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Newspapers announce Merger

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

STAFF REPORT

OCEAN CITY – After more than 30 years of head-to-head competition that never produced a clear winner, The Dispatch and Ocean City Today are merging next week to create what their principals believe is the kind of news provider the coastal area needs now and well into the future.

As of Feb. 2, readers of both newspapers will see the new OC Today/Dispatch on the newsstands, as the top personnel from both offices combine the best elements of the two publications into one.

“This is a move that will greatly benefit the community,” said The Dispatch Editor Steve Green. “We truly will be stronger as one rather than continuing to compete against each other for the

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same news and sales every week. This is a big deal for us, and we think the real winner will be our readers and our clients. We are excited to bring the most popular aspects of both papers into one larger newspaper that will truly serve as the newspaper of record for Worcester County.”

For the many people caught off guard by what would appear to be a sudden change of heart by the leadership at two highly competitive operations, this consolidation is anything but abrupt.

“The idea of getting together instead of beating each other up week after week came up more than a decade ago,” OC Today Editor Stewart Dobson said. “Steve and I have had conversations about it off and on for years, and nearly pulled it off last year. But we’re both very competitive people, and it took a little longer for us to realize that the easiest way to win the campaign for readers and advertisers — and to do a better job of serving the community — is to do it together.”

In a joint statement, Green and Dobson said capitalizing on the experience of the merged staff will also allow OC Today/Dispatch to become more than a newspaper but also the coastal area’s primary web-based and digital provider of information.

“We have many sources of local information on the web these days,” Green said, “but none of them are backed up by on-the-ground reporting like we provide.”

Green also noted that the two papers combined have more than 200,000 Facebook followers to call on as OC Today/Dispatch launch new subscription digital products over the course of the year.

“We know the market, and we know it’s changing,” Dobson said. “We also know just by looking at our Facebook numbers how big that underserved market is. We were so busy worrying about each other that we failed to see how big this opportunity really is. Now, we intend to go after it.”

Unlike most community newspapers, which depend solely on their residential readership and advertising bases, The Dispatch and OC Today have benefitted from having three bases: residential, nonresident property owners and visitors.

“This is what kept our two independent newspapers going for so long, when so many others across the country have gone under,” Dobson said.

The Dispatch was founded in 1984

by Dick Lohmeyer under the Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. banner. Lohmeyer operated numerous resort area newspapers over the course of his 60 years in the industry. Upon his passing in 2005, Green assumed the role of publisher.

Ocean City Today was launched in 1993 by Flag Publications Inc., a company created by a handful of mostly local investors, none of whom had a controlling interest. Dobson joined as editor and company president in 1994. Flag SEE NEXT PAGE

… Green, Dobson Share Views With Major Redesign Planned

January 26, 2024

Publications also owns the Bayside Gazette, a free weekly delivered to Ocean Pines and Berlin, and the Ocean City Digest, a paid legal newspaper. It also helped found and is a partner in the Coastal Point newspaper, which serves the Bethany Beach/Ocean View/Fenwick area and is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Feb. 5.

Leading the new operation will be Dobson, who will mark 30 years with OC Today in March. In addition to his 54 years working in the industry, he grew up in the business. His father, Emory Dobson, was a lifelong newspaper editor and publisher, primarily in Caroline County, Md. Serving as executive editor will be Green, who has been at the helm of The Dispatch since 1997, having worked in all aspects of the newspaper’s functions, from reporting and photography to delivering papers and maintaining sales accounts. He also grew up in the business as Lohmeyer’s stepson.

With Dobson as editor and Green as executive editor, the leadership team will be rounded out by Christine Brown, who will continue to serve as publisher and controller. She will be aided by administrative assistant Gini Tufts.

The staff overall will consist of veter-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

ans drawn from both papers, many of whom have deep roots to the area.

On the news side will be associate editors Charlene Sharpe, Bethany Hooper and Mallory Panuska and Staff Writer Tara Fischer. Sharpe, Hooper and Fischer are products of Stephen Decatur High School.

The sales department will consist of long-time ad sales associates Mary Cooper, Terri French and Renee Kelly, while Taylor Sloan will handle classifieds and legal notices.

The art department will also have a veteran staff, with Art Director Cole Gibson, Senior Page Designer Susan Parks and Graphic Artist Kelly Brown.

“This is going to be a work in progress,” Green and Dobson said in their joint statement. “A redesign and reworking of the print publication from top to bottom is in the works and will unfold over time. The same approach will be taken with the two papers’ websites and social media pages. They will be joined under the OC Today/Dispatch name.”

The new paper will operate out of the offices of the former OC Today at 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, and will retain the 410-723-6397 phone number. All email addresses for the staff will remain as they are for now.

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Offshore Wind Opposition Rallies At Harris Hearing

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BY HUNTER HINE

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan warned that city government is prepared to go to court to challenge federal approval of wind development off the coast if the project reaches that stage.

Speaking at a hearing organized by U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-01) on Saturday, Meehan joined several local, state and federal representatives who spoke at the Ocean City convention center to voice concerns about – and argue against – US Wind’s proposed wind energy project.

Meehan said that if the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) gives its approval for the construction of wind turbines off the Ocean City coast,

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

the city would challenge the decision with a lawsuit. The bureau’s decision will follow its review of the environmental assessment of the project.

“The Town of Ocean City will not back down for our opposition to these projects and to our future here in Ocean City. We will not back down,” Meehan said.

An audience of about 500 people gathered in the auditorium of the Ocean City Performing Arts Center to hear the testimony, Anna Adamian, Harris’s communications director, said after the meeting. The meeting also featured a panel whose members testified on behalf of industries and citizens that could see adverse effects from offshore wind development.

Speakers concentrated on issues at the core of the offshore wind debate, in-

cluding its possible effects on tourism, tax and utilities prices, fishing, marine life and national security.

“We oughta think long and hard as a nation as we begin the industrialization of our ocean off the mid-Atlantic coast.

We heard about a lot of the problems today… The list goes on and on. The bottom line, this is not ready for prime time,” Harris said.

Harris said although he invited representatives from BOEM and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), both federal agencies declined, and US Wind – the company proposing to build the wind farm off of Maryland and Delaware – did not respond.

"Marylanders want offshore wind. In the many conversations we’ve had across the state, the support for offshore wind comes through loud and clear. And

January 26, 2024

in a recent poll, 72 percent of Marylanders say they support expanding offshore wind energy,” Nancy Sopko, senior director of external affairs at US Wind, said in an email after the meeting. “Offshore wind is a win for the environment, a win for the economy, and a win for the future.”

The referenced poll was done by Victoria Research, a polling firm from Takoma Park, in November.

Pat Schrawder, a district representative for Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), and who Harris introduced as a “community advocate,” said many local organizations have voiced disapproval for offshore wind, including the Ocean City Marlin Club, the Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association and the Ocean City Hotel -Motel-Restaurant Association.

But residents in support of wind also made a showing.

As people filed into the convention center before the meeting began, a few people stood by the entrance and held signs that had phrases, such as “Big Oil bought Andy Harris. Don’t buy his B.S.” A group called Indivisible Worcester Maryland sent out a press release ahead of the meeting that said members of the organization would come out to protest.

“On Saturday (Harris) will undoubtedly peddle more lies copied from oil and gas lobbyists. I don’t think he will stop trying to destroy our environment until Ocean City is drowning,” said Toby Perkins, a coordinator for Indivisible Worcester Maryland, in the press release.

The audience inside the meeting, however, showed solid support for the speakers with spontaneous applause punctuating portions of the meeting.

When it came time for Del. Wayne Hartman’s (R-38C) turn at the rostrum, he cited a 2016 survey by North Carolina State University’s Center for Environmental and Resource Economic Policy that found that roughly 55% of respondents said they would not rent a vacation home if turbines were visible from the shore.

Meehan asked why an economic impact analysis wasn’t conducted along with the environmental assessment.

“What is being proposed would destroy what 26,000 property owners and 8 million visitors enjoy each year. Not just today, but for future generations.

Building turbines closer than 26 nautical miles off our coast, or even more disturbing, as close as 10 miles from our shoreline, would destroy that national phenomenon forever. The sunrise over the Atlantic would look like a backdrop from Star Wars,” Meehan said.

Schrawder said that BOEM’s own environmental impact assessment lists recreational fishing as an item that could face adverse impacts from turbines.

Fishing tournaments in Ocean City can generate as much as $16 million dollars, and it could mean lost tax money for local and state governments if the industry is ruined by wind farms, Schrawder SEE PAGE 40

Council Approves RFP For Water Main Move

January 26, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Town officials agreed to seek bids for a water main relocation this week.

On Monday, the Berlin Town Council unanimously approved a request for proposals (RFP) for water improvements on Harrison Avenue. As the Berlin Beer Company prepares to open, municipal officials want to move the water line that currently runs under the building.

“With an older community we uncover situations like this,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “In this circumstance, the trouble is underneath the building and we’re just trying to create a best practice and move it where it should be.”

Josh Taylor of Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. presented the council with a draft RFP to relocate the roughly 100-year-old water main that currently runs under the former Southern States building at the intersection of Broad Street and Harrison Avenue. Because the property, which will soon be home to the Berlin Beer Company, is currently under construction, town staff said this was a good time to move the water main into Harrison Avenue, where it should be.

“We want to move forward with the bidding process,” Taylor said.

Taylor said the RFP should be advertised this week so that the work can be done soon. Once a contractor is selected, they’ll have about 45 days to get the water main relocated.

“We’ll give the contractor a 45day contract because he’s got to get all the materials in place, but the actual work will be a matter of a week, two,” Taylor said.

Councilman Jay Knerr pointed out construction was progressing nicely at the Berlin Beer Company.

“Are they not going to have access to water?” he asked.

Water Resources Director Jamey Latchum said the building would be served by its existing water meter until the water main was relocated.

Latchum said having it under the building, which was erected in 1930, was not ideal.

“We’re just trying to correct problems that should have been corrected a long time ago,” he said.

Latchum said the work would be done with a directional drill so there would be minimal damage to the road. Once it’s moved, the water main will be under Harrison Avenue.

Councilman Jack Orris asked how traffic would be impacted during construction.

Taylor said there would be single lane closures during the relocation.

Latchum agreed that there would be little impact.

“We’re trying to minimize the disturbance of traffic,” he said.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Page 8

Heron Park Demo Contractor Selected

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mayor Zack Tyndall is pictured talking about the Heron Park demolition process Monday.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BERLIN – Demolition work at Heron Park is expected to start within 30 days following selection of a contractor this week.

The Berlin Town Council on Monday accepted a $112,715 bid from JNT Enterprises for the demolition of three sections of the former processing plant at Heron Park. Company representatives are also expected to provide the town with a price for demolishing even more of the old building. Elected officials want to clear as much of the site as they can with the town’s $500,000 strategic demolition grant.

“We’re not trying to be difficult we’re just trying to fully expend the grant,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

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Earlier this month, the town received two bids in response to a request for proposals (RFP) for the demolition of the middle section of the old processing building. The town asked for prices on tearing down sections one and two of the structure, the portions in the worst condition, as well as prices for adding in section three. Including alternates, Reynolds Excavating bid $452,500 and JNT Enterprises bid $112,715.

Officials acknowledged the disparity in bids this week. Justin Miller of JNT Enterprises said he could only speak for the proposal he’d submitted.

“We cut you a fair price,” he said.

“That’s what we were going for.”

Council members were eager to know what JNT Enterprises would charge for knocking down even more of the old processing plant. Miller said he’d have to run the numbers and could provide cost estimates in a couple weeks. Andrew Welch of Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. pointed out that no one yet knew the foundation conditions workers would find on the portion of the building that will be left closer to the road and the portion of the building more toward the back of the property once the middle section was torn down.

Councilman Steve Green said JNT Enterprises had come highly recommended.

“The value we’re going to get out of this work is welcome,” he said.

Tyndall said town officials were grateful to receive the two bids that were submitted for the demolition, which has been discussed for years.

“We’re really looking forward to working together on the project,” he said.

After the council accepted the bid, Councilman Jack Orris asked about the future of Heron Park.

“We probably should decide what we want to do with this property,” he said.

Green said if the town sold the land outright it would have no say in what was done with the property after that.

David Gaskill, the town attorney, said if officials wanted to try selling the land again, the best way to do that was by seeking proposals. He said that while an RFP wasn’t required it would give officials more influence on the future of the property.

“I think the RFP process if you want control is cleaner,” he said.

Tyndall said it was too early to begin drafting an RFP since officials didn’t yet know how much of the processing plant would end up being demolished.

“I think we need those add ons first so we have a clear idea of what we’re doing. I think we’re at least 45 days out before we can start shaping an RFP,” he said.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen agreed and said the town was about to start the budget development process.

“There’s still a lot to be done,” Bohlen said.

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 9

Efforts To Increase Room Tax Cap Begin In Annapolis

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Efforts to get the enabling legislation passed that would allow Ocean City to increase the room tax rate are once again underway.

On Wednesday, the Senate’s Budget and Taxation Committee held a hearing for SB 95, sponsored by Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, which would increase the maximum hotel rental tax rate cap from 5% to 6%. A hearing for the cross-filed HB 186, sponsored by Del. Wayne Hartman, is set for Feb. 1.

“I don’t anticipate any problems but there are always new players,” Hartman said. “You can’t take anything for granted.”

In 2022, county officials worked with state representatives on enabling legislation to allow the county to increase its room tax cap from 5% to 6%. They discovered, however, that because Worcester is a code home rule county, approval was needed from all of the code counties. Though all four code counties supported the legislation last year, it failed to pass in the Senate.

During Wednesday’s hearing on SB 95, Carozza reiterated the fact that all of

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the code counties support the legislation.

She also detailed the reasons Ocean City needed the ability to increase the room tax.

She said Myrtle Beach had a $50 million tourism budget while Virginia Beach had a $30 million tourism budget and the Outer Banks had a $16 million tourism budget.

“Ocean City’s tourism budget is only at $13 million. On average each dollar invested in tourism marketing generates $31 in visitor spending,” she said. “Our shore tourism is an economic driver for the state. The hotel rental tax is a dedicated source of funding for tourism and tourism related activities and the Eastern Shore code counties believe making this minimal increase in enabling legislation would be mutually beneficial.”

When asked if she’d spoken to the senator who opposed the legislation last year, Carozza said she had.

“My understanding is all those issues have been worked through,” she said.

Worcester County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic and Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan spoke in support SB 95. Mitrecic said if the rate was raised to 6% it would still be far below the rates in other resort areas. He pointed out the rate was 11% in Rehoboth.

“The latest numbers show 43.5 million people visited Maryland in 2022 generating $19.4 billion in spending,” he said.

January 26, 2024

Mitrecic said resort officials could use room tax revenue to reach beyond current markets and also to cover rising costs related to tourism, such as EMS expenses and infrastructure improvements.

Meehan offered similar testimony.

“It also allows us to subsidize some of those costs that are related to tourism in our general fund budget,” he said.

According to Meehan, 43% of the resort’s general fund budget goes to public safety. In 2025, he said the town was hiring 10 more police officers that would cost $100,000 each.

“People come to Ocean City because it’s safe and it’s clean and it’s fun and it’s exciting,” he said. “What we need to do with our room tax dollars is continue to make sure that it is safe, it is clean and it is exciting. That’s for everyone that visits Ocean City.”

Bruce Bereano, Ocean City’s lobbyist, added that even with an increase Ocean City’s room tax rate wouldn’t be unreasonable compared to others in Maryland.

“We’re well below some western shore counties,” he said.

The room tax legislation is set to be heard by the House Ways and Means Committee Feb. 1. If the enabling legislation passes at the state level, a unanimous vote of the county commissioners would be required to actually increase the room tax rate in Worcester County.

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Diakonia Exploring Options Following Sewer Decision

January 26, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

WEST OCEAN CITY – The future of Diakonia’s long-planned expansion is in jeopardy following a decision by county officials last week.

Supporters of Diakonia are exploring all options in the wake of the Worcester County Commissioners’ decision not to approve Diakonia’s plan to acquire sewer capacity from the Town of Ocean City.

The nonprofit, which has provided emergency housing, food assistance and other resources to those in need in the Ocean City area since the 1970s, has to have the capacity in order to expand services with a new facility on Route 611.

“It’s unfortunate to see things come to this,” Del. Wayne Hartman said. “Diakonia is such a great asset to the Town of Ocean City and Worcester County.”

Last week, the commissioners voted 4-3 not to support Diakonia’s agreement with Ocean City, which would have provided the nonprofit with the necessary EDUs needed to build its planned expansion on Route 611. Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Diana Purnell and Ted Elder supported the request but the majority of the board did not. Those opposed to the request said the issue was larger than Diakonia. They said there were other entities that had been waiting for EDUs and that a level playing field was needed. Commissioner Chip Bertino said it was also an issue of control.

“One of the realities is people who have their businesses or reside within county limits should not have to go to Ocean City or anybody else to determine what they can and can’t do with their land,” Bertino said last week. “The only guardians of the county’s interests within our jurisdiction are the seven of us.”

While they didn’t approve the Diakonia request, the commissioners did vote unanimously to have staff start discussions with Ocean City officials regarding the possibility of the town granting the county sewer capacity since the Mystic Harbour service area is at maximum capacity.

“In essence Worcester County is holding Diakonia and the Town of Ocean City hostage for additional capacity, which isn’t Diakonia or Ocean City’s problem,” Hartman said.

Reid Tingle, chair of Diakonia’s board, thanked Ocean City leaders as well as Mitrecic, Purnell and Elder for their support.

“It is unfortunate that the ‘Gang of Four’ decided to play politics with people’s lives and wellbeing instead of doing what is in the best interest of the citizens and communities they were elected to represent,” he said.

Tingle indicated he was disappointed but not surprised by the majority’s vote, particularly since Diakonia representatives met with a couple of them earlier this month.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

“We did finally meet with the selected commissioners and were clearly told they would not allow the proposal to go through,” he said. “Various reasons were presented, starting with it is not fair for us to just go to the top of the list.

We asked who was on the list and were quickly told there is no list. Then we were told another project could create a larger tax base that would bring more revenue into the county than our project. Finally, it came out that they wanted control, and did not want Ocean City to have any say in what they could or could not develop in what they perceive as their area.”

He said their recommended solution to the sewer capacity issue was for Diakonia to sell the Route 611 property and build somewhere else. Tingle said Diakonia supporters were hoping to find another option.

“We are currently looking into and pursuing options at the state and federal level that would allow us to move forward without the support of the Gang of Four,” he said. “If there are no options on the state or federal level, barring a white knight coming forward and offering some sewer capacity, the project cannot move forward at this time.”

Hartman said he’d reached out to the Maryland Department of the Environment and the attorney general’s office to see if there was anything that could

be done.

“I think we really need to have this project move forward,” he said.

Even if there is a way for the project to move forward, the nonprofit can’t pursue fundraising opportunities with the future of the project in question.

“The wait on EDUs creates problems in that we are trying to prepare for building without the ability to begin raising those funds,” said Ken Argot, executive director of Diakonia. “When we received the initial nod of concept, we began to prepare for funding certain aspects of the project, however with continued delays and uncertainty of the project with no concrete date in the future, we are left in ‘no man’s land’ when it comes to our requests for public funding. We don’t want to misinform the public when we don’t yet have official approval. But there is also a real concern in approaching donors for current operation projects, without overburdening them with an additional ask for building capital should the 611 project be approved quicker.”

Argot said the lack of affordable housing was the primary cause of homelessness in America. He said if there weren’t enough homes out there for people to purchase, those who can afford to purchase have to settle on rentals, which are then no longer available to people who aren’t able to buy

Page 11

their own homes.

Argot said that many times, people aren’t able to move out of shelters like Diakonia because affordable rentals are rare. He said that was why Diakonia’s project on Route 611 was so important.

“The reason that so many of our homeless are out in the streets, in front of stores, or camping out in wooded areas, is because there is literally no place to go,” Argot said.

If Diakonia can build a new facility on its Route 611 land, it can not only house more people but would be able to have a larger food pantry and more office space.

Currently, even when donors have food for Diakonia, the nonprofit doesn’t have adequate storage to be able to accept it. Veterans, when working with case managers to get services, don’t have private space to meet. Furthermore, the ability of Diakonia’s thrift store to generate income for the nonprofit is limited by space.

“Our thrift store raises about 10% of our annual income, with the potential to do more,” Argot said. “However, our limited space means less room for bulk inkind donations, and the need to rent additional space when we try to store seasonal donations for the next year. Often, we can’t even take in-kind donations because we have no warehouse space.”

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Habitable Attic Ordinance Passes Second Reading

Page 12

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials last week approved a code amendment that will allow habitable attics, but not before making a compromise on parking requirements.

Last week, the Ocean City Council voted 6-1 to approve the second reading of an ordinance to amend the town’s zoning code. While the change will allow habitable areas in the attics of residential dwellings, it also redefined accessory rooms, essentially tacking on parking parameters for multifamily units.

“An accessory room does not require any additional spaces for a detached single-family home,” said City Manager Terry McGean. “It does for an attached townhouse/condominium. It requires half a space.”

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In October, following a public hearing, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to forward proposed code amendments to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation. The changes would define dormers and habitable attics, revise the definition of building height to allow habitable attic space, and amend the minimum number of off-street parking spaces to require one additional space for any enclosed loft or habitable attic in a singlefamily detached dwelling and one additional half space for any enclosed loft or habitable attic in multi-family dwellings.

However, when the proposed code amendment was brought before the Mayor and Council at a work session in November, the added parking requirements were removed.

Since that time, officials have debated

if such parking requirements are necessary for habitable attic space. Those in support argued a lack of added parking would impact residential neighborhoods, while those in opposition argued the town code already addressed parking requirements.

Back on the agenda last week for a second reading, Councilman Peter Buas proposed an ordinance change that would not incorporate supplemental parking but would redefine accessory rooms to include finished habitable attics. He said in doing so, it would require an additional half space for multifamily dwellings.

“I think it’s a fair compromise,” he said.

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told council members last week the planning commission initially proposed an ordinance to allow habitable attics after recognizing an ongoing problem. Instead of

January 26, 2024

stopping people from using attics as habitable space, she said they saw an opportunity to include certain parking requirements.

“In an effort to legitimize what they knew was already occurring, they thought this amendment made the most sense because it’s happening anyway,” she explained. “This at least made them have parking.”

For his part, Councilman John Gehrig said he did not want to allow habitable attics without first discussing short-term rentals. He argued allowing additional sleeping space in attics would only exacerbate occupancy issues and parking problems in residential neighborhoods.

“We’re assuming it’s one bedroom with a bed up there. There are attics with multiple rooms, where you can put a couple of twin beds or bunk beds,” he explained.

“If that house turns into a rental, you can put more people in some of these homes than a hotel. I don’t care if it’s one extra space if you’re going to eventually have 15 people visiting a vacation rental in a neighborhood.”

Councilman Frank Knight said he agreed with Gehrig. He argued the rental situation needed to be addressed at the council’s next joint meeting with the planning commission. He added that it also warranted a discussion with the board of zoning appeals.

“It seems like at every meeting, they are approving parking variances,” he said. “Last week at their meeting, they had six spaces they had gotten rid of.

That’s something we can address with the BZA.” Gehrig said the existing town code did little to enforce short-term rentals. While he argued he didn’t care what people did inside their homes, he did care about the impact it could have on the neighborhood.

“I only really care about what’s outside,” he said. “I’m not saying people can’t rent their homes. But we need parameters, so they are not destroying our neighborhoods and passing an ordinance that allows us to put in more beds and turn these big homes into hotels.”

Mayor Rick Meehan echoed Gehrig’s concerns.

“I think the rental situation has been a problem for a long time. There’s been three- and four-bedroom houses throughout Ocean City I think have become heavy rentals …,” he said. “Now we’re seeing because some of the houses are bigger it’s a little more visible. There are more people than there were before.”

Following a lengthy discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Gehrig opposed, to approve the amended ordinance on second reading. The ordinance now defines a finished habitable attic as an accessory room, which would require an additional half parking space for multifamily units and townhomes.

“What Mr. Buas offered is a good minimum step to ensure we adopt new definitions of habitable attic and dormer space and enclosed lofts …,” said City Planner Bill Neville. “It’s a good way to add the new definitions and keep everything else status quo until we solve some of these problems.”

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

Page 14

Bunting Honored With Berlin Award

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Former Berlin Award winner Joel Todd, right, is pictured with Carol Rose, representing Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and the Worcester County Commissioners, and honoree Nornie Bunting.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

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BERLIN – A lifelong Berlin resident known for his devotion to the Berlin Little League and dedication to preserving the town’s historic architecture is this year’s recipient of the Berlin Award.

Town officials honored Norman “Nornie” Bunting with the Berlin Award last Thursday night at the Berlin Chamber of Commerce Annual Installation and Awards Dinner. Bunting, whose win was acknowledged with a standing ovation from the crowd, thanked everyone for the honor.

“I love my town,” he said. “Go Berlin, go Berlin, go.”

After a brief hiatus, the tradition of the Berlin Award returned to town to highlight this year’s chamber dinner.

Melissa Reid, president of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum and longtime art teacher at Buckingham Elementary School, spoke about the award’s origins.

“The Berlin Award is presented annually to an individual who has, by unselfish effort and dedication, made outstanding contributions of community service in the Town of Berlin and immediately surrounding region,” she said.

While no award was presented between the years of 2017 and 2022, prior to that it had been presented every year since 1964. When the award was

January 26, 2024

first established, it was presented by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and endorsed by the town. It was later sponsored by the Berlin Lions Club and then the Humphreys Foundation. Joel Todd, the 2010 recipient, told the crowd last Thursday night sponsorship has once again returned to the Berlin Chamber of Commerce. Barbara Purnell, the 2016 award winner, said Bunting had been selected as the 2023 recipient for his nearly two decades of serving the Berlin Little League as well as his several years of work on the Berlin Historic District Commission.

Bunting, who didn’t find out he was getting the award until he arrived at Berlin Fire Company headquarters, where this year’s dinner was held, said he was simply supporting the town the way it had always supported him.

“I knew it was time for me to put back into our town what I’d taken out of it for so long,” he said.

In 18 years as president of Berlin Little League, Bunting said the program had won 19 state championships. He’s hoping the program will serve as the foundation local kids need to become professional players.

“We’ve got kids from Berlin now that are close to being in the show,” he said.

“That’s our goal.”

He added that while his role on the Berlin Historic District Commission was SEE NEXT PAGE

…. Annual Award Now Organized By Berlin Chamber

January 26, 2024

a newer one for him, he was no less devoted to it.

“I might not be the best historian but I can tell you what I do have is a photographic memory,” he said. “When I rode up and down these streets when I was 8, 9, 10 years old on my bicycle, I remember what everything looked like then and I want it to continue to look like that now and in the future.”

Previous Berlin Award recipients include Frederick Brueckmann, 1964; Jane Q. Parker Gantz, 1965; Willis W. Hudson, 1966; Paul Scott, 1968; Audrey Pennington, 1969; Horace E. Quillin, 1970; Oscar Littleton, 1971; Anna A. Burbage, 1972; William S. Hudson, 1973; James G. Barrett, 1974; Elton W. Parsons, 1975; William Briddell, 1976; Mable S. Holland, 1977; Rev. E.C. Hackshaw, 1978; Charles T. Martin, 1979; Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Abernethy, 1980; Edgar Gaskins, 1981; no award, 1982; Wilford and Rhoda Showell, 1983; Laurence Eastburn, 1984; Edward H. Hammond, 1985; Luther Shultz, 1986; Frank Timmons, 1987; Gee Williams, III, 1988; Stuart J. Scott, 1989; Mary E. Humphreys, 1990; Barbara Derrickson, 1991; Doris Taylor, 1992; Mildred Ann Villani, 1993; Denman E. Rayne, 1994; Raymond D. Coates, 1995; Patrick L. Henry, 1996; John T. Bruehl, 1997; Frank Villani, 1998; Bennett Scott, 1999; Leola A. Smack, 2000; Ellen H. Lang, 2001; RoxAnne D. Williams, 2002; Tom & Judy Patton, 2003; Jesse Turner, 2004; Clayton P. Collins, Jr., 2005; Deborah S. Frene, 2006; William Burke, 2007; Tim and Christine Rayne, 2008; Susan Taylor, 2009; Joel J. Todd, 2010; Terri Sexton, 2011; Jan Quick, 2012; Doug Parks, 2013; Mike and Helen Wiley, 2014; Woody and Cam Bunting, 2015; Barbara Purnell, 2016; and no award, 2017-2022.

Bunting is pictured with Max Moore, chief of staff of Delegate Charles Otto’s office.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 15

Nornie Bunting received the 2023 Berlin Award last Thursday. Bunting, center, is pictured with, from left, Councilman Jay Knerr, Councilman Steve Green, Berlin Chamber President Mike Poole, Mayor Zack Tyndall and Councilman Jack Orris.

Photos by Charlene Sharpe

Page 16

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Annual Awards Presented:

The Berlin Chamber of Commerce held its Installation and Awards Dinner last Thursday at the Berlin Fire Company. Along with the Berlin Award presentation, there were other chamber-specific awards presented during the evening. Above left, for their part in having individuals available to help at Berlin Chamber events, Taylor Bank received the award for Volunteer of the Year. The bank’s representatives are pictured with Chamber Incoming President Garrett Neville. Earning the Chamber Partner Award was Bradley Atlantic Insurance Management. Above right, from left, are Denny Murphy, Neville and Robert Bradley. At left, recognized with the Bright Idea Award was Jeff Auxer of Jeffrey Auxer Designs, who created the new blown glass trophy awarded to the Berlin Bathtub Race winning team. Auxer is pictured with Neville. At right, the Best New Business honor was presented to the British Rose, which is owned by Larnet St. Amant and Deborah Passwater, who are pictured with Neville.

Photos by Charlene Sharpe

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January 26, 2024

County Seeks Fix To Route 12 Drainage Issue

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 17

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Flooding on Route 12 during a recent storm prompted county officials to ask the state for drainage improvements.

The Worcester County Commissioners voted unanimously last week to send a letter to Maryland Secretary of Transportation Paul Wiedefeld asking for drainage improvements north of the Route 12 bridge in Snow Hill.

“This is a request we have in our Consolidated Transportation Plan we submit each year but no remedy is in sight and we would like to express the importance of fixing this for our citizens, our employees and everyone else impacted by this evacuation route being inundated,” said Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer.

Motorists in Snow Hill were advised to use alternate routes two weeks ago as Route 12 was under water for about three days following a Tuesday storm.

Commissioner Chip Bertino said a citizen had reached out to county government in hopes officials could share concerns with the Maryland Department of Transportation.

The commissioners voted unanimously during last week’s meeting to send a letter to the state asking for expedited drainage improvements.

“Our gravest concerns surround the impacts roadway flooding may have on public safety,” the letter reads. “Time is of the essence when emergencies arise.

Lives could be jeopardized if detours impede the public from evacuating in a crisis or if emergency personnel are delayed from providing critically needed assistance or accessing area hospitals during emergencies.”

According to the letter, Route 12 is a designated evacuation road even though it floods during even moderate rain events.

While that state’s “Turn Around Don’t Drown” campaign highlights the dangers of floodwater, the closest alternate route for motorists traveling on Route 12 nearly doubles travel time.

The added travel time is exacerbated by the fact that motorists typically don’t know the portion of roadway near the bridge is impassable until they get there.

“Because there is no reliable information system available, often commuters are unaware that MD Rt. 12 is impassable until the floodwaters are inches from their bumpers, leaving them grappling with whether to backtrack to an alternative route or to take the unwise risk of forging ahead into unknown depths, where smaller trucks and cars often become disabled,” the letter reads.

County officials believe the road needs to be raised with drainage structures added in order to stay passable during storm events.

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Berlin shares transportation desires

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BERLIN – Various projects aimed at increasing pedestrian safety highlight the town’s annual transportation priority list.

On Monday, the town council approved a letter that will be sent to the Worcester County Commissioners outlining the projects municipal officials would like to see as transportation priorities.

Officials are requesting sidewalks on Route 346, crosswalks in various locations and a pedestrian bridge over Route 113.

“I think it’s important to continue to stress the needs,” Councilman Steve Green said.

Mayor Zack Tyndall presented the council this week with the draft of a letter to the commissioners listing the town’s transportation priorities so that they could be included in Worcester County’s State Transportation Priorities in 2024. The letter outlines the need for a pedestrian bridge over Route 113, a traffic signal at Route 50 and Route 818, sidewalks on Route 346 (Old Ocean City Boulevard), safety improvements at the Route 818 and Route 346 intersection and crosswalks in multiple locations.

“The creation of Route 113 divided the Town of Berlin,” the letter reads.

“Residents who live west of Route 113 have access to the town’s only grocery store, healthcare providers, Town Hall and Worcester County library without having to cross a major highway. However, the residents who live east of Route 113 lack safe access to these vital services.”

Councilman Jay Knerr asked if a crossing timer could be included in the crosswalk requested for the intersection at Route 346 and Route 113.

Police Chief Arnold Downing said Maryland State Highway Administration officials were already planning on doing one there.

Green pointed out the list was very similar to the list submitted last year.

“I think it’s good to beat the same drum,” he said.

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said she’d like to see sidewalks in front of the police station on Decatur Street. Tyndall responded that the list only addressed requests being made for state roads.

“The letter before us, it’s our request as far as state projects,” he said.

The council voted 4-0 to approve the letter, which will now be sent to the commissioners.

pines to host season kick-off

January 26, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Plans to host a kickoff event will move forward in Ocean Pines with the board’s support.

Last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve an OPA Season Kick-Off Day this spring. Director Monica Rakowski, liaison for the OP Day Working Group, said the event will showcase the association’s amenities, clubs, dining experiences and more.

“The OPA Season Kick-Off event will highlight all that Ocean Pines has to offer,” she said. “The event will showcase our outstanding golf course, top-notch racquet sports facility, Beach Club, pools, parks, hiking trails, recreational activities and our premier attraction, the OPA Yacht Club. The event will promote and highlight the value of all OP amenities and create a positive, congenial and engaging community experience.”

Last March, an ad hoc committee composed of representatives from various OPA advisory groups began planning for a season kick-off day in 2024.

And in late September, work group representatives came before the board seeking support to develop plans and budget estimates for an event that will promote Ocean Pines and its amenities.

During that presentation, representatives said the idea for a season kick-off came about in September 2022, when Ocean Pines Aquatics Committee member Ellen Hench pitched the idea for an event that would promote aquatics memberships. From there, plans for a larger community showcase began to take shape.

During last Saturday’s board meeting, Rakowski said the OPA Season Kick-Off Day would be held Saturday, April 20.

“The objectives are to create an opportunity for residents and visitors to learn about the many OPA recreational activities, clubs and dining experiences,” she said. “The committee hopes to generate additional income by eliciting new memberships to our amenities and/or interest to participate in all the activities we have to offer. Lastly, it is to highlight Ocean Pines as a stellar community, as it is offering something for everyone.”

When asked about costs, Rakowski said the kick-off was essentially a costneutral event. She said there was some overtime involved, but that it was already accounted for in the budget.

“We had several sponsors lined up that have committed to providing money for the kick-off,” she said, “and from a day-to-day operational event, that would be absorbed in the day-to-day fees that we already are incurring.”

After further discussion, the board voted unanimously to approve the 2024 OPA Season Kick-Off Day. “This will be a great event,” said Director Stuart Lakernick. “It will be awesome.”

Berlin To Purchase New Trash Truck

January 26, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Elected officials agreed this week to preorder a new trash truck in hopes that it will arrive by the end of the year.

The Berlin Town Council voted 4-0 on Monday to spend $416,000 on a new automated trash truck. The truck will replace one that was purchased in 2019 and is deteriorating.

“We just want to be proactive,” said Jimmy Charles, the town’s public works director.

Charles told the council this week he’d been talking about the possibility of ordering a new trash truck for six months or so. The town’s current truck was purchased in 2019 and is approaching the end of its useful life.

“As the projected lifespan of the truck was five years, its condition has continued to deteriorate,” Charles wrote in a report to the council. “The aging equipment and operational functions have hindered sanitation crews from operating to their fullest extent. Additionally, the older equipment has taken on a heavier load which has resulted in increased maintenance and repair costs to ensure the truck remains in working order. These expenses have continued to place a significant financial burden on the department.”

Charles said he’d met with a truck company in December and was recommending the town order a vehicle now.

“The lead time to get a new trash truck is 10 to 12 months,” Charles said.

Through Sourcewell, a cooperative purchasing program that manages competitive solicitations to meet local requirements, the town can purchase the vehicle for $416,000. By ordering now, the town could potentially have the vehicle by the end of the calendar year.

“We didn’t want to wait until July 1 to do this process, then we’d be pushing June or July of next year,” Charles said.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said the purchase would be a fiscal year 2025 item that would be included in upcoming budget presentations.

He said the new truck would be paid for with impact fees and some capital funding.

“It’ll be a combination of the two,” he said.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the recent trash collection issues in Salisbury could serve as a cautionary tale for Berlin. Berlin sent a trash truck over to help the city with collection when supply chain issues delayed the arrival of Salisbury’s new trucks.

“I’m not criticizing Salisbury,” she said. “What happened could have happened to anyone. Wait time is what it is.”

Charles said he’d already been thinking about the need for a new truck, even before Salisbury’s recent troubles, after several maintenance issues last year.

“We could’ve easily been in the same

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situation,” he said.

He said the truck broke down in May of last year and needed work again in October.

The Town of Ocean City was able to help Berlin with trash collection during the October repair.

“We were lucky Ocean City helped us out,” he said.

Councilman Steve Green asked if the new truck would be any different than the current model.

Charles said the truck had the same design as the current vehicle but would have a GPS camera system. That is expected to eliminate questions about whether a home’s garbage can was at the curb or not.

“We’re also looking at some other ways of identifying each can throughout the town,” Charles said.

Page 19

The Berlin Town Council voted this week to order a new trash truck at a cost of $416,000. The vehicle will replace the current trash truck, pictured above, which was purchased in 2019.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

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Commissioners Approve $338K Radio Purchase Jenkins Point

Page 20

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials agreed to take advantage of a sale to purchase new emergency services radios.

At the request of Worcester County Emergency Services staff, the Worcester County Commissioners last week voted unanimously to move forward with spending $338,914 to purchase additional radios. The purchase will meet the needs of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and will supply local fire companies with new radios.

“I do think it’s an opportunity to save some money,” Commissioner Jim Bunting said.

Director of Emergency Services Billy Birch told the commissioners L3Harris was offering discounted pricing on the portable radios the county used. He said the radios, which were typically more than $7,500

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

each, were on sale for $2,700 each. He said the county needed 41 portable radios for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.

Because the pricing was discounted, Birch said he’d also reviewed radios that were needed by the county’s fire companies. If the county were to supply the fire and EMS crews with radios as well, that would be another 58 portable radios and 17 mobile radios. Birch noted that would cost $338,914.

Assistant Director of Emergency Services James Hamilton told the commissioners purchasing new radios would allow the oldest radios to be cycled out, as the county typically gave the newest radios to public safety personnel and gave the radios they’d been using to public works.

The purchase of radios now would mean that some of the seriously old ones currently used by public works could be replaced with the seven-year-old ones in use now.

“We pass them down,” he said.

Hamilton said pricing like what was currently proposed had never been seen on radios.

“We felt it our obligation to bring forward that much of a savings to you,” he said.

Commissioner Eric Fiori suggested the cost seemed too good to be true and asked if Hamilton knew what had prompted the discount.

“I have not been able to get an official answer,” Hamilton said. “What I would say is a rumor I have heard is they were anticipating an extremely large order that did not materialize. They may be sitting on excess inventory.”

Birch added that the new radios were more user friendly and had the potential for additional features the county’s current radios didn’t have.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve purchasing the radios. Staff said casino revenues would likely be used to fund the purchase.

Meeting Set For Next Week

January 26, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Representatives of a local organization will provide an update on the Jenkins Point restoration project next week.

On Monday, Jan. 29, the Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) will host a meeting on the Jenkins Point restoration project. Officials are expected to update community members on the project and present a revised design for which feedback will be solicited.

“Maryland Coastal Bays Program will host a second public meeting on the Jenkins Point restoration project on Monday, January 29 at 6 p.m. in the clubhouse,” Association President Rick Farr said in last Saturday’s board meeting.

“There will be more news on that on social media, so take a peek at that for those details.”

In 2020, MCBP applied for funding from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to reestablish the eroding Jenkins Point Peninsula, located in the Isle of Wight Bay just offshore of the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. As part of that effort, the agency also approached the association with plans to pursue grant funding for the project.

While MCBP was not successful in its funding efforts, officials were encouraged to reapply. And later that year, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors voted to provide a $10,000 cost share as part of the reapplication process.

In 2022, Maryland DNR announced MCBP was awarded grant funds for the Jenkins Point restoration project. In a meeting last May, Executive Director Kevin Smith said $62,000 would be used to proceed with the design and permitting phase.

“If everything were to fall together perfectly, we could potentially be under construction for a project like this in December of 2024,” he said at the time.

Once an unbroken peninsula, Jenkins Point is now a fragmented peninsula including two small islands near Ocean Pines and other waterfront communities near the Route 90 bridge.

Once it is restored to its original state, officials say Jenkins Point has the potential to protect residential properties and community infrastructure in those areas filled with residential development and recreational amenities, including the Yacht Club, the Osprey Point condominium community and the Pines Point community.

MCBP will host its second public meeting on Jan. 29, during which officials will present a revised project design.

A link to attend the meeting virtually can be found on the association’s website. The meeting will also be recorded and available for viewing at a later date.

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Officials Eye Pond Stabilization Project

January 26, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Officials with the Ocean Pines Association are working with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to proceed with a shoreline project at the South Gate pond, pictured above.

File Photo by Bethany Hooper

OCEAN PINES – A soft shoreline project is expected to stabilize the South Gate pond.

General Manager John Viola said the Ocean Pines Association is working with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to proceed with a soft shoreline project at the South Gate pond. He said with the use of federal funding and environmental techniques, the association will be able to protect the pond from further erosion.

“There will be all grasses planted around the pond,” Viola told residents at a board meeting Saturday. “We're going to start on the [Route] 589 side, mostly there, where there’s the most erosion.

And the main thing on this is to stop erosion and filter the water.”

Nearly two years ago, members of the Ocean Pines Environmental and Natural Assets Committee came before the board of directors to present a plan that would not only deter the growing number of Canada geese from congregating near the pond but would prevent soil erosion along the waterline. The project, they reported, called for planting buffer vegetation around the South Gate pond.

“The habitat modification will serve two very important purposes,” former committee chair Sharon Santecroce said at the time. “It will help stop the land erosion – one of our main goals – and also deter the Canada geese from gathering, building nests and increasing their population.”

During last week’s board meeting, Viola said since that time the association has teamed up with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to pursue a soft shoreline project. He added that a work plan has been submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency with anticipated approval, and that federal funding of $150,000 will allow for site planning and grass plantings.

“It's about $150,000 reimbursable based upon Ocean Pines presenting the invoices …,” he said. “We're working with Vista on a site plan – we're figuring about $50,000 for that – and we are working with several people on this. With flowers and all that, we're estimating around $100,000.”

Viola noted that the Maryland Coastal Bays Program will also assist the association in issuing a request for proposals (RFP).

“Their management will work with us …,” he said. “We have to get three bids on everything, and we'll go from there.”

While he noted the goal of the project is to stabilize the pond, Viola said measures to protect turtles would also be addressed.

“We're going to look at that and that's going to be part of this program,” he said.

“I'm sure some people like that.”

When asked if people will still be able to fish at the South Gate pond, Viola said they would.

“I'm actually going to look to the anglers for some feedback,” he replied, “but yes, probably not every foot of it, but we are going to build that in.”

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

COPS & COURTS Fake Drug Dealer Sentenced SNOW HILL – A Delaware man was sentenced to 13 years in jail this month for unlawful possession of a firearm while dealing fake heroin and fentanyl.

On Friday, Jan. 12, Quaire T. Johnson, 30, of Magnolia, Del., was sentenced to 13 years in the Division of Corrections for his conviction on the charges of possession with intent to distribute a fake controlled dangerous substance, possession of a non-controlled substance and pos- QUAIRE T. session of a firearm by a JOHNSON prohibited person. He was found guilty in the Worcester County Circuit Court on Aug. 9, 2023. Judged Beau H. Oglesby presided over the case and imposed the sentence.

The charges arose as a result of police conducting a traffic stop on a vehicle for a registration violation in the area of Route 113 near Bishopville Road in May of 2021.

While speaking with the occupants of the vehicle, including Johnson, deputies with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office detected the odor of cannabis coming from the inside of the vehicle. Deputies searched the vehicle and located 234 individual wax folds of suspected heroinfentanyl, trace amounts of cannabis, a loaded pistol, ammunition and firearm magazines. Laboratory testing of the contents of the wax folds by the Maryland State Police confirmed the substance was similar in appearance to a heroin-fentanyl mixture but was not actually a controlled dangerous substance as initially suspected.

Further investigation revealed that Johnson was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction in Delaware. Johnson was arrested on scene and charged accordingly.

In a press release announcing the sentencing, Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser thanked the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for the department’s proactive drug and gun enforcement efforts, which led to the seizure of the firearm in this case. Heiser also commended Assistant State’s Attorney Joaquin Cabrera who prosecuted the case.

Fight At School SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to a fight last Thursday during a high school basketball game.

After the varsity basketball game between Snow Hill and Stephen Decatur last Thursday, an isolated fight took place in the hallway outside the gym. According to a press release from the sheriff’s office, “This resulted in a disruption in the orderly exit of patrons attending the game. During this time additional fights occurred resulting in additional law enforcement personnel being requested by deputies on the scene.”

The investigation continues as of Monday, according to the statement. “The investigation that began that evening continues today as we are reviewing an enormous amount of video to identify those involved. As the investigation continues and

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at the appropriate time, charges will be requested and filed,” the statement read.

Agencies assisting were the Snow Hill Police Department, Pocomoke Police Department, Berlin Police Department, Maryland State Police and Department of Nature Resources.

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First-Degree Assault OCEAN CITY – Ocean City police filed a felony assault charge against a Colorado man last week after a disturbance at a local hotel.

On Jan. 19 around 5 a.m., authorities were directed to an alleged domestic assault call. Police arrived and interviewed a woman who said she awoke to Christopher Roszell, 41, of Denver, Colo., strangling her. The victim said Roszell caused her to lose consciousness. When she came to, the woman told police Roszell had taken her bank card and her iPhone.

Further questioning by police revealed the two individuals had come to Maryland via Amtrak train. The victim said immediately after getting off the train Roszell began abusing her.

Police conducted a computer search of Roszell that revealed he was wanted in Virginia for a previous domestic assault.

The computer check also revealed a protective order had been filed against Roszell in a case connected to the same victim.

Roszell was charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, theft $100 to under $1,500 and violation of an out-ofstate protective order.

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Charges, Then More Charges OCEAN CITY – For one Maryland man, two separate run-ins with law enforcement within seven hours resulted in an open container of alcohol violation, driving while impaired charges, an illegal weapon being seized and a dozen traffic offenses.

The first encounter with Ocean City police for James Hereford, 42, of Crownsville, took place Sunday, Jan. 21 around 8 p.m. when officers observed a suspected speeding gray vehicle traveling southbound on Coastal Highway. The responding officer attempted to follow the vehicle to determine the rate of speed when it suddenly left the roadway and stopped at a convenience store gas pump. The officer noticed a brake light was out on the vehicle, according to the police report.

The responding officer conducted a wanted and registration check on the vehicle and learned the tag on the 2004 Izuzu Rodeo was registered to a 2010 Ford Fusion. A traffic stop was then initiated with Hereford identified as the driver.

Police noted the motorist’s speech was slurred and he was unable to produce his license, registration and insurance. Police noted an open bottle of Luksusowa Vodka in the backseat. Hereford admitted to drinking four hours ago, per the police report. Police noted Hereford was uncooperative throughout the discussion, admitting eventually to purchasing the vehicle for $1,000 recently but unable to explain the inconsistent registration. Due to his combative state, Hereford was not SEE PAGE 24

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Berlin Residents Discuss Gentrification Concerns

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BY CINDY HOFFMAN STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The bitter cold outside last Wednesday night did not dissuade dozens of residents from venturing out to talk about the Town of Berlin’s strategic plan at St. Paul’s Church on Flower Street.

More than 65 people spoke about affordable housing, traffic, gentrification and other long-term issues during a town hall meeting hosted by Salisbury University’s BEACON, the group hired to support the town in updating its strategic plan.

BEACON’S John Hickman walked residents through a typical analysis of the town’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, with the audience agreeing that strengths included a strong community spirit, the historic neighborhoods, arts and free entertainment, the

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

low crime rate, parks and schools. They also highlighted diversity and the compassion neighbors have for each other.

Residents also said they appreciated that they personally know their local elected officials and town employees. In that regard, council members Shaneka Nichols, Jack Orris, Steve Green, and Jay Knerr and Police Chief Arnold Downing attended the meeting.

As for weaknesses, residents highlighted their belief that there are “two Berlins” (one Black and one white) divided

by Route 113, or, as one woman called it, the “segregation highway.”

Even so, some east Berlin residents said they feared gentrification of their neighborhoods. “‘Gentrification’ is a heavy word. It carries heavy implications,” Gabe Purnell said.

Numerous residents confirmed that people have come to their doors and asked to buy their homes or have received offers regularly in the mail. That has left them wondering if there is an effort to push out anyone below a certain income level, these residents said.

Nichols replied that she felt threatened and violated by these aggressive tactics and told residents they should tell these people to cease and desist.

“One mega mansion and you are done.” Purnell said.

Residents agreed that affordable housing and local businesses should be encouraged on the east side of Berlin.

One man noted that there were several businesses on the east side in the 1980s, but those have all disappeared and the planning commission nixed the latest mixed use development proposal.

The developer, Karbyte Enterprises

January 26, 2024

LLC, came back to the commission with a revised proposal for a housing development at the intersection of Route 113 and Germantown Road that omitted the mixed use and suggested townhouses. The prices, however, were in the $400,000 range, which residents agreed were beyond their means.

The Berlin residents in attendance also expressed frustration with the tax rate and did not feel that they were getting the services they expect for the money they pay. Some felt their tax money was going to the promotion of local businesses in the downtown area and not to support their community.

Joining east and west Berlin was a priority for residents. There was agreement that the town needed some sort of safe walkway or bridge that could allow bikers and walkers to safely cross Route 113 to connect the two communities.

Other areas of concern mentioned during the conversation included the need to address the stormwater problems throughout town and the need for more sidewalks and trails.

But it was affordability of housing and commercial development that dominated the discussion. One resident suggested that the town should define what affordable housing is and others suggested a small commercial district in east Berlin.

Another resident, noting that many residents in east Berlin are older and on fixed incomes, suggested that the tax rate be reduced for these citizens.

BEACON has conducted surveys and hosted two town halls to gather opinions from residents for the strategic plan, which will guide spending and policy decisions for the next three to five years.

... COPS & COURTS FROM PAGE 23 subjected to a field sobriety check, but officers noted in the report the clear smell of alcohol.

Police conducted a computer license check and discovered Hereford had his license revoked in 2019 for point accumulation and multiple driving under the influence arrests. Hereford was placed under arrest for driving with an open container of alcohol, possession of an illegal knife per municipal code, driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol and numerous traffic offenses.

Less than seven hours later around 2:44 a.m. on Jan. 22, the same Izuzu Rodeo was discovered by police in a parking lot with no registration plate and no insurance information. The responding officer noted in his report that the vehicle’s driver, Hereford, had been arrested earlier in the evening and that a condition of his pretrial release from the Ocean City District Court commissioner was “do not drive without license” and “not engage in criminal activity.”

The officer watched as Hereford entered the vehicle and drive on Coastal Highway. Police immediately initiated a traffic stop and refiled nearly all the charges after it was confirmed to be Hereford.

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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OC Chamber Announces Decorating Contest Winners

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 26, 2024

Among the contest winners were the Bull on the Beach on 94th Street, above left, and the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites on 17th Street.

OCEAN CITY – The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce recently announced the winners of the annual Chamber Lights Decorating Contest, which is hosted each December to help showcase commercial and residential decorations

during the holiday season.

The contest is open to all residents and members of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, Ocean City Development Corporation and Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association.

A sincere thank you and congratulations to all of the following families and businesses for participating: Bad Monkey, Bad Monkey West OC, Barn 34, Bay Club Resort, Bishop family, Atkinson family, Bull on the Beach, Caine Woods Christ-

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January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Windows, DoubleTree by Hilton, Engel & Völkers Real Estate, Fager's Island, Fenwick Inn, Golden Sands, Grand Hotel, Grotto Pizza, Hampton Inn West OC, Hileman Real Estate, Hilton Suites Oceanfront, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Horizons East Condominium, Howard Johnson Plaza, Jolly Roger Park, Jolly Roger Park at the Pier, Jones family, Long and Foster Realty, M.R. Ducks, Main Street Home Loans, Montego Bay Civic Association, Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, Old Pro Golf, Park Place Hotel, Phoenix Physical Therapy, Pit n' Pub 28th Street, Princess Royale, Rimel family, Salt & Co Home, Somerset Jewelers, Stephenson family, The Dough Roller, The Original Greene Turtle and Wheeler family.

Ocean City Chamber ambassadors served as judges and donated several hours of their time for three nights of judging. The chamber appreciates Fager’s Island for providing a van and driver on judging nights.

The winners were as follows: Hotel Indoor First Place: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Second Place: Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort Third Place: Golden Sands Ocean Re-

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Jolly Roger Amusement Park’s exterior decorations won the business first place in the retail outdoor category.

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Inaugural Blue Turns Pink Campaign Supports Cancer Center

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 26, 2024

Blue Water Hospitality general managers recently presented the Blue Turns Pink Fundraiser proceeds to Atlantic General Hospital leadership.

Submitted Photo

BERLIN – During the month of October 2023, Blue Water Development, an Ocean City-based real estate developer specializing in commercial and hospitality properties, investment and management, held its first annual Blue Turns Pink Fundraiser in support of cancer research and awareness initiatives. All 63 of Blue Water’s properties, which span 21 states nationwide, took part in the fundraiser. Blue Water staff, patrons and the communities surrounding their properties raised $42,000 to support those impacted by cancer. Blue Water made October an incredible month of hope, strength and support from coast to coast.

Properties managed by Blue Water hosted a series of on-site events, with proceeds generously benefiting local community support organizations. This included theme weekends on many of their local properties, onsite fundraisers and raffles for stays at properties within the Blue Water portfolio.

Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Blue Water Development proudly extended its support to Atlantic General Hospital’s John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, located in Berlin, Md. The center is near and dear to their hearts, as it provides advanced treatment centered on local patients and their families, all within the community where their company took root.

The center is named in honor of Blue Water’s founder, Jack Burbage, and stands as a tribute to his exceptional philanthropic and leadership contributions in the battle against cancer. Every Blue Turns Pink dollar raised for the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center received a 100% matching contribution from an anonymous donor.

Overall, the Blue Turns Pink Fundraiser, with the help of an anonymous donor, raised $23,242 for the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center. The proceeds will be used to purchase much needed cancer care equipment, including a fiber optic laryngoscope, vein finder and Hoyer lift that will improve cancer prevention, care and treatment.

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 26, 2024

BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE NEWS Doctor Welcomed BERLIN – Gastroenterologist Scott Itzkowitz, D.O., FACP, FACG, FASGE, will join Atlantic General Health System in February 2024 to provide care at Atlantic General Gastroenterology in Ocean Pines, Md. Itzkowitz practiced most recently in North Carolina, where he provided care in both the hospital and community setting after retiring as a captain in the Medical Corps from the United States Navy.

Itzkowitz graduated SCOTT ITZKOWITZ from Tulane University and then received his medical education at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, completing his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, Calif.

His three-year gastroenterology fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles Center for Health Sciences was followed by an extensive military career, most notably with posts as chief of gastroenterology at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, medical director of healthcare operations at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and gastroenterology department head at Naval Medical Center, Camp Lejeune.

Itzkowitz is board certified in gastroenterology and is a fellow of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, a fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology and a fellow of the American College of Physicians.

He is currently accepting new patients.

Appointments can be scheduled by calling 410-629-1450.

Hotel Recognized OCEAN CITY – Ashore Resort & Beach Club has been awarded top recognition as one of ten "Best New Hotels" in America for 2024, according to the USA Today 10Best Awards.

Handpicked from a panel comprising USA Today editors, 10Best.com professionals, and various relevant expert contributors, Ashore Resort & Beach Club emerged triumphant among an initial pool of 20 qualified new and repositioned hotel nominees, based on a nationwide vote.

This marks a major win for the property, which is preparing for its first full summer season in 2024 after completing comprehensive renovations in 2023.

“We are thrilled to be recognized as one of the best new hotels in the country,” shared Kane Kennedy, general manager of Ashore Resort & Beach Club. “This accolade is a testament to our extraordinary team, who have helped bring to life Ashore’s commitment to best-in-region resort programming, upscale service, and exceptional oceanfront dining and experiences for our cherished guests.”

Ashore Resort & Beach Club boasts 250 fully renovated guest rooms and suites, including 15 multi-room suites, catering to individuals, families, and groups of all sizes. The redesigned rooms feature modern décor in calming earth tones, plush bedding, sophisticated lighting fixtures, 55-inch flatscreen televisions, and private balconies with breathtaking beach views.

The resort offers five brand new food and beverage concepts, providing guests with diverse options from day to night.

Ashore offers daily programming designed with guests of all ages in mind, including live music, mermaid lessons, beachside bonfires, food and beverage tastings and events, and more. The property also offers a wide range of amenities, services, and accommodations perfect for large groups, corporate meetings, private events, and weddings.

Ashore Resort & Beach Club is located at 10100 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842.

Executive Director Named SNOW HILL – The Lower Shore Land Trust is excited to announce its next executive director, Matt Heim, who will begin Feb. 1.

Heim brings nearly 20 years of nonprofit experience to Lower Shore Land Trust, the majority of which was based in local environmental initiatives. After spending several years in Memphis, Tenn., managing a network of community gardens and urban farms, Matt and his wife Sara returned home to the Eastern Shore where Sara became the assistant di- MATT HEIM rector of the ShoreCorps AmeriCorps program at Salisbury University and he quickly rose to the forefront of environmental issues as the leader of a local campaign in opposition to offshore drilling for oil and gas in the mid-Atlantic region.

Heim went on to serve as the first di-

rector of the One Water Partnership program at Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake. The program seeks to engage faith communities in Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. Under Heim's tenure, the One Water Partnership expanded from Baltimore City into the Lower Shore, Lancaster, Southern Maryland, Upper Shore, Harford County, and Howard County regions and grew from a staff of one to six.

The program also engaged over 3,000 volunteers and installed nearly 30 restoration projects on congregational properties.

In 2022, Heim joined Delmarva Public Media as the deputy general manager and director of development where he oversaw the establishment of partnerships with the Bay Journal and helped produce several environmentally focused programs in partnership with the “No, I Know” Podcast and Salisbury University's Environmental Studies Program.

Heim’s experience over the years has involved managing multi-million-dollar budgets, overseeing fund-raising campaigns and developing a strong grant writing track record. He has run successful environmental advocacy campaigns that brought together diverse stakeholders from across the political spectrum and has worked for and with multiple Lower Shore environmental organizations.

Heim’s educational background has focused on the environmental history of the lower shore, giving him a long-range view of landscape change.

The Land Trust’s Search Committee had multiple qualified finalists for this position but were unanimous in their decision to hire Heim.

Search Committee Chair and Board Chair Michael Lewis states, “We were impressed not only with his background and experience, but with the seriousness with which Heim researched the organization.

In addition to his experience, Heim articulated a carefully thought-out agenda for the leadership transition at the Land Trust, which illustrated both his values, vision, and practical organizational skills.”

Heim will succeed long-time executive director, Kate Patton. After 18 years of serving the land trust, Patton announced her retirement last year. Patton leaves the organization in its strongest position since its inception, after years of continued growth and long-term stability, and is confident in her successor’s abilities to successfully manage the transition of leadership and take the organization to the

next level.

Heim says, “In many ways, this is a dream position for me. I love the Eastern Shore, I love its history, I love its natural beauty and wild places. I'm honored to be in a position where I can work with such dedicated people and contribute to the conservation and restoration of this place I feel fortunate to call home. The organization and legacy that Kate, the Land Trust staff, board, and volunteers, supporters and landowners has built is incredible. The Lower Shore is better because the Lower Shore Land Trust exists and I'm looking forward to helping shepherd the next chapter in its history.”

New Providers SALISBURY – Chesapeake Health Care is pleased to welcome two new providers to the team.

Chelsea Hobson, LCSW-C is a Mental Health Therapist.

Hobson received her Master of Arts in social work from Salisbury University. She did her Master’s Program Field Placement at Community Behavioral Health where she provided individual therapy using cognitive behavioral therapy CHELSEA HOBSON for children and adults.

Most recently, she worked with Coastal Hospice, providing emotional support to patients and their families surrounding grief and death/dying. Chelsea has joined our mental health care team in Berlin. For more information, please call 410-9732820.

Brittany Murray, CRNP-Family is a certified family nurse practitioner.

Murray received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Wesley College, and a Master of Science in nursing – FNP from Walden University.

Murray is a family nurse practitioner with more than 11 years of experience as a registered nurse in various direct care settings, and more than eight years of experience in critical care nursing. She practices patient and family-empow- BRITTANY MURRAY ered healthcare.

Murray will provide care at our adult medicine facility on Woodbrooke Drive in Salisbury. For more information or appointments, please call 410-546-6650.

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY News In Photos

On Jan. 15, the Art League of Ocean City presented a $1,000 check to Diakonia Inc. on behalf of the Empty Bowl Project, an annual pottery project at the Ocean City Center for the Arts dedicated to benefiting the programs of both nonprofits.

Pictured from left to right are Ken Argot, executive director of Diakonia, Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, and Katrin Huber, education director for the Art League.

Submitted Photos

Go Green OC’s Josh Chamberlain talked about the importance of composting recently with attendees of a “Sip and Science” event hosted by Assateague Coastal Trust. Chamberlain advised the audience on how to compost and ways they can help reduce waste.

New board members of the Republican Women of Worcester County were introduced by Sandy Zitzer, RWWC immediate past president, during a general luncheon meeting at Lighthouse Sound.

The Worcester County Commissioners recently recognized the longtime volunteer efforts of Virgil and Kenny Dukes of the Girdletree Volunteer Fire Company.

Virgil Dukes is pictured with the commissioners after receiving his commendation.

Worcester County Recycling’s Bob Keenan and Ed Sargeant met with members of the Rotary Club of Snow Hill to highlight the benefits of recycling. Citizens can learn more about recycling on the county’s website, co.worcester.md.us. Pictured from left to right are Sargeant, Keenan, and Rotary Club President Bob Smith.

Mil-Net, Inc. recently made a generous donation to Brooke’s Toy Closet, which provides toys to children at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and TidalHealth Nanticoke. Pictured are Donna Murray, director of the TidalHealth Foundation, and John Weber, president of Mil-Net, Inc. with some of the donated toys.

January 26, 2024

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting 5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Rose 443-880-8444.

Every Monday: Bridge Games Are you interested in joining others for a game of Bridge at the Ocean City 50+ Senior Center? If so, please call or text Tish at 410-804-3971.

Every Monday: Overeaters Anonymous Meetings are from 7-8 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library branch. No dues or fees. Call 410-459-9100.

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus All ladies who love to sing are invited to the Delmarva Woman’s Acapella Chorus, Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Contact Mary 410-629-9383 or Carol 302-2427062.

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.

Meetings are held at the Worcester County Berlin Health Department at 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin from 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Tuesday. 410289-4725.

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m. yearround. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Elks Lodge 2645, corner of Sinepuxent Avenue and 138th Street in Ocean City has bingo all year. Doors open 4:30 p.m. with first game sharply at 6:30 p.m. Kitchen open for light fare.

410-250-2645.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles Join the club, 55 plus, at Harpoon Hanna’s in Fenwick Island, 4-6 p.m. 302436-9577 or BeachSingles.org.

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting The Caregiver Support Group will continue to meet on the second and fourth Thursdays in the Ocean Pines Library. Meetings will run from 3-4:30 p.m.

The meetings are private and confidential.

Jan. 26: Tubman Talk, Reading Wor-Wic Community College is inviting the public to a free historical talk and

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do poetry reading in honor of Harriet Tubman from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Guerrieri Hall at the college campus in Salisbury.

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

Jan. 27: Breakfast Buffet All you can eat breakfast buffet at the Whaleyville United Methodist Church located at 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road in Whaleyville. Cost is $10/adult and $5/child from 7-10 a.m. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages.

Jan. 28: Women's Day Celebration St. Paul United Methodist Church will host the annual event at 10 a.m. to share in a meaningful program to celebrate women's emphasis in their faith walk. All sisterhood affinity groups are invited to the church to journey, reflect, and collectively worship as one. A commemorative service is planned featuring a moving speaker, local choirs and liturgical dancing. All are welcome. 410641-0270.

Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 13: Diabetes Workshop Learn how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes through MAC’s Living Well Diabetes Self-Management workshop to be held Tuesdays, Jan. 9-Feb. 13, 2024, from 2-4:30 p.m. The free workshops will be held at the Ocean Pines Library at 11107 Cathell Road in Berlin. The six-week workshop is beneficial for Type 2 Diabetics, Pre-Diabetics and their caregivers. For more information on this and MAC’s other Living Well classes, or to register, call Jill Kenney at 410-742-0505, ext. 159, or email her at jkenney@macinc.org.

get more information by calling Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807, or email CGAUXOC@Gmail.com.

Feb. 7: Grace Parker Breakfast The next Grace Parker Breakfast will be held from 7-11 a.m. Menu includes eggs to order, pancakes (regular and buckwheat), bacon, sausage, grits, hash brown potatoes, biscuits, coffee, tea. $12 donation. First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Avenue.

Feb. 10: Indoor Flea Market & Breakfast Hosted by Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Berlin, from 8 a.m.-noon. Shoppers and vendors welcome. Breakfast items for sale. Table rentals: one 8-foot table for $15 donation, two 8-foot tables for $25 donation. Vendors contact 410-6412186 or bethany21811@gmail.com to make a reservation.

Feb. 10: Valentine’s Day Dinner Sons of the American Legion will host three limited 60-person seatings at 4, 5:30 and 7 p.m. $30 per person. Steak, shrimp, baked potato, mixed vegetables, salad and dessert. Choice of one wine or

Page 33

one beer. American Legion Post #166, open to the public. 410-289-3166.

Feb. 16: Spaghetti Fundraiser Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company’s Ladies Auxiliary Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser will be held at OCFD headquarters, second floor, on 14th Street, from 4-8 p.m. Dine in or carryout. Advance ticket sales requested but walkins welcome. $15/person, $8 for kids 12 and under. Proceeds benefit the OCVFC firefighters, cadets and scholarship programs. Call Brenda Parker at 443-235-7693 for tickets no later than Feb. 14.

March 2: Pancake Breakfast The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City will hold a Pancake Breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. in the Ocean Pines Community Center. The theme is an early St. Patrick's Day and the net proceeds will be donated to the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department (OPVFD). Cost is $9 per person and children under 10 are free. Tickets are available from Kiwanis members or pay at the door. Cash, check or credit card.

March 6, 13, 20, 27: Free Square Dance Lessons Pine Steppers Square Dance Club will host at the Ocean Pines Community Center, 238 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, from 7-8:30 p.m. Singles and couples. barbcroos@gmail.com or 908229-8799 or 302-222-4448.

Estate Litigation Probate Estate Planning

Feb. 3: Fried Chicken Buffet All you can eat fried chicken buffet starting at 11 a.m. at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mt. Pleasant Road, Willards. Vegetables, beverage and dessert included with dine-in Carryout platters available. No pre-orders. Adults $15, children $7.50, kids under 6 are free. 410-835-8340.

Feb. 6-8: Basic Boating The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering the Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course, virtually from 6-9 p.m. Cost is $20 for all three evenings. Register or

Things To Do activities are printed free of charge. To ensure that an

event is listed in a timely manner, please submit information as early as possible, since all items will be listed in advance as space permits.

Be sure to include the date, name of event, time, location, address and a contact number. Email to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com; fax to 410641-0966; or mail to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Civil Litigation

9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 NEW LOCATION

1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday www.batielaw.com

Medicaid Business Succession Planning

Page 34

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Berlin Liquor Store Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

Cold & Warm Beer

BEER•LIQUOR•WINE Every Thursday And Sunday Senior Citizens Get

10% OFF

10% OFF

(On Orders Of $50 Or More)

Liquor And Wine

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Must bring in coupon. Expires 2.16.24 • MCD

Liquor And Wine

10% OFF ALL CASES OF WINE! 7 DAYS A WEEK (Must Be Same Size Bottles 750 ML or 1.5 L)

10818 Ocean Gateway, Berlin, MD 21811 410-973-2873

Great Seafood, Steaks, Burgers & Crab Cakes “No Mumbo All Jumbo” - ENTERTAINMENT -

It’s Back!

Saturday DJ Giddyup 4PM Dust N Bones 730PM

FREE Bingo Every Sunday at Noon

- OFF SEASON SPECIALS -

Baltimore Ravens

Tuesday: Seafood Frenzy 25% Off All Seafood Entrees Fact Trivia at 7 Wednesday: 20 Dolla Make Ya Holla Night Thursday: Shrimp & Lobsta Night Early Bird Special Menu Daily 2-5:30pm

vs Kansas City Chiefs Sunday at 3pm on 26 TVs.

Great Game Day Specials

Go Ravens!

Happy Hour Daily 2-5:30pm Food and Drink Specials

TUES - THURS: 2pm • FRI, SAT & SUN: 11:30am (Closed Monday)

28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 • coinspuboc.com

Dine In, Carry Out & Online Ordering Available

January 26, 2024

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

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday & Saturday, Jan. 26 & 27

DJ GREG Fager’s Island: Friday & Saturday, Jan. 26 & 27

COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Jan. 27: DJ Giddy Up, Dust N Bones CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Jan. 26: Union Road Wednesday, Jan. 31: Cup Of Joe CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, Jan. 26: DJ Magellan Saturday, Jan. 27: Fuzzbox Piranha FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Jan. 26: DJ Greg & DJ RobCee Saturday, Jan. 27: DJ Greg & DJ RobCee

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

KARAOKE W/WOOD Pickles Pub: Mondays

BINGO W/BLAKE Greene Turtle West: Wednesdays

DJ GIDDY UP Coins Pub: Saturday, Jan. 27

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Thursdays, & Fridays

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

Who’s Where When

FUZZBOX PIRANHA Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Jan. 27

HAIR FORCE ONE Purple Moose: Saturday, Jan. 27

ROGUE CITIZENS Harborside: Saturday, Jan. 27 • 1 p.m.

Greene Turtle West: Saturday, Jan. 27 • 9 p.m.

MERCURY AGENDA Pickles Pub: Saturday, Jan. 27

DUST N BONES Coins Pub: Saturday, Jan. 27 Harborside: Thursday, Feb. 1 (DUO)

UNION ROAD Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Jan. 26

PICKIN’ PARTY Harborside: Sunday, Jan. 28

The Dispatch Can Be Viewed In Its Entirety

ONLINE

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Seacrets: Thursday, Feb. 1

Zoom In And Out For Easy Viewing

Search, Print And Share Functions At Your Fingertips

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Friday, Jan. 26: DJ Cinco Saturday, Jan. 27: Rogue Citizens DJ Berkey Sunday, Jan. 28: Pickin’ Party Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, Jan. 27: Mercury Agenda Sundays: Beats By Styler Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By TBA Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Saturday, Jan. 27: Hair Force One SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Thursday, Feb. 1: Opposite Directions

ALL ADS LINKED TO ADVERTISERS’ WEBSITES Updated By Every Monday At www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Easy Navigation Featuring Latest Page-Flip Technology

Page 36

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things I Like...

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

January 26, 2024

WITH BUNK MANN

By Steve Green The sun’s warmth on a freezing day

When my teens fall asleep at night before me Busy local restaurants in January My neighbor’s wandering cat

Waking up to snow on the ground on a day off Everyone in my house wearing a Ravens jersey during a game

Exercising before work

The original “Boardwalk Train” was five cars long plus an engine that actually looked like a train. Each car carried a maximum of six people and had just two wheels with the axle in the middle. It cost 25 cents for a one-way trip down the Boardwalk and it was a bumpy ride.

On June 23, 1966, a Boardwalk Train overturned on 10th Street in front of the George Washington Hotel with 28 people aboard. Injuries were suffered by 22 of them with two taken to Salisbury’s Peninsula General Hospital with broken bones. The rest were treated for less serious injuries at the 10th Street Medical Center.

A Takoma Park man was arrested by Ocean City police. Witnesses said he caused the accident by standing in the last car and rocking it back and forth. Ocean City Mayor Hugh Cropper reported that this was the first accident since the trains went into service on June 6, 1964.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishinPhoto from The Resorter magazine, courtesy of The Dispatch goc.com.

HOROSCOPES

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

The feeling after a move

Keeping things simple whenever possible People who don’t change with success Steak and a salad for dinner

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Is that Arian self-esteem in need of shoring up? Best advice: Do something that will make someone feel good about themselves. It will make you feel proud that you did it.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): It's time to prove to your detractors that you're way ahead of them when it comes to getting things done. So, be sure to avoid surprise distractions and complete that project as soon as possible.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Be careful not to waste your precious energy on frivolous matters that don't advance your goals. Stay focused.

There'll be enough time for fun and games after you reach your objective.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): You've done well on your own, but now could be a good time to consider advice from confidantes, as long as you continue to let your own instincts be your primary guide.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): A belated New Year's "gift" could create a problem if you feel unwilling or unable to adjust your plans and accommodate the new development. Check out all options before deciding.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): There's a possibility that you could be goaded into making a statement you might regret. It's important to stay cool no matter how heated the conversation gets.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): A re-

cent sad experience can become a valuable lesson. Examine it well and take what you've learned to help you make an important upcoming decision.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Lingering problems in a personal or professional partnership still need to be resolved so you can move on. Insist on more cooperation from everyone involved.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): That recent problem that made you feel emotionally trapped and physically exhausted is gone. Don't dwell on it.

Instead, make new plans and set up other goals.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Your creative talents combine with a strong domestic aspect this week, which means you can start on those home-improvement projects that you've been planning for a long time.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): It's a good time to anticipate an upcoming change in the near future. This could mean taking on a new career, going off to a new city or moving into a new home.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Soon, you should be learning more about the motives of those who continue to pressure you into making a decision that you're still unsure about. Use this information wisely.

BORN THIS WEEK: The flow of your generosity seems to have no limit.

However, you're smart enough to know when it's time to cap it. © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 46

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 37

The Dispatch Classifieds $15/Week for Minimum of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available) Deadline for Insertions, Cancellations & Payment is 3pm Tuesday Pre-Payment is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811

HELP WANTED

COMMERCIAL

CAREGIVER

WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 Office or Retail Space for Lease.

1,656. Sq. feet. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

CAREGIVER IN YOUR HOME: Honest, dependable, trustworthy & compassionate care. Hospital & home health exp. Exc. Ref.’s Call Debbie Bell 302-339-7162.

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.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Small Engine mechanic, Year round, Competitive Wages. Call 443-754-1047.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

OFFICE PERSON Local Family Owned Business is looking for a full time office person. Applicant should be computer savvy, have good phone skills, punctual, and willing to work in a small busy office environment.

Applicants should email resume to office@ fireprotectiveservices.com The Dispatch - mdcoastdispatch.com

AUTOMOTIVE GREAT OPPORTUNITIES Large Automotive Center with Tire and Service center plus.

Auto / Marine Parts & Retail, is now hiring for: - Service & Parts Associates ( Will train )

- Technicians Great Pay & Benefits!

Locations in: Ocean Pines, Clarksville & Long Neck Call: 302-344-9846

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE SPACE: 1,500 Sq. Ft., Masonry construction. 18’ high ceilings, large garage door & bathroom. Rt. 90/Bishopville.

Call 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––

MOVING SALE SEEKING RENTAL 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:

SEEKING TO RENT: Seeking Long term, Year round, Unfurn.

2BR, 2BA, Condo/Apt. Ground floor. Great Ref,’s. OC/OP area. Call 410-726-0169.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

SEEKING ROOM SEEKING ROOM TO RENT: 60 yr old seeking room to rent on annual basis. Ocean Pines or Berlin area. Have own furniture for room. 443-513-1421

https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

— Check Here First! —

ROOMMATE OCEAN PINES Year-round Fully furnished Room for rent in a beautiful home, to share, in Ocean Pines. Full house privileges, all utilities included.

Only $800 month No smoking. No pets.

Call 443-880-2486

MOVING SALE-: 1-26 &1-27 1:30pm-4:30p.m., 1-28 8am12:00 Household goods, furniture, tools, &much more.

12548 Whispering Woods Dr., Ocean City, MD. ––––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Right from the bottom, Your love lifted the pieces The well deep and cold!

Even teeny ones Lost and forgotten.

THE DISPATCH’S E-DITION ONLINE MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM

FOR SALE WINTER GATHERINGS? DINING ROOM SET FOR SALE Beautiful solid wood dining set.

Table seats 8-10 with two leaves. Lighted China Cabinet with glass shelving. (Chairs not incl’d.)

Selling because moved & too big for dining area.

500

Check Out The Dispatch’s E-dition Online: Fast. Free. Every Friday. mdcoastdispatch.com

$ Must see! $575.

Berlin. 443-880-8885

The Dispatch Legal Notices LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

Third Insertion GINA D. SHAFFER SHAFFER LAW OFFICE 836 S. MAIN STREET SUITE 101 BEL AIR, MD 21014 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20028 To all persons interested in the estate of PATRICIA L. BAISLEY, Estate No. 20028.

Notice is given that WILLIAM A. BAISLEY, whose address is 527 LINCOLN PL, APT 303,

BROOKLYN, NY 11238-6211, was on JANUARY 9, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PATRICIA L. BAISLEY, who died on OCTOBER 25, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of JULY, 2024.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal repre-

sentative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: 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.

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 12, 2024 WILLIAM A. BAISLEY 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 3x 1-12, 1-19, 1-26

Second Insertion PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20031 To all persons interested in the estate of MARIE L. BOUNDS, Estate No. 20031.

Notice is given that PRESTON W. BOUNDS, III, 2642 BIRD HILL RD., GIRDLETREE, MD 21829-2744, and JANET BOUNDS MORGAN CARTER, 103 S. BAY ST, SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1303, were on JANUARY 11, 2024, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of MARIE L. BOUNDS, who

died on DECEMBER 15, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of JULY, 2024.

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

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 38

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch Legal Notices LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

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.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 19, 2024 PRESTON W. BOUNDS, III JANET BOUNDS MORGAN CARTER 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 3x 1-19, 1-26, 2-2

Second Insertion 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. 19978 To all persons interested in the estate of MICHELE J SHAFER, Estate No. 19978.

Notice is given that SAMUEL W SHAFER SR, whose address is 13508 SINEPUXENT AVE, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-4549, was on JANUARY 16, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MICHELE J SHAFER, who died on SEPTEMBER 10, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any ob-

jection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of JULY, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 19, 2024

SAMUEL W SHAFER SR 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 3x 1-19, 1-26, 2-2

Second Insertion D KATHLEEN RUS D. KATHLEEN RUS, ATTORNEY 1532 LIBERTY RD STE 109 ELDERSBURG, MD 21784-6580 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20017 To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN RAY YOUNG, Estate No. 20017.

Notice is given that KAYNE

THOMAS YOUNG,whose address is 620 S WAYNE ST, MILLEDGEVILLE, GA 310613906, was on JANUARY 16, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN RAY YOUNG, who died on DECEMBER 13, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of JULY, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 19, 2024

KAYNE THOMAS YOUNG 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 3x 1-19, 1-26, 2-2

Second Insertion REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 SALISBURY, MD 21804 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19462 To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE F. CARROLL, Estate No. 19462. Notice is given that RICHARD A. STANLEY, whose address is 3008 ARUNDEL HL SW, SHALLOTTE, NC 28470-0013. and TENLEY A. CARROLL SELI, whose address is 2205 ALBION RD, MIDLOTHIAN, VA 23113-4154 were on JANUARY 16, 2024, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of GEORGE F. CARROLL, who died on SEPTEMBER 19, 2017, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of JULY, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 19, 2024 RICHARD A. STANLEY TENLEY A. CARROLL SELI 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 3x 1-19, 1-26, 2-2

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20032 To all persons interested in the estate of SADIE KATHLEEN BROOKS, Estate No. 20032. Notice is given that DONNA BROOKS whose address is 113 WEST ST., BERLIN, MD 21811-1446, was on JANUARY 9, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: SADIE KATHLEEN BROOKS, who died on OCTOBER 20, 2023 without a will.

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

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

All persons having any 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the no-

tice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 26, 2024 DONNA BROOKS Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 1-26

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20047 To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES MORRIS BRADY, JR. , Estate No. 20047. Notice is given that DEBORAH ANN CALLAHAN, whose address is 109 QUAIL LANE, CENTREVILLE, MD 21617-2308, was on JANUARY 18, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: JAMES MORRIS BRADY, JR, who died on DECEMBER 12, 2023 without a will.

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

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

All persons having any 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, except if the decedent died be-

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

The Dispatch Legal Notices LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966. fore October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 26, 2024 DEBORAH ANN CALLAHAN Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 1-26

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20048 To all persons interested in the estate of DON PAUL MACKESSY, Estate No. 20048. Notice is given that ADAM NOEL MACKESSY whose address is 5 51ST STREET, UNIT 9, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-7195, was on JANUARY 19, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: DON PAUL MACKESSY, who died on JULY 10, 2022 with a will.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 26, 2024 ADAM NOEL MACKESSY Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 1-26

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

ESTATE NO. 20039 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 any objection to the probate of the

To all persons interested in the estate of SARA DAVIS THOMPSON, Estate No. 20039 . Notice is given that SUSAN THOMPSON HUTCHINSON, whose address is 213 N. MAIN ST., BERLIN, MD 21811-1003, was on JANUARY 12, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: SARA DAVIS

THOMPSON, who died on DECEMBER 15, 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 any objection to the probate of the

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the

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

Name of Newspaper:

Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 26, 2024 SUSAN THOMPSON HUTCHINSON Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 1-26

SHMS Finalist In Nationwide Library Makeover Contest Page 40

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A Snow Hill Middle School teacher is one of 12 finalists in a nationwide contest that could earn the school’s library a makeover.

With the help of his students, Beau Williams, library media specialist at Snow Hill Middle, entered a classroom furniture giveaway offered by KI. Williams and his students designed their dream learning space, which now needs online votes from the public in order to win $40,000 worth of new furniture.

“Right now we’re trying to get the word out,” Williams said. “Our kids deserve it.”

Williams said his fifth-grade students were already fans of Tinkercad, an app they use to create 3D designs, when he saw an advertisement for the KI Learning Space Design Competition. Noting the similarities to Tinkercad, he asked if they’d want to help him enter. They were quick to agree.

“The design ideas came from the kids,” he said.

Williams and his students designed a dynamic media center that includes an e-sports and gamification center as well as a variety of lab, teamwork and quiet areas to support all students’ learning styles.

“With 58% of students at Snow Hill coming from low-income households, Mr. Williams aims to provide a school haven and hub for students and families who face daily challenges,” an announcement from KI reads.

Voters can see the design, as well as those of the other contest finalists, when they go to the website ki.com/designtowin.

Out of hundreds of entries in four categories – Eastern, Central, Western and Libraries – the library design submitted by Williams was one of 12 selected as contest finalists. With voting ending Jan. 31, Williams only has a week to get the votes needed to beat two other finalists in the library category of the competition. Grand prize winners will be announced Feb. 2.

Williams would love to see Snow Hill’s design, created with input from its students, come to reality with the $40,000 prize. Even if it doesn’t, he’s hopeful the experience might have inspired more interest in engineering and design.

“I’m all about supporting student creativity,” he said.

To vote, community members are encouraged to use their cellphones, iPads or laptops to visit ki.com/designtowin.

This is the second year KI, a furniture manufacturer headquartered in Wiscon-

January 26, 2024

sin, has hosted the competition.

“We're thrilled to host our learning space design competition for the second year in a row and expand this year's prizes to reflect the learning that happens in and out of the traditional classroom,” said Bryan Ballegeer, vice president of education markets at KI. “We were incredibly inspired by the creativity of last year's contestants. We're eager to give educators the opportunity to de-

sign their own learning spaces to meet their needs and the needs of their students.”

While Williams is currently trying to raise awareness of the KI poll in an effort to improve the school’s library, he’s also in the running for the “Trailblazing Teacher” recognition through the Canva Community Awards. Canva users can vote for Williams at canva.com/community-awards.

FROM PAGE 6 said.

Meghan Lapp, secretary for the Center for Sustainable Fisheries and representative for Seafreeze, a commercial fishing company in Rhode Island, was the first panelist. She argued that wind farms disrupt fishing territory and endanger the safety of commercial fishing vessels.

“As BOEM has leased more than 2.3 million acres of the East Coast to date and is preparing to lease more, we are rapidly losing our place of business,” Lapp said.

Other speakers also reiterated worries about the turbines’ effect on whales.

Harris said that “sonar blasting” in 2016, which was used to survey poten-

tial wind farm leasing areas off the North-Atlantic coast, correlated with a spike in whale deaths around the same time. Harris said there is no evidence to support or deny any connection between the testing and whale deaths.

Panelist Lisa Linowes, executive director and spokesperson for the Wind Action Group and co-founder of the Save Right Whales Coalition, told Harris that while she is convinced there is a connection, she can only say that there is a “strong correlation.”

NOAA, however, says, “There are no known links between recent large whale mortalities and ongoing offshore wind surveys.”

Robert Rand, owner of Rand Acoustics, LLC, another panelist, said that in May 2023, he compared underwater sound levels from a wind industry sonar survey vessel off of New Jersey, and measured sound levels from piledriving work off Nantucket in November 2023.

He claimed the noise levels he recorded underwater were inconsistent with permitting documents and loud enough to affect whales.

“The high sonar and pile-driving noise levels and irregularities in project and regulatory documents raise strong concerns about insufficient review in mitigation distances to protect the critically endangered species from behavioral harassment and hearing impacts,” Rand said.

Harris and others also raised concerns over the wind farms' effect on radar systems used by the U.S. military and the ability for the Coast Guard to perform helicopter rescues. Several speakers also questioned whether it was right to lease U.S. energy systems to European-owned companies. US Wind is owned by Italian company Renexia.

The last panelist was Travis Fisher, director of energy and environmental policy studies at the Cato Institute, a self-described libertarian, public policy think tank. Fisher said that Maryland’s wind construction mandates could create large increases in utility bills, and that the increases would hit harder for lowerincome residents.

“The impact on the local economy and tourism, and the negative effects on marine life, fishing and the military, taken together are unacceptable risks,” Carozza said during a speech.

…Reps. Voice Offshore Wind Concerns

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Ocean Pines Plans Town Hall Meeting For Budget Review

January 26, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – A town hall meeting will allow association members to learn more about the coming year’s budget.

During a board meeting last Saturday, General Manager John Viola announced plans to hold a town hall meeting on the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget. He said the coming year’s recommended spending plan will feature changes made by the board following a recent budget review.

“We did receive the changes from the board just the other day, and we are already working on them,” he explained.

“We're pretty much done on it. So we are scheduling a town hall for review and discussion, which we do every year.”

As proposed, the coming year’s budget totals $18,567,189. The spending plan includes total revenues and operating expenses of $15,313,061, bulkhead replacement expenses of $1,177,212 and

OBITUARIES Robert Palmer Auker

OCEAN CITY – Robert “Bob” Palmer Auker, 81, of West Ocean City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. Bob was born on May 17, 1942, to the late Palmer and Harriett Auker of Berwick, Pa. He was a loving husband to the late Peggy Auker and is survived by their three children, Robert P. Auker II (Diana), Alison A. Merritt (Stephen), and Michelle A. Prestas (Michael). He loved having family dinners with his grandchildren, Marley, Lorelei, Sullivan, Cameron, Brayden, Zoey and Layla. Bob also enjoyed socializing with his local friends at McDonalds.

Bob was a 1960 graduate of Berwick Area Senior High School and obtained his Bachelor of Science in Education in 1965 from Bloomsburg State College. He married Peggy in 1969 and raised their family in Berwick, Pa. Bob was the manager of multiple souvenir shops in Ocean City for many years, eventually ROBERT AUKER becoming the owner of Souvenir City. The family hopes to carry on his boardwalk legacy.

Most knew Bob’s love of John Deere tractors and Hess trucks. He always sported his John Deere jacket and hat. He enjoyed attending many NASCAR races in Dover with friends and family. Bob was a proud volunteer firefighter for many years at the West Berwick Hose Company No. 1.

A celebration of life will be held at the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Hall, located at 10124 Keyser Point Rd, West Ocean City, Md. 21842, on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024 from 1-3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Robert Auker can be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org/donate, or the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

capital expenditures of $2,076,916. It also features a $36 assessment reduction for non-waterfront lots.

“If you look at this budget, the recommended assessment is $850,” Viola said.

“It has board approval at this point, that's the recommendation. It's a lower assessment obviously from last year.”

As part of the budget process, Viola said association members will have an opportunity to attend a town hall meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 11 a.m. at the clubhouse meeting room. He said association staff will be present to review and discuss the spending plan.

“We'll go over the whole budget, answer questions, whatever,” he said.

Viola noted that while assessments have decreased, the budget features a maintenance plan for bulkheads, roads and drainage, and proposes increases in

both spending and reserves.

“We're increasing our reserves which is a good thing on the balance sheet to many and making the balance sheet stronger,” he said. “So when we budget we're also looking at the balance sheet.

We're also looking at the next several years. I want to make sure we can stay on track for the next three, four, five years. I’m sure the board would like hearing that.”

During the public comment portion of last Saturday’s meeting, Ocean Pines resident Mike Daley said he wanted the association to reconsider the use of a debit card for swimming pools. He questioned if it could be incorporated into the budget process.

“While we're on the subject of the budget I would just like to bring up that maybe you could look into bringing back

Page 41

a debit card for the swimming pools,” he said. “I know that it's gone by the wayside, but a lot of people that I talked to liked having that debit card for the swimming pools. An idea that you could take into consideration would even be to make the debit card run with the fiscal year, from May 1 to April 30.”

Viola said that was an ongoing discussion with Northstar, which supplies the association’s financial software.

“We are looking at it with Northstar,” he said. “The one we had before went on forever and that was a major problem from an accounting standpoint.”

Viola noted, however, that he liked the idea of aligning the debit cards with the fiscal year.

“We're trying to see what we can do,” he said, “but it has to have the parameters like you said.”

Page 42

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

STUDENTS In The News

The creative vibes have been flowing at the after-school art club at Berlin Intermediate School, an outreach program of the Art League of Ocean City, led by art teacher Joanne Guilfoil. Students made bird feed strings and gingerbread people. Above are Kiley Mikulski and Nola Gisriel. At right, top left, is Hunter Rodriguez. At right, top right, is Landon Anders. At right, bottom left, is Mitchell Leisure. At right, bottom right, is Zoey Brown.

January 26, 2024

Worcester Preparatory School fifth graders participated in the D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program taught by Sheriff Matthew Crisafulli of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. For several weeks, Crisafulli has visited fifth grade classrooms working with students to educate them about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. He worked with the students to instill good decision-making skills and shared the knowledge needed to resist substance abuse. In addition, he touched on the dangers of bullying and how to safely report it. On Monday, Jan. 22, fifth grade teachers Camille Jenkins, Lisa Rill and Alayne Shockley hosted a special program where students received their D.A.R.E graduation certificates and hats. The students arepictured above with their teachers, Crisafulli and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

Submitted Photos

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

Page 44

Editor Weighs In On Newspaper Merger The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Forever In Memory Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005) “Iron Man” Shawn Soper (July 24, 1963-February 15, 2023) The Dispatch, Serving Greater Ocean City Since 1984, Is Published By Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. Weekly On Friday Mornings MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd.

Berlin, Md. 21811 PHONE: 410-641-4561 FAX: 410-641-0966 ONLINE WEBSITES: mdcoastdispatch.com facebook.com/thedispatchoc twitter.com/thedispatchocmd instagram.com/thedispatchocmd J. STEVEN GREEN Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com

NEWS DEPARTMENT CHARLENE SHARPE Associate Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com BETHANY HOOPER Associate Editor bhooper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHRIS PARYPA Photographer

SALES DEPARTMENT TERRI FRENCH Account Executive Entertainment Editor terri@mdcoastdispatch.com

ART DEPARTMENT COLE GIBSON Art Director cole@mdcoastdispatch.com DAVID HOOKS Graphic Artist dhooks@mdcoastdispatch.com PAUL HALLAM Graphic Artist/Webmaster phallam@mdcoastdispatch.com

BUSINESS OFFICE PAMELA GREEN Bookkeeper/Classifieds Manager classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com The Maryland Coast Dispatch (USPS #015125) is an official and legal newspaper for Worcester County. Periodical postage paid at Berlin, Maryland, and additional mailing offices. The Maryland Coast Dispatch, 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, Md. 21811, is published weekly on Friday mornings, 52 weeks a year. Subscription rates are $260 per year.

POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Maryland Coast Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Maryland Coast Dispatch offices are located at Route 346 and Graham Avenue, Berlin, Maryland.

January 26, 2024

How We See It

“For the times they are a-changin.”

The phrase is repeated five times in the Bob Dylan song by the same name.

It’s been the prevailing sentiment around our office for several weeks ahead of the merger of two long-time competing newspapers.

Life is about timing and the time is right for The Dispatch and OC Today to come together as one and work together to preserve and enhance local, community journalism. We will be stronger together and the community will be better served by our combined product. We are excited about this merger and our resulting potential.

The first discussion of The Dispatch merging with its primary competitor OC Today came 15 years ago. It was not the right time. Other talks have occurred through the years. Today, I am excited and ready to move ahead with our new, merged publication, OC Today/Dispatch, as the leaders in the market’s print news offerings are combining assets to become one.

Next week will mark a new chapter for local journalism, and the future is bright. At its simplest, journalism is a form of community service. For me, it’s in my blood. I was raised in this business. In turn, I have essentially raised a family while leading this business. In a family business everything is personal to a degree. My wife Pamela has man-

aged the business office for the last 10 years. My mom Patsy has opened the daily mail for the last 30 years. My sons once ran the halls of this office after school for many years. I once did the same thing, too. Our employees are family, and therefore their interests and concerns align with my interests and concerns.

It’s impossible to deny there are heavy emotions involved with this merger, though I am 100% in on this deal and think it’s best for the future of our community. I assume weeks and months from now I will come to terms with the feelings in my heart, but I am at peace knowing there will never be any regrets.

This is the right time and a solid move for everyone. The mixed emotions are natural with a massive change, but I am positive the residential, visiting and business community wins here.

Throughout these merger discussions over the last year, my thoughts have inevitably circled to Dick Lohmeyer, who founded this newspaper in 1984 and was my stepfather. Like my new colleague Stewart Dobson, who I have always respected as a competitor over the last two-plus decades, journalism has always been part of the family. During high school, I often wrote sports stories and took photos for the paper. I still remember my first page one photo – black and white, of course – at 16 years of age

of the Captain’s Hill neighborhood covered in snow in 1991. I recall Lohmeyer saying, “you used a whole roll of film and got one good one.” Shoot, at the time, I was relieved there was at least one usable picture. My 15-year-old son Beckett had his first page one photo last summer from the Memorial Day Parade in Berlin. The photography bug has him, as it did me at an early age. People in journalism are built different and maybe one day he will share my passion for the work.

Today is a big day personally and professionally. It’s also an awkward one to a degree, as it’s not customary for the business side of newspaper publishing to make news. It’s important for our readers to know this is a positive thing and they will be better served with this merger. The favorite weekly columns and features from both publications will continue in the new one with a fresh redesign coming in the months ahead.

As we move ahead, we look forward to continuing to publish the news and weigh in on matters of interest through editorials and columns. The reporting and opinion will just come in a different format under a new name. We begin this new chapter with the same dedication and passion that’s always been the daily motivation around here, while admitting it does come with some emotion and nostalgia.

Letters To The Editor Commissioners Wrong On Diakonia Decision Editor: I was incredibly disappointed by the Commissioners recent vote to effectively delay the expansion of Diakonia.

Its mission is second to none and represents what I believe to be the finest quality of the people of Worcester County -- when there is tragedy, adversity, or loss, this community comes together to help those in need like no other.

I hope the four Commissioners, who saw fit to delay this project, will have a change of heart, follow in the footsteps of this generous and compassionate community, and vote with great haste to get Diakonia’s project moving.

Edward M Reid Berlin

BOEM Must Stop Wind Farms Editor: I attended the hearing that our Congressman Andy Harris held at the Ocean City Convention Center on Jan. 22 in reference to the wind farm projects that our government agency BOEM is planning for our oceans in our country and also right here in Maryland and Delaware.

From the information that was presented at the hearing, nine panelists shared their comments and information.

US Wind was asked to attend but they were not in attendance at this hearing.

What was shared is this: A. The wind farm projects are not an economical thing to pursue. The extremely high cost of this project is not going to be a less expensive way to supply our energy needs. We, as consumers, do not need to incur another increase in our cost of living.

B. These wind turbines will interfere with our National Security pertaining to sonar/radar detection used by our military. We cannot jeopardize the security of our country this way.

C. The exploration, construction, and operation of these wind turbines has been, and will be very detrimental to all our marine life. Many problems have been created by the construction and operation of these wind turbines. Example: Horseshoe crabs, whales, and many forms of other shellfish/fish population.

We cannot let the life in our ocean be destroyed by this project. This will be harmful to our fishing and seafood job market and food supply. This is not acceptable.

The companies that are building these wind farms are not even American owned.

I have contacted BOEM to please open their eyes, ears, and minds and

asked them to put a stop to what they are doing to our oceans and our country.

I am asking our community to please contact Andy Harris and our government to voice your opinions and make it known that we do not need wind farms in our oceans.

Katherine Azbell Berlin

Wind Farm HearingThoughts Editor: I attended hearings this past Saturday at the Ocean City Convention Center calling for a halt to all offshore wind power projects amid a spate of whale deaths on the U.S. East Coast in what may be the beginning of an investigation by the GOP-controlled House into the Biden administration's clean energy plans.

I hope The Dispatch was there to report on this important issue.

Congressman Andy Harris was the speaker with Reps. Jeff Van Drew and Christopher Smith of New Jersey present and giving testimony for the panel.

Our local Sen. Mary Beth CarozzaDistrict 38, Wayne Hartman-District 38c and Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan attended and provided their strong oppoSEE NEXT PAGE

January 26, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor sition to the US Wind project.

There was also a panel of six experts including scientific and financial experts who gave testimony. US Wind and other supporters of the project were invited but failed to attend.

The representatives and panelists discussed the negative impact on the shore, our oceans and Ocean City: They cited the destruction of marine life, impact on sport and commercial fishing disrupting our food chain and making us dependent on foreign sources for seafood, documented interference with radar including military radar compromising our national security, interference with horseshoe crabs and their breeding grounds used widely for medicine, hearing damage to whales resulting in their death, changes to sea currents, impairment of US Coast Guard search and rescue operations.

We were informed that the Wind Farms are expensive and unreliable, working only when the wind blows; they are dangerous to navigation and aircraft radars, According to the Cato Institute, they would likely quadruple energy costs and polls have shown they would lead to 55% loss of tourism (even if rooms were offered at a discount). The proposed 150 towers are reported to be over 1,000 feet in height with blades each as long as a football field.

Imagine the potential loss of property values and economic losses to the local restaurants, hotels and fishing industries among others. I understand Gov. Wes Moore has been a backer of this project and it would be interesting to hear what he has to say about the hearing.

Speakers noted that there has been a great deal of stonewalling by the energy company and various government agencies as well. These entities have stonewalled our own elected representatives and are pushing the project forward.

US Wind is owned by a company in Italy. Do we want to be dependent on a foreign entity for our electricity? Do you think they care about America? Do we want to be dependent on China or Italy for our seafood?

Jeff Van Drew and Chris Smith of New Jersey stopped the Orsted Offshore Wind Farm Project in New Jersey. They obtained 500,000 signatures on their petition.

William Semple Parsonsburg

Offshore Wind An Opportunity Editor: A congressional forum in Ocean City over the weekend highlighted what some believe is everything wrong with offshore wind in Maryland. Yet, the claims made throughout the event ranged from misleading to outright false.

In what seemed like an effort to pick winners and losers, there was a clear misuse of the facts. Lawmakers lamented what they claim to be offshore wind’s potential effect on local marine life and the state’s economy. The loud talk and misleading claims distract from the real

threats to Maryland, its environment and its economy, and dismiss one of the very technologies we need to protect them.

Unmitigated climate change will result in a significant cost to Maryland and its residents, especially those in Ocean City and along the coast. A recent report

by WJZ revealed that “at least $1.2 billion worth of property in Worcester County has a higher chance of changing compared to surrounding areas over the next decade due to hazards along the coast, including rising sea levels and erosion.”

In fact, climate change is the biggest threat to marine life, including whales and fish. Yet, you wouldn’t know that from listening to this past weekend’s speakers, who erroneously attempted to place the blame on offshore wind development for impacts on fishing and recent whale deaths.

They failed to mention the lack of evidence connecting offshore wind to those whale deaths. In fact, during a recent interview with the National Aquarium, a representative of the National Wildlife Federation remarked that while offshore wind development may cause some temporary disturbances, all available science does not indicate that offshore wind causes permanent damage to whale populations.

Concerns raised by the fishing industry are valid, and we must hear them out.

However, warming waters and a changing ocean ecosystem is already threatening commercial fishing across America and we must act to protect the industry’s long term sustainability.

Yet, the majority of Marylanders are in favor of the offshore wind industry and the energy it can provide the state. A Victoria Research poll conducted late last year found that 72 percent of Marylanders are in favor of expanding the role of offshore wind, and for good reason. A report conducted by the American Clean Power Association estimates that by 2030, the offshore wind industry will support 45,000 jobs nationally and contribute $7 billion to the U.S. economy.

Finally, Maryland needs more energy to meet growing demand. A responsible all-of-the-above energy approach must embrace the strategic use of all available energy sources. In places like Maryland with expansive coastline, this must include offshore wind. Yes, every source of energy has trade-offs, but that’s a reality we must face.

Looking at the facts, the offshore wind industry has a myriad of benefits, both for energy abundance, energy independence, and economic prosperity. The potential negative effects, specifically those on marine life, have been greatly exaggerated to fit a political agenda that does not serve the interests of Maryland.

Sarah Jensen Washington, DC (The writer is the policy associate at the American Conservation Coalition, which has members across the state including a campus branch at the University of Maryland.)

Page 45

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green It’s clear to all it’s an election year on the national front with a disturbing Biden-Trump rematch inevitable on the presidential level, but there will also be much decided on the local front this fall with the first filings taking place already.

It's a mid-term election as far as the Worcester County Commissioners and other notable county positions, like State’s Attorney and Sheriff, are concerned with no terms expiring. Unlike most governments, the county does not stagger its commissioners’ terms. All seven county commissioner seats begin and end at the same time and it’s always been the case. It’s worth a look at some point because it allows for a major change in direction, experience and philosophy after one election.

Unlike the county, the Board of Education’s elected seats are staggered.

The school board seats up for grabs this year are Districts 2, 3 and 5 currently held by Donald Smack, Dr. Jon Andes and Elena McComas, respectively. The elections are officially non-partisan but be sure politics will play a role in these races. For many years, the school board elections were yawners but we saw in 2022 and the days since it’s a different day in local school politics, and contested races are expected. Andes, the long-time superintendent of county schools, kicked off the filings this week seeking another term as the District 3 representative. The South Point resident is a strong board member, bringing a wealth of expertise and experience to the board. It was a mild surprise to see him file so early, as speculation had been he might be moving on after one term. In 2020, Andes easily won the seat, formerly held for decades by the late Sara Thompson.

Also serving in a staggered term capacity are Ocean City Mayor and Council members. The mayor’s seat is up for grabs every two years actually, and there’s no indication Mayor Rick Meehan is ready to step away after 18 years as mayor. Meehan was first elected to the council in 1985 and became mayor in 2006. Council seats up for election in November will be those held by Peter Buas, elected in 2020 to his first term; John Gehrig, who has served on the council since 2016; and Frank Knight, elected in 2020. It was learned this week there will be at least one newcomer featured on the ballot in Ocean City as Montego Bay resident Larry Yates has filed. Yates is a retired police officer, having served with the Maryland State Police and the Rockville City Police.

Also staggered to prevent a wholesale change in leadership in one year are the Town of Berlin seats. On the ballot for the October election will be the seats of Mayor Zack Tyndall and Council members Jack Orris and Shaneka Nichols.

Offshore wind continues to be a hot topic as the effort continues to move ahead through the regulatory process. It seems as if it’s only a matter of time before wind turbines are seen off our coast, but the process remains extensive and complicated in the meantime. Despite the local concerns, including those aired during a congressional hearing last weekend in Ocean City, the federal government seems intent on approving any regulatory obstacles ahead for the planned wind farms.

An interesting part of the process has been the concept of a community benefits package in exchange for a commitment to support offshore wind or at least not openly criticize it. It seems like a bribe of sorts, but it’s countered as a way for the developer to help mitigate any negatives associated with the project’s infrastructure in Delaware.

US Wind is the company in control of an 80,000-acre lease area in the Atlantic Ocean off Delmarva. US Wind’s two projects – MarWin and Momentum Wind – would build wind turbines within sight of the coast while delivering clean energy to the shore. The projects remain in the regulatory process with federal approval expected sometime later this calendar year if all plays out as expected.

Late last year US Wind presented the Delaware Association of Coastal Towns (DACT) with a community benefits package that would give each participating town $2 million over a 20-year period in $100,000 annual increments. The payout is contingent upon the feds approving the offshore wind projects and a lease agreement being reached with the company to bring underground cables onshore in coastal Delaware. Henlopen Acres, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach and South Bethany are considering the packages while Lewes and Fenwick Island said no thanks.

After an unanimous council vote to not hire a consultant to work on the deal, Fenwick Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said, “Fenwick declined to be involved with hiring a consultant to negotiate a community benefits package with the wind farm companies. We believed as advocates for our community we need to be able to speak freely, openly and without restriction to question the wisdom of moving forward with wind farms off our coast.”

In what amounts to just an ongoing back and forth playing out all over, a statement from the company in December read, “US Wind’s projects are likely to be among the first wind projects in operation in the mid-Atlantic.

The projects will sell carbon-free power into the regional power grid, and this new source of power generation is projected by US Wind to lower regional energy prices and capacity charges by up to $253 million over 20 years. US Wind will also invest more than $200 million in transmission system upgrades, most of which will occur in Sussex County, Del.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

T

January 26, 2024

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 36

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here was a time when I thought something was the matter with my kids if they were quiet.

In my household it’s a bit unique with our two teenage sons. We have one son, Carson, 14, who is nonverbal with Autism. Therefore, the expectation is different as far as sharing details about his day and being talkative. It’s a unique family dynamic. We also have our neurotypical Beckett, 15, who for many years was overly talkative and uncomfortable with silence. As Beckett has gotten older, he has changed and is quieter by nature.

This week I fully realized the quiet Beckett was largely due to him being stressed over school and feeling the pressure of a week of exams. He had five mid-terms to wrap up the first semester of his sophomore year. On Tuesday, he had Biology and English.

On Wednesday, he took Geometry and Spanish exams. On Thursday, he wrapped up his week with World History.

The timing of the exams also came at a time when the entire house seems to be dealing with illnesses. Over the last couple weeks, the sickness bug has worked its way through each of us to varying degrees.

Carson came down with the flu a couple weekends ago. Pam had been sick with something else the week prior. I feel like I have been dealing with something for the last week or so, too, because my energy level has been way down. It was only a matter of time before Beckett picked up something. I joked with him it’s a good thing he’s 15 years old, meaning he practices social distancing from his parents on a regular basis.

Nonetheless, I could tell each day picking Beckett up from school after his exams that he was not feeling well and exhausted. During some small talk over how the exams went, he offered up, “oh and I coughed up this huge loogie dur-

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ing Spanish, so I guess it was just a matter of time.” In typical dad fashion, I then asked whether he spit out and if so, what color it was. We had a candid chat over the specifics.

The good news is he now has a full week off to recover. We usually would be taking a vacation this coming week, but some work responsibilities prevented us from getting away.

As far as how he did on the exams, we will find out next month. For me, I know he put in a lot of effort studying and was prepared. It’s more about the effort than the result to me, though I do hope his hard work paid off.

When I told him a few weeks ago we would be canceling our plans for next week, Beckett took it all in stride, saying he just wanted to sleep in and chill. He never even asked why. There are daily signs of maturity with our kid, and they are super to see.

While this week’s silence seemed to be rooted in the pressure of school and not feeling well, I probably spend far too much time agonizing over my kids’ various moods.

Though Carson does not talk, his feelings and thoughts are easily deciphered by Pam and me. For instance, when we reminded him he had to study for a science test one night this week, we didn’t need to hear any words to know he was upset. Though strange to say with his special needs and Autism, life with Carson is currently simpler than with his older brother. We know Carson’s needs and they are met.

Though sad on one hand, Carson does not have a social life outside of his family and school. Carson is not interested in a lot of the things that seem to cause Beckett anxiety. Unlike his big brother, Carson does not have Snapchat and see a group of his friends somewhere together and wonder why he was not included. Social media is not something Carson understands or participates in so his life is a bit simpler.

For Beckett, social media seems to be the cause of much happiness at times and bewilderment at others. I have learned there is a fine line between showing him we care about how he is doing and prying. I have also discovered our reactions – if too judgmental or critical – can also result in less sharing of information.

One surefire way to lead a teen away from sharing details is to pepper them with questions. It’s a temptation that must be resisted because firing off questions and demanding answers for a teen is exhausting. In Beckett’s case, he just can’t always verbalize what’s on his mind because he doesn’t know how to articulate the thoughts or simply doesn’t want to at the particular time. Even if he does know how to talk about what’s on his mind, the last thing he often wants to hear about is a story about my childhood and a life lesson.

I have also learned if something is bothering him about friends he will not disclose it. Parents have a way of not forgetting when their kids are perceived as being mistreated. Phrases like “don’t judge” and “you always overreact” come to mind from previous talks.

The biggest takeaway I think I have learned from my teen is to not overreact. I recall a previous mistake he made some time ago. He came to us, admitted to a bad move, and Pam and I evidently took it in stride. It was a big error in judgment. He was punished but he remarked later how he appreciated us not losing our minds over it.

About a week later, he questioned the irony of how we didn’t get upset over that bad judgment, but we always lose our minds over the pile of dirty cups accumulating in his room.

It was an interesting observation.

(The writer is the publisher and editor of The Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com.)

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January 26, 2024