Jan. 5

Priceless

January 5, 2024

Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

www.mdcoastdispatch.com

A New Year’s Plunge:

Over 900 brave souls took a chilly plunge on New Year’s to raise about $109,000 for Atlantic General Hospital’s 30th Annual Penguin Swim. See page 10 for story and page 24 for more pictures.

Photos by Chris Parypa

Page 2

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

January 5, 2024

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 3

WE HAVE THE NFL TICKET Sunday Specials 1-7pm

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

BREAKFAST Monday-Friday 9-11am Saturday & Sunday 9am-Noon

Monday-Friday Drinks Noon-5pm Food 2-5pm

HLIVE ENTERTAINMENTH FRIDAY 1/5 • 5 PM JASON LEE WEDNESDAY 1/10 • NOON 10TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

10TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10 TAYLOR KNOX • NOON HURRICANE KEVIN • 5 PM HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY & LOTS OF $10 FOOD SPECIALS & GIVEAWAYS

MINGO MONDAY, TRIVIA TUESDAY & BAR BINGO THURSDAY 6-8PM

OFF SEASON SPECIALS MONDAY 11 AM-CL: Philly or Chicken Cheesesteak w/ Hand-Cut Fries $12 TUESDAY 2-8PM: Crabcake Combos ... Crabcake w/Chicken, Ribs OR Brisket $25 WEDNESDAY 2-8PM: Prime Rib w/2 Sides $20

THURSDAY 2-8PM: Burger w/Hand-Cut Fries $12 or Full Rack Of Ribs w/FF & Slaw $22 FRIDAY 11 AM-CL: Burley Oak Battered Rockfish w/FF & Slaw $20 SUNDAY 2-8 PM: 2 Original Classic Crabcake Dinners (5 Oz. $30 |8 Oz. $45) w/ Hand-Cut Fries, Slaw & Beignets

Dine-In With Beverage Purchase • Subject To Change and/or Availability • NO SUBSTITUTIONS

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS 11 AM-4 PM • CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE DAILY! ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE CCFBAYSIDE.COM OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 9AM TO 9PM

37314 LIGHTHOUSE ROAD | RT. 54, SELBYVILLE, DE • 302-988-5000/302-993-6959

OPEN EVERY DAY AT 11 A.M.!

AN OCEAN CITY TRADITION SINCE 1976!

116th St. & Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, Md. 21842 • 410-723-2120

www.originalgreeneturtle.com

instagram: theoriginalgreeneturtle

facebook.com/theoriginalgreeneturtle

Ocdc selects contemporary design For skate Park Mural

Page 4

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

This mural rendering, created by Annapolis artist Jeff Huntington, was chosen for the renovated Ocean Bowl Skate Park over another option submitted by a local artist.

Submitted Image

EvEry Friday

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) has selected an Annapolis-based artist to complete a mural at the Ocean Bowl

Skate Park.

Following a months-long vetting process, the OCDC on Tuesday announced it had selected Jeff Huntington, a professional artist working under the name JAHRU, to paint his submitted design at the Ocean Bowl Skate

Park later this year.

The organization said more than 60 artists applied for the project and three artists were selected in the fall to design concepts for the mural. Of those three artists, Huntington was selected as the winning design.

1/2-PricE aPPEtizErs

ALL MENUS • ALL DAY

Check Out Our New Extensive Bourbon List

60th street in the bay • 410-524-5500 • fagers.com

“Jeff’s experience with large outdoor murals and the caliber of work he’s done in the past were major factors,” said OCDC Executive Director Zach Bankert. “We also loved that Jeff plans to involve local youth in the actual painting of the mural. For those kids that help Jeff, it will create a feeling of ownership with the mural and hopefully foster a lifelong love of art.”

Huntington is a professional working artist with 30-plus years of experience, a BFA from the Corcoran School of Art and an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition to a portfolio of two-dimensional gallery work, Huntington has completed more than 150 murals across five countries, with his largest mural to date being more than 7000 square feet.

While Huntington is based out of Annapolis, the OCDC reports he spent time and lived in Ocean City.

“I lived in Ocean City during my teenage years. This was a defining moment in my life,” Huntington said in a statement. “I dropped out of high school in the 9th grade and floundered for a moment. In 1987, an older friend and I rented an apartment on 8th Street behind Thrashers where I worked. I’d been exploring oil painting, drawing psychedelic posters, and making tiedyes for T-shirt shops along the boardwalk.”

He continued, “I befriended a crew of older kids from New Jersey who lived downstairs from me and, to make a long story short, when they learned that I was a dropout and a minor, they became my surrogate mom and encouraged me to get a G.E.D. Which I did.

This allowed me to go to art school and changed the trajectory of my life.”

The OCDC reports a selection committee – comprised of representatives from the OCDC, Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department, the Art League of Ocean City, the DTA Public Art Committee, and local mural artists – considered multiple factors, including the aesthetics and composition of the submitted designs, the portfolio of past work of the applicants, and the mural painting experience of the applicant, when making their choice.

“We had a difficult decision to make,” Bankert said. “The mural is going to be at a highly visible corner in town. It’s located at a historic skate park, but will also be seen and enjoyed by everySEE NEXT PAGE

… Modern Look Favored For New Park Renovation

January 5, 2024

body that visits the park or uses St. Louis Ave. We had three unique designs to choose from and I feel we made a good decision. Our hope is that this project will open the door for more contemporary art in Ocean City.”

Several residents, however, took to Facebook this week to share their disappointment in OCDC’s selection. They argued that Ocean City-based artist and business owner Marc Emond, one of the three finalists, should have been chosen. Emond is also an active skater at the resort park.

In a statement Tuesday, Emond echoed residents’ sentiments. However, he congratulated Huntington on his winning design.

“I am naturally disappointed not to be chosen to create the mural,” he said.

“I thank the local community for the support they have shown. I congratulate Jeff Huntington on being chosen, he is a very talented artist.”

Last June, the OCDC announced it had received grant funding from the Maryland State Arts Council as part of the Public Arts Across Maryland Program to design a mural for the Ocean Bowl Skate Park. The money was ultimately used to complete the planning stages of the project and seek Maryland-based artists to submit portfolios of work that aligns with the scope of the project.

“We think the updated park is going to be a great resource for Downtown OC and we are excited to have an opportunity to further enhance the space,” Bankert said last year. “The goal for the mural is the celebrate Ocean City’s strong skate and surf culture, while providing a piece of modern art for the public to enjoy.”

As part of the next phase, the OCDC is currently applying for funds to complete the mural, with the goal to have the mural painted later this year after construction is completed at the Downtown Recreation Complex.

The OCDC is encouraging the public to view Huntington’s website, www.JeffHuntington.com to view his portfolio. Huntington is also the co-founder of Future History Now, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that facilitates collaborative mural projects with youth facing adversity in underserved communities. For more information about the organization, visit www.FutureHistoryNow.org.

As part of its mission to revitalize downtown Ocean City, the OCDC has a long history of public art projects in Ocean City. The OCDC has spearhead multiple large outdoor sculptures (such as the White Marlin at Entry Park), numerous downtown murals and wall panels and dozens of painted utility boxes.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 5

Eastern Shore Physical Therapy ROTATOR CUFF/SHOULDER PAIN FREE WORKSHOP SATURDAY, JAN. 13 • 10 A.M. •Single Biggest Mistake People With Shoulder Pain Make •A Surefire Way To Pick The Right Treatment •How A Problem In Your Neck Can Cause Shoulder Pain •What Successful Treatment And Permanent Relief Look Like Without the Side Effects Of Medications

TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT CALL 410-641-2900 410-641-2900 • WWW.EASTERNSHOREPT.COM 314 FRANKLIN AVENUE, SUITE 405 (NEXT TO LAB CORP), BERLIN, MD. 21811

Ocean City’s Assessable Base Climbs 46% To $12.8 Billion

Page 6

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Ocean City’s property values were found to have jumped 46% in the latest reassessment.

Photo by Chris Parypa

SNOW HILL – Property values rose 46.1% in Worcester County, according to the state’s latest reassessment.

The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) announced the 2024 reassessment of nearly 800,000 “Group 3” properties last week.

Statewide, the overall value for that group of properties was up 23.4% since the last reassessment. Here in Worcester County, there was a 46.1% increase in the value of properties reassessed.

“For six consecutive years, all 23 counties and Baltimore City have experienced an increase in residential and commercial property values, indicating that owning a home or business in Maryland continues to be a good investment,” said SDAT Director Michael Higgs. “SDAT is pleased to provide

January 5, 2024

our customers with new and improved reassessment notices this year and, as part of our Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, each reassessment notice includes information about the Departments’ Homeowners’ and Homestead Tax Credits, which save Marylanders more than $260 million in taxes each year.”

According to SDAT, the overall statewide increase was higher than the 20.6% increase recorded in 2023, representing an average increase in value of 25.6% for all residential properties and 17.6% for all commercial properties since the last Group 3 reassessment in 2021.

The 2024 assessments for Group 3 properties were based on an evaluation of 85,904 sales that occurred within the group over the last three years. If the reassessment resulted in a property value being adjusted, any increase in value will be phased-in equally over the next three years, while any decrease in value will be fully implemented in the 2024 tax year. For the 2024 reassessment, 96.6% of Group 3 residential properties saw an increase in property value.

In Worcester Couty, Group 3 residential values increased from $7,837,587,900 in 2021 to $11,576,277,100 in 2024, a 47.7% increase. Commercial values jumped from $926,276,300 in 2021 to $1,227,132,100, a 32.5% increase. Combined, the county’s residential and commercial Group 3 values increased from $8,763,864,200 to $12,803,409,200, or 46.1%.

Your Countertop Specialists

Fabricating & installing quartz, granite and solid surface tops Up to date, state of the art equipment

Family Owned & Operated

SINCE 1982

Call: 443.856.4437 or See Us On Facebook 34407 Dupont Blvd., Unit 9 • (Rt. 113 North) Frankford, DE Visit our website for showroom hours • www.creativeincounters.com

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 7

Henry Hotel Foundation Scores $250K Grant For Projects

Page 8

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A $250,000 grant will allow a local nonprofit to begin the restoration of the historic Henry Hotel.

On Wednesday, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved $5 million in African American Heritage Preservation Program funding to 24 projects and organizations across the state.

Among the recipients was the Henry Hotel Foundation, an Ocean City nonprofit dedicated to the restoration of the Henry Hotel. A $250,000 grant will allow the foundation to begin exterior rehabilitation projects at the site.

“This will be the very first phase of getting a new foundation built for the restoration of the hotel,” said Nancy Howard, foundation president. “Right now, it is sit-

ting on the ground. There’s no foundation.

So this money will help us build a much needed foundation and go onto the next phase, sealing the building and roof.”

During Wednesday’s board meeting, Gov. Wes Moore praised the foundation’s efforts to restore an iconic landmark in Ocean City. He said the project brings the foundation one step closer to creating a museum and learning center highlighting African American history within the resort.

“It's going to support their efforts of being able to turn the building into not just a hotel and refurbished building but also into a museum, into a learning center, a place where people can learn about the history of African Americans on the shore and all throughout the state and also just understand the African American contribution to the town’s de-

velopment,” he said. “And despite the fact of suffering years and decades and generations of discrimination, that just as the hotel received its refurbishing, that it’s also helping to tell the story of ‘despite it all, still I rise.’”

The Henry Hotel is one of a few 19th century structures remaining in Ocean City. Located on the corner of South Division Street and South Baltimore Avenue, the building was purchased by Charles T. Henry, a Black businessman from Berlin, in 1926 and opened as “Henry’s Colored Hotel” the following year.

Following Henry’s death in 1942, his widow continued to operate the hotel until it was sold in the 1950s. Its last owner, Pearl Bonner, operated the hotel until the 1990s. Upon her death in 2003, the property passed to her children.

The Henry Hotel Foundation was re-

CHOSEN MARYLAND’S BEST ICE CREAM BY FOOD & WINE MAGAZINE

A Family Tradition For 83 Years!

WEST OC: CORNER OF ROUTE 611 AND ROUTE 50 EAST BOARDWALK: CAROLINE STREET, WICOMICO STREET AND SOUTH DIVISION STREET LUNCH AND DINNER AT DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND NORTH, 12305 COASTAL HWY.

DUMSER’S DRIVE-IN, 4901 COASTAL HWY. NEWLY RENOVATED!

ICE CREAM MADE DAILY IN OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Ice Cream Our Specialty. Stop By Any Dumser’s Location For A Wide Variety Of Homemade Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Sundaes, Floats And Much More.

January 5, 2024

cently created in an effort to restore the building and to establish a museum and learning center that honors the life of Bonner and reflects on the history of African Americans in Ocean City. Howard said that once exterior and interior rehabilitation projects are complete, exhibits will be added.

“On the first floor will be a museum that focuses on Mrs. Bonner and her family,” she said. “It will also highlight the condition of the Black population during a time when they weren’t even allowed on the beach, even though they were the men and women who kept the hotels and motels clean and prepared the food …

That whole experience, it’s not our finest moment but it’s something to learn from and something we hope to never repeat.”

Howard said the foundation will also collect stories from community members who may have a memory of or connection to the Henry Hotel. She said those wishing to share their recollections can email neffiehoward@gmail.com.

When asked about the timeline for the hotel’s restoration, Howard said projects could begin as early as next fall. She said the nonprofit will work with a local company to lift the building in order for a foundation to be built. From there, work will begin on the windows and roof.

“I’ve often said it’s a miracle that the building, being where it is, hasn’t floated away or blown away,” she said.

Howard said the nonprofit is accepting donations for the restoration project.

She said contributions can be sent to the Henry Hotel Foundation, P.O. Box 3333, Ocean City, MD 21843.

The Henry Hotel restoration is one of several projects in 15 state jurisdictions being funded through a grant administered jointly by the Maryland Historical Trust and the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture.

During Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting, Moore thanked Maryland Historical Trust staff for reviewing the 107 applications and selecting the 24 grant recipients.

“We’re really excited about this, and the goal is critically important,” he said.

“It’s to identify and preserve buildings and communities and sites of historical and cultural importance to the African American experience in the state of Maryland. The board is being asked to approve funding for projects that include community centers and fraternity halls, historic churches and cemeteries, historic houses, a fire house, a historic funeral home and also a historic hotel.”

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman echoed Moore’s statements, noting the grant’s critical role in preserving African American history in Maryland.

“This is a really phenomenal day to see this money go out to incredible projects …,” she said. “This is a crucial program administered jointly by the Maryland Historical Trust and the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture. These 24 projects are incredible examples of sites that are associated with cultural and historical significance to our African American community.”

Hospitals Return Two Demo Bids Reviewed For Park Buildings To Mask Policies

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Local hospital systems are reinstating masking policies following an increase in reported respiratory viruses.

In recent days, both Atlantic General Hospital and Health System and TidalHealth have reinstituted masking policies.

Officials say the change is in response to respiratory viruses circulating within the community.

“Due to the rise in respiratory illnesses circulating in our region and Maryland’s current respiratory virus-associated hospitalization rate, Atlantic General Hospital and Health System has made the decision to implement a masking requirement for all associates, students and volunteers while in patient care areas, regardless of vaccination status,” said Bonita Conner, AGH’s director of quality and infection prevention. “This decision was based upon current Maryland Department of Health recommendations and updated guidelines will be followed as they are provided. Additionally, all staff are required to maintain daily self-screening and are not to come to work with cold and/or flu-like symptoms.”

Last week, the Maryland Department of Health, in response to an increase in respiratory virus-associated hospitalizations, issued new guidance to all healthcare facilities in the state.

The agency reports, “Broad facilitywide source control should be implemented in all patient care areas and patientfacing healthcare settings, including outpatient and long-term care, when the statewide combined weekly respiratory virusassociated hospitalization rate (as calculated by CDC) meets or exceeds 10 hospitalizations per 100,000 residents.” At the time of its recommendation, the respiratory virus-associated hospitalization rate was 12.9 per 100,000 residents.

To that end, local healthcare systems have reinstituted masking requirements for its facilities. At TidalHealth, for example, masking requirements will be in effect when visiting patient rooms.

“In an effort to protect the most vulnerable of our population from close contact with persons that may be contagious but not yet have symptoms, we are requiring masking at the patient bedside and in patient rooms,” a statement from TidalHealth reads. “The increase in all respiratory viruses in hospitals and our community is being evaluated on a daily basis and masking rules may change with the infection percentages to maintain the safety of patients, staff and the community.”

TidalHealth reports that visitors may also be asked to wear a mask when accompanying patients to outpatient services at all TidalHealth locations, including all areas of its hospitals in Seaford, Del., and Salisbury, Md. “If you are exhibiting any signs or symptoms of an upper respiratory illness, we kindly ask that you not visit at this time,” the statement reads. “Be sure to wash and sanitize your hands regularly.”

BERLIN – The town received two bids for demolition work at Heron Park.

On Wednesday, Town of Berlin officials opened bids for the demolition of some portions of the old chicken processing plant at Heron Park. Bids will now be analyzed by Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. (DBF) before a recommendation is made to the town council on how to proceed.

“Generally, we can say with fair certainty how we anticipate moving forward, but in this case, the difference between the two bids is too significant to make an immediate decision,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said. “Our engineering firm will be analyzing the bids and providing us with guidance on moving forward.”

After more than a year was spent negotiating with a developer who wanted to

turn the old processing plant into a mixeduse project, the council in the fall opted not to proceed. Instead, officials decided to focus efforts on a $500,000 strategic demolition grant the town received from the state in 2021 that must be used by June.

Officials had DBF develop bid documents for demolition. The engineering company broke the project up into a base bid that would address demolition of the two sections of the existing structure in the worst condition — known as sections one and two — and additional alternatives that could be added to the base bid — such as the addition of the demolition of what is known as area three. The town would be able to do more if the grant funding stretched far enough.

The bids opened this week included a base bid of $83,980 from JNT Enterprises of Pasadena. The base bid includes mo-

Page 9

bilization, bonds and insurance, general site preparation, site debris removal and perimeter controls and demolishing areas one and two. The add alternate, which would be demolition of what’s known as area three, would be an additional $24,435.

To remove debris and hazardous materials from the other interior buildings, JNT Enterprises bid at $4,300. The total bid from JNT Enterprises came to $112,625.

From Reynolds Excavating of Princess Anne, the town received a base bid of $132,500 with an add alternate of $205,000 to demolish area three. To remove debris and hazardous materials from the other interior buildings, Reynolds Excavating bid $115,000, bringing the total bid for the entire scope of work outlined in the RFP to $452,500.

Bohlen expects to have a recommendation to present to the town council at its Jan. 22 meeting.

Penguin Swim Attracts 900-Plus, Raises $109K

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – More than 900 people braved the chilly ocean waters off 91st Street this week to raise funds for Atlantic General Hospital.

On New Year’s Day, 910 participants – sporting costumes and bathing suits – took a plunge into the Atlantic Ocean for the 30th Annual Penguin Swim. This year, the hospital reported a gross fundraising total of roughly $109,000.

“It’s incredible what the community does to support this event,” said Ryan Kirby, Penguin Swim co-chair.

The Penguin Swim is one of the hospital’s largest fundraisers, becoming an annual tradition for hundreds of residents and visitors and many local businesses and community groups. This year, for example, legacy sponsor Bull on the Beach raised more than $20,000, while the Ocean City Ravens Roost raised more than $9,800.

Officials say the event is unique in many ways, particularly in the way it attracts swimmers from both near and far to raise money for community health care services.

“The best thing about the Penguin Swim over its 30-year history is all the money raised stays right here in Worcester County to better healthcare services for our com-

Thanks For A Great 2023! Looking Forward To 2024 & More!!

We Have The NFL Sunday Ticket!

West OC Ravens, Caps & Terps Headquarters NCAA Bball, ESPN Game Plan & PGA Packages On 54 NEW Hi-Def TVs In Stereo Sound RAVENS VS. STEELERS: SATURDAY, 4:30 P.M. NFL Tailgate Menu Available Saturday & Sunday ( Sat. Ravens Game Only • In-House Only)

Winter Food & Drink Specials Monday: Lunch Special: 11am-4pm $9.99 Meatloaf & Mashers 5pm: $12.99 Meatloaf Dinner 8pm: Tailgate Menu

Tuesday: All Day $9.99 Burgers & Cheesesteaks 7pm: $4 Twisted Teas, $4 Green Tea Shots

Wednesday: All Day $1 Wings (6 minimum) 7pm: $5 Import Drafts, $5 Jacks

Thursday: Lunch Special: 11am-4pm $9.99 Pot Roast 5pm: $12.99 Pot Roast Dinner 7pm: Ladies Night w/ $5 House Wines, $5 Surfsides, $5 Coffee Drinks

Friday: Lunch Special: 11am-4pm $9.99 Fried Oyster Po Boy or Fried Fish Sandwich Dinner: $14.99 Fried Oyster Dinner

Saturday: 12-7pm 20 oz Draft Specials $9.99 Sloppy Joe w/ Tots or Slaw

HHHVOTED OC’S BEST BURGERS & WINGSHHH

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 4-7PM $3.25 Domestic Drafts & Bottles • $4 Rails $7.50 Basket w/ Fries - Boneless Wings, Sliders or Hot Dog • $8.50 1/2-lb. Steamed Shrimp

Save The Anniversary Weekend Date: February 2,3 & 4: “25 & Staying Alive”

KIDS’ MENU • CARRY-OUT • APPAREL SHOP • GAME ROOM • KENO • FUN FOR EVERYONE

ROUTE 611 • WEST OCEAN CITY • 410-213-1500 www.greeneturtle.com

munity,” said Atlantic General Hospital Foundation Chair Steve Green, a threeyear Penguin Swim participant. “It’s the local residents, visitors and businesses coming together in a festive atmosphere to kick off the new year with a cold plunge to support our community hospital. We had swimmers of all ages, from 9 months to 83 years old, this year as well as swimmers from as far as California. The event keeps getting better each year.”

This year, the Bull on the Beach team kicked off the 30th Annual Penguin Swim with its traditional parade down the beach.

Afterwards, more than 900 individuals made their way into the chilling waters in front of the Princess Royale. Organizers say warmer weather and sunny skies contributed to another successful fundraising year.

Kirby said funds raised from the Penguin Swim will benefit the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, which provides the hospital with philanthropic support. He noted that money will be used to fund things such as community health screenings and hospital equipment.

Kirby said he wanted to recognize AGH Foundation staff members Laura Powell, Jessica Jersey and Toni Keiser, as well as Penguin Swim committee members, for their organization of this year’s fundraising event. He also thanked the community for its generosity.

“A big thank you to the community for supporting the 30th Annual Penguin Swim,” he said.

January 5, 2024

Penguin Swim winners listed in order of award sequence are as followed: Youth/Family Teams Team Believe, $3,325 Owrey’s Owls, $1,590 Ice Ice Kirby, $1,500 Community Teams OC Ravens Roost, $9,842.99 License to Chill, $2,325 Atlantic Club Beach Warriors, $1,350 Business Teams Bull on the Beach, $25,828 Charles Brown Glass, $510 The Dispatch, $190 Adult Individuals James King, $1,275 Matthew Lynch, $700 Ed Fratantuono, $250 Youth Individuals Leila Attia, $1,007 Delaney Whittington, $105 Dezzy Wegrzyn, $100 Special Recognition Prizes Oldest Penguin: Nelya Kuvshinova, 83 years old Youngest Penguin: Lauren Beasley, 9 months old Traveled the Farthest: Ashley Humphreys, Boulder Creek, Calif.

Best Youth Costume: Madison Pecover, “Cow” Best Adult Costume: Butch Lorditch, “Mad Hatter” Best Couples Costume: Christy and Randy, “Ken & Barbie” Best Group Costume: Isaiah and Malani, “Maui & Moana” Blingiest Costume: Frosty Friends

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 11

RAVENS VS STEELERS SATURDAY 4:30 P.M. DRINK SPECIALS DURING CAPITALS GAMES OpEN Daily 11 a.M. KiTcHEN OpEN Til’ 1 a.M. Happy HOur MON.-SaT. 3-6 p.M.

all Day SuNDay

$2 DOMESTICS • $2 RAILS

28th Street • 410-289-2020 pitandpub.com

“The ElvisMan” ~ January 12 • 7-9 p.m.

Off-SEaSON SpEcialS Sunday:

Wednesday:

25% Off Crab Cakes

25% Off Beef

Tuesday:

friday:

Monday:

25% Off Meatloaf

Thursday:

25% Off Pork

25% Off Chicken 1/2-Price Burgers Saturday:

1/2-Price Smoked Wings (SPECIAL NOT VALID ON HOLIDAY WEEKENDS)

Northside Open Daily 11 a.m. • 127th Street • 443-664-7482

It’s

Page 12

Fenwick Comp Plan Sent To State

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

WE GROW IT, YOU MOW IT A Beautiful Lawn Doesn’t Happen By Itself

It May Be Cold Outside But Time To Think About This Year’s Lawn Plans.

We Use The BEST Products On The Market!

Turf Time Offers: • Weed Control Throughout The Seasons • All Season Fertilizer Applications • Fall Aeration & Overseeding • AND MORE! Depending On Lawn Condition

• Degree In Turf Grass & Lawn Management • 16 Years Experience As Golf Course Superintendent • 26 Years Experience In Lawn Maintenance • Athletic Field Maintenance Experience • Licensed & Insured For Free Estimate Call David Reichenberg 443-669-4383 7 Days A Week, 7AM-7PM **YEARLY CONTRACTS AVAILABLE**

We Love Grass!

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A final draft of Fenwick Island’s comprehensive plan will advance to the state for approval.

Last month, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to approve the final draft of the town’s comprehensive plan and to forward it to the state for a final review. Officials say the planning document includes responses to questions from the Delaware Preliminary Land Use Service (PLUS).

“This is sort of the last piece,” said Mayor Natalie Magdeburger.

Last year, in 2022, the town council agreed to hire consultants to assist the Fenwick Island Planning Commission in rewriting Fenwick Island’s comprehensive plan. And in the months since, officials have drafted a planning document that not only highlights the history and community profile of Fenwick Island, but addresses issues, goals and recommendations for the town.

In June, the town council voted to send its draft document to the state for review. In an update last month, commission chair Susan Brennan said her group has spent the last month completing its responses to comments the state submitted.

“We worked with the University of Delaware Institute for Public Administration to provide final draft materials,” she said. “We've been able to accomplish those tasks and have provided the council with the final draft.”

Brennan said once a final draft is approved, the comprehensive plan would be submitted to the office of state planning. She said the state agency could either return the plan with additional comments or approve it.

“If they have approved the plan, the town must then create an ordinance for the adoption of the comprehensive plan,” she explained. “To be adopted, the ordinance must include verbiage stating that the plan will go into effect upon receipt of the certification letter from the governor.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to approve the final draft of the town’s comprehensive plan and

January 5, 2024

to send the plan to the state for approval. Magdeburger said the town’s charter and ordinance committee would draft an ordinance to adopt the plan.

“At the same time, the council will refer this to charter and ordinance to draft an ordinance, pending approval from the state,” she said.

The council last month also voted unanimously to give the planning commission oversight and coordination of grant writing activities in town and to adopt the commission’s grant request procedures.

“We recognize the significance of this comprehensive plan, the value of our committees and the importance of growing in the same direction to carry out the large tasks that are in front of our small town …,” Brennan said. “The last month we’ve been discussing grant funding aspects, inquiries, procedures and created a simple format for committees to use when they wish to investigate grant funding opportunities for their projects.”

Committee member Ann Riley said the group had created a chart that outlined the process a committee must take in seeking grant funding for projects. She said the committee was first required to fill out an action form.

“As you can see, there are three directions that a project can go,” she said. “One, the town council can simply not approve the project for whatever reason, or they can send the request back to the committee for further information if they think that is appropriate.

Or town council can approve the project request and at that point it will go back to the committee liaison and the planning commission will contact GAP, the Grant Assistance Program from the University of Delaware, which is going to be an incredibly important partner for the town.”

At that point, she said, GAP staff will determine what grants are appropriate for a project. After further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to have the planning commission lead grant writing activities through the use of new grant writing procedures.

“It's important that we all speak in one voice,” Riley said.

Furniture • Exercise Equipment • TV Mounting Outside Play Sets • WiFi • Security Cameras FOR FASTEST SERVICE: We need your address & contact information and exact brand name, model #’s and Quantity. Email us a copy of your receipt/pictures.

Sasha@AtlanticAssemblers.com 302-569-9732

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

Del. Beach Towns To Consider US Wind Benefits Offer

Page 14

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Five coastal towns are exploring a package from US Wind that could bring $10 million in financial benefits over a 20-year period.

Late last week, US Wind formally presented the Delaware Association of Coastal Towns (ACT) with a package of community benefits for coastal residents.

Five communities – Henlopen Acres, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach and South Bethany – will now begin to evaluate the offer through a series of public meetings.

“We expect to deliver clean offshore wind power to the Delmarva region for a long time,” said Jeffrey Grybowski, US Wind CEO. “As a member of this community, we believe it’s important to do

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

what we can to help it thrive. These coastal towns are important to the state of Delaware and beloved by those who enjoy them. US Wind is committed to contributing to their continued health and resilience.”

As presented in a community benefits agreement shared last week, each of the five towns would receive $2 million over a 20-year period, paid in $100,000 increments. Officials say the funds would only begin if the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) approves the projects and the state authorizes a lease agreement with US Wind to bring underground cables onshore at 3Rs Beach.

For towns like Henlopen Acres, the benefits package could provide significant funding for capital projects. Mayor Joni Reich said the Board of Commissioners is set to review the agreement at

its Jan. 12 meeting.

“The amount of funding being offered is very significant for a town of our size which has an annual budget of $1.1 million,” she said. “If our Commissioners decide to participate in the Agreement, we would determine how to use the funds as part of the regular annual budget process. Possible uses might be the periodic dredging of our marina (which last cost $170,000 in 2022) and capital improvements to improve drainage and reduce flooding.”

Reich added that Henlopen Acres would not normally be involved in federal projects over which it has no control.

“However, at the same time, since the windfarm will be located off the Delaware shore, I think local officials should be aware and informed on what the project entails and consider possible ways for it

January 5, 2024

to benefit their local community if ultimately approved,” she said.

It should be noted that two ACT members, Lewes and Fenwick Island, are not listed in the agreement presented last week.

In a statement issued last Friday, Fenwick Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said the town had declined to participate in the community benefits package. In September of 2022, the town council voted unanimously to not pay dues toward ACT’s hiring of a consultant to interact with various offshore wind companies.

“Fenwick declined to be involved with hiring a consultant to negotiate a community benefits package with the wind farm companies,” she said. “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.”

Magdeburger said that while Fenwick embraces green energy, it wanted answers to three questions – what the proposed wind farms would do to the marine environment, how the wind turbines would affect tourism and property values, and how wind farms would impact public safety.

“Green energy needs to be part of our future; however, an alternative that has these unanswered serious questions still swirling around the project should be carefully and thoroughly studied in a scientific manner by unbiased gatekeepers,” she said. “There is a lot of money being spread around by the wind farm companies, ultimately paid for by the consumers, to silence the critics. Let’s not let that money get in the way of the truth. As advocates for our community, Fenwick believes our future deserves real answers to these questions before we commit to forever altering the pristine nature of our ocean environment.”

US Wind controls the rights to an 80,000-acre lease area located off the coast of Delmarva, which is able to support approximately 2,000 megawatts of offshore wind energy. BOEM recently issued a Draft Environmental Impact Statement assessing the potential impacts from developing the lease area, and US Wind’s plans to mitigate or avoid those impacts.

BOEM is expected to issue a decision to approve or disapprove those plans by the fourth quarter of 2024.

US Wind has two contracted projects – MarWin and Momentum Wind – able to deliver almost 1,100 megawatts of clean energy, and excess capacity in the lease area to accommodate a third, undefined project.

US Wind reports the community benefits package includes a stream of annual payments over twenty years, worth $2 million to each town.

The payments would begin if and when US Wind begins construction on its first project, MarWin. “We understand that BOEM will be reviewing the Environmental Impact Statement for the project over the next year in 2024 and determining if the project should proceed or in what fashion,” Reich said.

OC Group Shares Cleanup Efforts

January 5, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Following a successful trash collection effort in 2023, a grassroots organization is hoping to continue its cleanup efforts in the new year.

Throughout the course of 2023, Beach Heroes-OC volunteers removed roughly 14.6 tons of trash and debris in Ocean City. Now, as the new year commences, the group is eager to continue helping the town keep its beaches and streets clean.

“We really want to recognize the efforts the town makes, the businesses make … ,” said Leslie Eisenhauer, one of six people on the group’s administrative team.

“They do a great job picking trash up.

We’re just that extra hands-on, on-thestreet action group.”

In 2016, a group of citizens began collecting trash in Ocean City. Since that time, the group has evolved into a structured volunteer organization, Beach Heroes-OC. “It’s just people wanting to give back and take care of this incredible place where we live,” Eisenhauer said.

Every Tuesday, from 9-10 a.m., community members are invited to volunteer their time to clean up a section of Ocean City. In 2023, Beach Heroes-OC volunteers contributed 1,868 volunteer hours to the town, collecting items such as construction debris, dirty diapers, bottles, cups and more.

“The town does an amazing job. Their public works does an incredible job, 24/7 in the summer. They rake the beaches, they are out there with the street sweepers …,” Eisenhauer explained. “We’re just more of the boots on the ground, digging into the nooks and crannies, the streets and in the bushes and doing things they don’t have the staff to do.

That’s where we step in.”

Eisenhauer said the group averages 50 to 60 volunteers a week during the summer months and between 25 and 30 volunteers during the offseason. She said locations are posted each week on the group’s Facebook page, and volunteers typically span a six-block radius.

“They just have to find the location and show up. We will have our materials ready to go and a big smile welcoming them and encouraging them …,” she said. “We have incredible, dedicated volunteers that come back week after week.”

Eisenhauer noted that the group also receives support from the town, which provides materials and free publicity on the town website. She said the partnership with the Town of Ocean City – as well as with local businesses, news outlets and like-minded organizations – has contributed to the group’s success in 2023.

“Another key thing is consistency,” she said. “People can count on it every Tuesday morning. It’s every month, every week, and it’s really helped to establish a routine that people can expect.”

Beach Heroes-OC administrators say they hope the weekly cleanups highlight the importance of disposing of trash properly. As they look to the new year,

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

administrators say they will continue to host cleanup events and develop in-season activities that draw attention to disposal efforts.

“We’re really hoping we create an awareness of how important it is to make sure things are disposed of properly because we live in this fragile ecosystem, this coastal environment,” Eisenhauer said. “Everywhere the trash goes, eventually it’s going to end up in a waterway and eventually into the ocean. It’s something we all want people to be more aware of. Pitch in. Don’t walk by a piece of trash on the ground. If you see it, pick it up and dispose of it properly. The more people pitch in and help, the better off the whole town and coastal environment will be.”

Eisenhauer said weekly cleanup locations are posted on the Beach HeroesOC Facebook page. She noted the group meets every Tuesday morning from 9-10.

Page 15

Beach Heroes-OC volunteers are pictured during a collection event on Dec. 19.

Photo Courtesy of Beach Heroes-OC Facebook Page

Thanks For A Great Year!

In The M Of Fenwick Island

Page 16

Smart Meter Installation Underway Replacement To Take Six Months

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Crews are currently installing smart water meters in the Decatur Farms neighborhood. They'll move through the rest of town during the coming months. Submitted Image

BERLIN – The installation of new smart water meters is now underway in Berlin.

On Tuesday, smart water meter installation began in the Decatur Farms area.

From there, crews will move on through the rest of town until all homes’ water meters have been replaced with smart meters.

Crews will be doing installation during regular business hours Monday through Friday. Residents are advised they may notice a temporary disruption to water service as meters are being replaced. The process at each home only takes about 15 to 30 minutes, however.

Once the smart meter is installed, residents are advised to flush their water systems for five to 10 minutes to clear any discoloration or sediment in the water line.

Workers will place door hangers on the front doors of homes following meter replacement.

Anyone who experiences any issues during the process can call VEPO Metering at 877-860-8376 or town hall at 410-641-2770.

Town officials agreed back in 2022 to use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to purchase and install smart meters.

The town has been working toward smart meters since 2021, when a water rate study revealed that the town was not receiving revenue for about 25% of the water it produced. Much of that loss, according to the study, is tied to inaccurate meters. Staff at the time said they were aware of at least 400 inaccurate meters.

Smart meters are expected to lead to more accurate billing but will also help residents identify leaks earlier, saving water, money and potential damage to homes.

Jamey Latchum, the town’s water resources director, said crews estimated it would take about six months to replace all of the existing meters in Berlin.

Crews have broken the town into quadrants and will focus on one area at a time.

HOME OF THE ORIGINAL FRESH -SQUEEZED “ORANGE CRUSH” FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS During NFL Games Only

SPECIALS SUNDAY: ALL DAY: 1/2-Off Entrees MONDAY: 4 P.M.: 1/2-Off Entrees

HAPPY HOUR

Monday-Friday 3-6 p.m.

$3.50 Domestic Drafts & Rail Drinks $5.50 Glasses Of Wine $7 Original Orange Crush $9.99 Jerk Chicken $11.99 Wings $9.99 1/2-Lb. Steamed Shrimp $11.99 Steamed Mussels $21.99 2 Dozen Steamed Clams (Mussel Style Add $2)

TUESDAY: ALL DAY: $9.99 BYO Burgers & Chicken Breast Sandwiches WEDNESDAY: ALL DAY: Fiesta: $3 Off Margaritas, 1/2-Off Tacos, Quesadillas, Nachos & More THURSDAY: 3 P.M.: $23.99 AYCE Ribs & Steamed Shrimp FRIDAY: ALL DAY: Oyster Frenzy Specials are not to be combined with any other offer, discount or coupon. Some restrictions apply. No substitutions, dine in only. Excludes holidays & holiday weekends.

ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY: DJ Rupe 6 pm

SATURDAY: Cecilia’s Fall • 1 pm DJ Rupe • 6 pm

SUNDAY: Opposite Directions 1 pm

THURSDAY: Dust N Bones 5 pm

South Harbor Rd • West End, Ocean City • 410-213-1846 Open 11 am Daily • Waterfront WiFi • www.weocharborside.com

Berlin, State Officials Review Legislative Priorities

January 5, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Municipal officials highlighted the town’s priorities during a recent meeting with the Eastern Shore delegation.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, Del. Wayne Hartman and Del. Charles Otto met with Mayor Zack Tyndall and members of the Berlin Town Council in December. While the town’s leaders sought support for initiatives the town is pushing, the state representatives provided updates on issues at the state level.

“Thank you for your public service,” Carozza said. “You’re on the front lines and you often hear first and give us the best information so these type of forums are beneficial for both us and our shared constituents.”

Carozza kicked off the discussion by highlighting issues she expected to be addressed in the coming year, including public safety and crime as well as budget constraints.

“This will be a tough budget year,” she said.

Carozza referenced the governor’s recent announcement regarding transportation spending cuts.

“There’s a list of projects impacted,” Hartman said. “Right now there’s nothing I saw there that impacts anything in Worcester County.”

Otto also voiced support for making sure local municipalities got their share of transportation funding.

“We’ve been fighting for the highway user revenues for years,” he said.

Tyndall noted that thanks to the efforts of the Maryland Municipal League (MML) and lawmakers, the Town of Berlin had received $245,000 in highway user revenues last year and expected to receive slightly more this year.

“It really does help at the local level tremendously,” he said.

Carozza said strides had been made in recent years as far as restoring highway user revenues to local jurisdictions.

“With municipalities and counties making it a top priority, we’re going to do everything we can to work with you to hold our own on those highway user funds,” she said. “Our shared focus should be making sure our shore receives its fair share of those dollars.”

She said much of what was driving the budgetary issues was spending related to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. She said there was the possibility that some of the timelines associated with the education reform initiative could be changed.

“If we can adjust some timelines it can free up some of the budget commitments that have been made,” Carozza said. “Then we can look at where we can spend some of these funds in other priority areas.”

Hartman and Otto both stressed their support for tourism initiatives that might help the local area.

“That’s a no brainer,” Otto said.

Hartman stressed that tourism and economic development were partners

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

that were both critical to the resort area.

“The two need to exist and work together to be successful,” he said.

The state officials reminded councilmembers of their various committee appointments and encouraged Berlin’s elected officials to reach out directly any time there were issues they were concerned about.

“Prioritization is going to be very important in this tight budget climate …,” Carozza said, adding that whatever the issue she’d like to hear about it early from the town so she could work with municipal leaders to strategize and create a plan to move forward.

The senator added that she wanted to hear from municipalities in her district, not just MML. “It’s helpful for us to hear directly from you,” she said.

Page 17

Pictured, from left, at last month’s meeting are Delegate Wayne Hartman, Berlin council members Steve Green and Shaneka Nichols, Delegate Charles Otto, Mayor Zack Tyndall, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and council members Jay Knerr and Jack Orris.

Submitted Photo

Berlin Restaurant Week Returns Jan. 12-18 Fenwick Council OK’s

Page 18

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The town will celebrate its array of eateries this month with the return of Berlin Restaurant Week.

The town will host restaurant week Jan. 12-18. Restaurants will offer specials and customers who dine at three participating establishments during the week can enter to win a prize.

“Restaurant week is a way for us to spotlight each of the town’s unique restaurants,” said Ivy Wells, Berlin’s economic and community development director. “It gives locals a chance to try some of the restaurants they’ve never dined in before.”

Berlin Restaurant Week was established in 2016, when Bunting Realty’s Cam Bunting put forth the idea of highlighting the town’s array of restaurants during what is typically a slower business season. The

event has been held ever since, attracting both residents and visitors to Berlin eateries. For this year’s restaurant week, which runs from Jan. 12-18, customers are encouraged to dine three times for a chance to win a prize basket consisting of $100 cash, sponsored by Bunting, and gift cards to the town’s restaurants. Diners can pick up an entry card at the welcome center, dine at three different participating restaurants and get their card stamped. Once customers have their card stamped three times, they can drop it in the entry box in the foyer of the welcome center. There will be a random drawing for the winner once the week is over.

Most participating restaurants will be offering specials for the week. Berlin Restaurant Week menus from participating establishments are available on the Facebook event page.

As of midweek, Baked Dessert Café

had shared a menu featuring items like a chicken pot pie croissant and a tomato and Italian cheese quiche. The restaurant week menu posted for 410 Social showed a “2 for $22” special that lets diners choose from a starter as well as an entrée for $22.

Among the items patrons can choose is the 410 style smashed burger, tuna express wrap and blackened tacos.

Wells said she expected about 15 restaurants to participate in restaurant week.

She noted that the event had been pushed back a week this year to give area residents time to recover from the holiday season.

“We figured after a couple weeks people may want to venture out,” Wells said.

She said the connections of local restaurants were looking forward to the event and that the Facebook page would be updated with menus as they were submitted by participating eateries.

Please welcome our new aestheticians to the team!

Bertie Raucci & Amanda Vosselman Now Booking Monday, Tuesday & Thursday • Botox • Dermal Fillers • Weight Management • Semaglutide & Tirzepatide • PDO Thread Lift • Evexipel • Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Laser Hair Removal, Tattoo Removal & Resurfacing • IPL • Pixel RF Microneedling • Medical Skin Care • Skin Pen • ZO Skin Care

• Diamond Glow • Chemical Peels • IV Therapy • B-12 Shots • Hair Restoration • EltaMD • Jane Iredale

9748 Stephen Decatur Highway Unit 104 • West OC • 410.390-5954

January 5, 2024

Restriping Proposal

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A restriping project will move forward in Fenwick Island.

At its December meeting, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to accept a proposal from Straight Line to restripe the town’s streets. The decision comes more than a month after the council agreed to table the proposal in an effort to get more information on the paint being used.

“Straight Line gave us this proposal for labor only,” said Councilman Richard Benn, chair of the town’s infrastructure committee. “Let's go ahead and accept that and we'll look and see where it is next year, and whether or not it's serviceable for another summer or not.”

While the town had initially restriped its streets in 2022, staff received complaints this past summer about fading lines. In a town council meeting this fall, Public Works Manager Mike Locke said he had reached out to the company who completed the project – Straight Line – and had learned the paint used for the restriping project only lasted between three months and three years.

“Over the summer we were getting calls talking about how striping on the roads was headed to the point where they could no longer tell the white and the yellow,” he said at the time. “I reached out to the company that did the striping to question should it have faded that quickly. Their response was that it should be done once a year.

We are a year and nine months into it.”

Locke told the council this fall that Straight Line had submitted a proposal to restripe the oceanside and bayside streets for $6,801. He said the company was only charging for labor and could complete the work before the summer season.

Officials, however, questioned if the company could use a darker paint, or if the town should explore the use of thermoplastic markings. After further discussion, the council agreed to table the proposal until those topics could be explored.

“I would prefer to table it and get additional information,” Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said at the time.

Back on the agenda this month, Benn said he had reached out to family that worked in the restriping business and had recommended the town pursue the use of thermoplastic. He noted, however, that it would cost more money.

“It would last much longer, an estimated five to eight years, but it's also four times more expensive,” he explained. “But we're only getting about a year out of this paint.”

To that end, Benn suggested the town proceed with Straight Line’s proposal but to put out a bid for thermoplastic striping in future years.

“I move that we go ahead and accept Straight Line’s proposal and let them get it painted this offseason,” he said.

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to accept the restriping proposal.

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

Fenwick Freeze swimmers ring in new year

Page 20

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

8th street & philadelphia ave.

410-289-4891 •picklesoc.com open year-round every day 8th st. liquors open every day

WE HAVE THE NFL SUNDAY TICKET Happy Hour During All NFL Games 34 TVs & Big Screen In Surround Sound (Monday & Thursday Nights IncludedSpecials During NFL Games Only)

HAPPINESS

Participants of the 19th annual Fenwick Freeze are pictured on the Bayard Street beach New Year’s Day. The fundraiser collected $800 for the Fenwick Island Beach Patrol.

Submitted Photo

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6PM

MONDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT: 1/2 Price Wings (Some Flavors Not Available) TUESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT: $2 Beef, Pork Or Chicken Tacos $3 Tecate WEDNESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT: 1/2-Price-1/2-Pound Hand-Pattied Burgers (Some Burgers Do Not Apply) (Food Specials With Purchase Of Beverage Some Restrictions Apply) Friday 9:30pm Beats By DeoGee 80’s & 90’s $5 Crushes 9:30pm Saturday 9pm The Dunehounds Sunday 9:30pm Beats By Deogee Late Night Happy Hour Drinks 10pm Monday 9:30pm Karaoke w/ Wood $2 Natty Lights $3 Grenades 9:30pm Tuesday 9:30pm Beats By Wax $4 White Claw $4 Deep Eddy 9:30pm Wednesday 9:30 pm Beats By Deogee $4 Select Craft Beer & $5 Bulletts 6pm Thursday 9:30pm Beats By Wax $2.50 Domestics $3 Grenades $4 White Tea 9:30pm

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Town officials are celebrating the success of Fenwick Island’s 19th annual Fenwick Freeze.

On New Year’s Day, the Town of Fenwick Island the Fenwick Island Beach Committee hosted its 19th annual Fenwick Freeze, a fundraiser to support the Fenwick Island Beach Patrol. Officials report the event attracted more than 100 people and raised roughly $800.

“It was a blast,” said Councilwoman Jacque Napolitano, chair of the town’s beach committee. “A lot of people came out, and it was just a fun day for everybody.”

The Fenwick Freeze fundraiser is one of Fenwick Island’s more well-attended

yearly events. And while organizers were forced to cancel the 2021 fundraiser in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants were eager for its return the following years.

In 2023, for example, more than 200 attended the Fenwick Freeze, with roughly 100 people taking a plunge into the chilly waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The event raised $2,300.

“The year of COVID we didn’t have it,” Napolitano said last week. “But it seemed to be back up to par last year.”

Napolitano said funds raised from the Fenwick Freeze will go to support the Fenwick Island Beach Patrol. In years past, the money has gone to support the beach patrol’s year-end competition at the national level.

“It definitely supports our Fenwick Is-

land Beach Patrol for any supplies they might need for our summer season to serve the public,” Napolitano said.

The 19th annual Fenwick Freeze was held on the Bayard Street beach, with the plunge taking place at 10:30 a.m.

Napolitano said the event featured commemorative Fenwick Freeze T-shirts, free hot chocolate and a bonfire, which kept swimmers warm.

“We had a bonfire, a bunch of kids, and hot free hot chocolate for everyone,” Napolitano said.

Napolitano said between 100 and 130 community members turned out to Monday’s plunge. She said warmer weather contributed to the success of the Fenwick Freeze.

“It was a beautiful day,” she said, “sunny and fairly mild.”

Armed OC Car Jacking Results In 20-Year Sentence

January 5, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A Baltimore man convicted of armed robbery following a car theft in Ocean City was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with all but 12 years suspended.

Davarn M. Leach Jr., 18, was sentenced on Dec. 15 to 20 years in the Division of Correction for his conviction on the charge of armed robbery. Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian D. Shockley imposed the sentence and suspended all but 12 years, placing Leach on three years of supervised probation upon his release.

According to a release from the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, the armed robbery charge against Leach came after the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a call for service on Nov. 18, 2022. Officers were dispatched to Dorchester Street, where they spoke with a victim who stated he’d been standing near his vehicle when he was attacked by a group of three males.

“One of the males produced a silver semi-automatic handgun, pointed it at the victim’s head and then struck him with it while demanding money, car keys and a cell phone,” the release reads.

The suspects then stole the victim’s vehicle and other items and fled the scene. While the victim was transported to the hospital where he received treatment for a laceration that occurred during the assault, OCPD officers located the vehicle as it was DAVARN LEACH JR. fleeing west on Route 50. They alerted other law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction in the area.

The vehicle eventually crashed in Cambridge, according to law enforcement. It was then that police identified the passenger, Leach, as the robbery suspect. Officers located the victim’s car keys and debit card on Leach’s person at the time of his arrest, as well as a silver handgun which had been reported stolen from another vehicle in Ocean City earlier the same day.

Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser thanked the Ocean City Police Department and Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for their swift actions in response to the initial call for service and eventual traffic stop which resulted in Leach’s arrest and subsequent conviction.

Heiser also commended Assistant State’s Attorney Dempsey Stewart who prosecuted the case.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

Page 22

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

People in Society Families were excited for the 6 p.m. ball drop in Berlin on New Year’s Eve.

by Charlene Sharpe Featuring ose Helping Causes In e Resort Area

Lomax, Brad, Cata and Blaine Parks are pictured at the ball drop in Berlin on New Year’s Eve.

Grey, Brittany and Drew Lindsey watched the ball drop on New Year’s Eve in Berlin with Cindi and Dennis Krempel.

Je’Seka, Carter and Taylor mingled among the New Year’s Eve crowd in Berlin.

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club held a Christmas lunch at the Marlin Club Saturday, Dec. 9. Pictured are Doug and Debby Fischer.

Lena and John Parker attended the ball drop in Berlin on New Year’s Eve.

Myah and Alana Kogon bundled up to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin.

Cate Nellans, Deb Passwaters and Allison Early paused for a photo amid the New Year’s Eve crowd in Berlin.

Evelyn Nellans and Ava Sharpe, joined by James Nellans, are pictured at the kids ball drop on New Year’s Eve.

Past presidents of the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, Jerry Selig and Charlie Smith, wait patiently for the buffet line to open at the Optimist Christmas Lunch held Dec. 9 at the Marlin Club.

Officials Celebrate Winterfest Success

January 5, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials are celebrating the success of Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights.

Following a six-week run, the 31st annual Winterfest of Lights concluded on Sunday. Officials say they will now begin reviewing data and attendance numbers that will help them prepare for next year.

“Overall the event continues to be a successful undertaking for the Town,” Special Events Director Frank Miller said. “This year was a learning experience as we were able to see how our guests interacted with the hybrid feel of having both the trams as a service element and the walking path. We gained quite a bit of insight on what our attendees want and how they move through the event footprint – details we need to discuss internally.”

Winterfest officially opened to the public the Thursday before Thanksgiving and closed on New Year’s Eve, ahead of planned fireworks displays at both the downtown beach and Northside Park.

This year, the town introduced a hybrid model, which included both a walking element and a Winterfest Express tram ride with multiple “trolly” stops throughout Northside Park.

For decades, the Winterfest of Lights festival utilized Boardwalk trams to move people through the large lights display at

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Northside Park. In 2020, however, officials modified the festival to a walkthrough event in response to the COVID pandemic.

Those changes continued throughout the 2021 and 2022 seasons, with additional modifications made along the way. In 2022, for example, the town added a New Year’s Eve fireworks show at Northside Park to celebrate the end of the festival and the beginning of the new year.

In continuing their efforts to bring new elements to Winterfest of Lights, tourism officials earlier this year announced they would bring the traditional Boardwalk tram element back to Northside Park for 2023, albeit as an express tram ride. Officials said they would continue to maintain a walking path for visitors.

“In 2023, we’re going to bring back the trams,” Business and Tourism Development Director Tom Perlozzo said last year. “They appeal to a different demographic. We’re still going to maintain the walking path option. It will likely be a hybrid of the two elements.”

In an update Tuesday, Miller said officials have collected data on the 2023 Winterfest of Lights and will be reviewing final numbers in the coming days. He said staff would also continue in their efforts to improve the holiday lights festival.

“We will continue to push an increasingly valuable family experience while keeping the experience fresh and fun,” he said.

Page 23

An aerial view of the 2023 Winterfest of Lights display is pictured.

SACK

Photo Courtesy of Eye On Delmarva

ONE OF OUR NFL SPECIALS ALL WEEKEND! Steelers vs Ravens

Saturday Kickoff • 4:30pm

Gates Open at 11am

Get Here Early For A Good Seat Pound An Iron With Us...

Iron City On Tap! OC’s #1 Cheesesteak!

Great Food, Cold Brew & Friendly Service BUXY’S SALTY DOG OPEN THURSDAY - SUNDAY 11AM 410-289-BUXY • BUXYSSALTYDOG.COM

DRY DOCK 28

OPEN SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11AM

410-289-2828 • DRYDOCKOC.COM

28TH STREET • PLENTY OF PARKING

Page 24

Penguin Swim A Hit:

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

On New Year’s Day, 900-plus residents and visitors took a charitable plunge for the 30th Annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim, which raised about $109,000 for the community health system.

Photos by Chris Parypa

Dates Announced For Strategic Plan Sessions In Berlin

January 5, 2024

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Town leaders are encouraging residents to share their input at two strategic plan listening sessions in January.

The town will host two public input sessions, one on Wednesday, Jan. 10, and one on Wednesday, Jan 17, as the municipality’s strategic plan is being developed.

“I think it’s important for folks to be able to come out and voice what’s on their mind,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

The Town of Berlin hired Salisbury University’s Business Economic and Community Outreach Network (BEACON) in August to help develop a new strategic plan, as the town’s last one was done in 2016. The first phase of the process consisted of a community survey that was included with residents’ utility bills. While town officials weren’t pleased that only 110 survey responses were received, they agreed last month to have BEACON proceed with phase two of the process. That phase kicks off with the January listening sessions. The Jan. 10 session is scheduled to take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Berlin library.

The Jan. 17 session is scheduled for 6 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church.

Tyndall is hoping that a significant number of residents attend the sessions to share their thoughts, as the strategic plan will chart the town’s spending. He said it would impact how the town’s budget was handled and services offered.

“The strategic plan is designed to help guide overall spending for the next several years,” he said. “Having community input in that process is instrumental. It’s a document we’re going to look at annually that will carry us three to five years.”

Because the last strategic plan was done in 2016, Tyndall said this was the chance for citizens to provide input on current issues and items they felt needed attention. He said the sessions were designed to gather information.

“It’s really an open forum for anyone to bring ideas, or recommendations for what they’d like to see,” he said.

The town is currently in the process of working on not only its strategic plan but also its comprehensive plan. While the strategic plan focuses more on funding and services, the comprehensive plan is meant to address growth and development.

“They’re both important documents that span several years,” Tyndall said.

The Berlin Planning Commission launched discussions regarding the comprehensive plan in December and is expected to resume those talks in early 2024.

For more information on the strategic plan sessions, residents are invited to contact BEACON at 410-546-6001 or beacon@salisbury.edu.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 25

WHOLE HOUSE ELECTRICAL ASSESSMENT & SAFETY INSPECTION

A $249 VALUE FOR ONLY $99 • Check the electrical service panel and wiring • Tighten screws and lugs on circuit breakers to ensure proper functioning • Apply Noalox on branch circuits’ aluminum wires • Check all outlets with tester for loose connections, open grounds, neutral wires, proper polarity

• Test/inspect GFCI outlets and breakers • Check for double tapped breakers to eliminate overloading a circuit breaker • Survey for proper surge protection • Check smoke detectors and make recommendations for compliance with local electrical codes

Call 410-641-1434 Worcester County Lic. #M917 • Maryland Lic. # 3506

‘Shared Visions’ Exhibit Set For January At OC Center

Page 26

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OCEAN CITY — First Friday, Jan. 5 celebrates a collaboration between visual artists and writers during the 11th Annual “Shared Visions” exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. All are welcome to the free event that runs from 5-7 p.m. PKS Investments is sponsoring the complimentary refreshments.

“Shared Visions” is a collaboration of the literary word and visual art. The exhibition features 21 local writers and 26 artist members of the Art League of Ocean City. The writing submissions were reviewed by a panel that included industry professionals as well as local writers: Stephanie Fowler of Salt Water Media, Mickie Meinhardt of the Buzzed Word, Don and Gwen Lehman, Teresa Kinhart, Mary Leach, and Ruth Wanberg-Alcorn. This year, artists selected a poem or short prose written by the writers to use as inspiration for their artwork. Their creations include painting, photography, fiber art, mixed media, and more displayed alongside the writings that inspired them.

“This is the 11th year for the collab-

oration,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It is an inspired coming-together of words and images and demonstrates the different forms of self-expression.”

On Tuesday, Jan. 16 from 6-8 p.m., the writers will read their poetry and prose that inspired the artwork on display during a free event at the Arts Center, and the public is invited. Guests will enjoy live music and complimentary refreshments.

In January, the Sisson Galleria will feature an exhibit entitled “Home Sweet Home,” an all-media group show that explores what makes a house a home.

Subjects include household objects, interior views, domestic roles, and more, and cash prizes will be awarded to the winners by the show’s judge, Leslie Belloso.

The Studio Art Quilt Associates, Lower Eastern Shore Pod, display their imaginative quilt art in Studio E in January. The group includes six contemporary fiber artists from Maryland and Delaware who meet regularly to discuss their processes, dye fabric, and play

January 5, 2024

with fiber and who utilize fabric, yarn, thread, fabric manipulation, and unconventional materials in their works. The quilters on display include Dale AsheraDavis of Berlin, Md.; Elizabeth Berger of Bel Air, Md.; Susan Callahan of Frankford, Del.; Etta Stewart of Salisbury; Karen Stoll of Dagsboro, Del.; and Harriette Tuttle of Selbyville, Del. Kevin Harris is the Spotlight Gallery artist for January. A native of Chestertown, Md., Harris studied commercial art in high school and received a graphic arts degree from the Visual Arts Institute in Baltimore. “God and recovery are why I'm back painting on glass today,” Harris said. “The medium I use is acrylic latex paint. My rebirth as a painter occurred after 30 years of addiction. My work shows the struggles of African-American culture.”

Francesca Rendell of Cambridge, Md. occupies the Artisan Showcase in January. The jewelry designer handpicks pearls with beautiful luster and unique gemstones to design pieces of jewelry that are one-of-a-kind and organic.

The Art League’s satellite galleries also open new shows on First Friday.

Ruth Ann Kaufman shows her artwork in the lobby of the Princess Royale Hotel at 9110 Coastal Hwy. Kaufman, of Lewes, Del., works in watercolors and is inspired by nature, animals, sea creatures, and color. She is a signature member of the Delaware Watercolor Society, and her art has won awards in numerous juried exhibitions.

Madeline Patsel is the artist-in-residence at the Coffee Beanery at 94th Street and Coastal Highway. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design who majored in Fine Art/Painting, she moved to the Eastern Shore two years ago from Baltimore and is enjoying painting the new landscape that surrounds her.

Arts Center exhibits run through Jan. 27. Satellite gallery exhibits continue through March 30.

The Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St. is open daily until 4 p.m., and admission is always free.

More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.

KNITTING AND WEAVING

HERE’S MY CARD For More Information, Contact Pamela Green PHONE: 410-641-4563 • FAX: 410-641-0966 EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM UROLOGY SPECIALIST

ROOFING

licensed & Insured Ocean City #35727 Maryland #95090 Delaware #2007214173

• All New Roofs Carry 10-Year Warranty • All Jobs Inspected By Owner At Completion • Customers’ Satisfaction Guaranteed Over 25 Years Experience In Roofing & Siding

PIANO TUNING

QUALIFIED MECHANICS TO HELP WITH YOUR ROOFING NEEDS!

fOR a fRee estIMate Call OffICe: 410-289-1115 OR Call the OWneR DIReCt: 443-366-2786

302-212-9800

HOME, LAWN & PATIO SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL HOME ORGANIZER

Nick French • 443-783-8255 Nfrenchti@gmail.com CARPET CLEANING

meckservicesanddesigns@gmail.com MHIC #135919 DE #2018608353

hOMe, laWn & PatIO seRvICes

• Upholstery Cleaning • Carpet Cleaning • Oriental Rug Cleaning & Repair • Tile & Grout Cleaning

• General Repair & Maintenance • Pavers • hardscaping • Decking • landscaping • Outdoor living Contact us today for a free estimate!

LAWN CARE

Quality Service by Certified Technicians Since 1983

(302) 436-5652 www.brasurescarpetcare.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LANDSCAPING

Ken Walsh – 410-641-3762 est. 1977 • MhIC 8465 www.WalshHomeImprovementInc.com

LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available

Specializing In: Custom Additions, Kitchens, Baths

443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

Decatur Recognized: The Worcester County Commissioners congratulated the Stephen Decatur High School Seahawks football team on its 2023 State

Championship last month. The commissioners honored Seahawks Head Coach Jake Coleman, his assistant coaching staff and team members for their historic, undefeated season.

Submitted Photo

HERE’S MY CARD For More Information, Contact Pamela Green PHONE: 410-641-4561 • FAX: 410-641-0966 • EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM MVA LICENSED

BLINDS/SHADES

PERSONAL TRAINING

WAINWRIGHT’S TIRE CENTER INC.

PORCH COVERS

AMA Consulting & Business Svcs, Inc

AUTO

TAX RESOLUTION/CREDIT SERVICES We Solve Your Problems

Mae Phillips

SALES & SERVICE Custom Wheels Computer Wheel Alignment Lube & Oil Change Shocks & Struts

Exhaust Systems Air Conditioning & Brake Service Road Service – Truck & Farm

(434) 382-8920 11806 Sheppards Crossing Road Whaleyville, MD 21874 amaconsultingandbusiness@gmail.com www.amaconsultingbusiness.com

410-641-2000 • 18 Broad St. • Berlin

BOB NAILS IT

MHIC#76938

Del.#2007215731

HOME REPAIRS & IMPROVEMENTS

Quality You Can Depend On! OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 410-430-6817 bobnailsit@gmail.com

no appointments needed!

Open Tues.-Fri.: 8am-4:30pm Sat.: 8am-1pm 11022 Nicholas Lane, Unit #7 Ocean Pines, MD

MHIC# 142762

We now acccept

Walk-Ins Welcome,

MEN’S HAIR SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HANDYMAN SERVICES

443-235-6249 • ARTISTICRENOVATIONS.COM

410-973-2430

Page 28

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 443880-8444.

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 410629-9383 or Carol 302-242-7062.

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly sup-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do port 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. 302-4369577 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. 5-6: Children’s Theater Show The Ocean Pines Children's Theater’s "Mean Girls, Jr. - The Musical" will be performed at the Performing Arts Center, located in the Ocean City Convention Center on 40th Street in Ocean City, on Friday, Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 6 at 3 p.m. Tickets are available for $15 each and may be purchased online at https://www.ococean.com/performing-arts-center/upcoming-events/ or the Ocean City Conven-

January 5, 2024 tion Welcome Center, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Jan. 9: Monthly Meeting The monthly meeting of the Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association will be held at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 23rd Street and Coastal Highway. Special guest speaker will be Scott Lenox of "Fish In OC.” The topic will be flounder fishing. The public is cordially invited. Food and refreshments available from 6:15 p.m."

Jan. 9, 16, 23, 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 24:30 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.

Jan. 10, 17: Strategic Plan Sessions Salisbury University’s Business Economic and Community Outreach Network (BEACON) is currently seeking Berlin resident input on a new strategic plan. Town residents are invited to community listening sessions to share their opinions and ideas as the town plans for the future. There are currently two sessions planned, including Wednesday, Jan. 10, 10:30 a.m.-noon at the Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin and Wednesday, Jan. 17, 6-7:30 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin.

Jan. 12: Prayer Breakfast Greater Ocean City Chamber’s Dreams & Determination Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast will be held at 8 am in the Roland E. Powell Convention Center Bayfront Ballroom.

Individual tickets are $50 and can be purchased at https://bit.ly/47WnfBZ. For sponsorship information contact Amy Thompson via email: amy@oceancity.org.

Jan. 12: Crab Cake Dinner Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main Street, Berlin, will host from 4-6 p.m., carryout or eat-in. Cost is $14 for one crab cake sandwich with green beans, baked potato and cole slaw; $24 for two crab cake sandwiches with sides; and $10 for a single crab cake sandwich. Bake sale table available.

Jan. 12-18: Berlin Restaurant Week Townwide in Berlin. Pick up a ticket at the Berlin Welcome Center or participant restaurants. Dine out and get it stamped at three different restaurants. Place your card in the drawing box at the Welcome Center for a chance to win restaurant gift cards. facebook.com/townofberlinmd.

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 410-641-0966; or mail to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Pine’eer Craft Club Presents Annual Donations

January 5, 2024

BERLIN – The Pine’eer Craft Club installed new officers last month and presented thousands in annual donations and looked ahead to the club’s 50th anniversary in 2024.

Sharon Puser will continue as club president, and the luncheon served as a platform for Puser to reflect on the club's accomplishments throughout the year and offer a glimpse into 2024.

Also among the highlights, club treasurer Jane Wolnik presented a heartfelt token of appreciation on behalf of the club to Puser for her unwavering commitment and efforts.

The full list of officers named during the event were Sharon Puser, President; Kelly Shoaf Davis, 1st Vice President and Publicity; Linda Brindley, Recording Secretary; Michelle Winemiller, Corresponding Secretary; Jane Wolnik, Treasurer; Debbie Jiwa and Barbara Herzog, Co-Shop Managers and Holiday Craft Festival Chairs; Carol Quinto and Lois Schultz, Shop Treasurers; Bill Lobecker, Advisor and Meet the Artisan Chair; and Linda Sirianni, Advisor.

The executive board members are complemented by dedicated individuals in various pivotal roles: Tina Celia and Alison Webb Schweiger for shop display; Diane Denk, Desserts in the Park; Skip Flanagan, Historian; Jackie Choate, Hospitality; Sherry Waskey, Membership; Candy Foreman, Programs; and Lynn Gabeler, Bake Sales.

Since forming in 1974, the Craft Club has donated almost $200,000 to the Ocean Pines community. The club once again demonstrated its commitment to community support this year by generously contributing $7,000 in charitable donations: $1,800 to the Ocean Pines Police Department; $2,000 to the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department; $1,800 to Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks; $500 to Ocean Pines Public Works; $300 to the Ocean Pines Public Library; $500 to the Worcester County Veteran's Memorial Foundation; and $100 to Jim Hamlin from Neighborhood Watch.

Many of the groups listed had representatives at the luncheon, including Police Chief Timothy Robinson and new fire department President Joe Enste.

Looking ahead, the Craft Club extends an open invitation to former members to reconnect and take part in the upcoming special events celebrating the 50th anniversary throughout the year. For more information, contact Puser at opcraftclub@aol.com.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

New leaders of the Pine’eer Craft Club gathered for a review last month as well as a look ahead to planned activities in 2024.

Submitted Photo

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

COMMUNITY News In Photos

Leo Club teacher advisors Brittany Tracy and Marie Stevenson visited the Ocean City Lions Club to share the volunteer activities of the Stephen Decatur High School club. The Lions presented a $1,500 check to support the Leo Club’s efforts to serve the community. Pictured, left to right, are Tracy, Lion President Greg Cathell, Lions’ Leo representative Mike Hooper, Past District Governor Norm Cathell and Stevenson.

CraZy LadyZ, a local boutique, presented a check to Coastal Hospice for $6,490. The boutique does an annual fundraising trip where they pick a local charity on the lower Eastern Shore. CraZy LadyZ along with Braemar Travel match half of the contributions from their customers that sign up. Pictured from left to right are Tammy Patrick, Coastal Hospice director of advancement, Jan Patterson and Louise Reardon.

Submitted Photos

Delmarva Power recently donated $5,000 to the SU Foundation, Inc. through its 29th annual Delmarva Scholarship Golf Classic tournament. Pictured, from left, are Jason Curtin, Salisbury University vice president of advancement and executive director of the SU Foundation, Inc., Ashley Stern, SU Foundation chair, John Petito, Delmarva Power external affairs manager, and Marcus Beal, Delmarva Power Bay Region vice president.

The Worcester County Garden Club recently held a festive garden therapy workshop at the Gull Creek Senior Living Community in Berlin. Members brought flowers, greens, and supplies to the facility and helped residents make holiday mug arrangements that they could take back to their units. Pictured from left to right are Worcester County Garden Club members Cristie Ammann and Joan Huntt assisting Gull Creek residents.

OC Lions President Greg Cathell presents a $1,000 check to District Governor Kathy Crockett for the Lions Vision Research Foundation (LVRF). LVRF is a joint effort by the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, Lions Club International and Multiple District 22 Lions to provide treatment of low vision disorders. The efforts predominately address vision disorders such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and other conditions not corrected by glasses, surgery or medication.

Bill Hickey, past president of the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, recently donated winter coats to Showell Elementary School (SES). He is shown with Ashley Miller, the school counselor at SES.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

Page 31

STUDENTS In The News

Throughout the years, the Holiday Bazaar at Worcester Prep has grown and changed but one thing has remained the same – the overwhelming support of parents, faculty, alumni, trustees, and the local community. The bazaar was held on Dec. 2 featuring plenty of activities from one-of-a-kind decorated trees up for bid, to tasty treats provided by Rudolph’s Feed Bag Lunch Café. Attendees also enjoyed decadent homemade desserts at the Bakery, beverages at the Coffee & Cocoa stand, handmade items by local vendors, the ever-popular basket ticket auction and so much more. Above, siblings Charlize, Estelle, Jude, and Gabriella Damouni of Lewes, Del., shared their love with Santa. Below, Santa shared a candy cane with WPS kindergartner Harper Hunt of Selbyville, Del., on his way into the event.

The PreK-3 students at Ocean City Elementary showed off their holiday, surprising their elf "Jingle" with ornaments to color and hang on their classroom tree. Pictured are students from Kara Casale and Grace Heflin's PreK-3 class with their special ornaments.

Submitted Photos

Announcements BERLIN – The following represents a collection of press releases sent to this publication announcing the achievements of local students.

• Julia Kessler of Berlin was one of 60 SUNY Oneonta honorees who received the Richard Siegfried Student Award in the fall 2023 semester for earning a total GPA of 3.9 or higher. To be eligible for the award, a student who meets the GPA requirement must either be a full-time firstyear or transfer student.

Students received the award on Dec. 5 following the annual Richard Siegfried Junior Faculty Prize for Academic Excellence Lecture. Dr. Matthew Unangst, assistant professor of history at SUNY Oneonta, was this year's Junior Faculty Prize recipient. He delivered this year's Richard Siegfried Lecture, titled "Then is Now: History as Politics in Germany, Tanzania, and Beyond," in the Morris Conference Center on campus.

• The Dean's List for the 2023 fall semester at Bridgewater College has been

announced by Dr. Leona A. Sevick, provost and executive vice president. Students from this area named to the Dean's List were Rafe Parsons, a business administration major from Berlin, and Estrella Ramos, a music major from Selbyville, Del. • Gideon Dean of Berlin received three International Student Broadcasting Championship (ISBC) awards for his work in radio. The ISBC competition allows students to pursue networking opportunities, talent and brand development, and promising career prospects within the media industry. The competition covers radio broadcasting, video and digital content creation, and e-sports broadcasting, focusing on quality over quantity.

Dean is studying Music Industry at SUNY Oneonta, pursuing a career in country music radio. The ISBC awards he won were Rising Star, Best Specialty Show and Best Social Media Execution.

• Alexander Jett of Ocean City qualified for Belmont University's Fall 2023 Dean's

List. Approximately 52 percent of Belmont's 7,338 undergraduate students qualified.

• Patrick Thomas Cassat was among the more than 2,900 candidates for graduation in the University of Georgia's Class of 2023. Cassat, of Selbyville, Del., received a degree in Communication Studies.

• The George K. Miles Civil Engineering Memorial Scholarship is awarded each year to students who plan to attend college to pursue a degree in civil engineering. Miles is a former partner at GMB and was involved in a variety of civil engineering projects throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. His brother, William Miles, was a founding member of GMB in 1960.

The Thomas S. George Architectural Memorial Scholarship is intended for a student who plans to attend college to pursue a degree in architecture. The award is named for one of the founders of GMB. George was instrumental in the design of many buildings throughout the

Delmarva Peninsula, including several schools.

The 2023 recipients of the George K. Miles Civil Engineering Memorial Scholarship and Thomas S. George Architectural Memorial Scholarship were: Ella Esham: Graduated from Pocomoke High School in Pocomoke City. She is currently studying Civil Engineering at Frostburg State University.

Braylon Haubert: Graduated from Manchester Valley High School in Manchester. He is attending The University of Tennessee with a major in Civil Engineering.

Jessica Beck: Graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in Berlin. She is attending Catholic University of America with a concentration in both Engineering and Architecture.

• Jadyn Carroll of Berlin graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in English and Criminal Justice from Hartwick College during last spring’s ceremony.

Page 32

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 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 COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, Jan. 12: Shortcut Sunny Saturday, Jan. 13: DJ Giddy Up, First Class CORK BAR Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Saturday, Jan. 6: Rogue Citizens CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Jan. 5: Jason Lee Wednesday, Jan. 10: 10th Anniversary: Taylor Knox, Hurricane Kevin CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, Jan. 5: Josh Pryor Trio Saturday, Jan. 6: Rogue Citizens FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Jan. 5: DJ RobCee Saturday, Jan. 6: DJ Groove

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Jan. 5

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Jan. 6

JASON LEE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Jan. 5

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

DJ RUPE Harborside: Friday & Saturday, Jan. 5 & 6

BRIAN K. HALL Greene Turtle North: Friday, Jan. 5

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday, Jan. 5

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays, Sundays, & Wednesdays

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 33

Who’s Where When

ROGUE CITIZENS Cork Bar: Saturday, Jan. 6 • 3 p.m.

Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Jan. 6 • 8 p.m.

CELLAR SESSIONS Seacrets: Saturday, Jan. 6

FULL CIRCLE DUO Seacrets: Friday, Jan. 5 & Thursday, Jan. 11

THE FREDDIE LONG BAND Seacrets: Saturday, Jan. 6

The Dispatch Can Be Viewed In Its Entirety

ONLINE

THE DUNEHOUNDS Pickles Pub: Saturday, Jan. 6

TAYLOR KNOX & HURRICANE KEVIN 10TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, Jan. 10

CECILIA’S FALL Harborside: Saturday, Jan. 6

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, Jan. 7

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. 5: DJ Rupe Saturday, Jan. 6: Cecilia’s Fall DJ Rupe Sunday, Jan. 7: Opposite Directions PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, Jan. 6: The Dunehounds Sundays: Beats By DeoGee Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Deogee Thursdays: Beats By Wax PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Saturday, Jan. 6: TBA SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Jan. 5: DJ Tuff, Full Circle Duo, Saturday, Jan. 6: DJ Bobby O, The Freddie Long Band, Cellar Sessions Thursday, Jan. 11: Full Circle Duo

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

Easy Navigation Featuring Latest Page-Flip Technology

Page 34

Company Recognized WILLARDS – The Daily Record has named Deeley Insurance Group as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Maryland.

The awards are held in partnership with Best Companies Group.

Best Companies to Work for in Maryland identifies, recognizes and honors the best places of employment in the state. It is a research-driven program from Best Companies Group that examines a company’s practices, programs and benefits, and surveys employees for their perspectives.

To be considered, companies must be a publicly or privately held business; be a for-profit or not-for-profit business or government entity; have a facility in the state of Maryland; have at least 15 full- or parttime employees working in Maryland; and be in business a minimum of one year.

There were two parts used to determine the rankings. The first consisted of evaluating each nominated company’s workplace policies, practices and demographics, worth approximately 25% of the total evaluation. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience, which consisted of 75% of the total. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking.

“The 2023 Best Companies to Work for in Maryland honorees know what it means to create a culture in their organizations that results in teamwork and excellence.

They are champions of business who know that the people in their companies are the keys to their success,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of Bridge Tower Media/The Daily Record.

“Our industry has changed a lot in recent years,” notes Laura Deeley Bren, president of Deeley Insurance Group, “but our philosophy has stayed the same: we always focus on our people. Collaboration is our way of life here, and every person has a vital role to play. We hire to fit our culture, and empower our team to be their best every day. When our clients need us, we show up and we’ve got their back.”

Jill Gormley, Deeley’s director of human resources, sums up the secret to their success, stating, “As the employment landscape has evolved, we listened to our staff and adapted to meet the needs of our team. We’re celebrating our 95th anniversary in 2024, and we plan to always be a Best Company to Work For!”

Renovations Complete FRUITLAND – Gillis Gilkerson’s construction team recently completed exten-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Business & Real Estate News

The Ocean Pines Association recently honored five employees for their combined 70 years of service. The brief recognition ceremony occurred during the annual staff holiday party at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. Those honored were Ventre Moore, five years; Steve Phillips, five years; Jonathan Brown, 10 years; Kenneth “Butch” Kennedy, 20 years; and Kevin Goldberg, 30 years. The honorees are pictured above with their awards.

Submitted Photo

sive renovations at Crown Sports Center, a hub for sports and recreation in the midshore region.

The state-of-the-art complex features 120,000 square feet of temperature-controlled environment that includes six indoor turf fields, hard-surface courts, batting cages and family entertainment areas, plus an additional 10.5 acres of outdoor Bermuda grass sports fields. Gillis Gilker-son’s development team purchased Crown Sports Center in April 2021, and have been working to transform the athletic and entertainment facility with a variety of enhancements and additions.

Improvements made to the family recreation complex include new turf fields, batting cages, pickleball courts, basketball courts, refreshed interiors and an exciting ‘Clip ‘N Climb’ feature that combines unique shapes, bright colors, and cuttingedge safety technology that makes indoor rock climbing exciting and accessible to everyone ages four and up. The exterior received a fresh coat of paint paired with an exciting mural done by local artist duo We Are Limitless Studios, giving the center a vibrant, modern look.

“Since we purchased the business back in 2021, our team has been dedicated to breathing new life into the center. From

the very start, we have been planning physical renovations, in addition to programming updates,” said Brad Gillis, principal of Gillis Gilkerson. “We wanted to reimagine the space. We now have so many more amenities for the community to enjoy. The Clip-n-Climb feature is exceptional, I think everyone should try it out.”

The GGI team has introduced futsal, pickleball, wiffleball and kickball tournaments, and expanded its youth and adult sports leagues, social leagues, and dropin offerings. “Crown Care” before- and after-school programs have been redeveloped, as well as summer camps and education classes and the in-house eatery, Striker’s Café, has been overhauled with a new look and menu. The team has even brought in Salisbury’s very first Major Arena Soccer League 3 (MASL3) semi-pro arena soccer franchise – The Salisbury Steaks.

“These new physical improvements are the icing on the cake,” said Joey Gilkerson, principal of Gillis Gilkerson. “We are thrilled with the job our Gillis Gilkerson construction team did to make these transformations come to life. The Crown Sports team has done such a great job working with us to modernize and strengthen Crown’s service to the community.”

January 5, 2024

Apprenticeship Graduates SALISBURY – The inaugural class of the Powerline Worker Pre-Apprenticeship program graduated on Dec. 20, 2023.

Seven participants completed this 13week program offered by Wor-Wic Community College through a partnership with Choptank Electric Cooperative and the Virginia, Maryland, Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC).

“We are proud of these graduates and cannot wait to see the success they will undoubtably have in their careers as powerline workers,” said Mike Malandro, president and CEO of Choptank Electric. “This partnership with Wor-Wic Community College and the VMDAEC supports the future of the industry and provides first-hand training for lineworkers right here on the Eastern Shore.”

The Powerline Worker Pre-Apprenticeship program is grant-funded, so it is offered at no cost for chosen applicants who live or work in Maryland. The grant also covers subsequent CDL training of successful program graduates. Much of the hands-on training is conducted at Choptank Electric’s Regional Service Center facility in Salisbury, right across from the program’s classroom instruction at WorWic Community College.

Program instruction covers OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid/AED, and ATSSA Traffic Control trainings with the goal of students obtaining certifications. Students will gain knowledge of the power industry including power generation, transmission, distribution, and industry safety and standards.

Students will have hands-on experience with climbing, setting, and pulling poles, proper rigging and framing, bucket truck inspection, maintenance and operation, and electrical test equipment.

“Not only will these men make good linemen, but they are all really good people, and that is what matters most,” said Jerone Mabe, Powerline Worker PreApprenticeship program instructor and manager of Technical Services for VMDAEC. Alan Scruggs, vice president of safety and training services at VMDAEC, addressed the graduates at the ceremony on Dec. 20 and shared these final remarks, “You now have an insight into one of the best careers imaginable. My advice to you after my 30 years in the co-op family: Never quit learning, always ask questions, and most importantly, always make safety the top priority for you, your families, and your co-workers.”

The program will begin its second cohort in February of 2024.

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 36

Things I Like...

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

January 5, 2024

WITH BUNK MANN

By Steve Green A warm start to a New Year

Passionate letters to the editor A big charcuterie board

Penguin Swim costumes

Listening to a church sermon while driving a long distance

Church bells on Sunday in Berlin

Not making New Year’s resolutions Long weekends at home

Old sayings that still ring true A puppy’s smooth belly Warm cookies

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): The from last year. Resolve them so that new year holds promise for all you you can move on to tackle more rewarding situations.

Lambs who know how to ANSWERS take advan- ON PAGE 46 tage of the opportunities out there.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): The key is keeping a positive attitude. Developments in the year ahead can TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): O- be more challenging than you had exver the course of this new year, you pected, but the rewards will be well beautiful Bovines will continue bull- worth your efforts. dozing the barriers that stand beSAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. tween you and the success of your 21): You are the Philosopher of the Zolong-term plans. diac, and your wisdom will go a long GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): The way in helping you deal with the chalnew year kicks off with a major deci- lenges of the upcoming year. sion about a job change that could inCAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): volve a lot of travel. The choice you Take stock of what you propose to do make could influence other decisions in the new year and get started as down the line. soon as possible. On another note, CANCER (June 21 to July 22): last year's critics turn into this year's Familial relationships continue to admirers. have a strong influence on whatever AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): long-term decisions you make involv- This year, the typically gentle Water ing both your career and your per- Bearer can reveal a hidden streak of sonal life. steel that few people suspected you LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Any de- had; they will be surprised to see how cisions that you put off making last you use it. year should be confronted and dealt PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Alwith as soon as possible. You need to though new friends open up different clear away the past and make room social vistas, your penchant for privafor the future. cy is still strong and allows you the VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Last quiet time you need to indulge in your year's disappointments are history. creative gifts.

Expect to see more opportunities oBORN THIS WEEK: You have deep pening up and waiting for you to use reservoirs of strength that give you exthem to your advantage. traordinary staying power amid the LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): You most difficult conditions. still have some trouble spots lingering © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

A permanent Boardwalk was constructed in 1885 and extended for eight blocks along the oceanfront. Styles were more formal in the 1880s and 1890s — men in suits and ties and ladies in long dresses and big hats were normal attire for strolling Ocean City’s early Boardwalk.

Both the Boardwalk and beach were narrow in those days and on high tide the ocean would come up close to the Boardwalk and into the streets — all of which were unpaved.

Ocean City’s first restaurant can be seen on the left of this postcard.

Opened by George Conner in 1892, it offered food and drinks to the excursionists who took the railroad to spend an afternoon at the beach. It is likely the people pictured were part of one of those popular railroad excursions.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingPostcard image from Bunk Mann’s collection oc.com.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 46

January 5, 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

HELP WANTED 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.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING! •GENERAL CLERICAL •BOAT YARD ATTENDANT •NIGHTWATCH

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com

— Check Here First ! —

For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071 AA/EOE

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 ART/SALES ASSISTANT Red Sun Custom Apparel has an opening for an Art/Sales Assistant This is an entry level position that requires hard work and excellent organization skills. Full time $17.00 per hour.

To apply, please email: bregan@redsuncustom.com

ROOMMATE

REAL ESTATE

ROOM FOR RENT: Shared House. $150 week, Includes utilities. No smoking/pets.

Call 443-513-0190

FOR SALE OCEANSIDE MOTEL

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

OCEAN PINES Year-round Fully furnished Room for rent in a beautiful home, to share, in South Ocean Pines.

Full house privileges, all utilities included.

Only $800 month No smoking. No pets.

Call 443-880-2317

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

5 story building: 28 large efficiency units with elevator and pool.

Principals only.

866-872-9159 THE DISPATCH IS ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM & TWITTER

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

FOR SALE DINING ROOM TABLE AND HUTCH: READY FOR THE HOLIDAY DINNERS? Beautiful solid wood dining set.

Table seats 8-10 with two leaves.

Lighted China Cabinet with glass shelving. Selling because moved & too big for dining area. $500 Please call or text 443-880-8885.

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

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

Call 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––

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

Even teeny ones Lost and forgotten.

THE DISPATCH IS IN PRINT & ONLINE • WWW.MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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:

Are You Getting Your Daily Buzz?

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

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

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

“Thank you so much for keeping us aware for those of us not in Ocean City.”

“I wait my whole day for my daily buzz!”

SIGN UP AT WWW.MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM AND JOIN THE 15,000-PLUS WHO RECEIVE THE NEWS BEFORE IT’S PRINTED

ROBERT L. MARVEL, JR. ESQ. 108 EAST MARKET STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19645 To all persons interested in the estate of DONALD ORAN CULVER, Estate No. 19645. Notice is given that ERIC CARL CULVER, whose address is 8080 STEVENS ROAD, SALISBURY, MD

21804, was on DECEMBER 15, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of DONALD ORAN CULVER, who died on OCTOBER 27, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of JUNE, 2024.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the

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

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 DECEMBER 22, 2023

ERIC CARL CULVER 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 12-22, 12-29, 1-5

Third Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 38

January 5, 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.

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20007

To all persons interested in the estate of ANDREW DEREK DAVIES, Estate No. 20007. Notice is given that REBECCA GSELL, whose address is 10656 WORTON ROAD, WORTON, MD 21678, was on DECEMBER 14, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of ANDREW DEREK DAVIES, who died on DECEMBER 9, 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 14th day of JUNE, 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 DECEMBER 22, 2023

REBECCA GSELL 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 12-22, 12-29, 1-5

Third Insertion B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES, PA 204 WEST GREEN STREET PO BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20011 To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA O. HUDSON, Estate No. 20011.

Notice is given that G. KIRK HUDSON, whose address is 105 S. CHURCH STREET, SNOW HILL, MD 21863, was on DECEMBER 18, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of BARBARA O. HUDSON, who died on DECEMBER 3, 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 18th day of JUNE, 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 DECEMBER 22, 2023 G. KIRK HUDSON

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 12-22, 12-29, 1-5

Second Insertion J. HARRISON PHILLIPS, III ESQ. 8705 BISCAYNE DRIVE OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19959 To all persons interested in the estate of ANTIONETTE VIRGINIA LOMBARDI WAGNER, AKA: TONI VIRGINIA WAGNER, ANTIONETTE VIRGINIA WAGNER, Estate No. 19959. Notice is given that MICHELE WAGNER KAIL, whose address is 6112 TORRISDALE VIEW, COLORADO SPRINGS, 80927, was on DECEMBER 27, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANTIONETTE VIRGINIA LOMBARDI WAGNER, who died on JULY 2, 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 27th day of JUNE, 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

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 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 DECEMBER 29, 2023 MICHELE WAGNER KAIL 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 12-29, 1-5, 1-12

First Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20008

(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 5, 2024 JOSEPH REINHART 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 1-5, 1-12, 1-19

First Insertion To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN MARCELLA REINHART, Estate No. 20008. Notice is given that JOSEPH REINHART, whose address is 28 FALCON BRIDGE ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on DECEMBER 21, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN MARCELLA REINHART, who died on SEPTEMBER 3, 2023, without a will.

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

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20022 To all persons interested in the estate of PATRICK F. BROWN, Estate No. 20022.

Notice is given that KAITIYN J. BROWN, whose address is PSC 46, BOX 175, APOAE, AE 09469, was on DECEMBER 29, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PATRICK F. BROWN, who died on DECEMBER 19, 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 29TH day of JUNE, 2024.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the un-

dersigned 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 5, 2024 KAITLIN J. BROWN 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 1-5, 1-12, 1-19

First Insertion B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES, PA 204 WEST GREEN STREET PO BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20024 To all persons interested in the estate of KENNETH WILLIAM RANTZ, JR, Estate No. 20024. Notice is given that CAROL ANNE RANTZ, whose address is 1718 DUN SWAMP ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851, was on JANUARY 2, 2024, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KENNETH WILLIAM RANTZ, JR, who died on DECEMBER 17, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the

January 5, 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. estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of 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 writ-

ten notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the credi- tor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not pre- sented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unen- forceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper:

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 5, 2024 CAROL ANNE RANTZ 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 1-5, 1-12, 1-19

First Insertion ABANDONED VESSEL Notice is hereby given that the following vessel has been abandoned for 180 days.

The vessel is described as: MD 5904S, 1973 DELHI, 14FT, GRAY Identification : #DEM4087M73J,.

Located at : The property of Zachary T Hall, 6309 Knoll

Hill Drive, Berlin MD 21811, 443-235-1778. Application for Title will be made in accordance with Section 8-722 of the Annotated Code of Maryland, Natural Resoures Article, if this vessel is not claimed and removed from the above property within 30 days of notice.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 5, 2024 1x 1-5

Fenwick Marijuana Ban Approved

Page 40

Judy Center Coming To Buckingham

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – An ordinance banning the operation of marijuana facilities in Fenwick Island is now law.

At its most recent meeting, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance banning the operation of marijuana manufacturing, testing or retail facilities on second reading. The ordinance, officials say, follows state statutes and supports the community’s wishes to ban such facilities in town.

“The end result is that we are prohibiting those activities in town,” said Mayor Natalie Magdeburger. “Given that this is a

second reading, I would move that we accept the second reading and pass that as an ordinance of law.”

Last year, the topic of recreational marijuana was referred to the charter and ordinance committee for review. With new laws legalizing recreational marijuana now in effect, the committee in recent months began exploring the town’s options for banning manufacturing and sales.

In October, the committee voted to forward a draft ordinance to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

The ban, officials say, would also apply to existing businesses and would only apply to the corporate limits of Fenwick Island.

Quantities are limited. While supplies last.

January 2024

$

1699

$

999

Milwaukee Kit Bold Line Blue Chalk 100Ft Milwaukee 48-22-3982...

1389378

Large Arktik Blast High-Vis Gloves 3/4 Dip textured latex palm gloves with high-vis green...

3980331

$

599

$

2-1/2-Oz. Gorilla® Construction Adhesive Ideal for small projects on all surfaces.

5121413

29-Pc. Screwdriver Set Includes: #1, 2, 3 PH bits; #6, #8, #10 Slotted bits; #1, #2...

6090203

1899

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – A grant from the Maryland State Department of Education will allow for the expansion of early learning programming at Buckingham Elementary School.

Thanks to a $330,000 grant from the Maryland State Department of Education, a Judy Center Early Learning Hub is being established at Buckingham Elementary School. The Judy Center, like those already established at Snow Hill and Pocomoke elementary schools, will promote school readiness for children under five.

“Last year 66% of kindergarten students entered Buckingham fully ready for school,” Principal Chris Welch said.

“It is our hope that with the addition of the Judy Center that all families will have the support and opportunities to ensure school readiness for all children.”

According to the Maryland State Department of Education, Judy Centers, named for Judith P. Hoyer, prepare students for success in school and life.

The centers, located within Title I schools, are unique in meeting the needs of their communities. Welch said the Buckingham center would be part of the Worcester County Judy Center Hub, which includes Pocomoke and

January 5, 2024

Snow Hill. The MSDE grant will provide funding to improve school readiness for students birth to age five.

She said examples of programs would include parent education regarding issues like potty training and dealing with difficult behaviors. The Judy Center will also feature the Frog Street Home Education Program, as a home educator is included in the grant.

The program provides kids between six months and four years old with books and curriculum to ensure school readiness.

“Our Frog Street program runs during school hours, September through May,” Worcester County’s Judy Center website reads. “Our Home Educator guides the family through the Frog Street curriculum, materials and works with the parent and child in their home.

Our students are invited to attend exciting evening events, family nights, field trips, and parent workshops.”

Along with a home educator, the grant provides funding for a Buckingham Elementary School site coordinator, who oversees all the programs, and a family service coordinator.

The Judy Center will also assist families with things like vision and dental screenings, and provide support for anything else parents might need to ensure their kids are kindergarten ready.

Pines Group Begins Budget Review

January 5, 2024

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – An Ocean Pines committee began its annual review of the proposed 2024-2025 budget this week.

On Wednesday, General Manager John Viola presented members of the Ocean Pines Budget and Finance Committee with the coming year’s proposed spending plan, which reflects total revenues and operating expenses of $15,313,061, bulkhead replacement expenses of $1,117,212 and capital expenditures of $2,076,916.

Viola noted that the proposed budget also included a $36 assessment reduction.

“When I look at it, total revenues are up over last year’s budget in this budget, what we’re projecting,” he said. “Total expenditures by this association, by our departments, are higher than the last budget. Our replacement costs are higher. And the assessment decreased $36. Obviously for that to happen, we are operating on all cylinders.”

Viola told committee members the preliminary budget also includes salary increases resulting from statutory wage increases and inflation. He said there are no planned increases in full-time equivalents.

“It’s not that we’re increasing FTEs,” he said. “We are now filling positions that we talked about in public works that we struggled with for several years, like everyone else. And we do have the lifeguards, and we are hearing good things about this year. So we are filling all the positions. You might see a slight increase in seasonal because of the hours … but it’s not an increase in headcount.”

Committee members last week met with representatives from each of the association’s departments to review spending plans for the coming fiscal year. Viola said the association has budgeted a 5% increase in salaries.

He noted, however, that that increase was an average across all departments.

“It will not be 4% or 5% across the board,” he said. “It will be a range.

Hopefully 2 to 6%.”

Under the general maintenance budget, Public Works Director Eddie Wells presented a budget that was 5% more than the current fiscal year.

“We didn’t change our budget a whole lot from last year, we just had a couple things go up and down because of the way the economy is,” he said.

“We tried to keep it as tight as we could and produce like we always have.”

Committee Chair Doug Parks noted the general maintenance budget included $212,000 for repairs and maintenance of association facilities. He said it was a reduction from the current fiscal year.

“There was some mention of some repairs to the beach club,” he said. “I would assume you have scaled that appropriately and that there’s enough money for any planned repairs to the

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

beach club.”

Viola said he believed the line item to be sufficient. He noted improvements at the beach club would be completed in-house.

“We believe we’re comfortable with that,” he said. “If not, during the course of the year, we’ll come forward.”

During the committee’s review of the police department budget, Chief Tim Robinson presented the department’s plans for updating its policies and procedures and hiring a part-time property evidence technician. When asked about staffing, officials noted the department had seven openings.

“It’s tough to hire when I’m competing against all these police departments …,” Robinson said. “Were trying to make ourselves competitive in the marketplace.”

Viola noted that the department has implemented salary adjustments, retirement benefits and a take-home car policy in an effort to compete with other agencies.

“We are now in the ballpark,” he said.

Committee members also met with representatives from the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department and the Ocean Pines Golf Club. Viola noted that “golf is the economic engine driving this budget.”

Viola noted a $100 increase in the golf club’s membership fees. Committee member Colette Horn, however, questioned the rationale behind that decision.

“Given that this amenity is the economic engine and its covering maintenance, operations and nearly all depreciation, what is the rationale in that modest increase?” she asked.

Viola noted that the Ocean Pines Golf Club had the lowest membership fees in the area.

“We are way cheaper than everyone around us,” he said.

Following a review of each department’s budget, association leadership presented committee members with a summary of general replacement reserves and capital projects. Officials noted the capital budget included funding for golf course irrigation and two new police vehicles and $84,000 for electronic signs, among other things.

“The $84,000 on the signs includes what’s already been approved and what’s going to happen this year, probably in about five or six weeks, the sign at the North Gate, priced at about $21,000 …,” he explained. “This isn’t approved but it was put in there based upon what we heard at board meetings, that possibly there could be another four signs.”

Following a four-hour-long meeting, Parks applauded association staff for their efforts.

“The fact we did this in a day is a testament to their good work,” he said.

A budget review by the Ocean Pines Board of Directors is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 11-12. The association’s fiscal year begins on May 1 of each year and ends on April 30 of the next calendar year.

Page 41

TRUSTS

Trust Planning To: • Protect Assets • Protect Children • Protect Privacy • Simplify, and 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 NEW LOCATION

• Avoid Probate

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

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

Call us for a free 30 minute phone consultation.

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

Liquor And Wine (On Orders Of $50 Or More)

Liquor And Wine

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Must bring in coupon. Expires 1.26.24 • MCD

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

Page 42

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024

OBITUARIES Patrick Brown OCEAN PINES – Patrick Brown, 62, of Ocean Pines, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023. He was a loving husband. He was a caring father. He was a loyal brother.

Born in Baltimore, Pat was the son of the late Mick and Jean Brown.

He helped found the Towson University chapter of Kappa Sigma. He was an athlete in his PATRICK youth and later found BROWN great pride and fulfillment coaching lacrosse at Briar Woods High School in Ashburn, Va. After 20 years away, Pat returned to Ocean Pines in 2020 to spend his retirement close to friends, family and salt water. He loved spending time with those he loved, whether it be golfing, fishing on his boat or spending an evening by the wood stove.

Pat was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Brown; his brother, Mickey Brown; and two sisters, Diane and Kerry Brown.

Pat is survived by his daughter, Katie Brown and her husband Zachary Hoyle; a brother, Terry Brown; two sisters, Donna Angelozzi and Debbie Dougherty; several nieces, nephews and inlaws; and his grand-dog, Chief.

Services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to ALS United Mid-Atlantic, 321 Norristown Road, Suite 260, Ambler, PA 19002 (https://alsmidatlantic.org/waysto-give/make-a-tribute-gift/).

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Lisa Ann Cropper BERLIN – On Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023, Lisa Ann Cropper, 60, loving mother to three children, went peacefully into the arms of the Lord at the John B. Parsons Assisted Living Community.

She died after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Born in Lackawanna, N.Y. on December LISA ANN 24, 1963, she was the CROPPER daughter of Michael and Lisa Zurat.

On Oct. 3, 1987, she married Richard

Cropper Jr. They raised three beautiful children, Richard, Anna, and Corey.

Lisa had a passion for reading, animals, church and helping others. She was known for her love of ice cream and sitting outside in the sunshine.

Lisa was preceded in death by her father, Michael Zurat. She is survived by her mother, Lisa Zurat; her brother David Zurat; her half-sister Shannon and her half-brother Colin; her son Richard Cropper and his wife Jami Cropper; her daughter Anna Cropper (Travis); her son Corey Cropper (Mallory); and three grandchildren who she loved Sophia, Aubree and Levi Cropper.

A prayer will be held in her name at Saint Peters Lutheran Church of Ocean City and Wilson United Methodist Church of Bishopville on Sunday, Jan. 7.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her name to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 54879, Los Angeles, Calif. 90054 or the Worcester County Humane Society, 12330 Eagles Nest Rd, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Ronald ZuWallack WEST OCEAN CITY – Ronald ZuWallack, 79, of West Ocean City, passed away, surrounded by loving family, on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at Atlantic General Hospital.

Born on Nov. 10, 1944, in New Haven, Conn., Ron and his family became residents in the Catonsville area. Ron graduated from St. Mark’s Elementary School, Catonsville High School, and Catonsville Community College. Ron also served in the Army National Guard of Maryland and was honorably discharged in 1972.

Being a natural born salesman with lots of charm, Ron entered the high-tech world and sold computers for various well-known companies. After a while, he developed an interest in flooring and spent his last working years selling and installing many different floor coverings.

Ron loved life and his family. He was a very positive person who saw the “glass as half full” and he had the ability to fix just about anything that was broken. He was kind, honest, generous, and funny (he made everyone laugh).

He had a reputation as a jokester and

Are You Getting Your Daily Buzz?

Local News Articles Delivered Daily To Your Inbox

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING …

“I really enjoy getting the Daily Buzz articles.

They are informative, helpful and well-written.

This was a great idea. Thank you.”

“Love the Daily Buzz” “I very much enjoy the daily news updates.”

“I love your emails. ... Keep them coming!

“Thank you so much for keeping us aware for those of us not in Ocean City.”

“I love getting The Dispatch by email daily (or just a little taste of it!). Thank you!”

SIGN UP AT WWW.MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM AND JOIN THE 15,000-PLUS WHO RECEIVE THE NEWS BEFORE IT’S PRINTED

everyone loved being with him. He loved and enjoyed boats, being on the water, walks on the beach, arcade games, puttputt, and especially children and animals. He had many pets over his lifetime and he loved and spoiled all of them.

Ron was very loved and is greatly missed.

There is and was only one Ronnie Z (The Z Man).

Ron leaved behind “the love of his life” Margaret, his loving son, Barret, his tight-knit family, which includes his brothers, Robert and Fred, his sister, Mary, and their families. His grandsons and his many nieces and nephews always remember fondly their fun adventures with their “Uncle Ronnie”. He left all of us with many outstanding memories.

Ron’s dying wishes included being cremated and a memorial mass at St. Mark’s Chapel in Catonsville, to be held on Jan. 11, 2024, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Ron asked folks to make donations in his name to his favorite charities: The Worcester County Humane Society, 12330 Eagles Nest Rd. Berlin, Md. 21811 and The Defenders of Animal Rights, 14412 Old York Rd. Phoenix, Md. 21131. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Many thanks to those who loved and helped Ronnie over the years with his health challenges. Thank you also for your prayers, kind thoughts, and expressions of sympathy. Your heartfelt wishes are greatly appreciated.

Mary A. Wright FENWICK ISLAND – Mary A. Wright, age 85, of Fenwick Island, Del., died Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at Macky and Pam Stansell Hospice House in Ocean Pines.

She was born in Glen Cove, N.Y. and was the daughter of the late Stanley Fraser and Adelaide Carey (Humphrey) Fraser.

She was a wife, mother and grandmother. Mary was a member of St. Paul's by the Sea Episcopal Church in Ocean City, past president of St. Paul's Alter Guild, a volunteer at Shepherd's Crook Food Pantry and past president of FenMARY A. wick Island Ladies Club.

WRIGHT She is survived by three children, Tracey E. Wright of Silver Spring, Kristan F. Wimbish and husband Paul of Annapolis and Matthew C. Wright of Ocean City; a sister, Susan Bixby of Bethany Beach, Del; three grandchildren, Kyle J. Wimbish, James and Elizabeth Cavanaugh.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles L. Wright and a brother, William Fraser.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, at St. Paul's by the Sea Episcopal Church 302 Baltimore Ave. Ocean City, Md. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Paul's by the Sea Episcopal Church, 302 N. Baltimore

Ave., Ocean City, Md. 21842.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Rhea Ireland Wiles BERLIN – Rhea Ireland Wiles passed away at her home on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, in the arms of her husband Tony.

Born in Milford, Del. in 1939, she was the daughter of the late Fred Ireland and Losetta Jester Ireland. She grew up in Ellendale, Del. where her father was a rural mail carrier.

Rhea was a 1957 graduate of Milford High School and was still connected with many of her former classmates. In high school, she was a multi-sport athlete, president of the student council and a Representative to Girls State and Girls Nation. She RHEA then entered Western WILES Maryland College (McDaniel) on a Methodist scholarship and continued to excel in academics and as an athlete. She was Chairperson of the Judicial Board, recognized in Who’s Who in American Colleges and was voted the Homecoming Queen and a member of the May court.

After college, she and Tony were married and eventually resided in New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida.

Initially she worked for the New Jersey Employment Agency, and upon relocating to Virginia she had a long, successful career in real estate with Wellborn, Chimney House and Long & Foster. She earned many awards for her real estate production and service and influenced her two sons to pursue careers in real estate. Rhea continued to love sports throughout her life, especially golf, and was proud of the hole in one she made at age 80. Rhea was a quietly kind, strong and religious woman who raised a generation of children and grandchildren in her image. She never met a stranger and loved all who came into contact with her, unconditionally and without judgement.

She is survived by Tony, her husband of 62 years; her sister, Fredetta McCormick; her two sons, Kevin Wiles (Tracey), and Jamie Wiles (Holly); her daughter Kelly Loiacono (John); her nine grandchildren, Johnny Loiacono, Billy Wiles, Joey Loiacono, Taylor Wiles, Cami Wiles, Sienna Wiles, Samantha Wiles, Edy Loiacono, and Tanner Wiles.

She is also survived by her two nieces, Kathy McCormick and Siobhan Christiansen, and her nephew, Jim McCormick.

A memorial service was held on Jan. 4, 2024, at Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, Md. 21811. A reception and fellowship immediately followed.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via Burbage Funeral Home at www.burbagefuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin. PayPal: Berlin-Bethany United Methodist Church.

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

Page 44

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 CHANTAL APPLE Account Executive capple@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 5, 2024

What Will County Do With Property New Tax Revenue?

How We See It

“Without Ocean City, Worcester County would be Somerset County,” former Worcester County Commissioner Granville Trimper once said in the face of concerns from south-end commissioners about Ocean City favoritism.

Though it was said in a frustrated state back in the late 1990s, Trimper’s comments remain accurate today, particularly when it comes to tax revenue. Look no further than the latest round of property reassessments in Worcester County for evidence.

Ocean City’s residential and commercial properties were evaluated in the most recent process. The result was an astonishing 46% spike in overall property values. For residential only, a 48% increase was seen, from $7.8 billion in

2021 to $11.5 billion in 2024. For commercial only, there was a 33% jump over three years, from $926 million to $1.2 billion. In total, Ocean City’s residential and commercial property values jump from $8.7 billion to $12.8 billion.

A statewide comparison shows Worcester led the state in property value increase when residential and commercial are evaluated together. These incredible spikes in property will bring in millions of dollars of new tax revenue to the county.

Since most residential properties in Ocean City are second homes and not eligible for the Homestead Tax Credit, the county has hit the property tax lottery.

How much in new revenue exactly will come into the county will come into focus in the spring, but it will be in the millions.

It's a good situation for the county’s elected officials to be in, but it comes with pressure as residents and businesses expect proper decisions to follow this windfall. The new funding must be put to good use and not simply banked to boost reserves and budget stabilization accounts to irresponsible levels. A property tax decrease is unlikely, but some of this pot of new funding from Ocean City should certainly be used for education and ensuring the county’s educators do not continue to look elsewhere for employment.

All eyes will be on the County Commissioners to ensure proper discretion is used with these new funds, which need to be directed toward the greatest immediate needs of this county.

Letters To The Editor Juvenile Services Requires Attention Editor: I would like to enlighten Worcester County residents of the punishments enforced upon our youths within our county by employees of Worcester County's Department of Juvenile Services and judges of the county's Drug Court program.

Many youths who commit non-drugrelated minor misdemeanor crimes are forced to comply with Worcester County's brutal Drug Court program.

I know of a 14-year-old Worcester County youth who committed a destruction of property crime of a storage box that was valued at less than $100 and was forced to adhere to Worcester County's Drug Court program. The kid smoked marijuana, just as many teens do, and was forced to submit to drug tests. When he tested positive for marijuana, he was punished many times by being sentenced to be detained at the juvenile detention center in Salisbury causing the youth to miss school.

Upon testing positive for marijuana multiple times, he was sentenced by a Worcester County judge to be detained at The Jackson Unit treatment center for 60 days where he was deprived of an education and during critical learning years of a teen's life.

Upon returning home, he was tested for inhalants and tested positive for Phenol, which is a chemical found within inhalants. The problem is, Phenol is found in many foods including fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, cocoa, and numerous other foods and a Worcester County judge once again sentenced him to be detained at The Jackson Unit for 60 days based on an inclusive test and when the youth claimed that he had not done any inhalants. This caused the youth to quit school.

A few months afterward he tested positive for marijuana and cocaine and this time he was mercilessly and brutally punished by being sentenced to be detained in Salisbury’s detention center for approximately 30 days and then sent off to Backbone & Meadow Mountain Youth Centers in the Westernmost mountainous region of

Maryland for approximately five months.

Although he was a non-violent kid, he was detained among violent, criminalminded youths and abusive guards and was assaulted, threatened to be stabbed, and threatened to be killed among other horrific incidents.

In essence, members of Worcester County’s DJS and judges of the county’s Drug Court mercilessly and severely punished/tortured a non-violent, pot-smoking, mischievous teen via sentencing him to be detained among violent and abusive teens and guards for numerous months, while depriving him of a much-needed education during his critical teen years and causing him to quit high school.

This is just one of many horror stories I’ve heard about kids who are being mercilessly punished by Worcester County’s DJS and Drug Court program. With Maryland’s legislature commencing on Jan. 10, I will be corresponding with members of the Judicial Committee to urge them to implement major reforms within our county’s uncivil and inhumane punishments of our kids and I urge other Worcester County residents who are aware of similar horror stories to do the same.

These Barbaric punishments are what you would expect to be happening during the Medieval Era in the 1500s – not 21st Century America – and these inhumane and uncivilized punishments must cease ASAP. Andy Berges Berlin

Moving Ahead United Editor: On Jan. 1, 2014, I embarked on a journey of profound honor and responsibility as the IAFF President of the Career Firefighters, Paramedics, & Fire Marshals for the Town of Ocean City. Envisioning a tenure of perhaps four years, little did I realize that this path would immerse me deeply into the realms of leadership and commitment, transcending my initial expectations.

As I step into my 11th year in this role, I reflect on the evolution of our union, a journey marked by growth and a strength-

ened voice in our mission to serve and protect. Our narrative is one of resilience, having navigated through the shadows cast by a challenging period under a previous administration. Yet, through unity and an unwavering focus on our service, we emerged stronger, forging a harmonious relationship with our Mayor & Council, City Manager, and, most importantly, with the community we are dedicated to safeguard.

The cornerstone of our strength lies in the solidarity and involvement of our union members. Their active participation in community activities not only exemplifies their dedication but also fortifies the very essence of our union. Their resilience, particularly through the tumultuous times of 2020, has been the bedrock of our collective strength.

Looking ahead to 2024, alongside our newly elected officers, our vision is set on the continued growth and excellence of our department and town. Our commitment to providing exemplary service remains steadfast, fueled by the trust and support of an incredible community that has always stood by public safety.

To every firefighter, paramedic, EMT, and Fire Marshal who continues to serve with great courage and compassion: your efforts are the lifeblood of our town's safety and well-being. To our esteemed community, your unwavering support and faith in us are not just appreciated – they are the pillars upon which we build a safer, more vibrant Ocean City.

As your IAFF President, I stand proud of our collective achievements and optimistic about the future we are crafting together. Thank you for entrusting me with this noble responsibility. Together, we march forward, united in our purpose and strengthened by our shared experiences.

Ryan Whittington Ocean City

Support For School Board Editor: Thank you to the six members of the Worcester County Board of Education who voted on Dec. 19 to deny two mo-

SEE NEXT PAGE

January 5, 2024

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor tions designed to restrict student access to school library materials. Your votes demonstrated your support for the most vested stakeholders in Worcester County’s education system–the students, parents of students enrolled in the public schools, and the teachers who use their professional knowledge and judgment in good faith every day. All education decisions are complex.

No decision will “please all of the people all of the time.” Determining what book content is appropriate for children is certainly one of those complex decisions.

Your vote on Dec. 19, while certainly not resolving an ages-old debate about uncomfortable content, navigated the complexity of the issue. By prioritizing the principles of public education and trusting the professional judgment of licensed teachers, you made the best possible decision to meet the needs of all students, equitably, without judgment. Recent statements in the public comment portion of Board meetings have included, verbatim, the rhetoric of the national group, Moms for Liberty.

Those impersonal and inflammatory sound bytes should not preempt the lived experience of the many families whose children attend Worcester County Schools.

On December 19th, the Board of Education heard those families’ stories and chose local voices over voices parroting national propaganda. The Board heard our library professionals explain the existing book review process that protects the rights of parents without restricting access for students.

The board should be commended for remaining open to all points of view, but ultimately recognizing its responsibilities under public education law and tradition, and for honoring its most vested stakeholders.

Nancy L. Michelson Ocean Pines

Examples Of Misconduct Editor: I saw a meme on social media a few days ago that really got me thinking. It was: “Statism - the belief that a group of people who can’t fix potholes can fix an entire planet.”

Now this is fairly simplistic, and of course most potholes do eventually (very eventually) get fixed, but I started wondering why so many Americans allow the government (at all levels) to dictate their life choices - such as the type of system with which they choose to heat and cool their homes, the type of appliances they can use, the cars they can buy. There are so many examples of government incompetence and malfeasance it can make your head spin.

To name a few: As a nation we are almost $34,000,000,000,000.00 in debt (a figure which does not include unfunded liabilities in Social Security and Medicare). Of that amount, easily several trillion is due to the aforesaid “incompetence and malfeasance”, such as the theft of as much as $80 billion or about 10% of the $800 billion handed out in the Covid Relief plan known as the Paycheck Protection Plan, or PPP. That money purchased a lot of Lamborginis, Ferraris and Teslas, mansions, private jet flights and swanky vaca-

tions. That’s on top of the $90 billion to $400 billion believed to have been stolen from the $900 billion Covid unemployment relief program - at least half taken by international fraudsters. (See NBCNews.com March 28, 2022).

Another example of incompetence is the budget of the Dept. of Homeland Security which, according to “Budget-in-Brief FY 2023 at dhs.gov, easily exceeds $95 billion this year. I don’t know about you, but the fact that at least 8 million illegal immigrants have crossed our southern border in the least three years, unvetted, unvaccinated, and handed cell phones and welfare exceeding the average unemployment benefit for Americans with an order to show up in immigration court in the future (at this point the date is 2031) and then put on busses and planes and shipped all over the country, doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence in our government experts.

For other examples of waste, fraud and abuse, you can read the “Festivus Report” by Senator Rand Paul. If you dare.

And then there’s the $7.5 billion in funding for the manufacture of EV battery chargers contained in the 2021 “infrastructure bill” - to date, not one charger has been built. This is really unbelievable malfeasance seeing as more and more states (including Maryland) are following California’s example of green policy that requires that a huge percentage of cars sold in the state must be electric vehicles within the next 10 - 12 years.(Politico.com 12/05/23).

On a more local level, how about that 2024 Baltimore City Department of Public Works “A Sustainable Baltimore” calendar printed and distributed to city residents at taxpayer expense? The calendar omits Oct. 22 and adds an extra day (the 31st) to both September and November. (Baltimorefishbowl.com).

Have you ever driven into our Nation’s Capitol on Route 50? Are you embarrassed by the trash and weeds on the sides of the road? This is the first impression many visitors have of Washington, D.C. Where are the Depts. of Public Works of DC, Maryland and Prince George’s County? All these jurisdictions proudly tout their “Green” bona fides on their websites. I’m sorry, but trash and weeds don’t say “green”’ to me, they say incompetent, uncaring, fraudulent waste of taxpayer funds, etc.

The threats from the “experts” about climate change are becoming more dire and terrifying all the time - In the United Kingdom, citizens are being warned that humans are fueling Global Warming just by breathing. And Al Gore’s latest hysteria is warning that “a billion climate refugees could be crossing borders” if we don’t do as he says.

I simply do not understand why so many people believe government “experts” who can’t manage to keep track of trillions of dollars, won’t manage our border, can’t design an accurate calendar or fix potholes and keep the streets free of weeds and debris (in some of our major cities that ‘debris” includes human feces and used needles).

Can anyone help me out here?

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

Page 45

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green In this first issue of 2024, I offer some predictions for what will make news in the weeks and months ahead.

•The Appellate Court of Maryland will uphold the lower court’s decision to dismiss charges against Tyler Mailloux in the death of local teenager Gavin Knupp. The Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office will then refile multiple charges in District Court. A plea agreement will be reached in exchange for a short jail sentence.

•The Town of Ocean City will file a lawsuit against the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management after the agency approves the US Wind project. The litigation will slow the process, resulting in no significant action on offshore wind development.

•The Oceans Calling Festival will return with another widely successful three-day event but this time Mother Nature is generous with warm, sunny weather.

•A second large-scale music festival will be announced for the weekend following Oceans Calling, but it will feature country artists and offer about half of the acts and a smaller footprint.

•Throughout the year, the subject of inappropriate books and calls for book bans will continue to be heard in public comment sections of Worcester County Board of Education meetings.

•The Worcester County Commissioners will look beyond the public outcry and the influx of increased property tax revenue from Ocean City’s reassessment, approving in a 4-3 vote only Maintenance of Effort funding for the local school system for the second straight year.

•Worcester County Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor will make official his intent to not serve beyond his current four-year contract, which expires in July 2025. The announcement allows the school board to begin in 2024 the process of conducting a national search with the Maryland Association of Boards of Education to replace Taylor, the long-time former Decatur principal who was appointed to the superintendent post in 2016.

•Buckingham Elementary School’s reconstruction effort will remain in a state of uncertainty as the Interagency Commission on School Construction favors a different strategy. The IAC views an expanded Berlin Intermediate as a more viable option, resulting in the county and legislative officials continuing to fight the new approach. Gov. Wes Moore opts to not get involved in the controversy despite letters from citizens to intervene. While the Buckingham story will remain in the news throughout the year, no significant changes will take place as far as progress on construction.

•The Maryland General Assembly will have to hold a special summer legislative session due to financial adjustments needed with a weary economy.

•The Ocean City Fire Department will make outreach efforts to try and help struggling fire companies in the area overcome emergency labor issues. The move is a result of rural companies in the county losing full-time employees to Ocean City over the recent boosts in pay offered to new and returning resort paramedics.

•With election results eerily similar to 2020, President Biden will be reelected to a second term in a rematch with Republican Donald Trump. Despite his name not being allowed on several states’ ballots due to ongoing litigation, Republican voters advanced Trump through the primary.

•Stephen Decatur’s varsity football team will fall short in its repeat state champion bid, but still dominate the Bayside and advance to the final four in the state playoffs.

•Long-time Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins will announce his retirement in 2024.

•The Ocean City real estate market will see a surge in condominium listings after property owners opt for selling in the face of increased condominium fees associated with spikes in insurance and building reserve fund charges.

•The addition of a new foundation at the historic Henry Hotel will be a photographer’s dream. The project will require the hotel to be lifted for an extended period of time while contractors build a foundation underneath the existing structure. The work is funded by a $250,000 state grant.

•Construction on the smaller version of the Margaritaville hotel project will begin in Ocean City.

•The Maryland General Assembly will approve enabling legislation to allow for a room tax increase from 5% to 6% in Worcester County. However, the County Commissioners do not unanimously favor the increase, meaning the change is denied.

•Connections to a proposed Wawa in Berlin will return to the planning commission with a historic look mirroring the current store in Williamsburg, Va. •A traffic light is approved by the state for the intersection of Route 50 and North Main Street.

•The White Marlin Open will set a new purse and boat participant record in August.

•The year will end with the future of the Route 90 reconstruction project much in doubt as it becomes mired in politics and budget concerns.

•The monster truck event planned for the weekend in between Cruisin and Sunfest in October will be delayed until 2025 after logistical concerns are raised over too many special events happening over consecutive weekends in Ocean City.

•The Baltimore Ravens will defeat the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl, thanks to a last-minute rushing touchdown by quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

T

The Adventures

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 36

St. Paul’s

Episcopal Church 3 Church Street Berlin MD 410~641~4066

JOIN US FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP In Person Services 8:30 a.m. (no music) 10:30 a.m. (with music) With Livestream On Our Facebook Page St. Paul’s Episcopal Church - Berlin, MD www.stpaulsberlin.org

he short holiday week won this week, and I can’t seem to get my thoughts together for this space. Therefore, here’s an older column from January 2021 of some experiences with my sons, who are now 15 and 14 years old.

The 12-year-old kid in the house has a different view of independence than his parents.

Independence is something to be earned not given. In Beckett’s mind, he should be allowed to do what he wants simply because a friend or two can. Entitlement comes to mind when listening to his rationalization.

If a friend can stay on his phone until 11 p.m. on a school night, our son thinks he should as well. If a group of friends can walk around town past dark, he thinks he’s entitled to as well. If a friend can download a violent game on the Xbox, he feels inclined to do the same without permission. The list of examples grows daily, but he’s 12 years old and there are certain things he should not be able to do.

There’s no question kids are growing up too fast these days, thanks to social media. There is much more to discover at young ages these days. Our pre-teen knows far too much about far too many adult things than he should. Kids his age have a lot of access at their fingertips and they can communicate amongst themselves easily these days compared to when I was growing up.

When I was Beckett’s age, there was the neighborhood, school, sports and a landline phone. These were the ways I talked with friends. Nowadays, there’s all those options but also cell phones, Snapchat, text, Facetime, videogaming and other apps.

These opportunities do not necessarily mean there is maturation along the way. That’s why at his age we are suspicious of our kid, eavesdrop on his conversations and monitor his phone daily including being able to see where he is

$ 00

1 OFF

Any 3-, 4-, 5-Litre Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 1-31-24 • MCD

15% OFF

Cheers!

Any Case Of Wine

Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 1-31-24 • MCD

10% OFF

750 ml/1.5 L Bottle Of Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 1-31-24 • MCD

January 5, 2024

BEER • WINE • SODA Open 7 Days A Week Mon.-Thurs., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 7 a.m.-10 p.m. & Sun., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Gas • Ice Cigarettes 410-641-2366 • Main St. & Old O.C. Blvd., Berlin, Md.

of Fatherhood at any given time. If he deletes or hides messages or turns off the app disabling his location settings, he loses his phone.

We are not being strict in our mind. We are being responsible and logical.

Beckett abhors the consistent oversight. He is fond of telling us we do not trust him and stricter than his friends’ parents. We agree, pointing to instances in the recent past when he has not been straight with us. He has been caught in flat lies occasionally, but most of the time it’s just not telling us everything he should intentionally. Although that sounds like the same thing, there are slight differences than outright lying.

One morning Beckett asked politely for me to stop opening his snaps on Snapchat at night. I told him I can’t do that because he’s 12 years old and we need to know what’s happening to keep him safe. He then tried to explain how it works. He said not replying to an opened snap is akin to telling friends you are disinterested and don’t care about what they are saying. He said it’s like ignoring someone. I told him I understand what it’s like to be ignored (since I am a parent), but it’s not a huge deal to not respond to so-and-so’s picture of an ‘S’ (signifying the continuation of a streak and continuous days of communication).

As an attempt at compromise, I told him I would screenshot any snap I opened. He rolled his eyes and said that would be even worse before saying “fine” and storming off. I later looked and discovered it’s a no-no evidently in the Snapchat world to screenshot a snap.

I can’t say this is an aspect of parenting I adore.

“T

o get better at skateboarding.”

That was the response from Beckett, 12, when I asked him what his New Year’s resolution was for 2021.

When I asked Carson, 11, he just pointed back at me, wanting to know

mine. I said it was to lose weight I had gained over the pandemic. He needed to think about it.

I initiated the conversation with my kids after coming across an article about funny New Year’s Eve resolutions from kids. Since my own boys offered nothing interesting, I figured I would share some I found noteworthy from a variety of online sites.

Joey, 10: My New Year’s resolution is to not eat as much sugar. But I probably won’t keep it.

Hadssah, 7: I am going to stop picking my nose. It is going to be hard.

Declan, 11; My New Year’s resolution is to eat 10 bags of clementines each month.

Kendra, 6: So? What is the point of making resolutions if you never really keep them?

Maggie, 13: To make it through the year without seeing my mom do the whip, please God. Kate, 8: My resolution is to stop biting my nails because my mom says she is going to make me wear nail polish that tastes like rotten eggs if I don’t.

Annie, 5: I am going to help doggies like if they are stuck on cliffs.

Jude, 7: I resolve to eat more bananas because I only two or three everyday.

Ross, 9: I won’t give myself unsanctioned haircuts.

Kenny, 5: I will color on paper and not on walls.

Ben, 7: I will try to eat the occasional vegetable without bribery.

Luke, 4: I will sleep in my bed all night.

Via, 10: Be nicer to my sisters and that’s going to be a super hard one.

Kate, 9: I will work to become either a famous ice dancer or a great singer.

Kleeb, 3: To stop crapping in my pants so much.

(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.)

Locally INSIDE SEATING & CARRYOUT Famous OPEN 7 A.M. DAILY For 46 Years!

Cafe

Breakfast Try Our Casino Omelette SUBS • SANDWICHES 410-213-1804 12736 Ocean Gateway Rt. 50 West Ocean City (Located by Comfort Inn Suites Across From Outback Steak House)

January 5, 2024

Open Thursday-Sunday At Noon 131st Street • Ocean City 410-250-2000 Albertinosoc.com

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OFF SEASON SPECIALS

Page 47

THE BEST BRICK OVEN PIZZA IN OCEAN CITY

Friday & Saturday 4-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday Noon-3 p.m.

—— All Day Sunday —— PRIME RIB NIGHT $12.95 ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-MENU Queen $22.95 • King $29.95 French Onion Soup • Garden —— Thursday 4 p.m. —— or Caesar Salad • Marinara with Choice of Pasta Pizza By The Slice

1/2-PRICE PASTA Cheese • Pepperoni • Margarita • Veggy Bianco ENTREES Quattro Formaggi (white pizza) • Albertino (Add $5 To Seafood Entrees)

(No sharing, no carry out, no changes. Subject to availability)

HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY $2.95 Dom. Drafts, Bottles & Select Rails • $1 Off Craft Drafts

NFL CARRY-OUT SPECIAL

——- ALL WEEKEND! ——BUY ANY PIZZA GET 2ND 1/2-PRICE (EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE. CARRY-OUT ONLY)

NFL Specials All Weekend friday, Saturday & Sunday open to cloSe

13005 coastal Hwy. • 410-250-3337 friday-Sunday 11 a.m.

Happy Hour Specials — all day during open Hours —

“WHERE EVERY HOUR IS HAPPY HOUR”

$5 orange cruSHeS $2.95 dom. draftS, BottleS & Select railS $3.95 wine By tHe glaSS $1.75 natural ligHt canS

all-youcraB leg mania 5 clusters, 1/2-lb. Steamed can-eat Spiced Shrimp, Hush BaBy Back puppies & french fries riBS & JumBo $39.95 Smoked wingS or á la carte $8.95 $19.95 per cluSter

— Hot Steamed craBS — Buy 6 craBS get 1/2-lB. Steamed Spiced SHrimp free Buy 1, 2 or 3 dozen & get 1-lB Steamed Spiced SHrimp free

$5 off $5 off pretzelS all Hall of fame BurgerS witH Beer & cHicken SandwicHeS cHeeSeSteak cHeeSe SandwicHeS Reg. $17.95 • Now $12.95

Melted craft beer cheese served with warm pretzel rods

$12.95

JumBo lump craBcake Reg. $26.95 • Now $21.95 corned Beef, cole Slaw & ruSSian dreSSing Reg. $16.95 • Now $11.95 many more to cHooSe!

Reg. $15.95 • Now $11.95

Happy Hour SpecialS

— BBQ platterS — BriSket and Burnt endS:

Served with baked beans, coleslaw and cornbread $19.95

Smoked BriSket: Large portion of brisket served with coleslaw, baked beans and cornbread $22.95 1/2 riBS, BriSket and Burnt endS: Served with baked beans, coleslaw and cornbread $29.95

Page 48

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

January 5, 2024