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November 19, 2021

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Resort Reviews Visitor Perceptions

See Page 4 • Photo by Chris Parypa

Middle School Addition Underway

Assateague’s Beauty:

Assateague Island can be a photographer’s dream for its natural beauty and this Photos by Chris Parypa week was certainly one of those times.

See Page 6 • Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Decatur Football Advances In Md.

See Page 41 • Photo by Vince Risser

Officials Modify School Calendar

See Page 7 • Photo by Charlene Sharpe

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November 19, 2021

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Independent Survey Results Detail OC’s Positives, Perception

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An overview of an independent study on visitor perception of Ocean City this week was generally positive, although it is clear the resort still has areas to work on.

As part of Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo’s overall attempt to identify Ocean City’s brand and how to best direct its tourism and marketing resources, the town contracted with independent research firm OpinionWorks to conduct visitor surveys.

OpinionWorks President Steve Raabe presented a detailed report on the perception study to the Ocean City Tourism Commission this week. Perlozzo said the study provided a lot of insight into perceptions of the town from frequent visitors, one-time visitors and even those

who have never been.

“We ran across a few things,” he said.

“People often think perception is the reality. We need to look at this with an open mind.”

Perlozzo said closing the gap between perception and reality continues to be a challenge.

“There is definitely a gap in the mindset,” he said. “We want to learn what our customers think. We are attempting to change the page. I’m excited about what we learned.”

Raabe outlined his methodology and the perceptions of the different demographics of those surveyed and interviewed.

“The purpose is to evaluate the Ocean City brand and look at how visitors perceive the town,” he said. “There might be some things in here you know are wrong, but we need to care about what

November 19, 2021

the visitors think. It’s almost all good news.”

The perception study painted a clearer picture of where visitors to Ocean City come from, what they tend to do when they are in the resort and what they like and don’t like.

“We need to find your core market and identify new markets,” he said. “This highlights your strengths and also identifies weaknesses or soft spots. We know perception doesn’t always match reality.”

Through the process, OpinionWorks conducted over 5,500 interviews and intercepts with the general public including those who frequent Ocean City and those who rarely visit or have never visited. The perception survey also included 10 in-depth interviews with conference planners, travel writers and critics and other travel influencers.

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Perhaps the biggest takeaway is that among the 5,500-plus visitors surveyed, 91% rated their overall experience in Ocean City as a positive one. Just 9% of those surveyed rated their experience as negative, for a ratio of about 10:1.

In terms of the town’s perceived strengths, most of those polled said Ocean City was fun with a lot of things to do, and that it represented the beach and relaxation. Others pointed out Ocean City was generally family-oriented and a traditional beach town with a good variety of restaurants and the potential for an active vacation.

According to Raabe, among the challenges identified in the survey, some opined Ocean City was a busy place in the summer and often overcrowded with heavy traffic. Some saw Ocean City as a little dated and limited, an opinion popular among meeting and event planners.

Others pointed out the accommodations were expensive and there were fewer nationally-recognized brands than in other resort areas. However, the latter cuts both ways as many surveyed indicated a “deep and emotional connection” with Ocean City and its traditions.

Raabe said the survey indicated some of those polled thought the town’s accommodations were overpriced, particularly in the height of the season.

“There is definitely a motif that accommodations are a little pricey,” he said.

“That’s a little bit of a challenge. The core audience is somewhat older, working class and a little bit lower on the income scale. That’s the base and you want to build on that.”

Raabe also said the traditional hotels and motels draw a significant number of visitors pining for nostalgia and the vacations of their past.

“Ocean City has the potential to build on what you have with traditional accommodations,” he said. “Local flavor is very important. A lot of what you have is already on the road to be attractive for a lot of visitors.”

Raabe said those surveyed were asked to use three words that best described their perception of Ocean City.

He said one stand out was the beaches are free, likely because much of the target audience is coming from New York and New Jersey where visitors often have to pay to use the beaches. Other words to describe Ocean City that popped up frequently in the surveys were calm, peaceful, rested, relaxed, content, happy, fun, excited, nostalgic and comfortable.

Those surveyed were also asked what activities they took part in while they were in the resort. The beach, Boardwalk and shopping were the top three. Also making the list were the rides and amusements, fishing, boating, golfing, water sports, nightlife and entertainment.

Of the 9% who rated their Ocean City experience as negative, chief among their reasons were the perceptions of crime and safety issues, crowds and traffic, the atmosphere was disorderly and chaotic at times and that it was generally too expensive.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 5

Needed Addition To Decatur Middle School Now Underway

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

Officials are pictured at the ceremonial start to an $11 million addition project for the north-end middle school.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BERLIN – Local officials celebrated the start of construction of a new wing at Stephen Decatur Middle School with a groundbreaking ceremony this week.

School system representatives and elected officials gathered at Stephen Decatur Middle Wednesday morning to celebrate the start of construction of the school’s long-awaited addition.

“Certainly it is a very, very proud day,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said. “We all recognize that this addition is a project this school has needed practically since its doors opened in 1997.”

The $11 million addition has been identified as a need by school system officials for years, as the middle school has nine portable classrooms and was crowded when it opened. Funding constraints limited the size of the structure built in 1997.

“At that time we projected how the north end community would grow, and while the initial project didn’t ultimately include this necessary 25,000 square foot addition, we are grateful to be able to add this much needed space today,” Taylor said. “One of our board members, Dr. Jon Andes, one of his first projects as superintendent was to build Stephen Decatur Middle School. Twentyplus years later I’m trying to finish it for Dr. Andes.”

Principal Lynne Barton thanked Taylor as well as everyone who supported the project.

“The journey to this day has been one filled with great promise, hard work and partnership by everyone here today,” she said.

The 25,000-square-foot addition will provide the school with 12 additional classrooms, four science labs, meeting and prep space and additional storage space – for general use as well as for the middle school’s renowned band program.

“This addition also represents upgrades in two critical areas as well – safety and technology,” Taylor said.

“First, the renovation includes the elimination of nine portable classrooms and the creation of a secure entry vestibule much like the one built as part of Showell Elementary School.”

Taylor praised the school system’s relationship with Becker Morgan Group and Whiting-Turner Contracting and thanked elected officials – the Worcester County Board of Education and the Worcester County Commissioners as well as the Eastern Shore Delegation – for their support for the project.

“I have to say that being a part of events like today’s groundbreaking is truly the joyous part of being a member of our board of education…,” said Elena McComas, president of the school board. “Thank you to all of you here today, and know that no matter your role in this project, your work here will forever make a positive imprint on our community and we are incredibly grateful.”

Worcester School Calendar Modified

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 7

Asynchronous Days Eyed Before Holidays

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – The Worcester County Board of Education modified the school calendar Tuesday to incorporate three half days and distance learning to address mental health concerns.

The school board on Tuesday unanimously approved a recommendation from Superintendent Lou Taylor to make Dec. 17 a half day and to have distance learning rather than in-person learning on Dec. 20, 21 and 22. He also recommended half days on March 11 and May 6.

“As many of us know or have experienced personally, the sustained trauma from the pandemic has brought a new set of challenges to school systems not only here in Worcester but across our country,” Taylor said. “We know that quality education cannot take place within our classrooms if our students, faculty and staff are not whole and what I mean by that, both physically and mentally.”

Taylor said that while the leadership team was already working on providing resources for staff to support their mental health, he was also suggesting calendar modifications.

“In the proposal you see before you, we have an early dismissal day on Friday, Dec. 17 to provide time for teachers to prepare for the following Monday through Wednesday, which as you can see, those days have been identified as distance learning days,” he said. “This will allow our students and staff to participate in learning activities from the comforts of their homes before we officially begin our winter break on the 23rd.”

The three days before winter break for the holidays will be asynchronous, meaning students will not be required to log in to Zoom classes with teachers.

Work will be assigned for students to complete on their own schedule without online classrooms.

“We’re trying to make it a little bit of a relief for parents and kids,” said Beth Shockley-Lynch, president of the Worcester County Teachers Association, in an interview Thursday. “There will be no Zooming.”

She said a committee would be meeting next week to determine exactly how the three distance learning days would be handled. She stressed that educators would try to keep things as simple as possible.

“Kids are under stress too,” Shockley-Lynch said.

As the calendar modifications were presented Tuesday, Taylor added that the proposal also included half days on March 11 and May 6.

“As you know, balancing the legal and contractual requirements of our calendar is not easy but I am happy to share these modifications would not extend our school year any further, as both distance learning and early dismissal

days meet the requirements of a full day under the state’s 180-day requirement,” he said.

The school boarded voted unanimously to approve the changes. The changes in Worcester come just a week after the Wicomico County Board of Education modified its calendar to include one early dismissal day each month.

“We fully recognize this change in the calendar could result in challenges for some parents who may need to find additional childcare,” Wicomico Superintendent Donna Hanlin said. “However, we ask for parents’ understanding as we ensure that our staff is able to best meet the needs of our children through a focus on their mental health. Our staff needs our understanding and patience now more than ever after 20 of the most challenging months in the history of public education.”

Shockley-Lynch said the teachers association hadn’t asked for the Worcester County calendar modifications.

“We were pleasantly surprised,” she said. “The board came up with it on their own. They saw the new challenges we’re facing.”

She praised Taylor for taking mental health concerns into account.

“I think he’s looking at everybody’s wellbeing,” she said.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

City To Spend $850K For Parcels Near WOC Airport

November 19, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

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OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week approved on first reading an ordinance approving the purchase of two parcels along Route 611 to facilitate safety upgrades for one of the runways at the Ocean City Municipal Airport.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council had before them an ordinance on first reading to authorize the purchase of real property with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airspace near the municipal airport. The two parcels are directly north of Runway 02-20 along Route 611 in West Ocean City.

Because the parcels in question are within designated FAA airspace, they are subject to removal and control of obstructions as directed by the FAA and the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA). The Mayor and Council in September approved negotiations to begin the process of acquiring the properties.

Because the two parcels are adjacent to the Ocean City Municipal Airport and the north end of Runway 02-20, the land will be preserved with vertical aviation obstructions removed, which may include the removal of trees or the trimming of tree tops.

The combined purchase price for the two parcels from the current property owner Lower Shore Land Trust is $850,000. However, it was pointed out the lion’s share of the funding could be grant-eligible through the FAA and the MAA. “Just to remind everyone, this is eligible for 90% grant funding I believe,” said Councilman John Gehrig. “Isn’t that right?”

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said she wasn’t entire sure the exact amount of grant funding available, but believed the majority of the funding could come from federal and state grants.

“The purchase is grant-eligible,” she said. “FAA guidelines are being followed so grant funds can be pursued. I believe the town is going to apply for everything that is available to them.”

Stansbury deferred to Public Works Director Hal Adkins, who confirmed the town was going to pursue all grant funding available for the acquisition of the two parcels adjacent to the airport.

The council voted unanimously, with Councilman Peter Buas absent, to approve the ordinance on first reading.

Council President Matt James clarified the reason for the acquisition of the two parcels near the airport for the public record.

“For the public, this is an important acquisition for the operation of the airport,” he said.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 9

Broadband Connections Celebrated In County’s South End

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

POCOMOKE – Two broadband companies celebrated their first connections in southern Worcester County this week.

Both Talkie Communications Inc. and Choptank Fiber connected their initial customers to high speed internet this week.

County officials are excited to see broadband finally becoming accessible to those in rural areas.

“Instead of being on the bottom of the heap the rural areas are going to be on top as far as speed,” Commissioner Ted Elder said.

On Monday, Talkie Communications completed installing the fiber optic backbone on Dun Swamp Road and hooked up seven customers on this rural road to high-speed internet. A ribbon cutting was held at the home of customer Tom Wall.

Commissioner Josh Nordstrom said Wall was thrilled to be able to get high speed internet.

“He runs a business out of his home,” Nordstrom said. “He was so pleased.”

On Tuesday, Choptank Fiber hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Holland family’s Chesapeake Bay Dairy to celebrate its first connections in Worcester County.

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Laura Holland, owner of the ice cream operation, said in a news release she was thrilled with Choptank Fiber’s broadband service.

“Since they connected our service last Friday, the kids haven’t stopped using it,” she said. “I’ve been telling our neighbors how fast everything is when you get online – there is no waiting or spinning – items come up instantly.”

Choptank Fiber will install gigabitspeed service for up to 35 families in this initial build-out. Choptank staff are contacting eligible customers to finalize installation plans along Whitesburg Road, Dividing Creek Road, Ferry Branch Lane, McMaster Road and a small portion of Worcester Highway. The connections are an expansion of Choptank Fiber’s Somerset County buildout that has been under construction for the last three months, offering service to more than 60 families near Princess Anne.

Elder, who has advocated for rural broadband access since he was elected, is pleased to see progress finally being made.

“The fact that we have two different companies bringing broadband can do nothing but good for competition and prices,” he said.

He added that Talkie officials this week had shared plans to establish three crews

– one in Pocomoke, one in Bishopville and one in Newark – in Worcester County. Elder stressed that broadband access would do nothing but good for the county, as it would increase property values and allow for online educational opportunities.

“It’s just all plusses,” he said. “We’ve worked hard to get here.”

Nordstrom agreed and said he was excited to see rural residents finally get connected.

“No matter where you live you should have access to high speed internet,” he said.

The county’s funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is expected to help fund the county’s broadband expansion. The $1 trillion federal infrastructure bill recently approved could also help.

“The State of Maryland is expected to get approximately $6 billion for these projects,” said Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer, in an email.

“We expect Worcester County to get an equitable share of this funding, however the details are limited at this time. With our focus on increasing broadband access, this funding should greatly assist us in bringing high speed fiber internet throughout the county.”

The estimated cost to run broadband through the county is $52 million.

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

tal. The fire occurred on a Sunday night, Halloween night, the day after the Angler celebrated its final day of the season a day before on Saturday. Because of the time of night, the outcome could have been different if the fire occurred a day earlier.

Ocean City Fire Marshal Josh Bunting said this week because of the destruction to the exterior of the restaurant in the area of the blaze, it was challenging to determine the exact cause, but it appears arson has been ruled out.

“Due to the level of damage and involved electrical equipment, we can’t conclude with absolute certainty the specific cause of the fire, but definitely can’t rule out an electrical malfunction or other issue,” he said. “There was no evidence of foul play or criminal intent revealed during the investigation.”

Probe: No Foul Play In Angler Fire MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – It’s uncertain if the cause of a fire at a historic downtown bayfront restaurant will ever be specifically determined, but foul play has been ruled out.

Shortly after 9 p.m. on Halloween night, a fire broke out at the historic Angler on Talbot Street. The night manager of the neighboring Talbot Inn heard an explosion and saw flames coming from the back of the Angler on the parking lot side.

Fire crews arrived and found a working fire at the exterior of the historic restaurant. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and an extensive overhaul was conducted at the site of the blaze.

One civilian sustained minor injuries that did not require transport to the hospi-

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Citizens Request Better Transparency From School Board

Page 12

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – Citizens asked for more transparency from the Worcester County Board of Education this week.

At Tuesday’s school board meeting, members of the public said they wanted to see video of meetings and evening meeting options so working parents could attend.

“The Somerset County Board of Education can do it, so can you,” Pocomoke City resident Matt Lankford said.

Though for years public comments at school board meetings have been few and far between, in recent months there has been a steady stream of input from citizens. While it started with opposition to the school system’s mask mandate, the concern from commenters has since turned potential to vaccine requirements

Citizens are pictured addressing the Worcester County Board of Education Tuesday.

for children and the need for more public access to board meetings.

Lankford said he wanted to see the

board hold an emergency meeting to discuss how to make meetings more transparent. The school board meets the third

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Tuesday of each month at 12:30 p.m.

“Most citizens work 9 to 5 or somewhere in that range,” he said. “They can’t attend your meetings unless they take off work. Another time which would allow a greater number of citizens to attend would be much appreciated.”

He said he also couldn’t believe that with Worcester County’s tax revenues there wasn’t video access to school board meetings.

“Those that have missed your meetings because of scheduling conflicts could view it online if you had it,” he said.

“Simple. Make the change …We the people are wondering if this is intentional.

Suppressing the public from the meetings. I don’t believe it is. No, not you guys. But get the emergency meeting and get on this. Remember you are called public servants and that means you serve the public not the other way around.”

Darren Lombardo offered similar comments.

“Over a period of time I’ve observed on the website of the school system no links to view past meetings, no way to find out what goes on in this meeting,” he said. “We need to have meaningful access and to be able to view for those parents that aren’t able to make it during the day. It’s very crucial. I know as a school system, in any school system, it’s important to have meaningful parent engagement and involvement.”

He suggested an alternating meeting schedule, with some months featuring an evening meeting and other months featuring an afternoon meeting. He added that the school system likely had the capabilities to offer online meetings, since they had done distance learning during the pandemic.

“You guys are experts in streaming,” he said, adding that he’d offer his IT consulting services pro bono if the school system needed help.

Other public input at Tuesday’s meeting focused on opposition to a potential COVID-19 vaccine mandate for children.

Parent Jamie Rice expressed concern about vaccine safety, as did Caryn Abbott.

Ocean Pines resident Melissa Mather shared the story of how her son had been injured by a vaccine when he was a child.

“It breaks my heart to see kids injected with things when they’re healthy,” she said.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

Dismissed OPA Candidate’s Eligibility Trial Concludes

Page 14

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – The Ocean Pines community will have to wait a few days more to hear the judge’s determination on the eligibility of disqualified board candidate Rick Farr.

Following closing arguments on Monday, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Sidney Campen said his ruling on a complaint against the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) and its Board of Directors would be released in the coming days.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

“I will take the case under advisement and write an opinion on what the outcome would be,” he said.

In court this week, witnesses Jeremy Tucker, OPA legal counsel, Director Colette Horn, and Ruth Ann Meyer, the association’s assessment and membership supervisor, were called to testify in an ongoing lawsuit to determine Farr’s eligibility as a candidate in the 2021 board election.

This year, four contenders vied for two seats on the association’s board. But in late July, during the voting process, former association secretary Camilla Rog-

November 19, 2021

ers disqualified Farr as a candidate after an anonymous tip raised questions about his status as a homeowner.

According to the association’s bylaws, candidates must be a recorded property owner within Ocean Pines on Jan. 1 of the year in which the election is held. The association contends Farr was not an owner of record, but a successor trustee to the property listed on his candidate application. Farr’s attorney, however, asserts he has been the “equitable and beneficial owner” of the property since 2000, based on his status as a trust beneficiary.

The matter of Farr’s eligibility made its way to Worcester County Circuit Court in August, when Farr filed a complaint against the OPA and its Board of Directors. The suit challenges the determination on his eligibility and the board’s decision to proceed with the 2021 election and ballot count but to invalidate all votes for Farr. The disqualified candidate was soon joined by several co-plaintiffs alleging they had been disenfranchised after submitting their votes for Farr.

In recent months, the case has worked its way through the court system. In October, for example, the judge granted Farr’s request for an injunction, effectively putting a stop to the association’s redo election of the three remaining candidates. He also ordered the association to count the existing ballots, which ultimately revealed Farr as the top vote-getter.

On the witness stand this week, Meyer said it was her responsibility to verify candidates met the requirements to run for election, and an initial search of OPA’s database and state records showed a Richard Farr as the owner of 21 Birdnest Drive, the property listed on Farr’s application.

In July, however, she said she was called into General Manager John Viola’s office after the administration received an anonymous tip stating a candidate was not a Pines homeowner, though the candidate was never named. A review of property deeds for all the candidates revealed Richard L. Farr, Farr’s deceased father, as the owner of 21 Birdnest.

Tucker told the court he had emailed the board after learning of the issue and discussed options for proceeding with the election in light of Rogers’ disqualification. He said the board voted to continue with the election, but to disqualify any votes cast for Farr.

“The cards that we were dealt all led to bad decisions…,” he said. “I think the board made the best decision and I think the secretary made the best decision.”

Tucker maintained it was the association’s position that qualified candidates must be an owner of record for the property listed on the candidate application.

While the term “owner of record” was not defined in the association’s governing documents, he said it was in Black’s Law SEE NEXT PAGE

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… Judge’s Opinion Expected Soon

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Dictionary.

“Conceptually, unless I can verify they are the owner of a property in public records, they cannot run for the board,” he said.

Though he asserted Farr was not eligible to run for the election, Tucker noted that bylaws permitted him to be seated as a director, as he was a member of the association and eligible to vote.

When asked if Farr was eligible to fill any of the two vacancies resulting from the resignations of Rogers and Director Tom Janasek, Tucker said he was.

“Mr. Farr is an equitable owner of the trust that owns Birdnest,” he said.

In her testimony this week, Horn said the issue of owner of record had surfaced once before, when Brett Hill applied as a candidate in the 2018 election. As a result of that matter, she said, the candidate application was amended to request candidates submit supporting documentation showing them as owner of record.

Horn added the association was looking to make further revisions to its bylaws and candidate application.

“We need to tighten things up so mistakes like this won’t be made in the future,” she said.

In his closing statement, Bruce Bright, Farr’s attorney, said the two issues in the case were his client’s eligibility as a candidate and the association’s process for declaring him ineligible.

“This is arbitrary decision making, and most of it was in bad faith,” he said.

Regarding the question of Farr’s eligi-

bility, Bright argued OPA records reflected his client as an owner of 21 Birdnest, and that those association records were typically used to determine eligibility.

He also took issue with the board’s actions in disqualifying his client.

“There is nothing in the bylaws that sanction or support what Camilla Rogers did in this case,” he said.

Bright highlighted the July 30 closed session, in which the board voted to disqualify votes for Farr, as well as a Sept.

30 board meeting, in which Daly and three other members voted to redo an election in which he was a candidate.

“At some point it becomes palpably clear, or inferable, that they don’t want this gentleman on the board,” he said.

However, association attorney Anthony Dwyer argued Rogers and the board had taken appropriate actions based on OPA’s governing documents.

“Regardless of whether the decision was correct or not, it was not arbitrary,” he said. “This is a common-sense interpretation.”

In his remarks Monday, Campen said he took issue with several of the board’s actions, including the process for disqualifying Farr and deeming votes for the candidate invalid.

“The problem is if the board just let the election take its course, Mr. Farr could’ve lost and we wouldn’t be here,” he said.

In the event Farr won, Campen said, the bylaws established procedures for removing a director.

“GHOSTS IN THE SURF” Makes A Great Christmas Gift

A New Book By Hunter “Bunk” Mann, The Author Of “Vanishing Ocean City” Available Online at www.vanishingoc.com

• Memories of Ocean City, Md., from the end of WWII to the current day: The storms and fires, summer nights on the Boardwalk, the White Marlin Open, OC Cruisers, surfing, the Ocean City Beach Patrol, Trimper’s Rides, the old hotels and much more.

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Page 15

OC Council Approves Proposed Tourism, Marketing Overhaul

Page 16

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City’s move toward restructuring its tourism and marketing strategy to continue to develop the resort as a year-round destination continued this week with approval of a significant merger and realignment of multiple departments.

In April, the town tapped Tom Perlozzo for the newly-created position of Tourism and Business Development Director. The idea was to create an emphasis on business development and sales to attract more family-friendly events, sports tournaments and camps and other convention groups to fill the town’s hotel rooms and accommodations.

In the months since, Perlozzo and his crew have been working on a multi-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

pronged approach to better define the town’s brand and image in order to stimulate further tourism and economic development. The town is also in parallel process to contract with a new advertising agency, a process expected to be wrapped up by the end of the year.

On Monday, Perlozzo pitched his next step in the process with a realignment of some of the town’s tourism and marketing departments and the creation of a handful of new positions to help complete his vision. The plan would essentially place the town’s tourism, marketing and sales departments under a single umbrella and position the resort to compete with destinations identified in the town’s competitive set. Perlozzo said combining the town’s tourism departments is a necessary first step in building a strong destination marketing organiza-

tion for Ocean City’s future.

“There are three strategic elements that we’re requesting based on your vision of tourism and business development,” he said. “Those are the results of prior council meetings, our concept review and our perception of branding and development. The first is to advance our internal destination marketing team by realigning current and potential positions.”

The second, and perhaps most significant, element of Perlozzo’s restructuring plan is a realignment of the town’s existing tourism and marketing assets.

“The second is to realign the tourism, marketing, special events and the convention center within the tourism and business development department,” he said. “I’m very sensitive to the existing staff, but I believe with a clear direction,

November 19, 2021

a mission and a strategy, we can make a move forward.”

The plan calls for creating six new positions under the umbrella of the tourism and business development department.

The new positions would include a director of sales, a sports marketing specialist, an advertising and research specialist, a public relations specialist, and a digital marketing specialist, including social media, for example. It would also move the department’s executive assistant from a part-time to a full-time position.

The plan calls for adding three of the new positions in this calendar year, and perhaps three more as early as next spring. Perlozzo said funding for the proposed six new positions could be shifted from the town’s pending new contract with an advertising agency.

“I want you all to keep in mind some of the positions listed in the job descriptions would be funded through the ad agency contract,” he said. “They would be moved internally to give us the best opportunity to succeed.”

Perlozzo said he is borrowing some of his restructuring and reorganization plans from successful private sector examples.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work with many corporate folks, FedEx being one of them, and they have three different words they tend to use to motivate- simple, service and profit,” he said. “The idea is to have a thriving business community, low property taxes, increased revenue from room tax and healthy business at the convention center.”

Perlozzo urged the Mayor and Council to review the realignment plans and approve them to allow him to move forward.

“I’d like you to review the information on the proposed realignment,” he said. “I think this is the current path we need to take for 2022.”

Councilman Lloyd Martin said he liked the proposed realignment plan as presented, but wanted more information about how six new positions would be funded.

“I think it’s the right direction,” he said.

“If we’re successful, and I hope we are, that’s what we want. We need to hire more people. I just want to make sure the money for them is coming out of the right pocket.”

With that said, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca made a motion to approve Perlozzo’s realignment plan.

“I’d like to make a motion to recommend merging the tourism and business development department to include special events, marketing, communications and the convention center,” he said. “This will create a tourism synergy that will strengthen Ocean City as a year-round tourist destination. You want to hire three now and three more based on need, likely in 2022, and upgrade one part-time position to full-time.”

The council voted 6-0 with Councilman Peter Buas absent to approve the restructuring plan and add the requested positions as needed.

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Berlin officials have canceled next week’s council meeting and closed offices to the public following employees testing positive for COVID-19.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said Wednesday that the Nov. 22 council meeting had been canceled and that town hall was closed to the public. The closure came after employees tested positive for COVID-19.

“We wanted to make sure everybody’s safe,” Tyndall said. “It’s more a high level of caution.”

The town announced Tuesday that offices were temporarily closed “due to Town of Berlin employees testing positive for COVID-19.”

Tyndall, who said he couldn’t comment on the town’s COVID-19 vaccination rates, confirmed staff were permitted back in Wednesday after town hall had been professionally cleaned and employees had been tested. While employees are available via phone or email, the building remains closed to the public, likely until next week.

“We’re aiming for some time next week,” Tyndall said.

He said that because Monday’s council agenda was light, officials had opted to cancel the meeting and move the discussion items – which included a conversation on short-term rentals in Berlin – to the agenda for the first meeting in December.

“We’re in the middle of a pandemic and we’re doing the best we can,” Tyndall said.

“We want to keep everybody safe.”

Senator Appointed To Family Council

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – State Senator Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) added another feather to her cap last week with an appointment to the Governor’s Family Violence Council.

The Governor’s Family Violence Council is charged with providing the governor with timely and accurate information on family violence with recommendations to reduce and eliminate abusive behaviors.

It is comprised of a dedicated group of government officials, law enforcement professionals, legislators, community advocates victims’ rights groups, state and local government representatives and survivors.

“It was my pleasure to recommend Senator Carozza for the Governor’s Family Violence Council,” State Senate Minority Leader Bryan Simonaire (R-31-Anne Arundel County. “ … I know she will be a valuable asset in advancing the work and mission of the council.”

For her part, Carozza was thankful for her appointment to the council.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on this Governor’s Council focusing on preventing and reducing family violence in Maryland,” she said.

Page 17

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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November 19, 2021

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Page 18

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

Page 20

Ocean City Council To Review Bike Strategic Plan Next Week

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Concerns over a potential bike path along a 10-foot construction easement in uptown Ocean City highlighted a recent resort committee meeting.

With a bike strategic plan well underway, members of the Ocean City Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) got to work last week reviewing some of the six proposed corridors involved in the project.

“All ideas are on the table …,” said Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, committee liaison. “That’s what you need in a strategic plan.”

Earlier this year, the town hired Toole Design Group, a national consultant, to develop a strategic plan that will be used to expand Ocean City’s bicycle network.

In recent years, the resort has embarked on a multi-phased initiative to install a continuous bike path from one end of town to another without using Coastal Highway. With the help of a strategic plan, officials say the town will have designs and cost estimates for several proposed biking corridors, in-

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November 19, 2021

cluding Coastal Highway, 94th Street, 146th Street, town alleys from 27th to 62nd streets and 62nd to 94th streets, and a 10-foot construction easement west of the primary dunes from 94th to 118th streets.

“We’ve picked all the low-hanging fruit, as far as our abilities to implement bike infrastructure in town,” BPAC President Paul Mauser said this week. “So at this point, any improvements we make are going to be costly, timely and take a good amount of consideration in order to implement. That’s why we brought in a national consultant to look at these corridors.”

Mauser told committee members this week a Mayor and Council work session with Toole Design has been scheduled for Nov. 30. At that meeting, he said, the consultant will present officials with a progress report on the development of the strategic plan.

“We’re not planning to complete this until the end of April,” he said, “so it’s a long project here.”

Some of the items to be discussed at the November work session, Mauser said, were the potential use of town alleys and the 10-foot construction easement.

“The consideration we have right now is turning this into an actual path,” he said of the easement, “where we better delineate with sand fencing on both sides and improve it with some asphalt or concrete surface and lighting.”

Officials noted, however, that both proposals presented challenges. The use of town alleys would require the elimination of some parking spaces, they said, while the use of the construction easement could upset uptown beachfront condo owners.

“That’s going to be very controversial,” DeLuca explained.

High Point North resident Laura Hill told committee members this week she opposed the use of the 10-foot construction easement, located in front of her condominium.

“No one I know in my building wants this at all …,” she said. “We don’t want that in front of our buildings.”

DeLuca noted that the strategic planning document was just that, a plan.

“It’s not approved at all yet,” he said.

Officials noted that the Mayor and Council would have to decide if it wants to move forward with the idea of using the construction easement. If so, they said, a survey would be sent to property owners and posted on the town’s website.

“We’re planning on sending a survey to property owners to gauge their feelings,” Mauser said. “We want to make sure their voices are heard.”

Toole Design will make its presentation to the Mayor and Council Nov. 30 at 1 p.m.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

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Page 22

Marlin Fest Eyes Inlet Next Year

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – After a two-year trial run at the 3rd Street park, Marlin Fest, the offsite event associated with the White Marlin Open in August, is moving to the beach at the Inlet.

In August 2020, with COVID-related restrictions in distancing and gathering sizes still in effect, White Marlin Open (WMO) producers came up with a modified plan to open a venue for spectators at the downtown recreation complex between 3rd and 4th streets on the bay. The downtown venue included a large LED screen streaming the weigh-ins from traditional host Harbour Island and open waterfront areas along the bay from which spectators could view the boats returning to the scales along with other amenities.

Last year, with COVID restrictions eased, WMO officials brought back a more-formalized edition of Marlin Fest at the 3rd Street park with the LED screen for viewing weigh-ins from host Harbour Island along with vendors, food sales, alcoholic beverage sales and other amenities at the satellite viewing area for the tournament. The event was a success with many spectators choosing to view the tournament from a wideopen venue rather than cramming into host Harbour Island.

On Monday, however, the Mayor and Council had before them on the consent agenda a request to move Marlin Fest to the beach at the Inlet and a portion of the Inlet parking lot. Typically, items on the consent agenda are passed as a matter of course with little discussion or debate and such was the case on Monday with the request to move Marlin Fest to the Inlet next August.

The downtown recreation complex between 3rd and 4th streets is in the early phases of a complete renovation and redesign and the area to the west closest to the bay is part of the first phase, thus making it unavailable for Marlin Fest next August. Sasha Motsko and Madelyne Rowan, representing the WMO, were on hand to answer any questions about the proposed event. In response to a question from Councilman Mark Paddack, Rowan explained the large LED screen would be positioned on the beach facing west so spectators could watch the tournament action against the backdrop of the ocean and participating boats returning to the scales at host Harbour Island.

Marlin Fest will include sponsor and vendor tents, White Marlin Open and Marlin Fest retail tents, food trucks, and drink sales including beer, wine and liquor. The town’s contribution would be SEE NEXT PAGE

• Single Family Home Lots • New Community in Ocean Pines • Enjoy All Ocean Pines Amenities • 100’ Wide Lots (NOT 60’)

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Fentanyl Dealer To Serve 5 Years

November 19, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – One of two suspects arrested last May in connection with a drug distribution ring out of various resort hotels pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 10 years in jail, all but five of which

… Council Supports Relocation Proposal

rather minimal, including the typical traffic barricades, trash cans and portable fencing similar to what the town typically provides at host Harbour Island.

Before the council voted unanimously to approve the move of Marlin Fest to the Inlet, officials reviewed some concerns from staff about the safety of the site. According to the staff report, concerns were raised about the sale of alcohol on the beach at the Inlet where ocean currents are typically strong.

Staff also raised concerns about spectators climbing on the Inlet jetty and its typically slippery rocks.

WMO officials shared those concerns and have taken steps in the planning stage to address them. For example, according to the agenda packet on the move for Marlin Fest to the Inlet, the organizers would use fencing around the entire perimeter of the event, including along the jetty where no one could access it. Organizers would also provide a strong security presence stationed along the event’s footprint to ensure no spectators could take alcohol out of the Marlin Fest designated area.

Mayor Rick Meehan questioned if the town would be reimbursed for parking revenue at the Inlet lot lost because of the event’s footprint. It was determined that detail would be worked out through the formal Memorandum of Understanding process, but the organizers were amendable to reimbursing the town for the lost parking revenue.

If approved, the event will require a franchise agreement resolution. Because Marlin Fest at the Inlet is essentially a new event, additional assets and support may be needed from the town, which would be charged back to the promoters. WMO promoters would pay the town $1,425 in private event fees, along with asset and support fees at both the Inlet and Harbour Island for a total contribution to the town of $4,443.

Tent permits will be required as well as a detailed layout of tent locations. In addition, food trucks will require Maryland inspection certificates and will be inspected by the Office of the Fire Marshal upon their arrival. Fenced areas of the beach at the Inlet will be required to provide access for the Beach Patrol to the ocean and the jetty.

Marlin Fest is set for the week of the White Marlin Open, from Monday, Aug. 8 to Friday, Aug. 12.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

were then suspended.

Melody Hines, now 33, of Selbyville, pleaded guilty in Worcester County Circuit Court last week to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. She was sentenced to 10 years, of which five were suspended. Hines was also placed on supervised probation for three years upon her release.

Last February, the Ocean City Police Department’s Narcotics Division initiated a controlled dangerous substance investigation into Hines, who was reportedly selling heroin and fentanyl out of various Ocean City hotels. Last May 19, OCPD officers observed Hines run a red light uptown on Coastal Highway and initiated a traffic stop.

During the traffic stop, officers requested K-9 assistance and the department’s K-9 Jappie and his handler responded to scan the vehicle. During the scan, Jappie gave a positive alert for the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. During the subsequent search, OCPD officers recovered over 200 bags of fentanyl and over $600 in currency.

Hines was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute a schedule I narcotic, possession with intent to distribute a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Also arrested in connection with the investigation was Eddy Roundtree, 53, of Lincoln, Del. Roundtree faces the same charges as Hines. Roundtree is scheduled to appear for trial on Jan. 6.

Have A Wonderful Thanksgiving With Family & Friends M We Will Be Closed Thanksgiving Day

Page 23

Page 24

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Public Hearing Set On Redistricting Maps

November 19, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

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STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – A public hearing on a new councilmanic map will be held next month.

On Tuesday, the Wicomico County Council met with representatives of the 2021 Redistricting Committee to discuss a proposed plan to reconfigure three councilmanic districts based on new Census data.

“The county is required after each Census, which is every 10 years, to appoint a redistricting commission to basically balance out the five councilmanic districts as best we can,” said committee chair Gail Bartkovich. “So each one of you who represents a district, it’s equal in the number of people you represent.”

Officials said 2020 Census data revealed Wicomico’s population had increased to 104,227. While the county’s population had grown by about 1,000 people a year in the last three or four decades, GIS Coordinator Frank McKenzie said the most recent data revealed a smaller growth rate.

“The last Census, we were about half that,” he said. “A lot of that was attributed to COVID. There were a lot of people who just didn’t want to fill out the forms.”

Over the course of six meetings, McKenzie said, committee members evaluated ways to develop a councilmanic map with districts nearly equal in population.

“The council strives to move as few people as possible to maintain the districts …,” he said. “The goal of this is – and the requirements are – that each district must be equal in population. It’s impossible to hit that number on the money, so they allow a deviation of 5% below or above the ideal population.”

McKenzie noted the only district to not meet that deviation was District 4. Officials said the committee explored six different councilmanic map options. The recommended map change, they noted, moved three residents, located south of Route 50 in Willards, from District 3 to District 5, and 49 people located in the Village in the Park subdivision from District 3 to District 4.

Councilmembers this week commended committee members.

“There was a lot of angst when we realized what we had to do and what our timeframe was, especially with the COVID issues,” said Councilman John Cannon.

“I’m really surprised that you even reviewed so many options instead of defaulting to what might be the easiest … I think this is a great conclusion, to come up with something that doesn’t seriously impact people but is still fair to the entire county.”

Councilman Bill McCain agreed.

“I know you had a lot of meetings and did a lot of work, but at the end of the day the goal is to impact the community as little as possible …,” he said. “In the end, you’ve come back with something that is very palatable.”

A public hearing on the proposed changes is set for Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. The final presentation can be viewed on the Wicomico County Council website.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 25

Lower Shore Schools Receive $90,024 In Education Grants

Page 26

SALISBURY – Schools in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties received $90,024 in grant funding through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s 2021 Fall Education Grants Program.

As students have returned to in-person learning, teachers are eager to jumpstart new programs that are engaging and supportive of current needs.

Funds will be distributed across 23 school-based programs. Educators and school districts were honored at an evening reception on Nov. 10 at James M. Bennett High School.

“By supporting the educators who serve our community’s future leaders, we are growing a brighter future for the Lower Shore community,” said Community Foundation President Erica Joseph.

“It is so inspiring to see the unique opportunities and projects area teachers are creating to enrich learning for children across the Shore.”

Education grants are made annually in conjunction with National Education Week through a competitive process to public and private grade schools on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Grants are made to those schools that have developed innovative programs to enhance education and improve the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of their students and communities.

The Community Foundation honored Bennett Middle School with the Mary Gay Calcott Award of Excellence and a

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

Worcester County education officials are pictured during a Nov. 10 funding distribution event.

bonus grant from the Foundation’s Mary Gay Calcott Memorial Fund, for hosting this year’s Salisbury Poetry week and bringing Teri Ellen Cross Davis to the Shore as the Poet-in-Residence. The award is named for the late Mary Gay Calcott, a professor of English at Salisbury University whose life embodied her ideals of teaching students to think, to express themselves with clarity and to care about the world they live in.

The following programs received education award grants for the 2021/2022 school year during ceremonies held at a special reception at James M. Bennett High School in Salisbury: Bennett Middle School will bring poet Teri Ellen Cross Davis to the Eastern Shore for Salisbury Poetry Week 2022.

Berlin Intermediate School will expand their library collection to include titles focused on diversity, social-emotion-

Submitted Photo

al learning, and graphic novels.

Buckingham Elementary School will create a literary vending machine to be used as part of their One School One Book program.

Buckingham Elementary School will host an after-school Glee Club that will allow choral students to showcase their talents for the community.

Choices Academy will diversify proSEE NEXT PAGE

… Funding Awards Will Support 23 School Programs

November 19, 2021

gram delivery by building out their reading, physical fitness, and community garden programs.

Fruitland Intermediate School will create Calm Corners in classrooms to help reduce behavioral problems and improve social/emotional regulation.

Fruitland Primary School will purchase technology to enhance language acquisition lessons for K-5th grade English Language Learners.

Mardela Middle & High School will host the Wicomico Honors Orchestra, bringing together string students from all Wicomico County middle and high schools for a community performance.

Northwestern Elementary School will create Calm Corners in classrooms to help reduce behavioral problems and improve social/emotional regulation.

Parkside High School will purchase books for English Language Learners and at-risk, low-income students.

Parkside High School CTE will expand the native wildflower project on the Parkside campus.

Pocomoke Middle School will expand their Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program incentives.

Salisbury Middle School will purchase a virtual curriculum and lesson plan platform for innovative math instruction.

The Salisbury School will purchase building materials and supplies to rebuild the raised garden beds used as an outdoor learning space.

The Salisbury School will purchase digital cameras and Sphero robots for STEM and Computer Science students.

Showell Elementary School will create outdoor learning spaces for gardens, science projects, and activities.

Snow Hill Elementary School will increase the school’s collection of literature focused on diversity and inclusion.

Somerset County Technical High School’s Criminal Justice program will receive equipment to outfit a physical training center for students training to enter the police academy, the cadet program, or the military.

Somerset County Technical High School’s Diesel Truck Technician program will purchase circuitry kits for use in their Electrical/Electronic Systems courses.

Somerset County Technical High School’s Teachers Academy of Maryland program will receive “Real Babies” to simulate real world childcare with innovative technology.

Stephen Decatur Middle School will expand their library’s collection of graphic novels.

Willards Elementary School will bring Jennifer Keats Curtis to lead an authorin-residency program to include STEAM lessons.

Willards Elementary School will bring Dory Hayman to lead a musical theater residency program.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

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Updated Reserve Study Reviewed

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OCEAN PINES – A discussion on replacement costs and funding thresholds highlighted a meeting last week to discuss an updated reserve study.

Last week, members of the Ocean Pines Budget and Finance Committee held a work session with Design Management Associates Inc. (DMA) to review a reserve study updated earlier this year.

“At the end of this process we’ll have a valuable financial tool in order for us to manage as well as do the budget process,” General Manager John Viola said.

“One of the key parts at the end is to see where we stand with our replacement reserves - bulkheads, etc. - so that we can see, when we do the budget, whether or not we need money for that.”

In 2015, the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) hired DMA to conduct a reserve study, which recommended the necessary level of replacement reserves the association needed based on its assets - buildings, equipment and fixtures. While the study was last reviewed in 2018, DMA staff returned to Ocean Pines earlier this year to begin updating the contents of the study. And in September, OPA officials received a final draft.

“From the last time, we’ve done construction on several buildings - renovations, different equipment was purchased - so we felt like it was a good time, about four or five years out from the last

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one, for us to update this and fine tune it,” Viola said. “We believe we’ve done that.”

Doug Greene, reserve specialist and partner with DMA, told committee members last week the study was broken down into three accounts: bulkhead reserves, roads reserves and general reserves - with minimum thresholds set for each area.

“The purpose of having a threshold is to develop a funding plan,” he said.

Greene noted the updated study included fewer components - capital items at each of the association’s amenities and recommended an annual increase of 3.8% in reserve contributions.

“The reserve balance was a little higher in 2018 than it is at the beginning of this year,” he said. “All studies were 30year cash flow studies, looking out 30 years to see what the expenditures are like in that time frame and developing a funding plan to fund those over a 30-year period.”

Greene said replacing each of the association’s components would cost $20 million. He noted, however, that OPA currently held $3.9 million in its reserve accounts.

“You have just under a $4 million reserve account, so the deficit is $17 million,” he said. “That sounds pretty extreme, but when you do a cash flow study it doesn’t mean you have to come up with all kinds of money … We don’t ever recommend that you be 100% funded. You’d actually be putting too much money in that account, letting it sit there. This makes more efficient use of your money.”

Finance Director Steve Phillips said OPA anticipated a projected reserve balance of nearly $4.7 million in the next six years, based on the 3.8% contribution rate. That number, he said, put the association close to its 22-28% funding threshold.

“If you take that as a percentage of the fully funded reserve amount, you can see the percentage comes out to 21% … ,” he said, “which is slightly below the 2228% target that was adopted several years ago.”

The committee last week spent much of the day meeting with department heads in its review of the reserve study.

When asked if the study included funding for the replacement of the golf club irrigation system, Viola said it did.

“That’s still up in the air, but right now we are maintaining it and not necessarily replacing it until we find out what happens with that whole situation with the effluent,” he said. “If Ocean Pines decides to go with this wastewater treatment and putting in the irrigation system, this would come off our books … This would come out and obviously that will be a favorable effect, to the tune of $600,000 per year.”

Viola added that numbers presented to committee members last week were just estimates - based on proposed inflation rates - of where the association was headed in the coming years.

“These numbers are a guide, bestguess estimates,” he said. “We are kind of in the ballpark. Obviously, the irrigation has an effect on this study and inflation has an effect.”

Club Cancels Annual Holiday Sale

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Program Chair: ‘I Called Over 27 Tree Farms. No One Has Trees This Year’

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – For the first time in more than two decades, the Ocean City - Berlin Rotary Club will not be selling Christmas trees along Route 589.

A shortage of trees prompted the club to give up its longstanding tree fundraiser in Ocean Pines. Instead, members are hoping to raise the money they use for scholarships through other fundraisers, including a Giving Tuesday campaign on Nov. 30.

“For the first time ever we’ve created a Giving Tuesday button for our website,” said Margaret Mudron, the club’s treasurer. “We’re hoping if we share our story maybe our friends will make a donation.”

The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club began selling Christmas trees in the 1990s, taking over a tradition started by the Rogers Family, whose Rainy Day shop was then adjacent to Campbell’s Cottages. When Don and Mabel Rogers’ son died unexpectedly, they asked club members if they wanted to take over the Christmas tree sales. Mudron said the club agreed and began using the proceeds from the sales to provide scholarships to Stephen Decatur High School seniors in memory of Chris Rogers.

Since 2000, the club has awarded $65,000 in scholarships.

When Dan Harris, the club’s Christmas tree chairman, called to order this year’s trees, however, he was advised the farm only had large trees. They didn’t have the 265, 6-7 foot Fraser firs the club typically buys.

“I called over 27 tree farms,” Harris said. “No one has trees this year.”

According to Harris, during the last recession farmers didn’t plant as many trees as in years past. Because they take about 10 years to grow, there’s now a shortage, he said.

District Governor Elect Cliff Berg said

the trees the club found that were available had doubled in price. Club members were also hesitant to switch farmers and not know the quality of the product they’d be selling.

“We don’t want to sell a bad product,” he said.

Taking the various factors into account the club made the decision to not proceed with this year’s tree sale. Berg said that with aging members, the labor-intensive fundraiser has probably reached its end permanently. The club is pursuing plans for other fundraisers instead— bingo in 2022, hot chocolate sales next month in Berlin, increasing its presence at Flags for Heroes in Ocean Pines, and taking part in Giving Tuesday on Nov. 30.

Berg noted that during pandemic, other clubs had been forced to cancel or change their fundraisers.

“For the most part they’ve been successful,” he said. “I think we will be as well.”

He and other club members are sorry to end what has become a tradition for many in the area.

“This became a family event for people,” he said. “Kids would run around between the trees, they’d get their picture taken.”

Harris agreed, recalling the ornaments families often made with the piece of wood trimmed from their tree’s trunk, and said the community had been very supportive.

“It was fun for everybody,” Harris said.

“People looked forward to seeing us, we’d look forward to seeing them.”

Tree sale or not, club members are hopeful the community will continue to support the scholarship program. To donate on Giving Tuesday, visit www.ocberlinrotary.com. Next month, club members will be selling hot chocolate as a fundraiser at Berlin’s Merry Market on Dec. 11 and 12.

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Ocean City’s Anti-Litter Campaign Resulted In Less Trash Complaints

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

Autumn Foliage:

The colors of fall are evident throughout the region, including in north Ocean City’s Caine Woods community.

Photo by Chris Parypa

OCEAN CITY – Officials say they will review messaging and cleanup initiatives associated with Ocean City’s antilitter campaign.

Last week, members of the Ocean City Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (Green Team) discussed cleanup programs and messaging for Ocean City’s anti-litter campaign, Litter Free OC. While officials reported some success in its first year, committee members are now focusing on ways to improve the campaign ahead of next season.

“I feel like I have mixed emotions on how much success we’ve had,” said

November 19, 2021

committee member Gail Blazer, the town’s environmental engineer.

Late last year, the Green Team began discussing ways to address a growing litter problem in Ocean City after a particularly troublesome summer season. Despite the efforts of the town’s public works department and various volunteer cleanup groups, officials noted the town continued to experience larger-than-average trash volume, largely attributed to an increase in carryout during the pandemic.

The that end, the committee joined with town departments, environmental organizations, businesses and local schools to launch Litter Free OC, a multifaceted initiative aimed at education and enforcement using advertisements, social media posts and cleanup initiatives, to name a few.

In an update earlier this month, committee liaison and Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said he had seen improvements since the campaign launched earlier this year.

“I’ve got to tell you this year really made a difference,” he said. “The reason I know it made a difference was because last year the government website was blown up with litter complaints. It was really bad. This year, it was one or two emails.”

DeLuca also acknowledged Public Works Director Hal Adkins and his department for replacing residential trash cans, increasing the size of cigarette butt huts along the Boardwalk and hiring additional staff, among other things.

“There are a lot of programs he did that I think really, really helped …,” he said.

Blazer added that the Ocean City Police Department also issued more litter citations in conjunction with the Litter Free OC campaign.

“We really want the police department to be part of the solution,” she said.

Looking ahead to next season, however, committee members said some improvements could be made for next year.

“This is not a one and done,” Blazer said. “It’s something we want to be doing every year.”

Committee member Pat McLaughlin said he wanted to see a stronger campaign message.

“The more impressions you make, the more you change a habit,” he said.

DeLuca said it was an idea the town’s new advertising agency could explore.

“Once we pick a new ad agency, we go to them and give us ideas and costs,” he said. “How can they help us with the message?”

Blazer also noted some cleanup initiatives never took off this summer. She said those programs could also be revaluated.

“We’ll follow up more at the January meeting,” she said.

DeLuca agreed, noting the campaign needed more time.

“You just have to keep pressing it,” he said.

Funds Donated To Women’s Center

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Pictured during last Friday’s presentation were, front from left, Sally Dowling, AGH Co-interim President/CEO, club members Susan Morris, Ann Shockley and Norma Kessler; Kim Justice, AGH Co-interim President/CEO; and Brooke Williams, AGH Director of Imaging; and, back from left, Caroline Phillips, AGH Development Officer; club members Carolyn Neal and Bob Long; and Steve Green, AGH Foundation Board Chair Submitted Photo

BERLIN – Members of the Ocean Pines Men’s and Ladies’ Golf Associations joined Atlantic General leadership and staff last week to present a generous donation of $2,367 to the Eunice Q. Sorin Women’s Diagnostic Center.

The annual Pink Lady Golf Tournament raises funds to provide women of the Eastern Shore community with crucial healthcare services, such as mammograms, especially for those who may not be able to afford these

lifesaving screenings. Over the last 11 years, the contributions have totaled over $16,000.

The Eunice Q. Sorin Women’s Diagnostic Center has been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, and it is community support such as that shown by the Ocean Pines Golf Associations that allows Atlantic General to continue providing the accessible, highquality care required.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

BUSINESS And Real Estate News Hoop Tea Partnership

Treatment House Reopens

OCEAN CITY – Anheuser-Busch announced its new partnership with Hoop Tea, an Ocean City-based beverage company known for its iced tea infused malt beverages and tea-infused seltzers.

Hoop Tea will join Anheuser-Busch's rapidly growing Beyond Beer portfolio, which is a major growth driver within the industry.

“The team at Hoop Tea has created an incredible brand with an even better product offering,” said Fabricio Zonzini, Beyond Beer President, AnheuserBusch. “I look forward to working alongside Hoop Tea’s founder, Danny Robinson, and Vice President, Billy Gilman, to develop and grow the brand to its full potential.”

“Joining Anheuser-Busch is a perfect fit for us because we share a culture of daring innovation and strategic growth,” said Robinson. “Hoop Tea’s roots were planted in a laid-back beach town and we’ve relentlessly strived to build and develop our brand over the past several years. Working with the team at A-B is like hanging out with old friends and we’re excited to do some really cool things together.”

Hoop Tea will continue to be led by Robinson, who has joined the team at Anheuser-Busch along with Gilman.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

SALISBURY – With the slice of an oversized pair of scissors, Hudson Behavioral Health’s CEO Leslie Brown reopened Union House, one of several of Hudson’s treatment houses in Salisbury.

“We took the opportunity when COVID hit to renovate the house and make it more of a home for men who had reached this final stage of our program,” said Brown. “Our treatment houses mimic as closely as possible living on their own, but with the recovery support and tools they need to help assure their success.”

On the Lower Shore, some of those tools can only be found with Hudson, which has been helping battle the disease of addiction for more than 40 years.

Hudson offers a full continuum of care that begins with detoxification if needed, and up to a 30-day stay on their residential campus, which then continues through two more levels of housing.

Hudson’s staff includes a nurse practitioner and a licensed mental health therapist, services not always found with other providers. In early 2022 staff plans to launch a GED (general educational development) program which will help add to the uniqueness of Hudson’s housing program.

“The lack of a high school diploma is often a barrier to finding better-paying

Cutting the ribbon on the newly renovated Union House in Salisbury were, front left, Hudson staff Josh Pippin, Program Manager, Maryland Housing; CEO Leslie Brown; Lisa Noland, Director of Housing; and Joe Seminara, Residential Counselor. The house is the final step for those in recovery before fully reintegrating with their communities.

Submitted Photos

work, which in turn can keep some people in addiction,” said Brown. “Earning a GED can be life-changing in many ways.”

Union House is a part of Hudson’s continuum of care that offers five treatment houses in Maryland, as well as two sober living homes in Delaware, in addition to their residential campus in Salisbury.

Annual Awards Presented SALISBURY – Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) has announced Dr. Amy Heger of The Night Watch Child Care Center has been named the 2021 MCE Palmer Gillis Entrepreneur of the Year.

Heger is the 10th recipient of this award. MCE Executive Director Maurice Ames and Palmer Gillis, CEO of GillisGilkerson, made the big announcement

and presentations earlier this month.

Heger says she measures her success by the reach into the community.

“I see us as establishing ourselves as a resource for not just parents, but the community,” Heger said. “From the local news featuring us to comment on the childcare crisis to shelters reaching out to us to help their families, I am seeing the residual effects of us being present in the community. We are looking to do more than just provide childcare for overnight hours. We want to be a resource for agencies to get their families connected with a vital resource. We want to be an all-in-one stop for our families, from assistance with job placement or helping them apply for other benefits (electric or rental assistance). I also measure my success by the quality of life for my staff.

I work hard to pay a higher wage than many childcare centers so they will have money for personal goals.”

The award is named in honor of Gillis, a Salisbury native who has spent the last 37 years building his construction company into one of the largest general contracting firms on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Along the way, he continues to give back through public service, including as a former elected member of the Salisbury City Council and as a board member for numerous charitable causes and foundations. He has been a leading voice in trying to make his community a SEE NEXT PAGE

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better place.

There were two news awards given this year to recognize local entrepreneurs that have shined in the areas of workforce development & innovation.

Jon and Samantha Cameron of Telescope Pictures were presented with The Workforce Development Award. They were recognized for their mission to provide mentoring, training and support for their staff. They believe in supporting their crew members from the moment they walk in the door. Training and constant support is their main priority. Setting someone up for success is not a one size fits all.

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“However, it is important to us that our crew members walk away each summer feeling like family, and feeling accomplished both emotionally and monetarily,” said Jon Cameron.

Tracy Trice Lewis of Eastern Shore Mobile Drug Testing & DOT Compliance was presented with the Innovator Award.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week:

Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Above is a beach scene from north Ocean City on a blue sky, puffy cloud November afternoon. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com. This week's Photo of the Week is sponsored by Ørsted, the world leader in clean energy. Learn more at orsted.com/md-de.

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November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – A local branch manager was recognized this month for his contributions to the Worcester County Library.

At the Nov. 9 meeting of the Worcester County Library Board of Trustees, Citizens for Maryland Libraries Board President Jay Bansbach and Executive Director Lynn Wheeler presented Ocean City Branch Manager Alec Staley with the Outstanding Library Employee award.

The award is presented to library employees or teams that have made exceptional contributions to the library, particularly in the areas of customer service or community outreach.

“At Citizens for Maryland Libraries, part of our mission is to create greater public awareness for libraries and its services,” Bansbach said, “and for that we have an awards program … to honor those that deserve special recogni-

tion.”

Staley was promoted to branch manager of the Ocean City library in September. Prior to that, he worked for two years as the Worcester County Library’s local history librarian, bringing archives into the digital age and digitizing more than 20,000 photographs and documents.

“The board was very impressed with the nomination we received talking about how you used your tremendous tech skills to highlight and showcase the immense collections at the library,” Wheeler told Staley this week.

She added that Staley was also responsible for creating transcripts and making heritage displays, particularly highlighting underserved communities in Worcester County.

“Especially in a time of COVID, highlighting materials that give a community a sense of pride and achievement is commendable …,” she said. “It’s an honor, Alec, to recognize your work, and it’s so very important when trying to col-

Page 37

OCEAN CITY – Planning is underway at Jolly Roger Amusement Parks’ annual Black Friday sale at the SpeedWorld Building on 30th Street on Nov. 26, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

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“We really love the holidays here at Jolly Roger -- and no one enjoys them more than me,” said Steve Pastusak, vice president of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks®, “It has become a great tradition here in Ocean City and I suppose it’s not only because we offer the best sale of the year, but we also get to see the locals -- our friends, and their families get into the holiday spirit.”

lect and disperse digital information.”

Worcester County Library trustee Nancy Howard praised Staley for not only his work at the library, but also his work in the community.

“I know Alec is wonderful working within the library, but I also want you to know he is a great ambassador for the

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libraries …,” she said. “We just had History Week, and without Alec it wouldn’t have been as successful as it was.”

Officials say an award and $100 check will be presented in the coming weeks. Staley’s recognition will also be featured in the state organization’s newsletter.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

People in Society Shore Craft Beer Fest was the perfect place for Faith Gombos and Kristi Demartino of Pirates Cove Oyster Company to sell their freshly shucked oysters.

by Jeanette Deskiewicz Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Lovely ladies of the Ocean City Lioness Club Ashley Furbay, Amy Bishop, Linda Oliver and Mary Ann Manganello sold beverages at the 2021 Harbor Day at the Docks.

Getting ready to serve all the beer aficionados attending this year’s Shore Craft Beer Fest were local brewer Danny Robinson (Backshore Brewing) and volunteer Brian McCarthy.

Harbor Day at the Docks was a windy one, which helped Calvin Alexander and Ron Larsen of US Wind in promoting their offshore energy project.

Presenting information about their programs at Harbor Day at the Docks were Mary Knapp and Elizabeth Long of the Ward Museum.

Twins of Worcester County Recreation and Parks, Kylee and Lizzie Thornton helped out at the Harbor Day at the Docks Children’s Activity Station.

Volunteers Tracie Miller and Michael Day helped out with operations at the Shore Craft Beer Fest held at Sunset Park last month.

Barber’s Alley employees Rick Bren and Mike Impellizzeri talked with community members during their ribbon cutting grand opening celebration.

Barbering is a family tradition, as father Poncho Alferez congratulated his 3rd generation barber son Bernie Alferez on the grand opening of his new Barber’s Alley in Ocean Pines.

Ocean City Development Corporation Board Member Sonia Baker and husband Frank volunteered as beer pourers at this year’s Shore Craft Beer Fest.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): This is a good time to let that intrepid Aries temperament take charge. Your strong leadership will help settle those still-unresolved situations. Support comes from a surprising source.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Your problem-solving talents shine as you move to cool down heated emotions.

You also inspire trust in all parties when you act with careful consideration of their feelings.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): That long-delayed commitment begins to look better to you. But there's still a crucial fact or two you need to know about it. A health problem needs to be taken care of.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Don't waste time trying to learn why someone you relied on is wavering in his or her support of your stand on a workplace issue. Move on with the help of more steadfast allies.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Relationships enter a brighter period, both at home and in the workplace. Prospects also look good for single Leos and Leonas, who can expect a welcome visit from Cupid.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Those mixed signals that were complicating your life are giving way now to clear, definitive guidelines. This makes it easier for you to weigh your options and make decisions.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Ask your partner for an explanation of what

seems to be a sign of strain in your relationship. The sooner you understand the problem, the sooner you can both act to resolve it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): A new challenge in the workplace holds an exciting promise for the future. But be aware of the fact that you haven't been told about all the demands you might have to meet.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Your financial picture brightens as you get into sorting out realistic goals and those that are not reachable at this time.

"Caution" remains your fiscal watchword.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): You're deep into your new project, and that's just fine. But don't neglect your family and friends. Spending time with people you care for is always a wise investment.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Past feelings are suddenly reawakened.

This could make you emotionally vulnerable. Be careful about decisions you might be asked to make at this time.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): You've come to a place where you'll be facing important decisions that can affect your future. Rely on your strong moral compass to guide you toward making the right choices.

BORN THIS WEEK: You're gifted with both natural wisdom and wit – a good combination for success as a writer or teacher and, most importantly, a parent. © 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 62

Page 39

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 40

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

November 19, 2021

WITH BUNK MANN

A Sunday of church, football

Facebook memories of my kids

Hanging Christmas lights on a warm day Committing to a vacation

Ravens jerseys in the stands at away games All the breakfast meats

Not having anywhere to go on a stormy day Avoiding Route 50 this week

A rental house with a heated pool A heavy rocks glass

New art work in the house

Ocean City north of 15th Street was mostly undeveloped from there to the Delaware line in the late 1940s. There was, however, a small community known to locals as “Maryland Fenwick” in the area of today’s 141st Street (known at that time as Lea Avenue). There were approximately 50 cottages and a general store, which centered around the old Methodist campground that had begun in the late 1890s.

The area suffered extensive damage in the March Storm of 1962 with several of the small houses washed away and totally destroyed.

In this photo from 1949 a young Blaine Bunting poses with his mother Delia in front of their cottage in Maryland Fenwick. The roads were unpaved at that time hence the World War II surplus Jeep.

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

Photo courtesy Blaine Bunting Sr.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 41

SPORTS Three Seahawks Heading To Next Level In The News

Decatur’s Darby Moore last week signed a national letter of intent to continue her career next year at Queens University. Pictured is Moore (center) with parents John (left) and Kim (right).

Photo by Shawn Soper

Decatur’s Meredith Eitel last week signed a national letter of intent to continue her career at St. Leo’s University next year. Pictured above is Eitel (center) flanked by parents Steve (left) and Wendi (right).

Photo by Shawn Soper

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Against the backdrop of a picture-perfect November morning, three Stephen Decatur girls’ varsity lacrosse players last week signed national letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level next year.

The signing ceremonies took place last Tuesday outside at Decatur’s Louis H. Taylor Stadium. Decatur Assistant Principal and Athletic Administrator Curtis Bunting led off the ceremony.

“This is our first-ever signing ceremony in our stadium,” he said. “It’s a very exciting day. These girls taking their academic and athletic careers to

the next level speaks volumes about our lacrosse program here at Decatur.”

Decatur Principal Tom Sites said holding signing ceremonies outdoors at the stadium could become the new norm.

“What a wonderful day, and what a wonderful venue,” he said. “This is the first time doing something like this at our beautiful stadium. There were certain things that came out of COVID and this might be one of them. We wanted to do this outside.”

Meredith Eitel is heading to St. Leo’s University in Florida where she will play Division II lacrosse starting next year.

Coach Lindsay Owens said Eitel is a true team player who challenges her teammates and her coaches on the

Decatur’s Emma Meyer last week signed a national letter of intent to continue her career at Gardner-Webb University next year. Pictured above is Meyer (center) with parents Jeremy (left) and Allison (right).

Photo by Shawn Soper

field.

“She was one of the first players to believe in this new coaching staff,” she said. “She challenged me as a player, which, I believe is the first time that has happened.”

Eitel will be a four-year starter on varsity for Decatur and was named Second Team All-Bayside Conference.

She maintains a 3.9 grade average and is a member of Minds in Motion, We Excell and the National Honor Society among other accomplishments.

Emma Meyer is heading to Division I Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina and the Big South Conference. Owens said Meyer made a big impression on her as she battled back from an injury prior to her junior year.

“She really inspired me,” she said.

“She stayed positive and came to every practice and every game and led from the sidelines. Emma waited patiently to work her way back into the starting lineup.”

Meyer was named Second Team AllBayside Conference last year. She maintains a 4.0 grade point average and was named to the Principal’s List for four years. She is also a member of the National Honor Society.

Darby Moore is heading to Division II Queens University in Charlotte next year. Owens said Moore was the catalyst for the Decatur offense last year.

“She is an offensive star,” she said.

“Darby is one of the most passionate lacrosse players I have ever coached.

She challenges me to view lacrosse in a different lens. She played with a stress factor in her foot during our last two playoff games in a lot of pain and that took a lot of courage.”

Moore will be a four-year starter at Decatur and was named Rookie of the Year in her freshmen year and Offensive Player of the Year in the conference last year. She maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society.

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

utes left.

Again, Snelsire led the Decatur offense right down the field inside the Wicomico 10-yard line. With 13 second left in the game, Decatur trotted out Eastlack again and the placekicker delivered a 22-yard field goal to secure the win for Decatur.

With the win, the Seahawks advanced in the state 2A-East region playoffs. The remaining teams were reseeded after last weekend’s round of games and Decatur drew Huntingtown in the state quarterfinals.

Snelsire went 23-46 for 306 yards and three touchdowns. Zimere Handy led all rushers with 96 yards on 17 carries. Solito caught eight passes for 90 yards and a touchdown, Brycen Coleman caught five passes for 33 yards and a touchdown, Luke Mergott caught three passes for 29 yards and a touchdown. Eastlack was the hero, however, converting all three extra point attempts and converting all three field goal attempts, including the game-winner with 13 seconds left in the contest.

Decatur Stuns Wicomico On Late Field Goal

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity football team’s magical run through the state playoffs continued last weekend with a dramatic 30-27 win over Bayside South rival Wicomico to advance.

The Seahawks beat Queen Anne’s, 42-6, in its first home playoff game in 17 years. Last week this time it was the Seahawks winning in dramatic fashion with a field goal from Brogan Eastlack with just 13 seconds remaining.

Decatur led 10-6 after one quarter and took a 17-12 lead into halftime.

Eastlack tied the game at 20-20 with a long 44-yard field goal just before the end of the third quarter. Wicomico took a 27-20 lead in the fourth quarter, but Decatur drove down the field and tied the game with six minutes left on a touchdown pass from Ashten Snelsire to Gavin Solito. On Wicomico’s next possession, Solito intercepted a pass and set up the Decatur offense with another opportunity with around six min-

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Nov. 19 Wednesday, Nov. 24

ATLANTIC HOTEL 410-641-3589 2 North Main St., Berlin Mondays: Earl Beardsley BUXY’S SALTY DOG/ DRY DOCK 28 410-289-0973 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Nov. 19: TBA

BEATS

BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays & Thursdays Coins Pub: Wednesdays

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th St. & Baltimore Ave. In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays: Phil Perdue COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Wednesdays: DJ Wax CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Nov. 19: Smooth & Remy Wednesday, Nov. 24: Kevin Poole CRAWLSTREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St. Downtown O.C. Friday, Nov. 19: Shots Fired Saturday, Nov. 20: Muskrat Lightning Quartet Sunday, Nov. 21: Karoake with Jeremy Wednesday, Nov. 24: Chest Pains

KEVIN POOLE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, Nov. 24

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Fridays, Sundays, Mondays & Wednesdays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Friday-Sunday, Nov. 19-21

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, Nov. 19 & 20

CORK BAR Saturday, Nov. 20: Wes Davis FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Nov. 19: DJ RobCee Saturday, Nov. 20: DJ Greg, DJ Groove, Side Project Wednesday, Nov. 24: DJ Hook, DJ RobCee

WES DAVIS Cork Bar: Saturday, Nov.20

DJ JEREMY Crawl Street Tavern Sunday, Nov. 21

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

Who’s Where When GREENE TURTLE NORTH 410-723-2120 116th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Nov. 19: TBA

MUSKRAT LIGHTNING QUARTET Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Nov. 20

ON THE EDGE Ocean Club/Clarion: Friday & Saturday, Nov. 19 & 20

ROGUE CITIZENS Harborsise: Saturday, Nov. 20 1 p.m.

Pickles Pub: Saturday, Nov. 20 9 p.m.

SIDE PROJECT Fager’s Island: Saturday, Nov. 20

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, Nov. 21

NOWHERE SLOW Seacrets: Friday, Nov. 19

SMOOTH & REMY Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Nov. 19

CHEST PAINS Crawl St. Tavern: Wednesday, Nov. 24

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West O.C. Friday, Nov. 19: DJ Billy T Saturday, Nov. 20: Rogue Citizens, DJ Billy T Sunday, Nov. 21: Opposite Directions, DJ Billy T OCEAN CLUB 410-524-3535 10100 Coastal Hwy. In The Clarion Hotel Friday & Saturday, Nov. 19 & 20: On The Edge PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Friday, Nov. 19: Beats By Styler Saturday, Nov. 20: Rogue Citizens Sunday, Nov. 21: Beats By Styler Mondays: Beats By Styler Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By Wax SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Nov. 19: Knon Nation Duo, DJ Tuff, Nowhere Slow Saturday, Nov. 20: DJ Tuff, DJ Cruz, John McNutt Band, Kono Nation Thursday, Nov. 25: Happy Thanksgiving

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Berlin Liquor Store Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

Cold & Warm Beer

November 19, 2021

COMMUNITY News In Photos

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 12.12.21 • MCD

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

SoDel Concepts held a contest to see which servers could sell the most Jackson Family Wines with the grand prize being a free five-day trip to Napa and Sonoma. Pictured, from left, are Mike Zygmonski, director of SoDel Concepts’ wine program; Kris Medford, operations director; Amy Savia, first-place winner; Lidyanne Silva, third-place winner; Nick Sharp, regional sales manager for Jackson Family Wines; Mike Dickinson, vice president of SoDel Concepts. Savia Submitted Photos worked at Lupo Italian Kitchen in Rehoboth Beach.

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

The General Levin Winder Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) placed a Wreath on the Veterans Memorial in Berlin in observance of Veterans Day. Pictured, from left, are Jane Bunting, Pat Arata, Sharon Moak, Jackie Spurrier, Patricia Ayers, Barbara Rusko, Regent Gail Weldin and Darlene Stevens.

Germantown School Community Heritage Center (GSCHC) participated in the Worcester County History Week last month by replicating their classroom from 1922. Pictured are former Germantown School students Catherine Whaley and Barbara Purnell, right, GSCHC president.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

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 All Credit Cards.

HELP WANTED DOG SITTER: Needed for 3 dogs in December. Your home or mine (OCMD). 2 German Sheppards and 1 Corgi Mix. Call Gerri 267254-0111.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– JOHNNYS PIZZA: Now Hiring Driver! Apply within at 56th Street or call 410-726-7061 to apply.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

EXPERIENCED SCREEN PRINTERS Must Have Experience on Automatic Screen Print Machines Please send your credentials to bregan@redsuncustom.com

Excellent Pay Offered

DENTAL HYGIENIST: Family Dental Practice seeking part time Dental Hygienist. Patient oriented, relaxed atmosphere. Please forward resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Year Round, Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

CARPENTERS & CARPENTERS HELPERS Must have:

Tools, Transportation, Driver’s License Exp. Required!

PATTERSON & SONS BUILDERS

Call 410-641-9530

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

Carpenter | Laborer | Painters Stucco & EIFS Mechanics Concrete Work o Experience preferred. o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus. o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available.

Please Apply Online: https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800 Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

Year Round Positions ~SERVERS ~HOSTESS/HOST ~BUSSER ~BANQUET SERVER ~BANQUET HOUSESTAFF ~CATERING ASSISTANT ~DISHWASHER ~ROOM ATTENDANT ~LAUNDRY ~MAINTENANCE

FRONT DESK ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT A beautiful award winning community in Ocean View, DE is seeking a self-motivated, driven, and goal-oriented administrative assistant. Must be organized and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills and be computer proficient in MS Office and have the ability to learn a variety of software programs. Excellent customer service skills are a requirement of the position. Previous experience in working with HOAs preferred but not required. Full-time, year-round, 40 hours/week.

Interested candidates should email resume with salary requirements to: Susan.Brewer@casinc.biz or fax 302-537-4075 EOE

POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES NOW HIRING TRIM CARPENTER & FOREMAN. We offer paid training, vacation, and personal days, as well as a quality benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Wage is BOE from $17-$30/hour.

Based in the Berlin/OC area.

What we require: -Valid Drivers License -Reliable Form of Contact -Background Check -Ability to Pass a Drug Test -Positive Attitude & Willingness to Learn

HELP WANTED

If you feel that you can fill one of these positions, please call us to set up an interview. We can be reach at 410-251-1096.

POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES

CONSERVATION TECHNICIAN/ MARINA TRAVEL LIFT OPERATOR

Position will be responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the travel lift and forklifts. Duties will include the operation and maintenance of the marine travel lift, proper boat docking and large forklift operation plus daily supervision of the boatyard staff.

Apply online at delawarestatejobs.com

For further assistance, you may contact us by phone at 302.739.5458 or email at jobs@delaware.gov

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

Busy Ocean City Title Company Hiring Clerical Support/Receptionist Staff Person Full Time, Year Round Position.

Requires Excellent Communication and Organizational Skills.

Email resume to: Helene@Beachsettlements.com

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING! •NIGHTWATCH •BOATYARD •MAINTENANCE

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071 AA/EOE

Community Association Manager Local real estate management office in Bethany Beach is looking for a Community Association Manager to oversee a number of our Resort Communities.

Applicant must have experience in community management, excellent communication skills, strong organizational and time management skills.

Full time position with benefits.

Please send resume to: Wilgus Associates, Inc. Attn: Jodi Thompson P.O. Box 309 Bethany Beach, DE 19930 or Jodi@wilgusassociates.com All inquiries will be kept confidential

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER

FAX RESUME & SALARY REQ. to: 410-723-9109 Online at www.clarionoc.com APPLY IN PERSON Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL 10100 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD. 21842

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

Please send resume to 12641 Ocean Gateway, OC, MD 21842 or email: jennie.rice@fbwbank.com Application cut off is 11-29-2021

EOE M/F/D/V

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

TOP WAGES! EXCELLENT BENEFITS! HOUSING AVAILABLE!

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

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 All Credit Cards.

HELP WANTED FUNERAL ASSOCIATE / GROUNDSKEEPER The Burbage Funeral Home located in Berlin, MD is looking for several individuals to join our funeral home staff. Some job duties include assisting funeral directors with funeral services, doing removals both during normal business hours and after hours, and maintaining funeral home grounds. Must be willing to work nights and/or weekends and be on call as needed. Also must be able to lift 100 pounds. A valid driver's license is required.

Send resume to j.weldon@burbagefuneralhome.com

CLUBHOUSE ATTENDANTS

Beautiful community in Ocean View is seeking part-time year round Attendants to work in our clubhouse and fitness areas.

Availability to include days, evenings and weekends.

Excellent people skills a must!

Some computer skills preferred.

A perfect position for individuals looking for extra income.

Send resume to: susan.brewer@casinc.biz EOE

COMMERCIAL

CASHIER/ SALES ASSOCIATE Must be friendly & dependable FT/PT - Year Round & Seasonal - Various Shifts Competitive Hourly Wage Benefits Available

To Apply-go online www.petromg.com *Employment *Retail *OC MD *Cashier Wine Rack *Search *Cashier Sales Assoc.-Wine Rack Rt. 50 Wine Rack 12827 Ocean Gateway West OC, MD

STORAGE WEST OCEAN CITY: 2 car garage with attached work room. 775 sqft. Call 410-7260075.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 OfficeRetail and 1 Warehouses. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 206 16TH STREET: 1180SF of retail space available. Very busy location (Layton’s Plaza). Was Hairworks for 38 years. Can be office, retail, or hair salon. Landlord will defer rent and help with buildout. Call 202-641-6166.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

FOR SALE IN HOME SALE: Christmas & holiday decorations, knick-knacks, antiques, dishware, glassware, furniture, home goods, fishing rods/reels. Way too much to list.

Call for details,make arrangements to see everything. 443-523-7878.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS? DINING ROOM SET FOR SALE Holiday Dinners just around the Corner!

Beautiful solid wood dining set.

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

Selling because moved & too big for dining area.

Must see! $575.

Berlin. 443-880-8885

Upcoming Yard Sale?

The Dispatch is the BEST way to get the word out!

Print & Online

RENTALS

WEEKLY RENTALS Poolfront: $245 Efficiency: $275 2 BR Apartment: $350 3 BR Suite: $425

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

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

HOUSING NEEDS SEEKING HOUSING: I am looking for a small apartment in Ocean City, Ocean Pines, or Berlin. Need ASAP. Please call 443-754-7054.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

GET YOUR DAILY BUZZ! Do You Know ...

6500+ PEOPLE RECEIVE THE DISPATCH DAILY BUZZ EACH DAY? Read the News Before Its Printed Sign Up Now At: www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Looking for LONG TERM/YEAR ROUND RENTAL OC/ West OC 2 BR Townhome or Single Family Older, responsible couple.

Willing to pay each year in advance w/ long term agreement. Can occupy anytime between now & Oct 1, 2022.

Great references!

Please text or call 410-422-1691 Follow The Dispatch On Facebook, Instagram & Twitter, And Get News Updates As They Happen!

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 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18938 To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM LEE TIMMONS, ESTATE NO. 18938. Notice is given that GERALD TIMMONS SR, 8945 IRONSHIRE STATION ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on, OCTOBER 25, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM LEE TIMMONS, who died on SEPTEMBER 26, 2021, 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 25TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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 be-

fore the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 05, 2021 GERALD TIMMONS SR Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-05, 11-12, 11-19

Second Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18901 To all persons interested in the estate of DIANA J. BOWMAN, AKA: DIANA JANE BOWMAN, ESTATE NO. 18901. Notice is given that KELLI J. MEUSEL, 2511 GREEN SPRING AVE EAST, JOPPA, MD 21085, was on, NOVEMBER 02, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DIANA J. BOWMAN, who died on AUGUST 05, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of MAY, 2022.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 12, 2021 KELLI J. MEUSEL Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-12, 11-19, 11-26

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 47

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.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000162 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

DAVID F. FERRERA, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000162 the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 11:15 AM the following timeshare intervals: CONDO UNIT

202 202 202 202 202 202 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 203 204

TIME INTERVAL

39 40 41 43 44 50 4 6 7 8 10 11 13 16 17 36 37 41 42 44 45 48 50 51 1

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club Condominium, including an

undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000169 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

ROWANTO A. MCKNIGH, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000169 the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 11:30 AM the following timeshare intervals: CONDO UNIT

301 301 301 301 301 301 301 301 301 301 301 301 301 302 302 302 302 302 302 302 302 302 302 302 303

TIME INTERVAL

9 10 11 12 13 14 16 19 43 44 45 49 52 3 9 12 15 17 19 29 40 42 43 48 12

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000176 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

TIMESHARE REDEMPTION, LLC , ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000176 the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 11:45 AM the following timeshare intervals: CONDO UNIT

303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 303 304 304 304 304 304 304 304

TIME INTERVAL

13 14 16 17 18 20 22 30 38 39 40 41 42 43 46 49 50 51 1 3 4 6 8 9 10

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club

Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307

Page 48

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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

The deadline is Tuesday at noon. For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000180 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

STEVEN C. PHOEBUS ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000180 the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 12:00 PM the following timeshare intervals: CONDO UNIT

304 304 304 304 304 304 304 304 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305 305

TIME INTERVAL

12 39 40 42 47 49 50 52 3 4 10 11 16 17 36 37 39 42 45 46 47 49 50 51

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club Condominium, including an

undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000181 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

THOMAS PALMER, JR., ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000181 the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 12:15 PM the following timeshare intervals: CONDO UNIT

305 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 306 307 307 307 307 307 307 307 307 307 307 307

TIME INTERVAL

52 2 14 16 17 21 33 34 38 41 43 46 50 51 1 2 6 8 14 15 18 32 44 46 48

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in

an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000182 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

QUINTESSA LASHUAN COPELAND, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000182 the un-

November 19, 2021 dersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 12:45 PM the following timeshare intervals: CONDO UNIT

307 307 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 308 309 309 309 309 309 309 309 309

TIME INTERVAL

50 51 4 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 24 36 40 43 44 47 49 2 3 18 19 46 47 48 50

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at

the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion JOHN B. ROBINS IV, ESQ. ROBINS & ROBINS, P.A. 128 EAST MAIN STREET PO BOX 506 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0506 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18982 To all persons interested in the estate of LESLIE A. SHRIEVES. ESTATE NO. 18982. Notice is given that WALTER W. SHRIEVES SR., 1691 ST. LUKES ROAD, SALISBURY, MD 21804 was on NOVEMBER 15, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of LESLIE A. SHRIEVES, who died on SEPTEMBER 20, 2021 without a will.

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

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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 email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 WALTER W. SHRIEVES SR. Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 11-19

First Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3307 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000191 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. PO BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842-3307 Plaintiff vs.

REGINALD W. STALLING, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN CITY, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-21-000191 the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the BAY CLUB RESORT, located at, 302 32ND STREET, OCEAN CITY, the following described property located in Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland, on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2021 at 1:00 PM the following timeshare intervals:

CONDO UNIT

401 401 401 401 401 401 401 401 401 401 401 401 402 402 402 402 402 402 402 402 402 402 402

TIME INTERVAL

12 13 16 17 18 31 36 40 45 49 50 51 3 7 8 9 14 15 16 17 18 19 44

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Bay Club Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2021 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the

essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18713 To all persons interested in the estate of DONALD VOID PRICE SR, ESTATE NO. 18713. Notice is given that MIRIAM PRICE, 113 E. FEDERAL STREET, SNOW HILL, MD 21863, was on, NOVEMBER 10, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DONALD VOID PRICE SR, who died on DECEMER 01, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10TH day of MAY, 2022.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 MIRIAM PRICE Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE MARIANNA BATIE, ESQ. 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY, SUITE 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18945 Notice is given that the CHANCERY COURT of SUSSEX COUNTY, DE, appointed KATHRYN ANN KEARNEY, 1512 FLORA COURT, SILVER SPRING, MD 20910, and PATRICIA ANN KEARNEY, 2610 SPENCER ROAD, ROCKVILLE, MD 20815 as the EXECUTORS of the Estate of WILLIAM ROBERT KEARNEY, who died on FEBRUARY 21, 2021, domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is N/A. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the

Page 49 notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 KATHRYN ANN KEARNEY Foreign Personal Representative PATRICIA ANN KEARNEY Foreign Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion GETZ LAW OFFICE, LLC LISA KUNITZ GETZ, ESQ. 26 S. MAIN STREET BEL AIR, MD 21014 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18977 Notice is given that the COMMON PLEASE COURT of LEHIGH COUNTY, PA, appointed CHRISTOPHER P GAYLOR, 12822 FORESTVIEW COURT, SYKESVILLE, MD 21784 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of DONALD H GAYLOR, who died on APRIL 08, 2021, domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is N/A. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 CHRISTOPHER P GAYLOR Foreign Personal Representative

True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

First Insertion BRIAN P. COSBY, ESQ. P.O. BOX 600 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18979 To all persons interested in the estate of EVA N BUNTING, ESTATE NO. 18979. Notice is given that DAVID W BAKER ESQ, P.O. BOX 551, GEORGETOWN, DE 19947, was on, NOVEMBER 12, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EVA N BUNTING, who died on AUGUST 10, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12TH day of MAY, 2022.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 19, 2021 DAVID W BAKER ESQ Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-19, 11-26, 12-03

Page 50

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

The Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society at Worcester Preparatory School inducted 36 new members last week. Pictured, front from left, are Cole Myers, Cayden Wallace, Brody Bushnell, Amna Iqbal, Kathy Zhang, Olivia Mattingly, Sara Miller, Pearson Schul and Jason Todorov; second row, Rory Pugh, Logan Ginnavan, Lorelei Campbell, Jenna Hess, Sophia Spadaro, Nicole Telo, Morgan Schoch, Anne Carter, Caitlyn Hoen, Ava Wilsey, Parker Tingle and Luke Loeser; third row, Christopher Todorov, Harrison Humes, Austin Gentry, Griffin Jones, Cooper Ludt, Luke Bunting, Riley Moyer and Chandler Schrider; and, back, Owen Schardt, Sajiv Satya, Ian Lewis, Jack Gardner, Jeffrey Hamer and Tim Hebert.

Submitted Photos

STUDENTS In The News Ocean City Elementary School students in Melanie Coleman's first grade class enjoyed a special presentation from Lt. Colonel Oles, who is in charge of the VMM-163 Evil Eyes Squadron at Miramar Marine Corp Base in San Diego. The students celebrated the Marine Corps’ 246th birthday along with learning the importance of soldiers and thanking a veteran. Students especially enjoyed listening to all the cool experiences he had as a soldier.

Sixth grade students, like Daniel Kishtykova and Gary McCabe, at Berlin Intermediate School have been exploring and discovering Ancient Egypt in their Social Studies classes. After learning many products in that region were made from vegetation, the students tried to their hand at weaving.

Worcester Preparatory School’s fifth grade had a field trip to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines. Since then, students have taken what they learned from the trip to help celebrate Veterans Day. In doing so, students crafted and personalized cards to veterans, thanking them for their service. Pictured, seated from left, are Caroline Burbage, Emery Hammonds, Samko Poffenberger, Ella Conev, Artemiy Klimins, Vivian Spraul, Kristie Carr, Madison Andrews, Abby Ferguson, Kaylin Zervakos and Addy Wisniewski; standing first row, Navy Commander Joseph E. Parker III, students Drew Bergey, Brax Giardina, Brock Hidell, Jack Jarvis, Elliott Mason, Londyn Davy, Hannah Coyle, Emily Hafeli, Elle Wilsey, Ella Tull, Sophia Nguyen, teacher Camille Jenkins and Salisbury Mayor/Army Major Jake Day; second row standing, students Zane Freih, Sam Hafeli, Reed Grinestaff, teacher Lisa Rill, students Liam McAllister, Ted Timmons, Soren Poulsen, John Parker, Sophie Mealy, Collin Hastings, SDHS NJROTC Cadet Sturgis, Head of Lower School Dr. Sara Timmons and parent Tim Hidell; and, back row, parent Brittany Harrison and SDHS NJROTC Cadets Palovitz, Smith, Herrell, Smith and Brown.

small Business Grant to assist center shortfall

November 19, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – An $806,000 grant is expected to benefit the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center.

On Tuesday, the Wicomico County Council voted unanimously to accept a grant award of $806,937 from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Officials say the Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism will use the funds to cover expenses incurred at the civic center during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a memo, Finance Director Pam Oland noted the $806,000 grant was similar to a $1,613,874 award the county accepted from the SBA earlier this year. To that end, the administration came before the council this week seeking acceptance of the second grant award.

“On August 17, 2021, the County Council approved resolution 95-2021 which allowed the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center to accept a grant in the amount of $1,613,874 from the U.S. Small Business Administration for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG),” she wrote. “Since that time, the U.S. Small Business Administration has approached the County and offered a supplemental award of up to $806,937.08 to be spent in the same manner as the first grant and to allow expenditure of the funds through June 30, 2022 versus December 31, 2021.”

The acceptance of grant funding from the SBA comes more than a year after the county had to transfer $530,000 to cover a shortfall in the civic center’s budget.

Each year, the venue – which operates under the umbrella of the county’s recreation, parks and tourism department – receives appropriations from the county to fund salaries, benefits and other expenses to balance the budget.

As a special government fund, the facility also relies heavily on event revenue to make the overall budget work.

At the start of the pandemic, however, Recreation, Parks and Tourism Director Steve Miller came before the council to discuss revenue challenges at the facility.

In recent years, he noted, net revenues have been increasingly difficult to achieve, and each year a larger percentage of county appropriations is used to cover employee benefits. But when the facility was forced to close in response to the pandemic, officials said it only exacerbated the civic center’s financial problems.

As a result, the county was left to cover the shortfall in fiscal year 2020.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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

Every Friday: Bingo Knights of Columbus will host with doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Held at the Columbus Hall at 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke's Church. Play every game for just $24. Light refreshments available. Call 410-524-7994 with any questions.

Every Tuesday: Dancing The Delmarva Hand Dance Club holds dancing at the Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173 from 5:30-9 p.m. delmarvahanddancing.com.

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.

Nov. 19: Bazaar, Marketplace St. Peter's Episcopal Church downtown Salisbury starts its Holiday Bazaar and Marketplace as part of Third Friday, 5-8 p.m. continuing Saturday, Nov. 20 (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) All are welcome to visit the church's parish hall or may bid online for selected items, beginning Nov. 1, at www.biddingowl.com. Check https://stpeteschurch.net/holiday-bazaar/ as event nears.

Nov. 19: BFC Seafood Night November’s Friday night carryout dinners series at the Berlin Fire Company continues with Seafood Night featuring a half pound steamed shrimp, macaroni salad and French fries for $15; one pound of steamed shrimp with no sides, $20; and fried clam strips, macaroni salad and French fries for $12. The next dinner will be spaghetti Dec. 10.

Nov. 19, 20: Annual Christmas Bazaar St. Mary Star of the Sea/Holy Savior Parish. Friday & Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Will feature gift & linen shops, dollar shop, plants & flowers, Christmas shop with homemmade crafts, toys, jewwelry, home-baked goods & candy. St. Mary’s Cafe will have home cooked carryout including hot turkey, roast beef, or

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do ham bowls, sliced pit turkey, beef or ham sandwiches, chicken or shrimp salad sandwiches, Cincinnati-style chili, & apple or pumpkin pie by the slice. Also features 50/50 raffle, basket of cheer raffle, chance auction (with over 50 items), plus other auction items. Major credit cards accepted. Proceeds benefit parish ministries. 17th St. & Philadelphia Ave. O.C., Md.

Nov. 19-20: AGH Appreciation Weekend The Shrimp Boat presents AGH Penguin Swim Appreciation Weekend from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 19 and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20, featuring three pounds of shrimp for $30 or $11/pound for eat-in or carryout and $1.75 steamed crabs for eat-in only available till 3 p.m. each day. Full regular menu available. A portion of all sales will be donated to the penguin swim.

Nov. 20: Bingomania Bingomania, the Eastern Shore’s largest bingo cash prize event, returns to the Wicomico Civic Center. Doors open at 5 p.m. for early bird games, and regular games begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission includes all regular and special games, including the Jumbo Jackpot Game. Regular game payouts are $500, while special games will pay out $1,000. Tickets are $45 per person in advance and $55 per person at the door; fees may apply to ticket prices. Tickets at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org and by phone at 410548-4911. All proceeds benefit the Mardela Middle & High School Bands.

Nov. 20: Breakfast Buffet Whaleyville United Methodist Church will host an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet from 7-10 a.m. Cost is $8/adult and $4/child.

Nov. 23: Coat & Toy Drives The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City announces its annual coat and toy drives. Collections are in the Ocean Pines Community Center parking lot from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Unwrapped toy donations will be delivered to Worcester G.O.L.D. and coats will be taken to Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary, and St. Peter's Lutheran Church. Boots, shoes, thermal ware, sweatshirts, sweaters, jeans, gloves, scarves and blankets

are also accepted.

Nov 25: Thanksgiving Dinner The 42nd Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner will again be held at the Ocean City Baptist Church from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Come and receive a great meal at no cost. The men and women of the church and community will be preparing and serving the dinner. Please call Ocean City Baptist Church to inform of attendance at 410-289-4054 or sign-up on line at OCBaptist.com. Dinner will be available for shut-ins with a call.

Nov 26-28: Shopper’s Fair A holiday shopping extravaganza at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

Nov. 26-27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Unique handmade merchandise, nautical, candles, photography, florals, jewelry, ceramics.

Great gifts & household items. Children’s activities, photos with Santa and non-shopper’s lounge. Free parking, food court, door prizes.

Nov. 27: Drive Thru Luncheon Drive Thru Church Luncheon from 10 a.m. until sold out at the Powellville UM Church located at 35606 Mount Hermon Road, Powellville. Drive thru luncheon features oyster fritter sandwiches, home made chicken salad, homemade soups including chili, peas and dumplings and veg. beef. Bake sale items will be available. No pre-orders. Call 410-835-8796 or 443-880-8804 for more details. Hunters are welcome.

Dec. 2: Berlin Christmas Parade The 50th Anniversary Berlin Christmas Parade will start at 7 p.m. on Main Street.

Dec. 4: OC Christmas Parade Beginning at 11 a.m. with an extended route from Old Landing Road to 120th Street in the southbound lanes of Coastal Highway.

Dec. 4: Sports Cards, Memorabilia Show A Legends Sports Show featuring a sports cards and memorabilia show will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Westside Route 50 Shopping Center next to Hooper’s Crab House. An autograph session with Orioles Hall of Famer Al

November 19, 2021 Bumbry will be held from 2-4 p.m. Later a night of sports talk with featured guests Bruce Laird, Ken Singleton, Al Bumbry and Tom Davis will be held with a dinner buffet. For tickets call Wayne Littleton, 410-723-2842, believeintomorrow.org.

Dec. 4: WPS Holiday Bazaar Worcester Preparatory School will host its 50th Annual Holiday Bazaar on a Saturday this year from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the school’s field house.

Dec. 5: Museum Open House Ocean City Lifesaving Station Museum will host a holiday open house, 10 a.m.5 p.m. Free admission.

Dec. 5: Symphony Show The Mid-Atlantic Symphony will hold a holiday show at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center at 3 p.m. with doors opening at 2:30 p.m. Proof of vaccine must be shown to attend.

Dec. 5: Salisbury Christmas Parade Mountaire Farms presents the 75th Annual event, hosted by the Salisbury Jaycees. Rain date is Sunday, December 12. The event begins at 1 p.m. with local bands, first responders, elected officials and more. The new parade route will start at Poplar Hill Ave and run west up E. Main Street crossing to W. Main Street and ending at Mill Street.

Dec. 11: The Polar Express Wear your pajamas to see the movie at Flagship Cinemas. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. with movie beginning at 10 a.m.

Concessions will be open. Suggested donation of $5 at the door to benefit Buckingham Elementary PTA.

Dec. 11: Comic Con Returns Held at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, the convention features an exciting selection of guests and events sure to be a big hit with attendees. Special guests from the worlds of comics, TV, and more will be on hand to meet guests and sign autographs. Along with meeting guests, attendees will have access to anime screenings throughout the day, informative and entertaining panels, video game tournaments, a costume contest with prizes, and over two hundred booths full of geeky goods and independent content creators. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission charge of $10 (kids under 9 free with paying adult).

County Schools Offering Modified Quarantine With Testing, Masks

November 19, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The school system has changed student quarantine protocols.

In a message to parents Monday, Superintendent Lou Taylor outlined changes to the student quarantine practices for Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS). Students now will have a modified seven-day quarantine option if they meet certain eligibility requirements.

Lauren Williams, the school system’s coordinator of health services, confirmed in an email this week that on Oct. 28, the Maryland Department of Health provided updated guidance to schools that included options for modified quarantine.

“WCPS has adopted a modified quarantine because it provides a safe option to use layered mitigation strategies to allow students who qualify for the modified quarantine to remain in school,” she said.

According to Taylor’s announcement, beginning Nov. 15 WCPS added a modified quarantine. Students eligible will be able to attend school but must not exhibit symptoms of COVID-19, must wear their face mask properly and must

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

be tested on days 1,3,5 and 7 of the modified quarantine period.

“Students on modified quarantine are prohibited from participation in any afterschool programs for the duration of the modified quarantine,” Taylor said.

“This includes afterschool academies, athletics, clubs, and other extracurricular activities.”

Williams said the modified quarantine would be used when applicable.

“The modified quarantine is only permitted for situations when students have close contacts with other students while fully masked on school property or school transportation,” she said.

“Due to our commitment to safety protocols, we have been able to avoid close contacts in most situations other than transportation.”

Taylor noted that students exposed to COVID-19 didn’t have to take advantage of the modified quarantine.

“We do recognize that some families may not feel that the modified quarantine is the best option for their child,” he said. “In the instance that you decline to have your child participate in modified quarantine when it is offered, he or she will be required to quarantine at home and the absence will be marked as an excused medical absence.”

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Page 54

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Dennis William Leonard OCEAN CITY – Dennis William Leonard, age 47, born July 17, 1974, passed away on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in Baltimore.

Born in White Plains, N.Y., he was the son of the late Arthur Peter Leonard. He is survived DENNIS by his mother, BeverWILLIAM ly Cherico Leonard of LEONARD Somers, N.Y., and wife Bronwyn Humphrey Leonard, son Rife Cherico, and daughter Brittyn Lyra, all of Ocean City.

Also surviving is a brother, Arthur Peter Leonard of Putnam Valley, N.Y., and a sister Suzanne Corrado (Anthony) of

OBITUARIES Mahopac, N.Y. Also surviving are his nephews and niece, Aiden Arthur Leonard, Victoria Nicole Corrado, and Anthony Corrado III. Dennis was a graduate of Lakeland High School located in Shrub Oak, N.Y. class of 1992 where he excelled both on the football and lacrosse fields. Dennis was a graduate of Salisbury University’s Class of 1997 where he achieved two NCAA National Lacrosse championships with back-to-back undefeated seasons. Dennis was employed by Quest Diagnostics headquartered in Secaucus, N.J. He was a Neurology Sales Account Executive working direct-

I want to thank everyone who attended the Robert Dye Scholarship Fund fundraiser and/or made donations (both financial and raffle or silent auction items). This was our best year ever.

We collected almost $6,000.00. After next year, we will have reached the endowment level. I am so excited and feel so thankful. My brother would be so proud and so honored. I have included here the thank you letter I received for one of the two scholarships that have already been awarded. It is so very touching.

July 22nd, 2020 Friends and Family of Robert Dye Dye Scholarship Dear Mrs. Lynda Johnson, Thank you so much for your generous scholarship! I cannot express what it means to me and my family. My father has been working a lot of overtime to try and help me with my tuition and I have been working part time in a pharmacy during nursing school to pay for my books and material but it has been hard to afford all of the textbooks that nursing school requires.

This scholarship is such a blessing for me. I cannot wait to tell my family; I know this will be a huge help!

It is so generous that you have set up this scholarship award in honor of your friend and family member. What a wonderful way to keep his memory alive. It makes this award even more special to know that it is coming from the friends and family of a fellow lover of nursing. Nursing is and always has been a passion of mine, I strive to do well academically in nursing school to honor my late grandmother. My late grandmother, Dorothy, went back to school in her early 60’s and worked hard. Right before she passed away, she earned her LPN certificate and I was very proud of her. Now I am working hard in nursing school and have been receiving A’s and only 1 B so far, in her honor. After graduation, I hope to work at a local hospital while continuing to advance my education. My goal is to one day become a nurse practitioner.

This scholarship award means so much to me and I am incredibly grateful! Thank you for your generosity!

Kennedy

Sincerely,

ly with healthcare providers throughout Maryland, Washington DC, and Delaware.

He was an active coach for Beach Lacrosse coaching many years for Dolphins and Saltwater in Ocean City. Dennis was an avid hunter and skier. He enjoyed hunting in Maryland, Delaware, and in his hometown Putnam Valley, N.Y. He cherished his skiing trips that he took with his children at Hunter Mountain, N.Y., Mt. Snow, Vt., Killington, Vt. and Jackson Hole, Wy. Dennis enjoyed watching football and lacrosse with family and friends.

He loved fishing, boating, biking, running and enjoyed spending time with his loved Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Dune. But most of all Dennis loved his family and friends; he was grateful for each and every one of them. Dennis was a huge part of this community and touched so many lives. He will be missed immensely.

A wake will be held on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021, from 3 to 6 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021, from 2 to 5 p.m., at the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. A formal service will be held in New York, family to announce at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salisbury University Foundation for men's lacrosse, PO Box 2655 Salisbury, Md. 21801, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at PO Box

November 19, 2021

22324, New York, N.Y. 10087.

Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via Burbagefuneralhome.com.

Phillip R. Lewis, Sr. SELBYVILLE – Phillip R. Lewis, Sr., age 76, of Selbyville, Del. and formerly of Berlin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021 at Seasons Hospice in Wilmington, Del. Phil was born in Salisbury on Dec. 19, 1944 to the late Sewell Lewis and Mildred Rodney Lewis. Phil graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1962. PHILLIP R. Phil was an Army Viet- LEWIS, SR. nam Veteran and proudly served from 1963 to 1966.

Following his military service, Phil held various jobs over the years with the most enjoyable being a truck driver.

Phil is survived by his loving companion of 26 years, MaryJane (Collins) Bennett; his sister Joan Willey; two daughters Tracey Bounds (Ron) and Dana Layfield (Kelly); his son Phillip R. Lewis, Jr. (Farin); 10 grandchildren; four great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and extended family Lisa Bennett Ashman (John).

Phil was an avid Baltimore Orioles fan. He will be remembered as a person always willing to help anyone, especially in their time of need. Phil was a member of the American Legion Post #123 and a member of the VFW. SEE NEXT PAGE

November 19, 2021

... OBITUARIES A celebration of Phil's life with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 3, 2021 at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The American Legion Post #123 10111 Old Ocean City Blvd, Berlin, Md. or to the Roxana-Zion United Methodist Church 35914 Zion Church Church Road Selbyville, Del. 19945.

Online condolences can be made by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

James C. Walton III BERLIN – It is with deep sorrow we mourn the sudden passing of James C. Walton III (Jay), 71, of Berlin on Nov. 7, 2021.

Jay was born Aug. 6, 1950 and was the son of Margaret Custer Walton and James Coady Walton, Jr. He was a wonderful, devoted husband to the love of his life, Pat Walton.

He graduated Fishburne Military School and lived on the Eastern Shore of Maryland his entire life. He was employed for over 20 years JAMES C. at Rommel’s Ace HardWALTON III ware in Ocean City. Prior to Ace Hardware, Jay worked as a manager at MAB Paints & Coatings in Fenwick Island, DE. Those who knew Jay well would agree that while he was a quiet pillar of strength, he had a strong and fierce passion for his family and was a giving soul. He was always available to lend an ear to those whom he cared about and had an infectious laugh.

Jay was immensely proud of his two sons, Brian (Liz) and Jason (Beth) Walton, of the wonderful men and fathers they became. He will be especially missed by his three grandchildren Kellen (11), Bella (11) and Carter Walton (7). Through his long marriage to Pat, he also became a stepfather to Candy Brantner, a loving grandfather to his two step-grandsons Jeremy and Chris Brantner and a great-grandfather to two beautiful girls, Memphis (7) and Rowen (6), who will miss him dearly. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Mabel Whisenhunt Stepp of Hampton, TN and brother-in-law Coy Whisenhunt (Kelley) of Valley Forge, Tenn.

His ultimate joy and greatest pride was taken in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He loved the simple aspects of life and could often be seen grilling dinner for the family, setting off fireworks with his sons, on the boardwalk with his grandkids, enjoying quiet dinners with his wife or simply watching his favorite TV shows like Jeopardy or The Big Bang Theory. Jay enjoyed fishing and the ocean and loved watching the storms roll in at the beach. He was an avid football fan and enjoyed nothing more than teasing his daughter-in-law, Liz, for be-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

ing a Philadelphia Eagles fan.

A small private funeral will be held in Tennessee and Jay will be laid to rest in Blevins Cemetery in Roan Mountain, Tenn. off Tiger Creek Road, next to Pat’s father, Oscar J. Whisenhunt. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held locally on a later date.

The family has appreciated all the love and support they have received during this time. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to assist the family with the unexpected funeral expenses feel free to send donations to Rainbow Condominium, c/o Pat Walton, 11200 Coastal Highway, Unit 107, Ocean City, Md. 21842 (please make checks payable to Pat Walton).

Audrey Abbott Anderson

BETHANY BEACH – Audrey Abbott Anderson of Bay View Park, Bethany Beach Del. passed away at the Lake Salisbury Hospice on Nov. 4, 2021 at the age of 95.

Born in Southhampton, England Oct. 26, 1926 she traveled to America on the Queen Mary in 1946. She was preceded in death by her first husband H.W. Abbott and second husband Phillip Anderson.

She is survived by her daughter, Terri Burns (Charlie) of Hilton Head, S.C., and son Geoff Abbott (Carole) of Bethany Beach, Del., four grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Audrey or Nan as she was known to her family loved being outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

No services will be held at this time.

Irene B. Pino OCEAN PINES – Irene B. Pino, age 84, of Ocean Pines, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021 at home.

Mrs. Pino was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and was the daughter of the late Maria Edwardo.

She retired from the World Health Organization as a procurement officer.

Irene was a member of St. John Neu-

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mann Catholic Church and the Red Hat Society.

She is survived by five sons, John A. Pino, Joseph L. Pino (Patty) and Charlie A. Pino all of Berlin, Robert A. Pino (Niki) of Centreville and William C. Pino (Jennifer) of Tyaskin; six grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in IRENE B. PINO death by her husband Albino Pino.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20 at Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Friends may call one hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.

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

Page 56

City Council Signs Off Lot Release

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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November 19, 2021

OCEAN CITY – Two long-vacant lots in a north-end neighborhood could soon see new homes on them after resort officials this week agreed to release the owner from a long-standing agreement.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council had before them a request to release a property owner in the Caine Woods community from a recorded agreement dating back several years that restricted the sale and development of two vacant lots adjacent to the developed lot. When the property owner built the home, a stairway, landing and deck were added to the side of the residence that encroached on the adjacent vacant lots.

As a result, the owner entered an agreement with the Mayor and Council that those lots would not be developed.

Now, years later, the property owner has requested a termination of the old agreement in order to be able to sell, and ultimately, develop the vacant lots. Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville explained the issue.

“Back in the 1980s, the solution to building across some of the property lines would be an accessory use on an

otherwise vacant lot,” he said. “The solution was to enter into an agreement with the Mayor and Council that those lots would not be sold for development purposes. The vacant lot would be an accessory to the lot that was built on.”

Neville explained accessory uses on the existing residence encroached on the vacant lots.

“This request concerns three lots,” he said. “A house was built on one and the other two lots are vacant. The house that was built included to side stairway to the lower level and a deck that crossed the property line by several feet.”

Neville explained the trade-off for releasing the property owner from the agreement with the town is that the property owner would replace the current arrangement with a perpetual 10-foot easement between the lot owners. Releasing the property owner from the agreement would avoid removing the existing steps and deck.

“With this request, rather than remove those improvements, they would like to provide a 10-foot easement across the rear of the vacant lot,” he said. “They would still be able to encroach several feet into the vacant lot.”

Councilman Mark Paddack asked if the proposed 10-foot easement would reduce the size of the vacant lots to the point they were unbuildable. Neville said the lots are already considered non-conforming according to their zoning designation.

“Those two lots are already undersized,” he said. “They would be less than the required 5,000 square feet for the zoning district. They would be considered existing non-conforming lots. They would be buildable, but they would have to be within the required setbacks.”

Councilman Lloyd Martin said he was familiar with the lots and achieving the desired setbacks for any new construction would likely be challenging.

“I live right there and when I looked at this, I didn’t realize the property line was that close,” he said. “I don’t know the owners, but I do know those lots have been vacant for a long time.”

Councilman John Gehrig wanted to be sure releasing the property owner from the agreement was in the town’s best interest.

“What are we not thinking about?” he said. “Are there any downsides to doing this?”

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said she had reviewed the request and it appeared to be an amenable solution.

“This is just one of those agreements that comes up from time to time,” she said. “This is one way to resolve it. It seems like a reasonable resolution to this issue.”

In the end, the council voted 6-0 with Councilman Peter Buas absent to release the property owner from the existing recorded agreement.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

COPS & COURTS Hotel Assault Arrest

• November 20, 2021 10 a.m. - Noon Sturgis Park (299 River Street) Snow Hill, MD *Clinic dates subject to change based upon flu vaccine availability. AGHRx RediScripts Pharmacy will be onsite offering high dose flu vaccines for ages 65 years and older, which will be billed to Medicare or private insurance.

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OCEAN CITY – A White Plains, Md., man was arrested last week after allegedly punching his girlfriend and then refusing to leave the hotel property where the alleged incident occurred.

Around 9:10 p.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a hotel at 16th Street for a reported domestic assault that had already occurred. The officer met with a female victim in the hallway on the second floor, who informed the officer she had arrived that day in Ocean City with her fiancé, identified as Carl Jones, 43, of White Plains, Md., and that they were scheduled to return the following day, according to police reports.

According to police reports, the victim told the officer she had been arguing with Jones over the last few weeks and the overnight trip to Ocean City was an attempt to mend their relationship. The victim reportedly told police the couple had returned to their hotel after visiting the casino and the argument escalated.

The victim told officers she was lying in bed when Jones struck her in the head with his fist, according to police reports.

The victim immediately exited the room and called police. The victim told police she did not wish to be evaluated by Ocean City EMS, according to police reports. The victim reportedly told police Jones had been physical with her in the past, and that she had applied for a protective order in October, but had not followed through with it.

OCPD officers went to the couple’s room on the second floor and Jones briefly greeted them before closing the door and not re-opening it, according to police reports. OCPD officers reportedly knocked on the door for about 40 minutes to no avail.

Meanwhile, a female came out of another room on the second floor and asked officers what was going on and is everything okay, according to police reports.

The woman told police she had small children in her room and asked OCPD officers if they had anything to worry about, according to police reports. The officers assured the witness she did not have anything to worry about.

The victim told police her belongings were still in the room, including her dog, according to police reports. The hotel manager told OCPD officers Jones was no longer welcome on the property and that she wanted him trespassed. The hotel manager provided the victim with another key to her room and she returned to the room with OCPD officers.

The officers utilized the key, but learned Jones had allegedly secured the door from inside with the privacy latch.

A hotel maintenance worker arrived and was able to open the door latch, according to police reports. OCPD officers entered and found Jones seated in a chair on the balcony. Jones was instructed to

pack his belongings, exit the room and leave the hotel property.

Jones complied and began packing his bag, according to police reports. As he exited the room, he dropped his bag and placed his hands behind his back, saying “Isn’t that what you want?” according to police reports. The officers informed Jones he was free to leave the hotel.

By now, Jones was on a video phone call with another unknown male who advised him just to leave the hotel, according to police reports. Jones reportedly yelled to the other man, “I don’t want to get shot in the [expletive deleted] back,” and “I don’t want to take a bullet in the back,” according to police reports.

Eventually, Jones was arrested and charged with second-degree assault, disorderly conduct and trespassing.

Disorderly, Weapons Arrest OCEAN CITY – A Dagsboro man was arrested last week after allegedly stumbling down Philadelphia Avenue, running into another pedestrian and later found with an illegal weapon on his person.

Around 2:05 a.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the area of 15th Street observed a male suspect later identified as Zachary Ralph, 37, of Dagsboro, allegedly staggering northbound on the southbound sidewalk of Philadelphia Avenue. As the officer observed, another unidentified male was walking south on the southbound sidewalk.

According to police reports, as the male approached, Ralph began to lean on the man’s shoulders. While of the officer observed, the unidentified male jump back and appeared to be disturbed by the behavior of Ralph, whom he apparently did not know, according to police reports.

The officer encountered both men and asked the unidentified male if he was injured during the incident. The male said he was not, but pointed to Ralph and told the officer he should not be out on the street in his condition, according to police reports.

The officer approached Ralph and found him to be in an intoxicated condition, according to police reports. Ralph was reportedly swaying from side to side and raised his arms in order to keep his balance. Based on his observations, the officer arrested Ralph at that point for disorderly conduct and intoxicated endangerment.

During a search incident to the arrest, the officer reportedly located a pocket knife clipped to a portion of Ralph’s belt.

The knife had a lever, and when the officer switched the lever, a three-plusinch blade emerged from the handle, according to police reports. The springassisted knife was in violation of the town’s weapons ordinance and additionSEE NEXT PAGE

November 19, 2021

... COPS & COURTS al charges were tacked on.

Suspended Sentence For Melee OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania man, arrested in August on assault and theft charges last weekend after scrapping with his girlfriend and her teenage daughters over a backpack at a downtown hotel, pleaded guilty last week to second-degree assault and was sentenced to 180 days, all of which was suspended.

Around 5:20 p.m. on Aug. 20, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a hotel at 9th Street for a reported domestic assault that had already occurred. The officer arrived and met with a female victim who reported her boyfriend, later identified as Matthew Jackson, 41, of York, Pa., had assaulted her and her children, according to police reports. The victim advised police Jackson had allegedly left the area with her son.

According to police reports, the victim said she returned to their hotel room and found Jackson rummaging through her daughter’s luggage. An argument ensued and the victim told Jackson to leave the room, according to police reports. When the victim began packing Jackson’s belongings, he reportedly grabbed her face and pushed her backward, causing her to hit the corner of a wall and fall to the floor in the kitchen area.

According to police reports, Jackson grabbed the victim’s backpack in which were all of the victim’s personal belong-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch ings, including cash, driver’s license, credit cards, vehicle keys and other keys. The victim reportedly told police she got off the floor and attempted to get the backpack back from Jackson.

The victim told police her two teenage daughters also attempted to grab the backpack from Jackson and a physical altercation occurred that spilled from the room and into the hotel hallway. The officer was able to obtain video surveillance footage from the hotel hallway.

In the video, Jackson is seen backing away from the two teenage girls with the backpack while they pursued him, according to police reports. The video reportedly shows one of the teenage girls slapping Jackson in the face before he violently shoves the teen against a wall and knocking her to the floor in the hallway, according to police reports.

The altercation between Jackson, the victim and the teenage girls continues through the length of the hotel video surveillance footage until it leaves the screen. During the footage, the victim and her daughters attempt to get the backpack from Jackson and there were different episodes of pushing, shoving and slapping, according to police reports.

OCPD officers interviewed all of the parties. Based on the evidence and witness testimony, it was determined Jackson was the primary aggressor. He was arrested and charged with three counts of second-degree assault and theft. Last week, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree assault and was sentenced to 180 days, all of which was suspended. He was also placed on probation for two years.

Page 59

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021

Letters To The Editor Margaritaville Not Right Fit

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Editor: (The following letter was sent to members of the Ocean City Mayor and Council and appointed officials with a copy forwarded for publication.)

As an owner at the Sea Mist community, located directly across Baltimore Avenue from the proposed Margaritaville development, I am writing to you to express my concerns for this massive project. Yes, it is an upgrade, but the scale and magnitude of this project does not fit in with the size and location of the site they want to build it on. A project similar to the Beach Plaza Hotel and surrounding properties would be a welcome upgrade to the block between 13th and 14th Street on the Boardwalk.

Our community is very concerned with the magnitude of this project and what negative impacts a project of this size will have on the surrounding communities and negative impact on this Boardwalk region of Ocean City. It simply doesn’t fit. I have many concerns: night time light pollution; day time shadow pollution; noise pollution due to the increased size; concerns with lack of adequate parking within its footprint for the guests and workers; no plans for remote parking for the 80 +/proposed number of workers per shift; large increase in the number of patrons and workers from the previous use; loss of the parking lot that was used for many daytime visitors and guests; street parking being taken from the longtime residents and guests that frequent this part of Ocean City; potential negative stormwater management impacts to an already stressed area; ingress and more importantly egress of the guests and visitors onto Baltimore Avenue after events visiting the proposed use of the project; 265 proposed rooms, at least 80+ more rooms than the largest of the current hotels in the area; height of the building, this project will dwarf the other building within a few blocks of the site.

Ocean City is known for being a family-oriented vacation spot. The boardwalk has always been a big part of that family fun. In recent news, late night partying has become an issue in some areas of the boardwalk. In consideration of the size and intended use of Margaritaville as a large party venue, I worry about how that will affect night time on the boards near Sea Mist and potential pedestrian use of Sea Mist property as a cut through, and other unsavory uses which we already deal with.

Margaritaville’s size and intent of use, negatively and dramatically chang-

es this part of Ocean City. We understand there are other proposed developments that better fit the use of this site, please pick one of those proposals for the sake of Ocean City and the surrounding areas. If Margaritaville wants to be in Ocean City, they should find a site appropriate for the intended use, not downtown in the historic district of this great vacation town.

Ross Rappaport Ocean City

Government Extending Control Over Tourism Editor: It has recently been revealed that the Mayor & City Council (M&CC) of the Town of Ocean City are creating a whole new Tourism Department. Over the next six months they will add the following positions: Director of Sales, Public Relations Specialist, Social & Digital Media Specialist, Graphic Designer & Brand Manager, Advertising & Research Specialist and Sports Marketing & Event Manager. These six new positions alone will cost the town nearly $500,000 a year in starting salaries and benefits.

There is further indication that a sales division and a marketing team will be assembled under two of the above positions. Who knows how many new positions will be created?

The job descriptions of the above positions reveal that some of the duties previously performed by our advertising agency will now be done in house.

If so, why do we need an advertising agency?

The M&CC have made it clear that they want to help tourism. That is fine, but we are already doing it by our strong public safety departments, namely Police, Fire, EMS and Beach Patrol. We are already doing it with a clean environment and a pristine beach. We are already doing it with water, wastewater, trash collection and sound infrastructure. It is one thing to help and enhance our local tourism industry, but this M&CC wants to operate the tourism industry.

In FY21, they had $7.46 million in advertising funds to spend. Now, they want to control all marketing and to "rebrand" the town. Advertising and marketing are not functions of government.

They should be left to the private sector.

If the town sticks to the basics of public safety and a clean environment, and the tourism industry puts out a good, affordable product, Ocean City will thrive.

Vincent dePaul Gisriel, Jr. Ocean City

TO OUR READERS: The Dispatch welcomes any and all letters from our readers. All letters are encouraged typed, but not required, and we reserve the right to edit each letter for clarity, accuracy and brevity. Letters should include writer’s name, address and day and evening telephone numbers. If we are unable to reach the writer, we will have to withhold the letter. Due to space restraints, letters under 500 words in length will be given top priority. Letters can be mailed to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811, emailed to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com or faxed to 410-641-0966.

November 19, 2021

The Dispatch Forever In Memory Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005) 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 WEBSITES: www.mdcoastdispatch.com www.facebook.com/thedispatchoc J. STEVEN GREEN Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Sweeping Tourism Changes For Resort How We See It

It’s always interesting for any business to hear honest customer feedback. The same goes for resort destinations like Ocean City.

Tourism folks have always sought feedback from Ocean City visitors, but outreach has been stepped up recently with an independent source conducting about 5,500 interviews with visitors.

The data concludes 91% rated the Ocean City experience as positive, using descriptions like calm, peaceful, rested, relaxed, content, happy, fun, excited, nostalgic and comfortable to summarize their feelings. Of the small minority who gave unfavorable reviews, cited were perceptual concerns over crime and safety as well as general observations of overly crowded, too much traffic, disorderly and chaotic atmosphere and overpriced.

Though the survey does not include a huge sample size, as compared to the millions who come to Ocean City each year, we put value in it because the positive and negatives extolled by the respondents reflect reality. All the positives, such as nostalgic, peaceful and relaxed, are true when it comes to most Ocean City vacation experiences. The negatives, like expensive, crowded and concerns over crime, are understandable because they too are rooted in realities at certain times.

This survey is part of a broad effort to answer the question on the minds of tourism folks, “Why choose here?” The results will be evaluated along with online outreach efforts, target audience interviews and upcoming community engagement workshops with tourism officials, local business owners and others in private business. Similar processes have played out in the past, such as when Ocean City created its latest strategic plan, but this current initiative is all about tourism. All this input will be merged to provide the knowledge ultimately leading to a new branding campaign.

At this week’s Mayor and Council meeting, some details were learned as to how this rebranding of the resort will be carried out. It’s going to cost money and will involve more employees on the town’s payroll through a restructuring of the town’s tourism, marketing, special events and convention center departments. The positions will include a director of sales, a sports marketing specialist, and advertising and research specialist, a public relations specialist and a digital marketing specialist.

These are bold moves for Ocean City.

The time is right for action, as the pandemic has helped the resort. Capitalizing on good times through investments in the tourism structure of the town and overall direction is smart business. The philosophical debate is whether government should be leading these tourism initiatives or if it’s better as a private sector effort. It’s clear government is now leading the charge.

Page 61

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green It’s beneficial to reflect back in time to see how far we have come. One year ago this week, I was standing on the sidelines of a soccer tournament in northern Delaware when parents received the automated call from the school system informing virtual learning was to take place through the end of the year due to spiking COVID-19 numbers. The facial expressions of disappointment and frustration of another setback told the story. On Nov. 18, 2020, the positivity rate in Worcester County was 6.82%, as compared to 3.4% on Nov. 17 of this year. As for the seven-day moving average case rate per 100,000, the mark was 24.32 on Nov. 17, 2020 compared to 15.03 this Nov. 17.

While cautiously watching the metrics, these days the talk is of everincreasing vaccination rates, young kids now able to get their shots, some people being super vaccinated (fully vaccinated with a booster), relaxing quarantine rules in schools so long as masks are being worn and testing is conducted, half days to give teachers and students a mental health break and avoiding virtual learning at all costs.

The pandemic and associated lifestyle changes, like masks, will continue to be a part of our lives for the foreseeable future, but this much is known -- thankfully progress is being made on most fronts.

There were several calls home this week from the Worcester County Board of Education. The first one involved an announcement of a change in quarantine protocols for students who have been deemed a close contact of another positive student. Nearly all the close contacts in schools occur either on transportation to and from school or during lunch when masks are not worn. The latter seems to be not weighed heavily any longer when it comes to contact tracing.

This week’s change involves close contact students now being able to stay in school so long as they do not have any symptoms, wear masks, do not participate in any sports or afterschool offerings and test negative in school four times over the course of a week. What’s interesting here is it’s clear Maryland health officials are loosening the guidance for schools. It’s welcomed and a sign of progression, but it’s also clear masking is a huge part of these changes. Each protocol update comes with the asterisk that masks must be worn.

It was a point brought up several times this week during the Maryland State Board of Education’s public listening session on masks. The state board has vowed to revisit masking at its meeting next month. At the beginning of this week’s session, Board Chairman Clarence Crawford said no decision would be made after listening to the 20 citizen speakers, which were evenly divided on the mask issue. Much of the same jargon from both sides was heard. Passion continues to be found on the masking issue as on the vaccination front, especially for those 5-11 years of age.

Though Crawford and the board did not offer insights as to their leaning, Crawford did offer at the end of all the testimony the board did not get a “silver bullet” answer. The board will reconvene next month, but it makes little sense at this time to remove masking if the goal is in-person learning. It’s not right or fair, but the protocols currently governing close contact quarantine are only being loosened if masks are worn. Masking is more important than vaccination when it comes to schools. It’s a fundamentally wrong approach, but it’s not reasonable to support lifting the mask requirement until the protocols are adjusted to allow vaccination to trump the mask. There are no indications that will happen anytime soon. Masks are the crutch of support to allow these small modifications to be enacted. Soon the time will come to be bolder on masking. Vaccination rates should be a major part of these conversations.

The grand opening of the new Stephen Decatur Middle School in the fall of 1997 was one of my first assignments as a reporter. I remember a county commissioner at the time giving me a quote about the new school and then telling me later off the record the county “really screwed this one up.” He was referring to the fact the school was not big enough to meet current demands.

Citing funding concerns limiting the size of the school infrastructure, most officials involved in the project knew at the time the school was way too small based on current enrollment and near future projections. Soon after opening, classroom trailers were needed as growth continued in the north end. Once the $11 million addition, which broke ground this week, is completed, there will be 25,000 square feet of new space, eliminating the need for the nine existing portable classrooms attached to the school today. Twelve new classrooms will be added through the project as well as four science labs and additional meeting and storage spaces.

While the groundbreaking ceremony was a cause for celebration, it was also an opportunity to revisit a mistake that was made back in the late-90s. Thousands of students and dozens of teachers have worked through cramped quarters unnecessarily for nearly 25 years. As Superintendent Lou Taylor said this week, “Certainly it is a very, very proud day. We all recognize that this addition is a project this school has needed practically since its doors opened in 1997.” It’s hoped the addition will be ready for students in early 2023.

Page 62

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

“I

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November 19, 2021

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

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can’t believe your kids are adopted, you never write about it,” a reader recently said. She then inquired why I don’t share more about this fact. She thought being open about my family’s story more often might help others who do not have a smooth route to parenting.

Pam and I are open about our adoptive family. In the throes of life, it’s not something we think a ton about, however. We are raising our boys, now 13 and 12, as we would if we conceived them naturally. Families are built in all sorts of fashions, and our journey was made possible through adoption, unselfish birth mothers and a lot of faith.

It’s been many years since I have shared our story. If it helps others struggling with starting a family, I am happy to relive the journey.

Both our boys were adopted at birth in Pennsylvania. They both know it.

They know where they were born, the circumstances surrounding their early lives and the backgrounds of their birth mothers as we know them. We are unaware of anything about their birth fathers. I am incredibly proud of their individual stories as well as our quest to become parents.

Pam and I were married in January of 2007. Our journey to trying to have a baby started a little before. Like so many couples out there, we were unable to conceive the “natural way”. As a result, we went the invitro fertilization path, which was an expensive and painful experience for both of us, particularly my wife, who had to endure sensitive procedures and prescription drugs, including needles to her stomach.

After countless trips to and from Baltimore, we were unsuccessful. After some months of healing and introspection, we found ourselves in the car heading to Philadelphia to an adoption agency. A tremendous amount was

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learned throughout the rigorous home study process, which evaluates the prospective parents and their lives to determine if they are fit. After about a year of paperwork and interviews, we were approved in late 2007. We were in the game.

Within a few months, we were informed we had been selected for placement by a birth mother in Florida who was to have twins. Unfortunately, the adoption plan failed, as the birth mother changed her mind after they were born, and we had the anguishing task of driving home from Florida with two empty car seats in the backseat. It was on this trek that I fully understood the phrase, “Give it to God.” Adoption is a spiritual thing. It was calming during an emotional time of heart break to accept God is with us on our journey. Our faith allowed us to move forward.

I will never forget calling our agency while Pam was taking a stint driving home from Florida. I let them know what had happened, and there was nothing said of meaning. It was business. Looking past the callous nature of the call, I told them we are now looking again for a future match. We were giving it to God. We were matched within a few months in a scenario that would eventually lead to Beckett being born in West Chester, Pa. on May 12, 2008.

Pam and I were given a wonderful gift by his birth mother of being in the delivery room with him. Due to the close relationship we built with his birth mother, Pam was first to hold Beckett after he was born and I had the honor of cutting the umbilical cord. It’s a treasured memory. We were, and are to this day, so thankful for being blessed with that unique opportunity to welcome our son into the world. I remember fondly the unique feelings at the time because of the symbolic meaning behind it.

Actually, Carson’s birth mother also was to afford us that opportunity, but he

was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. and we were simply not able to get up there fast enough to see his birth. We missed it by a couple hours, so our first glimpse of Carson was in the hospital’s nursery through the glass window. I remember both of us wondering which one was him and being so excited to hold him for the first time. Little did we know at that time the path he would lead us down into the special needs world. His gifts are many, but his challenges are real and demanding. We certainly never could have imagined how his life would play out standing in that hospital on Nov. 5, 2009.

Both our kids had rough starts. They both born to women who were involved in methadone treatment programs for opiate addiction. Therefore, they were both born addicted and had to be weaned through a program of oral morphine doses. Though their lives unfolded differently, Beckett was much sicker at birth than Carson. Beckett did not unclench his fists for months.

While both births were moments of happiness, concerns over their health took over, as he spent weeks in the hospital with complications. All the while the legal process of the adoption had started. There were critical milestones at 48 hours and then 30 days that had to pass, as the birth parents could change their minds legally and keep their babies. Though it occurred in Florida, it did not happen with our boys.

Our story is one of overcoming unfavorable odds and breaking through barriers that stood in our way to becoming a family. It’s what my kids represent in the big picture. In the short term, I just wish they would make their beds and brush their teeth without being ordered to do so.

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

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 19, 2021