substantial grant as well as some budget surplus dollars in the school system’s budget. While I understand the concerns, I also stand by the headline. I think the feelings expressed have more to do with the ongoing strained dynamics between the school system and the County Commissioners than the words on the page.

Typical financial practice for large companies as well as governments with big budget is to knowingly underestimate revenues and intentionally overbudget expenses. The concept is to ensure there is wiggle in the budgets to allow for unexpected occurrences that need funding with the goal to avoid a deficit. The result is typically a surplus in government and a profit in private business. This is essentially what transpired with the public school system’s budget. It’s not a negative thing.

Instead of transferring the surplus funds to a contingency or reserve fund, the school system will use these dollars to pay for the unbudgeted summer academy programs. One may ask, “why it wasn’t utilized in the first place?” It was most likely internally always going to be used, but until the budget picture reaches clarity it’s an unknown.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 89

vote.

Mr. Buas clearly understands, the ethical responsibilities of local politicians, he was noticeably absent for the first reading of Ordinance 20242 adoption of new ethics guidelines. He was not on the council during the pier deal. Just waiting for him to chime in ethics.

We will close this with another statement by Ms. Stansbury regarding ethics. “It’s a philosophical issue ...”(page 6, column 2, paragraph 2, first sentence). Making ethics relative leads to ambiguity which leads to corruption.

Tony

Christ Falls Church, Va./Ocean City Film Festival a success, thanks to everyone Editor,

On behalf of the Art League of Ocean City, thank you to everyone who supported and made the 8th Annual Ocean City Film Festival a huge success, including our generous sponsors, attendees, filmmakers, committee, volunteers, moderators, and staff.

A special shoutout to the headliner, the legendary John Waters, who performed a memorable show on Saturday night, and to our title sponsors — the Town of Ocean City and the Maryland Film Office — who helped make the festival happen.

The film festival was truly a citywide happening and a real boost to the off-season in Ocean City. A big thank you to all of the venues that screened the films and made this year’s festival a success — Flagship Cinemas, Seacrets Morley Hall, Cambria Hotel, Princess Royale Hotel, and Ashore Resort. Also to the local businesses who supported us with popular parties and receptions — Princess Royale Hotel, Papi’s Tacos, and Ashore Resort. And to Dave Mes-

sick at Unscene Productions for hosting the industry-only morning event.

Thank you to the diverse group of filmmakers from around the world, many who attended, who allowed us to share more than 100 compelling films to 1,600 attendees. The festival showcased industry professionals as well as university students, young filmmakers, and local talent and gave them opportunities to network with others who share their passion.

Thank you to the film festival’s additional supporting sponsors: Maryland’s Coast, Bank of Ocean City, Coins Pub, Harrison Group, Atlantic Planning & Development, John Sisson, Blue Fish, Shore United Bank, West O Bottle Shop & Bar, i.g. Burton, Preston Automotive Group, Seacrets, Fritschle Barker Group at Keller Williams, Fin City, and Dogfish Head.

Finally, to our audiences who laughed, shed a tear, asked insightful questions, and enthusiastically applauded, we appreciate you choosing to spend your time with us.

We invite you to join us for the bimonthly film nights at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street, where you can experience independent film screenings year round. Look for the 9th Annual Ocean City Film Festival in March 6-9, 2025.

Rina Thaler, Art League of Ocean City executive director B.L. Strang-Moya, Ocean City Film Festival creative director

Nothing positive about company’s facility plans Editor,

Last Monday, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) held a public hearing regarding US Wind’s application to turn Ocean City’s small commercial fishing harbor into its Maintenance and Opera-

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tions Facility (M&O).

Sadly, US Wind and MDE neglected to inform any elected official representing this area, or the public, of an altered application that massively downgraded the project until five hours before the hearing.

Such tactics belie US Wind’s “Transparency and Community Engagement Claims.” We have been lied to far too long both in Ocean City and Delaware Beaches. We are tired of “pretty posters,” as we witness the devastation to our north, and now to Virginia Beach homes and sea life. Reality is vastly different than US Wind’s “pretty posters.”

It appears, US Wind now proposes only two crew transfer boats and no equipment/maintenance vessels are needed to maintain and repair its OSW project. How can this differ so vastly from the Construction and Op-

erations plan, which states, “operation of the proposed action could generate up to seven vessels and an average of 1,644 annual transits with most trips consisting of service operation vessels or crew transfer vessels to and from Ocean City. Vessel traffic generated by proposed action could restrict maneuvering room and cause delays accessing ports.”?

This sudden change leaves one to believe untruths are being told and US Wind has embarked on a program to piecemeal this project to full original desires through small change applications it believes would be approved with little to no community resistance. I am here to let US Wind know all the near 15,000 (and growing) signatories to Protect Our Coast Delmarva’s petition, beg to differ.

How can any Maryland official support a project that will fiscally harm our state that has huge budget

deficits and is struggling to pay for the new education mandates?

What do you think will happen to the budget if we allow the industrialization of our coastal waters estimated to kill Ocean City’s fiscal contributions by at least 15% (per Ørsted)? How can you justify approving a M&O facility that will kill our seafood industry when the state recognizes it contributes $600 mil/year to our economy? Why massively harm OC’s recreational fishing when NOAA tells us that in 2019, (the latest data,) 6.8 million recreational trips happened in Maryland generating $268.2 million?

Why would Maryland even consider a project that will severely damage our economy, not save the planet, and is spearheaded by Mr. Grybowski; the man responsible for the debacle that is Block Island’s wind farm? The one that doesn’t work, leaks oil constantly and has cost the

residents of Rhode Island over $30 million to keep the high voltage cables on the island’s beaches buried? Not one part of this project is good for Maryland.

Dianna Harris

West Ocean City

Relieved to see summer academies will occur Editor,

Last week’s article “Money found to fund Worcester County summer school program,” has definitely stirred up some responses. The headline accomplished the goal of grabbing the reader’s attention. The headline uses “money found,” which implies it was lost or missing. But the funds were neither lost nor missing.

The budget process for the school system involves many variables, but first and foremost, it must be dy-

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

namic. That is to say, the budget must allow room for the school to meet the changing needs of the students it serves. A school system budget must also never be in a deficit. Those two requirements alone mean that when creating a school budget, you must build in a reasonable surplus.

In order for a surplus to occur or be built into a budget, revenue received must be greater than anticipated or expenditures incurred must be lower than planned. When creating a budget, conservatively planning use of both measures is prudent. Both practices would enable enough wiggle room to meet changes and fluctuating demands and situations that a school system could encounter. Furthermore, it’s important for categories that may experience variableness to be given a conservative measure of deviation, so that necessary expenditures are not relying on a revenue source that has too much fluctuation.

This topic came up at the county commissioners meeting, where it was discussed that a few revenue categories of the BOE budget were experiencing higher actual revenues than the budget showed were expected. This is part of the conservative, reasonable surplus. This wasn’t something that is a surprise. In fact, at the end of previous fiscal years, the BOE has informed the County Commissioners of the total surplus amount

and asked to use it for identified needs. It was only last year where this practice deviated, and the Commissioners requested the surplus not be used to fund Summer Academy for FY24 as requested, but to be returned and put towards OPEB.

The identification of this current year surplus, which amounts to approximately 0.16% of the FY24 budget, is essentially reallocating the money ahead of the FY24 close out.

I’m ecstatic that Summer Academy will take place this year, even if it is a trimmed down and smaller staffed version. Even if this is just a band-aid for this current year and doesn’t address a full return to a robust Summer Academy program, I’m glad the surplus has been reallocated ahead of year end in order to address this now.

However, the handling of this has left a bad taste in my mouth.

The point was hammered that WCPS BOE has under budgeted revenue. And yes, revenue did exceed the budgeted amounts in a few categories by approximately $200-$300k total. I already spoke to understanding why such a conservative budget for variable revenue categories may result in a fiscally sound and reasonable surplus. Yet, I can’t help but draw comparison to the County General Fund budget for FY23 which had under budgeted revenue by $27 MIL-

LION. I find that instead of understanding and working together for a solution, this is being used as another weapon for the commissioners to undermine the authority and duty of the BOE. I find it interesting there wasn’t a mention of $27M being “found” in the county general fund revenues for FY23 and nor did I hear a call for better budgeting practices and transparency. Or even when the County General Fund’s excess revenue for FY23 exceeded the budgeted amount by $19M and the County General fund balance grew another $10M.

This wasn’t a nefarious or negligent act. And I wish what I had seen from my commissioners and county government was a collaborative discussion with the BOE and WCPS leadership if they wished for this current year surplus to be allocated before the end of the fiscal year. Unfortunately, that’s not what I heard. I heard politics take the lead over what is best for our students and community. I heard the creation of another justification for providing MOE for FY25. I heard another crack in the working relationship between the county commissioners and WCPS BOE. And the only ones that will suffer from these continued actions are the students, teachers, and community.

Kate Hulme Bishopville

OBITUARIES

ALONZA H. ANDERSON (ANDY)

Ocean City

Alonza H. Anderson (Andy) of Ocean City, passed away at his home on March 15, 2024.

Andy Anderson

Born in Cambridge, Feb. 15, 1927, to John Thomas Anderson and Ida Lee Green Anderson. He was also known as Dancing Horse within Native American Tribes.

Andy spent many years as a dedicated musician and electrician. Music was his passion and joy; he spent several years as a member of the County Music Association. You would often find him on the dance floor or performing with his band, Ocean Country. He took great pleasure in providing the joy of music to patrons of local bars and each fall at Ocean City’s Sunfest.

Andy had a love for life, and never met a stranger. He gave much of his time to his community spending seven years with the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Department, 57 years as a member of the American Legion and 61 years with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. If someone came into a hardship Andy would do what he could to ease the moment, whether that was giving them a place

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to stay, often his own home, or organizing a donation of goods.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Margie Jane Larmore Anderson. Children David Allen (Barbara), Nancy Leona Pope (Al), Amy Brocato Hopkins, Laura Anderson and Judy Anderson (Chris). Grandchildren Allen David Anderson (Betsy), Robert Wayne Anderson (Tonya), Brian Wayne Robinson, Stephen Brent Robinson, Greg Pope (Gillisa), Nancy Anderson, Kimberly Andrews (David), Maggie Anderson, Glenn Anderson Jr., Patrick Wolfe, Shannon Wolfe (Leslie), Shawn Wolfe (Jennifer), Ami-Jo Parker (Brandon), Adam Brocato, Susanne Hopkins (Meghan) and Whitney Wimbrow. He is also survived by 30 greatgrandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Special recognition of Diane Twilley, whom Andy thought of as a sixth daughter.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Medford, Emerson, Leroy, John Thomas Jr. and William; and his sister, Arbutus Fehsenfeld. Additionally, his son, William Glenn Anderson Sr.; daughter, Terrence Lee Anderson; a great-great-grandson, Legend Sid’ Jean Grant; and the mother of five of his children, Nancy Smith Anderson.

A memorial will be held at 1 p.m., April 20, at the Ocean City Fire Department 15th Street in Ocean City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of to Ocean City Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. P.O. Box 518, Ocean City, Maryland 21843, or Coastal Hospice P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21802.

JOAN MARIE WHITE Berlin

Joan Marie White, 82 of Berlin, passed away peacefully at her home Thursday, March 21, 2024.

She was the daughter of the late Raymond and Lorraine (York) Keefer. She was the beloved wife of Harry White, to whom she was married 58 years.

In addition to her husband, Joan is survived by her daughter, Barbara Caplan; brother John Keefer; sisters Janet Ewing and Shirley Muffaleto; four grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Mathew White; brothers Raymond Keefer Jr., Charles Keefer and Richard Keefer; and sister, Nancy Powers.

Joan had a career working for the Department of Agriculture for 20 years.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Joan’s memory to either

Coastal Hospice P.O. Box 1733 Salisbury, MD 21802 or to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

A funeral service was held last Monday, March 25, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. A visitation was held Sunday, March 24, and before the funeral on Monday. Condolences may be shared with the family at burbagefuneralhome.com

WALTER JOHNSON DENNIS

Berlin

Walter Johnson Dennis, 92, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Chesapeake Cottage in Snow Hill. Born in Berlin, he was the son of the late Luther Dennis and Clara (Smack) Dennis.

Mr. Dennis served in the U.S. Army from 1954-56 and was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. He was a proud and dedicated member of Boggs-Disharoon American Legion Post 123. He loved his country and held in high regard the other men and women that had served.

A carpenter by trade, Mr. Dennis was known for his skilled craftsmanship by many families and businesses in the Berlin and Ocean City areas. He could often be found in his backyard shop working on projects for his

home or others. An attendee of St. Martins Fellowship Church, he was honored to help rebuild the church after a fire in the early ’90s. He was passionate about his family, rabbit hunting, beagles, short stories in the Reader’s Digest, and having an immaculate lawn.

He is survived by his son, John Dennis (Gayle) of Little Valley New York; daughter Denise Lane of Berlin; brother William Dennis (Charlotte); sister Ruth Jones (Ken); and sister-in-law Margaret Dennis. He was an adored grandfather to Dennis (Cortney), Kristopher, Lisa, Laura, John Jr. (Heather), Patrick, Megan (Rob) Caitlin and Zachary. He had 11 great-grandchildren that were very dear to his heart. Also surviving are bonus “daughters” Mary Suzanne Dennis and Nancy Gadra. He loved his host of nieces and nephews, other family members and many friends and was an adored member of the community.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Edna Dennis in 2021; a son, Michael Dennis; a brother, Richard Dennis; sister Shirley Woroniecki; and a grandson, Kevin Dennis.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Chesapeake Cottage Assisted Living for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Walter’s name to Boggs- Disharoon American Legion Post 123, P.O. Box 136, Berlin, MD or St. Martins Fellowship Church, Penny Gears, 9505 Shiloh Farms Road, Berlin, MD.

A funeral service was held on March 8 at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery in Libertytown.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

OBITUARY NOTICES

Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511 $1,595.

Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications.

E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net

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Joan White

Walter Dennis

Annual battle of Berlin turns into blowout

Decatur turns 4-2 half-time lead into romp in 3rd quarter

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(March 29, 2024) Last Friday night’s battle for Berlin between Stephen Decatur High School boys’ varsity lacrosse team and the Fighting Mallards of nearby Worcester Prep School was a 16-4 blow out.

The game was tight in the first half with Decatur ahead 4-2 at half-time. The second half was a completely different story with the Seahawks quickly expanding the lead to 10-2 in the third quarter. The rout was on from that point.

“I think we did great, that’s pretty much what we expected, we have been working hard all season,” Stephen Decatur Head Coach Hoffy Hoffman said. “We really have been firing on all cylinders so it is what we anticipated.”

John Fohner and Luke Pop were Stephen Decatur’s high scorers with four goals each. Graham Geiser scored three goals for Stephen Decatur and Ashton March and Evan Oglesby each got two goals for the Seahawks. Parker Mason scored in the second half.

Ryan Mann, Karrigan RussellWood, Dylan McGovern and Jack Lynch each scored a goal for the Fighting Mallards. Russell-Wood and

McGovern each had an assist. Worcester Prep goalie Connor Ferguson had 19 saves and kept the game close in the first half single handedly.

“Connor was one of the truly bright spots, in an otherwise tough game,” Worcester Prep Head Coach Drew Haugh said.

Born in Annapolis, Hoffman moved to the Eastern Shore eight years ago

and began coaching at Worcester Prep for two years and moved to Stephen Decatur six years ago. He has experience and so does his team.

“Almost all of the kids are coming back we have one starting senior this year and he played last year as a junior,” Hoffman said. “We started last year with one senior and all freshmen, sophomores and juniors. This

year we have one senior and the rest are all juniors and sophomores. For next week we will continue working hard and execute.”

On Monday, the Stephen Decatur Seahawks trounced Kent County High School at Trojan Stadium 18-5. The next game is against Easton High School at 5:30 p.m. tonight at Louis H. Taylor Field in Berlin.

PHOTO COURTESY BECKETT GREEN

Worcester Prep senior goalie Connor Ferguson kept the Mallards in the game in the first half and ended with 19 saves, most of the difficult variety.

Above, Ferguson deflects a shot over the goal in the first quarter.

(Above left) Sophomore attackman John Fohner fires one of his four goals on the easy win last Friday. (Above right) Stephen Decatur’s Evan Oglesby controls the ball while Worcester Prep’s Dylan McGovern makes a challenge. Oglesby scored two goals and McGovern scored one.

SDHS baseball team wins three out of four

Seahawks shutout Bayside rival Bennett after falling to Delmar 4-3 in earlier game

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(March 29, 2024) The Stephen Decatur varsity baseball team has three wins on the new season with one loss.

Last Thursday, they defeated Wicomico County 18-0. Friday, they lost in a tight game to Delmar High School 4-3, and Monday they beat Queen Anne’s High School, 4-0.

After five scoreless innings on Monday between host Stephen Decatur and guest Queen Anne’s, the Seahawks finally got on the scoreboard with a sizzler down the left side allowing the runner from second to score.

Another scoring single from the next batter put Stephen Decatur up 3-0 heading into the sixth inning. Seahawk defenses continued keeping Queen Anne’s offense at bay while the Seahawks scored their fourth and final run.

Queen Anne’s Head Coach Chris Fitzgerald has 20 years with the team.

“We did real well last year we got deep into the playoffs and got beat in

regional finals,” he said. “… We had opportunities today and we executed today … We made the best of the opportunities we had today.”

Stephen Decatur Head Coach Rich Ferro has 23 years coaching under his belt. He led the team in 2022 to its first Bayside Conference champi-

onship title since 2014. That year they ended the season with a 5-3 loss to James M. Bennett in the 3A South Region II semifinal round. In 2023 the team made it the final round.

“We went to the finals and lost a tough match up with River Hill,” he said.

On Wednesday the Seahawks beat James M. Bennett 3-0. The team has five returning players to help lead the way.

“We are just trying to get better [this year],” Ferro said.

The Seahawks will host an invitational tournament at 1:30 p.m. today.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

The Stephen Decatur High School varsity baseball team is pictured above right at their home field Monday.

PHOTOGRAPHY (ABOVE) AND TEAM PHOTOS (BELOW)

Stephen Decatur’s girls lacrosse team opened the season with convincing home wins over

In the Wi-Hi shutout win, senior Sadie Kauffman, pictured above left, scored her 100th goal. Above right, sophomore Kennedy Kirby looks to evade a defender in Tuesday’s win over Kent. Last weekend an annual spring clinic was moved indoors by inclement weather but dozens of local Beach Lacrosse players were still provided the opportunity work and learn the game from the varsity lacrosse team players.