Dec. 24

Priceless

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December 24, 2021

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Merry Christmas: The holiday spirit is alive and well at this Caine Woods home where donations are accepted for the Believe In Tomorrow Foundation. The light show is set to music and features several rotations of color schemes and designs created by homeowner Mark Jahnke.

Photo by Chris Parypa

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

December 24, 2021

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Room Tax Ordinance Vote Sparks Sports Complex Debate

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week approved on second reading an ordinance gradually altering room tax funding distribution, but not before a larger debate on what specifically the revenue can be spent.

Ocean City’s room tax in 2019 was raised from 4.5% to 5% with about 44% dedicated to marketing and advertising and 56% dedicated to the town’s general fund to help offset the cost of increased tourism, such as increased fire and police services, public works, salaries and overtime.

There have been discussions about raising the room tax to 5.5%, but that is a complicated process and a separate issue from what the Mayor and Council

had before them on Monday. At issue on Monday on second reading was altering the formula to scale up the percentage of the overall room tax revenue dedicated to advertising.

The preferred option, spelled out in the ordinance presented on Monday, is to continue to direct 2% of the room tax revenue to destination marketing, advertising, promotions, sponsorships and special events and the like for the next two fiscal years, while scaling up the percentage for that purpose to 2.1% in fiscal year 2024 and 2.2% in fiscal year 2025.

The council ultimately approved the ordinance on second reading, but not before a philosophical debate.

Council Secretary Tony DeLuca supported the ordinance because it set in place percentages for how the room tax revenue is spent.

“I’m seconding this because I support the scaling up and the sprinkling,” he said. “If the room tax imposed by the county increases above the current 5%, then 40% will be the number. When we go to 5.5%, and we will, it will be 60-40.

That’s why I’m supporting this.”

Councilman Lloyd Martin questioned if the room tax percentage dedicated to advertising could be used to fund the requested five new positions for the Business and Tourism Development Department.

“I was wondering, I know that we’re hiring five new positions for the department,” he said. “Is that considered direct spending on marketing? Those salaries are directly related to that part of tourism.”

Local resident and former councilman Vince Gisriel said the language in the or-

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dinance was not specific about what the room tax revenue can be used for, and questioned if the intent in the future was to use some of the funds to offset the cost of a future sports complex. The city and Worcester County are on parallel tracks exploring a future sports complex to increase the area’s profile as a regional youth sports destination.

“In the language in the ordinance where it specifies the items that this room tax can pay for under the umbrella of advertising, do you interpret the purchase of land for, say, a sports complex?

Or the debt service on a bond issuance?

Would that apply under this?” Gisriel asked.

Gisriel sought clarification on how a potential future sports complex would be paid for. He raised concern it could be ultimately paid for from property tax revenue and not on the backs of tourists and users of the facility.

“I keep hearing this sports complex is not going to be paid for out of property tax, that the tourists are going to pay for it,” he said. “With all of these other expenses and the uncertainty of these times, I don’t know how you are going to pay for a sports complex. That needs to be clarified. You have a very specific list of what the room tax can be used to pay for, but there is more pressure on the general fund. If it’s not going to be paid for with tourist dollars, I think you need to level with the public on how it will be paid for.”

Councilman John Gehrig attempted to allay some of the concerns about paying for a sports complex out of property tax revenue on the backs of local residents.

“As far as the sports complex goes, this is why we’re talking about another room tax increase,” he said. We’re still far from that and there are partners, so there might not be a need for land acquisition. As long as I’m up here, the property tax will not be used for the sports complex.”

Gehrig said it was a little premature to discuss how to pay for a future sports complex at this point, but pointed out there were several options.

“Are there other avenues for that?” he said. “Room tax is one, and the food tax could be another. Private partnerships, sponsorships and those types of things are all possibilities. There are a lot of unknows right now. That’s part of the reason we’re talking about another room tax increase.”

Gehrig said there should be robust private-sector interest in partnering on a future sports complex when the picture became clearer.

“We can work with our partners, which include the county and the state,” he said. “If all of the governments find their common ground, private entities will be calling us up because they want to participate in this. We’ve seen that already.

We will not be using property tax for the sports complex.”

The council ultimately voted 7-0 to approve the ordinance altering the formula for how room tax is distributed in future years.

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Resort Offers NYE Fireworks, Free Concert On Jan. 1

December 24, 2021

OCEAN CITY – The Town of Ocean City will be hosting free fireworks on New Year’s Eve to celebrate the beginning of 2022 followed by a free New Year’s Day concert.

Festivities will begin at 11 p.m. as Jamaica Avenue will be closed outside of Bourbon Street on the Beach. DJ BK with Radio Ocean City will be live hosting remotely on a big screen with music and a countdown at midnight.

Winterfest of Lights will stay open until 10:30 p.m., Northside Park will close at 11 p.m. as NYE festivities on Jamaica Avenue begin, and the fireworks display will begin promptly at midnight.

“The New Year’s Eve fireworks show is a fun way to ring in the New Year,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “Enjoy the low-key festivities on Jamaica Avenue with a spectacular fireworks show.”

The town is once again offering free bus service on New Year’s Eve. Bus services will be free starting at 6 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, until 4 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, and run every 20 minutes. At all other times following 4 a.m.

New Year’s Day, bus service is available from 6 a.m. until 1 a.m. daily, running every 30 minutes, $3 “ride-all-day” per person.

The use of public transit is for essential travel only and do not use public transit if you are sick. A mask is required to ride and must cover the nose and mouth at all times per federal mandate.

Prizes will be given out on-site as the countdown starts to midnight and fireworks display. For more information about the Winterfest of Lights and the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show, please visit www.ococean.com/events.

To kick off 2022, Meehan and members of the Ocean City Council will host a concert at the Performing Arts Center on New Year’s Day at 4 p.m. All residents and visitors are welcome to attend the free event. The 2022 Mayor’s New Year’s Day Concert will feature a special performance by The Priceless Band.

The Priceless Band is a Motown band from New York that plays for any type of occasion. The Priceless Band was founded by band leader Saundra Price a.k.a. Priceless, the daughter of the late community leader from Brooklyn, James Rocky Robinson. With tributes like the Gladys Knight & the Pips, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Beyoncé, and Rihanna, you will find yourself on your feet from the beginning to the end of the show.

“The New Year’s Day Concert is an uplifting and positive tradition, which brings members of our community together to celebrate the start of a New Year in Ocean City,” said Meehan. “This year we are excited to welcome The Priceless Band from New York. This will be a concert like no other.”

Tickets will not be issued, as seating will be first come, first served.

Berlin Electric Costs Trend Down

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

A comparison of the average electric monthly bills of utility companies in the area compared to the town’s pricing is shown.

Graphic provided by Town of Berlin

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The town’s energy charges have decreased despite rising costs across the economy.

A recent comparison provided to the town by its electric consultants shows that the town’s energy costs were less this year than last year.

“The overall cost did not go up it went down,” said Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood.

According to Fleetwood, the town in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 paid less for energy purchased than it did in the first quarter of 2021. He said that was particularly noteworthy because inflation had risen in the past year.

“The last 12 months, everything you’ve done has gone up,” he said. “This, it’s gone down .”

He said the measures the town had put in place during the last decade—particularly its work with an electric consultant, its efforts to participate in peak shaving and its relationship with wholesale energy provider PJM—were proving successful. He added that even being down

a generator the town was keeping costs in check.

“We did our part to help the ratepayer,” he said.

The report Fleetwood shared with elected officials last week showed that in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021, the town’s cost per kilowatt hour sold was $0.05669. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, that figure was $0.05479, a difference of $0.0019.

“What I found fascinating with this, over the course of the last 12 months inflation is not staying at .0019 cents,” Fleetwood told the town council.

Back in 2008, when skyrocketing electricity costs prompted town leaders to consider selling Berlin’s electric plant, the average monthly electric bill for a Berlin ratepayer was $180.61. Price comparisons completed in September of this year showed the average Berlin bill at $121.35 while the average Delmarva Power & Light bill was $157.15 and the average Choptank Electric Cooperative bill was $139.26.

“It’s being managed,” Fleetwood said.

“It’s being monitored. We’re doing everything we can.”

New Year’s Eve Festivities Planned

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A laser light show, ball drop and children’s festivities highlight Berlin’s New Year’s Eve celebration next week.

On Dec. 31, the town will once again host two New Year’s Eve events — one at 5 p.m. for families and another at 10 p.m. for adults. For the first time, the festivities will feature laser light shows set to music.

“This was a different approach to showcasing something spectacular for the Town of Berlin,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director.

The town welcomes families to Main Street at 5 p.m. on Dec. 31 for music, a laser light show and ball drop. DJ Big Al Reno, who will be set up on the town’s stage, will entertain the crowd as kids enjoy bubbles and cow bells.

“The Berlin cow bell will be back again this year to ring in the new year,” Wells said.

The event culminates with a ball drop at 6 p.m., which Wells said was timed to

coincide with midnight in Berlin, Germany.

She said this was the third year the town had hosted a family oriented event prior to the midnight ball drop.

“The family one has become just as popular if not more popular than the later celebration,” she said.

At 10 p.m., as 2022 nears, the town will host a second celebration. The later event, which features beer and wine sales benefitting the nonprofit We Heart Berlin, will include music with Big Al Reno as well as another laser light show. Wells saw the show prior to lining it up for this year’s festivities and believes it will be a crowd pleaser and easier to set up than the fireworks often requested.

“It looked like something people will enjoy on New Year’s Eve,” she said.

After last year’s events were canceled because of COVID-19, Wells believes area residents are looking forward to ringing in the new year in downtown Berlin.

“It is outdoors,” she said. “You can join in the festivities or watch from a distance.”

For more information on the New Year’s Eve events, visit berlinmainstreet.com.

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State Grant Viewed As Major Positive For Park Property

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

The buildings formerly home to the Tyson chicken processing operations will be demolished with the state grant funds.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BERLIN – Municipal officials are excited about the possibilities a $500,000 state grant will create for Heron Park.

Following the news that Berlin received a $500,000 strategic demolition grant for the old chicken processing building, elected officials this week expressed optimism about what it could mean for the property.

“I was extremely pleased and excited to learn the town received the demolition grant for Heron Park,” Councilman Jack Orris said. “Huge thanks go out to staff for working diligently on this particular application for at least two years.”

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announced $63 million in grant awards to promote community development and economic growth. Among the awards was the $500,000 strategic demolition grant Berlin applied for to demolish the large structure on parcel 57, the section of Heron Park closest to the railroad tracks. The parcel is one of several included in a request for proposals (RFP) the town issued in November.

Officials want to see ideas for parcels 57, 410 and 191.

“This is very exciting news not only for the Town of Berlin but for possible purchasers for this property,” Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said. “You’ll be able to see the land itself without the obstruction of that building there so you can get a true visual for your possibilities, what could be there, in the future.

It makes it more marketable for everybody.”

Orris said demolishing the building had been discussed for years and had been a possible goal of the then-Berlin Falls Park Advisory Committee (BFPAC) when the town initially bought the 60-acre property.

“From the days of the BFPAC to now we’ve been hoping to receive this funding opportunity,” Orris said. “This funding and the addition of parcel 191 to the RFP makes me more anxious to see the proposals and how we can best move forward with the property.”

Councilman Jay Knerr said the demolition would add to the parcel’s value.

“This demolition grant is definitely welcome news for the Town of Berlin,” he said. “It will allow us to take down that eyesore of a building and increase the overall value of parcel 57. From there the goal is to get the right development project that will benefit the town as a whole.”

Mayor Zack Tyndall said that because the cost of tearing the building down was substantial, about $560,000, it would have made it difficult for a lot of interested parties.

“This demolition grant is going to take some of that burden off,” he said.

According to Tyndall, the pre-bid meeting held when the RFP was issued showed there was “substantial interest” by reputable companies. Tyndall said he was eager to see what proposals the town received but noted that the municipality wasn’t obligated to accept any of them. Proposals are due by Feb. 14.

“The RFP does not bind the town,” he said. “It just opens the door for a formal proposal.”

The large section of the property where the ponds are located was not included in the RFP and will remain a park.

“The passive use area is not up for discussion,” Tyndall said. “That is to remain a park.”

He added that officials were exploring grants that might help the town upgrade the pathway and add safety features to that area of Heron Park.

State Commission Approves Wind Farm Developers’ Second Phase Plans

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Projects Include More Turbines

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) approved a second round of offshore wind farm projects, which could greatly expand the spread of significant turbines off the resort coast.

Last Friday, the PSC approved offshore renewable energy credits, or ORECs, for two, second-phase offshore wind energy projects off the coast of Ocean City. In 2017, the PSC approved ORECs for two projects including US Wind’s Marwin project and Orsted’s Skipjack 1 project.

Those first-phase projects are currently going through the federal review process with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). Even before the first wind turbine has been anchored to the ocean floor for either of those first-phase projects, both US Wind and Orsted applied to the PSC for another round of ORECs for a future phase.

BOEM, which must issue its own approval, has designated a Wind Energy Area (WEA) off the coast of Ocean City of about 80,000 acres. Both of the second-phase projects would be sited in that WEA. Orsted’s Skipjack 1 project would generate 120-megawatts. The proposed Skipjack 2 would generate 760 megawatts, or about six times the size of the initial project. It would be sited about 20 miles off the coast of the resort. Skipjack 1 is proposed to be sited about 19.5 miles off the coast, by comparison.

Similarly, US Wind’s Marwin project would include 22 turbines about 17 miles off the coast. Its proposed Momentum Wind project would include 82 turbines.

Local elected officials testified during the PSC public hearing in September they remained adamant about siting the first line of turbines for both projects at least 30 miles from the shoreline. Both US Wind and Orsted have claimed increasing the size of the wind turbines will allow the companies to reduce the number of turbines and lessen the impact on the resort’s viewshed.

Nonetheless, PSC officials said upon approving the two second-phase projects last week the next round will expedite Maryland’s efforts to achieve its renewable energy goals, a position supported by the Biden administration and Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan.

“The effects of climate change are real, and with its more than 3,000 miles of tidal shoreline, Marylanders are especially vulnerable,” said PSC Chairman Jason Stanek. “That’s why it is important for the commission to take this action that will put our state on a path

of deeper decarbonization and help Maryland achieve its aggressive clean energy goals. The residents of our state and region deserve no less.”

The PSC approval comes with conditions. For example, the PSC is requiring that the developers create a minimum of 10,000 direct jobs during the development, construction and operating phases of the projects, commit to certain goals to engage small, local and minority businesses, pass 80% of the construction cost savings back to the ratepayers and contribute $6 million each to the Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Fund. Both companies will also be required to mitigate any potential adverse environmental, noise and lighting impacts during development, construction and operation.

The PSC’s conditional approval also obligates both companies to use port facilities at Tradepoint Atlantic in the Baltimore area, and in Ocean City for marshaling, operations and maintenance activities. Ocean City officials requested the PSC require all turbines to be located at least 30 miles from shore, but the commission declined to take that step since the projects will be sited in federal waters and subject to BOEM review.

However, the commission will require both companies to use the best commercially reasonable efforts to minimize the daytime and nighttime viewshed impacts of the projects, regardless of the outcome of the federal review process.

The PSC also noted the approval of the two second-phase projects will not leave any room for additional projects in the future and has closed the anticipated next two application periods for years two and three.

For its part, Orsted officials praised the PSC approval for its second-phase Skipjack 2 project.

“We are honored that Maryland’s Public Service Commission selected Orsted as a trusted partner in helping the state reach its ambitious renewable energy goals, and we’re proud that we’re once again able to leverage our market-leading portfolio of offshore wind projects to attract major supply chain companies to set up local manufacturing operations in Maryland,” said Orsted Offshore North America CEO David Hardy. “Skipjack 2 will contribute significantly to Maryland’s goal of sourcing 50% of its power from renewable energy sources by 2030, while positioning Maryland as a long-term offshore wind energy manufacturing hub. We look forward to delivering on our commitments now, and well into the future, so that Maryland residents will benefit from offshore wind for decades to come.”

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Winter Brings Reminders About Cold-Stunned Turtles

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Though winter only officially started this week, cold-stunning season for sea turtles and marine mammals is already in full swing with 30 admitted already to the National Aquarium in Baltimore for rehabilitation.

Each winter, hundreds of sea turtles and other marine mammals suffer from cold-stunning when they hit patches of extremely cold water during their typical migration patterns to warmer climates.

The cold water literally stuns the crea-

tures to the point their bodies start to shut down.

It’s not unusual and is just a fact of nature, but early this season the problem seems to be particularly acute. The National Aquarium Animal Rescue Team is already treating 30 cold-stunned sea turtles rescued from beaches up and down the East Coast, including 26 Kemp’s Ridley’s and four green sea turtles.

Unable to swim and navigate, the disabled sea turtles are at the whims of the tides and strand on area beaches.

Each year, hundreds of sea turtles and

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December 24, 2021

other marine animals strand on the beaches up and down the mid-Atlantic region and end up at the National Aquarium and other similar rehabilitation facilities.

In many cases, the cold-stunned creatures are successfully rehabilitated and later released back into the wild, but in other cases, the effects can be lethal. Once rehabilitated, the coldstunned turtles and other creatures are often re-released into the sea and Ocean City and Assateague Island are popular release points because of their proximity to the National Aquarium.

Each year, the National Aquarium Animal Rescue Team picks a theme for the cold-stunned patients they are treating and this year’s theme is musical instruments. The four green turtles the aquarium team is treating have been named for the horn and brass section including Tuba, Trombone, Trumpet and Coronet. The Kemp Ridley’s patients have names such as Triangle, Maraca, Kazoo and Viola, for example.

The majority of the rescued turtles are recovering from ailments commonly associated with cold-stunning including pneumonia, respiratory distress, dehydration, infection and emaciation. As their rehabilitation continues, the Animal Health and Rescue teams are providing around-the-clock care to each of the turtles, all working toward the greater goal

of returning the sea turtles back to their natural habitat. Some could be ready to be re-released as soon as February.

The National Aquarium's Animal Rescue program is responsible for responding to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along the nearly 3,190 miles of Maryland coast and works with stranding partners throughout the Greater Atlantic Regional Stranding Network to help respond, rescue and release animals year-round.

Local residents and visitors are urged to be on the lookout for cold-stunned sea turtles and marine mammals during winter walks along area beaches and report them so the creatures can be rescued and hopefully rehabilitated.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains the Maryland Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at 800-628-9944 and anyone who comes across a sea turtle or marine mammal in distress is urged to avoid approaching them and to call the stranding hotline.

“We want to remind the public to report any signs of cold-stunned marine animals or sea turtles to the department,” said Maryland Natural Resources Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Response Program coordinator Amanda Weschler. “While cold-stunning is a natural occurrence, we can act to protect these animals and the public.”

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Stadium’s New Visitor Bleachers Will Cost Nearly $100K

Page 12

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur High School will get new visitor side bleachers in the spring.

The Worcester County Board of Education last week voted unanimously to approve replacement of the visitor side bleachers at Stephen Decatur. Installation is scheduled for the spring.

“This has been a long time coming for those in our community,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said.

Sam Slacum, the school system’s maintenance and operations manager, said he was requesting school board approval to utilize the Omnia Purchasing Cooperative to replace the visitors side bleachers at the high school. In his report to the board he noted that the exist-

Safety Concerns For Existing Seating

ing bleachers were decades old and were no longer compliant with current safety standards. The new bleachers, which will cost $98,778.42, will seat 258 people with five ADA seats.

“Those bleachers on the visiting side, they were originally the home side bleachers 25-30 years ago,” Taylor said.

Taylor said the bleachers had been in need of replacement for some time.

“We have had someone inspect them every year and every year they have given us passing grades but have said to me on several occasions ‘I don’t know how much longer they’re going to last,’” Taylor said.

He thanked elected officials for moving the project forward.

“I thank the board for their vision on this and ultimately I thank the county commissioners for approving these bleachers to be replaced,” he said. “I will breathe a lot easier because we won’t hopefully have a safety issue moving forward every year, especially during the fall football season.”

The school board also approved a variety of other projects at last week’s meeting. Included among them were CCTV retrofits at Pocomoke Middle School, Snow Hill Middle School, Berlin Intermediate School and Stephen De-

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December 24, 2021

State Funding To Move Proposed Projects Forward

catur High School. Also approved were school fire alarm retrofits at Pocomoke Middle School and Snow Hill Middle School and energy recovery unit repairs at Pocomoke High School.

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Funding from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources will allow several county parks projects to move forward.

The Worcester County Recreation and Parks Department was awarded $1 million in Local Parks and Playground Infrastructure (LPPI) funding for fiscal year 2022 through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The funding will be used for projects at the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex, John Walter Smith Park, Showell Park and Stockton Park.

“The Local Parks and Playground Infrastructure provided some funding through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $1 million for Worcester County,” said Kelly Rados, the county’s director of recreation and parks. “This is separate from any Program Open Space allocation. It does follow similar policies with the exception that it is 100% reimbursable.”

The LPPI funding, according to Rados, will be used for five projects. The Northern Worcester Athletic Complex will receive $860,000 for lighting and $25,000 for bullpens.

“Currently out of the three soccer fields only the one middle field is lighted,” Rados said. “That field is getting overused and we’re having to turn away people because we don’t have lights on the other two fields. This will solve that problem. We’ll be able to light all three fields in addition to redoing the lighting on the senior league field that is just adjacent to the soccer fields.”

The rest of the funding will be used for a batting cage at John Walter Smith Park ($35,000), a fencing extension and batting cage at Showell Park ($55,000) and fencing at Stockton Park ($25,000).

“When we did the fencing projects recently at all the parks, when we did Newtown, we did a batting cage there,” Rados said. “We did not do that at the additional fields so we want to do that at John Walter Smith in addition to Showell.”

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the proposed projects.

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

Ocean City Scores State Grant For Former Bank Building Page 14

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Officials say a $150,000 grant will be used to begin exterior improvements on the former Bank of Ocean City building, donated to the town last year for the exclusive use of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum.

Earlier this month, Gov. Larry Hogan announced more than $9 million in strategic demolition grants awarded to 27 projects throughout the state. Among the award recipients was the Town of Ocean City, which scored $150,000 in funding for the revitalization of the former Bank of Ocean City building on the corner of Dorchester Street and South Baltimore Avenue.

“It’s been two years in the making,” said Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum Curator Christine Okerblom. “This

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

money will specifically be used for the exterior of the building and restoring the façade.”

In December 2019, the Bank of Ocean City closed its downtown branch. But instead of selling the property, it was donated to the Town of Ocean City for the museum’s use.

“The Bank of Ocean City, when they decided they couldn’t have this branch anymore, could’ve done a number of things with the building, including just boarding it up,” said museum board member John Fager. “They were generous in saying ‘Hey, would the museum like to have this as a museum?’”

For decades, the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum has operated from its current location on the south end of the Boardwalk. The building – which was once a working lifesaving station – is home to exhibits and events highlighting the his-

December 24, 2021

A $150,000 grant will help Ocean City overhaul the downtown building into new space for the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

tory of Worcester County’s coastal region.

But officials say access to the museum, as well as its exhibit space, is lim-

ited. To that end, officials have plans to add a stair tower and elevator to its existing facility. They also have plans to convert the former bank building into a second location for exhibits and programming.

“We have a warehouse that has a lot of great artifacts and we don’t have room for them,” Fager said. “So not only will we be able to store the artifacts we’re not using on the second floor, but we’ll be able to have things here that we can actually display.”

As discussions continue on how to utilize the interior space, plans to renovate the building’s exterior are moving forward with the help of the $150,000 strategic demolition grant.

“It will say to people, ‘Step back in time. This is what Ocean City looked like,’” said Nancy Howard, board member emeritus for the museum.

Officials noted the town had initially applied for the grant funding last year, but when their application was denied they decided to reapply this year. With the $150,000 award, they say the bidding process can begin in earnest in early 2022.

“We would like to get as much done as we can before the season,” Howard said.

“Hopefully it will go quickly.”

Fager said plans for the building’s exterior include the removal of the two-story columns and the construction of a secondstory porch, bringing the structure back to its original design.

“This is one of the town’s original blocks …,” he said. “So this is like a little piece people can relate to and say ‘Gee, this is how Ocean City started. This is one of the original blocks and this is what the architecture looked like.’ There’s just very little of that left in Ocean City.”

Howard agreed, noting that the project goes hand in hand with revitalization efforts.

“We’ve been talking about helping downtown Ocean City for years …,” she said. “Hopefully this will be one of those building blocks that will make downtown a really vibrant place for the city.”

In addition to the Bank of Ocean City, officials recognized the Mayor and City County, Ocean City Grants Coordinator Wayne Pryor and the Ocean City Development Corporation for their support.

“Our mission is to preserve the history of Ocean City,” Okerblom added. “I can’t think of a better way of achieving our mission than restoring an old building downtown.”

December 24, 2021

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Police Body Camera Process Advances With Deadline Near

Page 16

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Despite some questioning over the vendor’s contract deadlines, resort officials this week pulled the trigger on a $2.4 million deal to equip the town’s police officers with body-worn cameras.

Last year, state lawmakers passed legislation mandating law enforcement agencies equip their officers with bodyworn cameras by 2025. Ocean City, for a variety of reasons, has chosen to move up its own target date for equipping officers with body-worn cameras to 2022.

The expedited goal is in place for a variety of reasons. For one, it has become increasingly dangerous for police officers in the current climate. For another reason, body-worn cameras also provide real-time physical evidence of police interactions.

The Ocean City Police Department’s aggressive campaign to launch a bodyworn camera program came after a series of highly-publicized incidents on the Boardwalk last summer when the agency’s use of force was called into question. In those cases, short videos went viral showing only a small portion of the larger incidents that occurred.

For the last few months, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) and town officials have been moving forward with a body-worn camera program. Through-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

out the fall, the OCPD has been testing vendors and on Monday, Chief Ross Buzzuro and Captain Mike Colbert presented a pitch for a roughly $2.4 million five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, a noted leader in the body-worn camera field.

The Axon proposal includes bodyworn cameras for all full-time police officers, an upgrade to the department’s taser program, drones and other amenities. It also includes storage, digital evidence management, coordination with other agencies and, perhaps most importantly, the State’s Attorney’s Office, which will be responsible for viewing body-worn camera footage when processing cases, for example. Buzzuro said after the extensive review and vetting process, Axon stood out among its competitors.

“We’ve done a comprehensive review,” he said. “We knew it was going to be inevitable for our officers. Late in the summer we looked at a variety of providers and one really stood out. They are the clear leader in body-worn cameras.”

Colbert agreed the Axon proposal on the table represented the best option for the town and its police department.

“When we started with the vendor studies, we were looking for a fully-integrated system to have in position for May 2022,” he said. “In September, we started testing Axon and attempted two

Berlin police officers, like Pfc. Gary Bratten, have been wearing body cameras since 2019.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

others. One we weren’t satisfied with and the other couldn’t meet our desired timeline. Axon met our timeline and can deliver what we need in a timely matter.”

Buzzuro said the body-worn camera was beneficial both to the department’s officers and the public.

“We believe having our officers in body-worn cameras is best for their safety,” he said. “It’s also in the best interest of the public’s safety. They can see unedited what’s going on with the of-

December 24, 2021

ficers’ interactions.”

Mayor Rick Meehan praised the OCPD command staff for their diligence in moving toward the summer 2022 goal.

“Thank you for the dedication and the work you’ve put into this,” he said. “We now know exactly what we need. We know we’re not required to do it until 2025, but we’re able to reach our goal of 2022.”

Meehan said despite the proposal on the table, there were still obstacles to overcome with the body-worn camera program. For one thing, the contract as proposed has a Dec. 31 shelf-life and the terms of the contract will change if it is not consummated by that date. For example, if the contract is not completed by Dec. 31, just 11 days from Monday’s meeting, the price would jump by roughly $500,000 over the life of the fiveyear deal.

“There are a lot of moving parts here,” he said. “We need to work in unity with Worcester County and with the State’s Attorney’s Office. We need to keep moving forward for spring 2022 as the goal, but we still have obstacles to overcome.

The timeline is a little difficult with the contract. Is there any wiggle room in those deadlines?”

Axon’s Kyle Hites said there’s an opportunity to negotiate, but that Dec. 31 deadline for the contract as presented on Monday was firm. City Solicitor HeathSEE NEXT PAGE

… Council Approves Vendor, $2.4 Million, Five -Year Contract

December 24, 2021

er Stansbury said the contract could be completed by Dec. 31, but it would be challenging with the holidays in the mix.

“We can get this done if it can be done,” she said. “It’s an uphill challenge.

They’re asking us to negotiate a contract

by Dec. 31 in essentially 10 days including the holidays. It puts us in a difficult position.”

Councilman Mark Paddack pointed out body-worn cameras were an unfunded state mandate, but said the town was committed to implementing the program even before the state’s 2025 deadline.

“The state of Maryland mandated it,” he said. “It wasn’t our choice. The Town of Ocean City is ready to go live with this, but it just came to us this week.”

Paddack made a motion to accept the proposal as presented and direct staff and the city solicitor to work with Axon to extend the deadline for the savings for another 30 days. The price of the bundled contract will increase on Jan. 1. Essentially, it would add $500,000 to the life of the contract over five years if it is not completed by Dec. 31.

Councilman John Gehrig asked Hites again if there was any wiggle room in that Dec. 31 deadline.

“You want our business, right?” he said. “We’re looking at a $2.4 million contract and you’re giving us 16 days over the holidays to negotiate it. I support the initiative 100%. Are you certain those dates aren’t more flexible?”

Gehrig questioned the urgency to consummate a deal of the magnitude of the roughly $2.4 million contract. He suggested some elements of the contract could be completed, with continued negotiations on the portions under question.

“We can commit to doing business with you on certain things,” he said. “The body-worn camera aspect needs more time. I think the timing is off.”

Councilman Peter Buas also questioned the urgency of completing the contract by Dec. 31.

“I think we all want the cameras in place for the summer, but the timing is off,” he said. “We need a little more time to negotiate the contract.”

For his part, Hites said there was room for continued negotiation, but he personally could not guarantee the terms wouldn’t change after Dec. 31.

“We want to earn your business at the end of the day,” he said. “I just don’t have the authority to promise you a rate extension if the contract isn’t completed by Dec. 31.”

After considerable debate, the council voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to move forward with Axon and directed Stansbury and staff to continue to work toward hammering out the details of the contract and bring it back to them at the earliest opportunity in January.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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WOC Arson Suspect Previously Diagnosed With Pyromania

Page 18

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

WEST OCEAN CITY – A notorious local arsonist is being held without bond this week after being arrested for an arson in West Ocean City that destroyed a home and a boathouse and damaged three other homes.

Shortly after the fire, the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office concluded the cause of the blaze was arson and an investigation was initiated. In November, a warrant was issued for John Edward Cropper, 57, of West Ocean City, who is known for purposely setting fires in the area over the last several decades.

Last Friday, Cropper was arrested in Snow Hill and was charged with four counts of first-degree arson, seconddegree arson and malicious burning.

He was taken before a District Court Commissioner last Friday and was ordered to be held without bond. Following a bail review hearing on Monday, he was again ordered to be held without bond.

The fire occurred on June 22 around 1:50 a.m. in the area along Harbor Road in West Ocean City. Fire companies from around the area responded to fight the blaze, and two firefighters were injured.

The charges against Cropper were the result of a dual investigation by the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Worcester County Bureau of In-

Firefighters are pictured battling the June 22 blaze on Harbor Road in West Ocean City.

Photo courtesy of OCFD

vestigation. Other agencies involved in the investigation and the processing of the scene included the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office, the Maryland State K9 Division of the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the forensic division of the Ocean City Police Department.

This is not the first time Cropper has been in trouble for setting fires. In January 2011, Cropper was sentenced to 10 years with all but 18 months suspended for attempting to start a fire at a brick office building at the old Cropper Concrete

plant along the bay at 1st Street in March of that year.

Previously, Cropper conducted a notorious arson spree in November and December of 1986 that included six major blazes, causing millions of dollars in damage and keeping an entire town on edge for several weeks.

Cropper was charged with arson for setting fires to the Ocean Village apartments on 78th Street on Nov. 5, 1986; a home at 77th Street on Nov. 7; a home at 73rd Street on Nov. 11; and a resi-

December 24, 2021

dence on 74th Street on Nov. 12. After setting four fires in seven days, Cropper’s spree inexplicably stopped for a month, leading investigators to believe it was over, but Cropper was at it again with a fire at the Four Winds apartments on Dec. 12, 1986 followed by another fire at a residence on 71st Street on Dec. 26.

Cropper, a 1983 graduate of Stephen Decatur, had been a fire cadet in high school and was a probationary member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company for about a year when the arson spree began. Cropper was arrested in April 1987 after detectives had compiled enough evidence to charge him for at least six of the blazes in the resort during the time frame. In October 2007, Cropper pleaded guilty but not criminally responsible to setting five fires in Ocean City.

The plea was accepted based on a diagnosis from a state forensic psychiatrist that Cropper suffered from pyromania, a disorder characterized by an intense fascination with setting fires. Cropper was sent to the Clifton Perkins State Psychiatric Hospital in Jessup where he was supposed to remain indefinitely until such time as he was cured of the disorder and doctors were of the opinion he would no longer be a threat to himself or others. It is unclear from reports of the era just how long Cropper spent at the state psychiatric hospital.

December 24, 2021

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‘Humble Hero’ Honored With Carnegie Medal For Actions

Page 20

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The “humble hero” who leaped from the Route 90 bridge into the water below to save an infant last May has been recognized with the Carnegie Medal, the highest honor in North America for civilian heroism.

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission on Monday announced Jonathan Bauer, vice president of information services at Atlantic General Hospital, will be one of 17 Americans to receive the Carnegie Medal. The honor is bestowed by Carnegie Hero Fund to those who enter extreme danger while saving or attempting to save the lives of others.

Bauer certainly fits the bill for his heroic actions following a multi-vehicle accident on the Route 90 bridge when he leaped from the span to rescue a twoyear-old child who had been ejected in her car seat from one of the vehicles in-

volved into the bay below.

Since famed philanthropist Andrew Carnegie founded the hero fund and the award in 1904, the organization has recognized over 10,000 honorees with the award. Commission Chair Mark Laskow said each of the awardees or their survivors in five cases, will also receive a financial grant. Since the fund was established in 1904, over $43 million has been given to recipients in the form of one-time grants, scholarship aid, death benefits and continuing assistance.

The single event leading Carnegie to organize the fund was the Harwick mine disaster in Pennsylvania in 1904 which claimed 181 lives. The victims included an engineer and a miner who went back into the mine in a valiant attempt to rescue others. That tragedy and the sacrifices made by the selfless rescuers prompted Carnegie to take action to honor and help what he called the “he-

Jonathan Bauer, center, is pictured with his wife Wendy and daughter Ava during a press conference in May. Photo by Shawn Soper

roes of civilization.”

“I do not expect to stimulate or create heroism by this fund, knowing well that

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heroic action is impulsive,” he wrote at the time. “But, I do believe if the hero is injured in his bold attempt to serve or save his fellows, he and those dependent upon him should not suffer pecuniarily.”

On May 2, a multi-vehicle crash on the Route 90 bridge resulted in a pickup truck dangling from the bridge railing and a two-year-old infant ejected into the bay below. Allied law enforcement agencies responded immediately, and each did their respective jobs to ensure the safety of all involved as they are trained to do.

Bauer, who throughout the days that followed wished to remain anonymous, jumped from the bridge into the bay and rescued the child. Bauer and the child were picked up by the local Oertel family’s pontoon boat and transported to the public boat ramp at 65th Street where paramedics awaited. The child was flown to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore via Maryland State Police Trooper 4 helicopter in stable condition.

Seven others were injured in the multivehicle collision and were triaged on the bridge before being transported via ambulance to area hospitals. The child was released from the hospital the following day.

At a press conference following the event, Bauer recounted the incident, saying, “When I looked over (the railing), I saw the car seat and some other items, and about six feet away from the car seat was a little girl. She was on her back, completely floating, head completely out of the water, arms moving, legs kicking and a little pink dress. At that point, I looked around and didn’t see any boats in the area. I told Ava to stay right there and don’t move. I didn’t have any choice but to jump over. … I hit feet first, then knees, and then arms, and I was fine. I popped up and swam to the girl. When I looked at her, her mouth was open, and her eyes were semi-open. I put her against my shoulder very high and aggressively patted her on the back and within seconds, she spit up water, a lot of water. She started coughing up a lot of water. I patted her on the back for about five minutes until the pontoon boat showed up.”

Phillips Closing OC Crab House

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Amid Ocean City’s endlessly changing landscape, perhaps no greater sudden disappearance will be missed more than the iconic Phillips Crab House.

Phillips Crab House has been a fixture in Ocean City for nearly seven decades. Generations of locals and visitors have passed through the doors of the historic crab house, which encompasses a whole city block at 21st Street.

Thousands of employees have made Phillips Crab House their summer home away from home and were embraced by the family as one of their own in the early days.

Opened in 1956 as a small carryout crab and seafood market by founders Brice and Shirley Phillips, the iconic crab “shack” evolved over the decades to a vast complex, featuring five kitchens, each roughly the size of a typical Ocean City restaurant’s single kitchen.

In its current arrangement, the restaurant can seat 1,400 guests.

This week, however, it was learned the Phillips family was selling the flagship of what has become a seafood empire, the last vestige of the family’s commercial holdings in Ocean City.

“The Phillips family has made the difficult decision to sell our Phillips Crab House property in Ocean City and the location has now permanently closed,” the family said in a statement this week.

“Over our 66 seasons in business, we’ve served millions of families, vacationers and Ocean City locals, and our family feels so fortunate to have earned the loyalty of our guests, who came back year after year to build their vacation memories with us. Thank you for being such a wonderful part of our story.”

Brice and Shirley Phillips grew up working in the family seafood packing plant on Hooper’s Island on the Chesapeake Bay. One year, with an abundance of famed Maryland blue crabs, the family decided to open a small, oneroom carryout crab shack in Ocean City at 21st Street as an outlet for their excess crabs.

That original location evolved over

the years to become a fixture on the resort landscape. The family opened the Phillips Seafood House at 141st Street and the Phillips Beach Plaza Hotel on the Boardwalk at 13th Street in the 1970s. In the 1980s, the company grew again with locations in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. In the 1990s, uncertain about the blue crab supply in Maryland, Steve Phillips opened crab processing plants in southeast Asia and began producing pasteurized crabmeat and other seafood products. In the 2000s, Phillips moved into franchising with sites at airports and casinos. Throughout the growth, the 21st Street location remained the cornerstone of the growing empire.

“Not many restaurants live to see their 50th season, let alone celebrate over 65 years, and our family credits the amazing Crab House team for giving the business such longevity,” the statement reads. “From the crab department to the prep room, through the upstairs and downstairs kitchen staff, to the servers, bussers and bartenders, our employees returned season after season and became part of the extended Phillips family. Led by a strong management team, our staff worked together to deliver delicious dishes, all served up with a warm smile and welcoming Eastern Shore hospitality. None of our success over the years would have been possible without their hard work and dedication, and we are so grateful for their loyalty.”

The statement continues, “While it is extremely difficult for our family to say goodbye to the Crab House, we will take with us all the memories from the days and nights with our coworkers and guests, the lessons we have all learned from working together as a strong team, and the friendships we have grown over the years. As we move forward, we will continue to build on the strong foundation that our original Crab House location gave us. We remain firmly planted in Maryland and will dedicate our resources in support of our Baltimore restaurant location, Baltimore culinary center and the growth of our retail, club, foodservice, and international business.”

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Page 22

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Disorderly Conduct Arrest OCEAN CITY – A Salisbury woman was arrested for disorderly conduct last week after allegedly screaming at a group of people on a downtown street.

Around 8:40 p.m. last Monday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer observed a group of females walking near Robin Drive and heard a female, later identified as Akira Smith, 22, of Salisbury, allegedly scream an expletive at another group of people on the other side of the street. The officer reportedly advised Smith to stop screaming, but she told the officer, “I will scream whatever I want,” according to police reports.

The officer asked Smith for her identification and told her if she would do that, he would release her with a warning, according to police reports. At that point, Smith reportedly said, “I know how this works,” and “If I give you my license, I get arrested. This isn’t my first time.”

The officer advised Smith if she did not produce her identification, she would be arrested for disorderly conduct and obstructing an investigation. Smith began screaming again and she was taken

COPS & COURTS into custody.

Domestic Assault Arrest OCEAN CITY – A South Carolina man was arrested last week after allegedly breaking his girlfriend’s cell phone and striking her in the face.

Around 10:40 p.m. last Monday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to an uptown condo for a reported domestic assault. The officer met with a female victim, who reported her boyfriend, identified as Timothy Swanson, 33, of Daniel Island, S.C., had struck her in the face and choked her, according to police reports.

Ocean City EMS arrived and advised they did not see any exterior signs of strangulation and the victim was not

transported to the hospital. The victim reportedly told police the incident stemmed from Swanson looking through her cell phone. The victim told police Swanson became agitated and threw her phone on the ground, causing it to break, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told police once Swanson threw her phone on the ground, he struck her in the face with an open hand. The victim did have a small laceration on her face, according to police reports. She also reportedly told police Swanson threatened to throw her dog off the condo balcony.

Officers interviewed Swanson, who advised he did view information on the victim’s phone and threw it to the ground, but Swanson denied any physical con-

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December 24, 2021 tact. However, he could not provide any accurate details about the incident. He was ultimately arrested and charged with second-degree assault and malicious destruction of property.

Gas Pump Drug Bust OCEAN CITY – A Delaware man was arrested on drug possession charges last week after resort police observed his vehicle parked at the gas pumps of an uptown convenience store for a long period of time.

Around 1:55 a.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer noticed a vehicle parked at the gas pumps at an uptown convenience store. The officer returned about 15 minutes later and the same vehicle was still parked in the same place. When the officer drove by, the front seat passenger was observed leaning forward abruptly as if attempting to hide something under the seat, according to police reports.

Because of the alleged suspicious activity, the officer made contact with the driver, identified as Colby Lecates, 20, of Laurel, Del. The officer asked Lecates why he was parked at the pump for so long, Lecates reportedly told the officer he and the two juvenile occupants were trying to find something to do for the night.

The officer detected an odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and asked Lecates and the two juveniles to step out, according to police reports.

During a subsequent search, the officer located a bag of marijuana, other containers of marijuana and a white box marked “gummies,” inside which was located suspected heroin.

Because the vehicle was registered in Lecates’ name and because he was in the driver’s seat, he was detained at that point. When Lecates was asked what the officer located in the vehicle, Lecates reportedly told the officer just some weed and some alcohol. Lecates also told the officer there might be some ecstasy in the center console. When asked about the heroin, Lecates told the officer it was not his and that his cousin had been driving the vehicle earlier in the day, according to police reports.

Based on the evidence, Lecates was arrested and charged with possession of heroin and ecstasy and was issued a civil citation for the possession of marijuana.

Drug Arrests At Traffic Stop OCEAN CITY – Three Delaware residents were arrested on drug charges last week following a routine traffic stop in uptown Ocean City.

Around 2 a.m. last Thursday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer conducted a traffic stop at the parking lot of an uptown condo building at 136th Street. The officer identified the driver as Desirae Lillard, 39, of Frankford, Del., and the passengers as Shonta Blake, 43, of Selbyville and Renaldo Henry, 36, of Dagsboro. Lillard reportedly told police she was working for a food delivery company and had just made a delivery at 127th Street.

The officer reportedly detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a wax fold of suspected heroin, a baggie SEE NEXT PAGE

December 24, 2021

... COPS & COURTS containing powder cocaine, and a plastic bottle containing syringes, according to police reports. Drug evidence was reportedly found in the vehicle and on the person of Lillard, Blake and Henry, according to police reports. Each were arrested and charged with possession.

Cocaine Found In Baseball Cap OCEAN CITY – A South Carolina man was arrested last weekend after cocaine was allegedly found in his vehicle and the inside brim of his baseball cap.

Around 3:50 a.m. last Friday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were patrolling in the area of 11th Street when they heard a car alarm going off in the motel parking garage. Officers met with a male and female who said they couldn’t turn the alarm off because they couldn’t find the keys, according to police reports. The individuals said the car belonged to their friend who had just left.

A man, later identified as Blaine Alana, 22, of Taylors, S.C., approached the officers and identified himself as the vehicle’s owner. Alana consented to a search of the vehicle, which resulted in the discovery of various bags containing powder cocaine, according to police reports. A search of Alana’s person resulted in the discovery of another bag of suspected powder cocaine inside the brim of his baseball cap.

Alana was arrested at that point for possession of cocaine. During a subse-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch quent interview, he reportedly acknowledged the cocaine found in his hat belonged to him and that he had bought it the day before in Salisbury.

Jail For Motor Vehicle Theft OCEAN CITY – A North East, Md., man arrested on motor vehicle theft charges in July after being found sleeping in a stolen vehicle in downtown Ocean City pleaded guilty last week and was sentenced to 18 months, all but eight days of which were then suspended.

Around 6 a.m. on July 12, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers patrolling in the downtown area located two individuals sleeping in a vehicle in the parking lot of a business. During a welfare check on the individuals, officers conducted a warrant and registration check on the vehicle. Ocean City Communications advised the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Cecil County.

As a result, Aaron Hess, 18, of North East, Md., was arrested and charged with unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and theft from $1,500 to under $25,000. Last week, Hess pleaded guilty to motor vehicle theft and was sentenced to 18 months, all but eight days of which were then suspended.

10 Days For Scrap With Cops OCEAN CITY – A Selbyville man, arrested in September after scrapping with resort police attempting to arrest him downtown, pleaded guilty last week to second-degree assault and was sentenced to 10 days in jail.

Around 11:40 p.m. on Sept. 16, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was patrolling in the downtown area when the officer observed a male suspect running west on Wicomico Street.

The officer reportedly observed the suspect, later identified as James Carter, 61, of Selbyville, being chased by a local security guard.

The officer detained Carter and asked him to sit on the curb, which he first refused to do, shouting at expletive at the officer. Carter then complied and sat on the curb. The officer noticed a laceration on Carter’s eye. It was learned Carter had fallen and hit his head on the corner of a table in a nearby bar.

Paramedics were called to check on Carter’s welfare, and Carter continued to yell obscenities at the officer while wait-

Page 23 ing for the ambulance, according to police reports. Carter then stood up and swung his arm at the officer in an attempt to hit him, but missed. At that point, OCPD officers attempted to take Carter into custody.

Carter reportedly resisted being placed in handcuffs and fell to the ground and OCPD officers and a Maryland State Police trooper attempted to handcuff him. Carter continued to thrash his arms and legs and allegedly spat at one of the officers on the scene, but missed.

While waiting for the transport vehicle, Carter reportedly grabbed a female OCPD officer and dug his fingers into her thigh multiple times before being ordered to stop. He was charged with six counts of second-degree assault, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

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Page 24

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

Christmas Parade: Whaleyville hosted its first-ever Christmas Parade Tuesday night on Sheppards Crossing Road. Pictured are some scenes from the Photos by Bethany Hooper

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 25

Tourism Head Discusses Jimmy Buffett, Bull Riding

Page 26

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – During a Tourism Commission meeting last week, members got an update on some existing special events and some brief, uncertain information on some new special events that could be coming to the resort.

At the close of the Dec. 20 tourism commission meeting, Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo went through a laundry list of upcoming actions on existing and pro-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

posed special events. For example, the Mayor and Council are expected to nail down the OC Air Show dates for 2022 in early January, and the Jellyfish concert and interactive sports event on the beach is expected to return next June.

Although the details are sketchy at this point and no firm action has been taken, Perlozzo also hinted at a new slate of special events, or enhancements to existing events. For example, he said national concert booking outfit Live Nation has expressed interest in bringing a major event to the resort.

“They want to hold a big event here,”

he said. “Live Nation does a lot of big concerts. If we can get Jimmy Buffett, are you guys okay with that?”

Perlozzo said an event of that scale would likely be in out years.

“We could do something in 2022 if we’re lucky,” he said. “Because there were so many cancellations because of COVID, they have commitments and they’re looking for locations.”

Perlozzo also hinted at bringing professional bull riding and professional rodeo events to the resort.

“We’ve had some preliminary discussions and there are two tentative plans for bringing bull riding and the professional rodeo to town,” he said. “The professional bull riding event could be at the Inlet in June. The professional rodeo could be held at the convention center in August. It’s pretty cool. They bring in their own dirt and clean up and haul everything away when it’s over like the event never happened.”

Perlozzo said he has also had discussions with a hot air balloon promoter to add hot air balloons to the popular Sundaes in the Park event at Northside Park. The hot air balloons would be tethered in the park during the event and residents and visitors could go up in them. Mayor Rick Meehan said he met the promoter at a similar event on the shore.

“This is the same guy that does it in

December 24, 2021

Easton,” he said. “They’re tethered, so they don’t go anywhere. It’s pretty cool though. You can see them from five miles away.”

Perlozzo said discussions about bringing the Brad Paisley concert back to the resort were ongoing, but the window of available dates was tight. He said a tentative date for Aug. 27 of next year was in discussion, but there might be issues with the promoter. Perlozzo also said he has been in discussion with Bob Rothermel and TEAM Productions about bringing as many as six off-Broadway shows to the Performing Arts Center. He said he has been working with Convention Center Director Larry Noccolino on possible dates.

“Larry and I are developing a new strategy for the Performing Arts Center,” he said. “We want to have something going on in there all the time.”

Ocean City in recent months has been attempting to diversify its special events and attract new and different promotions. Noccolino said on Monday one example of that was the ComicCon event held at the convention center last weekend. He said the event attracted as many as 10,000 visitors and there was room for it to grown in the future.

“That could turn out to be a big thing for us,” he said. “It’s a whole different demographic. It would become a really big thing in the future if we promote it.”

Atlantic General Hospital’s Penguin Swim Returns Jan. 1

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Atlantic General Hospital’s Annual Penguin Swim will return to the beaches of Ocean City on New Year’s Day. On Saturday, Jan. 1, Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) will host its 28th Annual Penguin Swim at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel on 91st Street.

As is tradition, swimmers will brave the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for community health care services. And while some of the swim’s traditional events were canceled last year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers say they are eager to see the return of family-friendly activities, including carnival games, face painting, mermaids and more.

“It’s a great way to welcome the new year and support the community’s health care heroes and the local nonprofit hospital,” said Development Coordinator Kam LaBrunda. “It’s a lot of fun.”

The Penguin Swim is one of Atlantic General’s largest fundraisers. Since its inception, for example, the event has grossed nearly $1.6 million in support of the hospital’s mission to provide a coordinated care system with access to quality care, personalized service and education to create a healthy community.

“Each year, hundreds of Penguins raise funds to help the hospital provide the excellent quality care our community depends on,” LaBrunda said.

Members of the Bull on the Beach team are pictured charging toward the ocean during last year’s event.

Photo by Chris Parypa

The annual swim has also become a tradition for hundreds of residents and visitors and many local businesses and community groups. LaBrunda said she anticipates this year’s event to draw an even bigger crowd, as festivities this year will be held on a Saturday.

“Fingers crossed the weather is nice … ,” she said. “I believe online registration to date is almost double what it was the same day last year.”

Similar to last year’s event, LaBrunda said event details are subject to change due to COVID-19 conditions and requirements at the time of the event. All swim-

mers and spectators are also expected to follow all posted instructions and verbal directions of volunteers and staff for face coverings and physical distancing before, during and after the event.

“There’s no mandates at this time requiring social distancing and masks,” she said. “If that changes we will do what we need to do.”

All participants are required to register either online or in person and check in on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day to receive a wristband to gain access to the swim area. Shirts for participants who register after December 10th will be available

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while supplies last, and individual participants who raise or donate $100 or more will also be eligible to receive an official 2022 AGH Penguin Swim long-sleeve tshirt while supplies last.

Advance online registration is recommended, and participants are encouraged to come to pre-registration and advance check-in at the Princess Royale from 2-4 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Event day registration and check-in will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with the swim beginning at 1 p.m. The Bull on the Beach team will parade down the beach at 12:45 p.m. from 94th Street to the swim area in front of the Princess Royale. Spectators are welcome.

Special recognition awards will be given to Oldest and Youngest Penguins, and the Penguin who traveled the furthest. Trophies for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place will be awarded to those who raise the most money in divisions for Individuals – Adults (19 & Over); Youth (18 & Under); Celebrity Challenge, and Teams – Businesses; Community Groups/Organizations; Youth/Family; Celebrity Challenge.

LaBrunda also encouraged participants to wear their costumes for the traditional costume contest.

For more information, or to register, visit www.aghpenguinswim.org.

A Cyber Swim will also be offered to those who cannot attend. Simply register online, then take an ice-cold dip wherever you are and post a video or photo of your personal virtual Penguin Swim on social media using #OCPenguinSwim.

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Page 28

Berlin Discusses Budget Schedule

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Town officials reviewed the coming year’s budget schedule last week.

The Berlin Town Council reviewed and added one additional work session item to the fiscal year 2023 budget schedule on Monday. The schedule is similar to last year’s but includes a work session on the tax rate in February.

“I would be presenting you with projections, just for discussion, to see what rates are there to support what we need for fiscal year 23,” Finance Director Natalie Saleh said.

The latest budget schedule has staff submitting information in January and a general fund capital projects work session on Feb. 14. The introduction of the tax rate is set for March 14 while the public hearing on the tax rate is set for March 28.

A general fund budget work session will be held April 4 and a work session for the utility funds will be held April 18. The budget is scheduled for introduction May 9 and a public hearing on the budget is slated for May 23.

Councilman Jack Orris said he’d like to see the tax rate adopted when the budget was adopted.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a couple years, even before I decided to get involved on this side of the table,” he said.

“It always seemed to me it was a little odd that we would set our tax rate prior to

December 24, 2021

even having one public input session or work session. It always felt like to me personally, now I know more, but it always felt like we’d set something and back into it.”

Saleh said she was concerned because if the tax rate was not adopted at the level that would fund the budget it would essentially prevent adoption of the budget, which must be done by a certain date. There are also advertising requirements that need to be met related to the budget and tax rate.

As an alternative, she suggested incorporating a work session on the tax rate into the budget schedule. The council agreed to move the work session on Feb. 14 to 5 p.m. so that it would give the council time to discuss the tax rat as well as capital projects.

School Board Meetings Will Be Livestreamed

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – The Worcester County Board of Education is expected to begin livestreaming meetings next month.

Superintendent Lou Taylor announced last week that beginning in January, school board meetings would be livestreamed. He encouraged those who wanted to tune in to remember the January meeting would be the first one in this format.

“I ask for everyone to please be patient,” Taylor said.

In recent months, citizens in attendance at board meetings have asked officials to consider livestreaming and/or evening meetings to give working parents a chance to be involved. Following Taylor’s announcement last week, Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief operating and academic officer for grades nine through 12, confirmed that the school system would be using Zoom to provide a livestream of the meeting.

“Folks will be able to log on,” she said.

The public will be provided with Zoom login information prior to each meeting.

In addition, after the meeting, the video will be uploaded and accessible under the “BoardDocs” tab on the school system’s website. Wallace said the transition should be smooth because the school system had used Zoom before and nothing more than bringing a web camera to the boardroom would be required as far as installation.

She said the school system was adding the livestream because there had been requests from the public and because it would allow parents to tune in to see their students get recognized during board meetings. She pointed out that since the pandemic began, the board has been providing the public with the ability to call in to listen to meetings.

“There’s nothing that people weren’t already hearing,” she said.

She added that with more and more organizations offering virtual meetings it was important for the school system to keep up with the times.

“We’re excited about this,” she said.

Resort Police Summer Recruitment Effort ‘Very Sluggish’

December 24, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City’s police chief highlighted seasonal recruitment challenges at a resort committee meeting last week.

On Dec. 13, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Chief Ross Buzzuro presented the Ocean City Police Commission with an update on recruitment efforts for the coming summer season.

For decades, the OCPD has enhanced its workforce with seasonal officers and public safety aides (PSA) during the summer months. And while interest in the sea-

Wicomico Board Chair, Vice Chair Reappointed

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – School board members Gene Malone and Michael Murray were reappointed to their leadership positions at a recent meeting.

Last week, the Wicomico County Board of Education voted unanimously to reappoint Malone to a second term as board chairman in its annual reorganization.

Malone, vice president of First Shore Federal Savings and Loan Association, was first appointed to the school board in 2016 and elected to serve a four-year term in December 2018. He served as vice president in 2017, vice chairman in 2018 and 2019, and board chairman in 2020.

Reflecting on the past year, Malone took time last week to thank teachers, administrators, school system staff and board members for their dedication and support.

“You all continue to deliver every day a quality education and you figure out ways to get around issues brought on by COVID,” he said. “All of this is so appreciated. You found ways to get it done, and you keep doing it every day.”

The board last week also nominated two board members – Murray and Tonya Laird Lewis – to serve as vice chairman.

In a 4-3 vote, however, Murray was reappointed to a second term.

Murray, a retired educator, was appointed to the board of education in August 2017 and elected to serve a fouryear term in December 2018. He has held the position of vice chairman since last year.

“I do thank everyone, and I am looking forward in working with all the students, staff, parents, and of course all the board members as your vice chair again,” he said.

The 4-3 vote was cast with board members Malone, Murray, Don Fitzgerald and Allen Brown in favor of Murray’s appointment and board members John Palmer, Ann Suthowski and Lewis against.

“He is a wonderful friend and board member,” Lewis said. “I know he will do a phenomenal job in the vice chair seat.”

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

sonal program gained some momentum last summer, Buzzuro told commission members this month that recruitment efforts ahead of 2022 were slow-moving.

“Moving forward, we are very sluggish,” he said. “It’s a very, very challenging environment. We are having extreme difficulty getting people through the door.”

Through the November hiring process, officials reported 49 seasonal officer applicants, with nine failures, one conditional hire and 32 candidates remaining in the hiring process. This time last year, OCPD had 106 applicants, with 34 failures, six conditional hires and 38 candidates remaining in the hiring process.

In regard to public safety aides, Buzzuro said the police department had 19 applicants, three failures and no conditional hires. This time last year, officials reported 22 PSA applicants, four failures and two conditional hires.

“Like I said, from officers to public safety aides, people coming through the door are significantly less than last year,” he said.

Buzzuro told commission members this week the police department would continue to monitor recruitment efforts. He noted upcoming test dates included Dec. 18-19, Jan. 8-9 and Jan. 29-30.

“We’ll see how we fare after this weekend,” he said.

Buzzuro noted that recruitment challenges continued to plague law enforcement agencies, both locally and nationally.

“We continue to do whatever we can do to attract people,” he said. “We’ve had some discussion about what are some of the things we can do to give us a helping hand.”

Buzzuro this week also provided commission members with an update on po-

Page 29

lice activity for the month of November.

He said a closer look at statistics show police activity being slightly lower or on par with police activity in November 2019, the most recent pre-pandemic data.

“For us, all in all, we are consistent with where we were two years ago, and that’s a good thing,” he said.

In the top 25 calls for service, citizen assists decreased from 130 in November 2019 to 93 last month, disorderly calls increased from 28 to 44 and traffic stops increased from 358 to 490.

Buzzuro noted that the number of traffic stops had increased considerably as a result of speed enforcement initiatives along 142nd Street.

“That is because we were doing proactive enforcement up at 142nd Street, to address that traffic issue up there,” he said. “So quite a number of those traffic stops go back to those initiatives.”

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

COMMUNITY News In Photos

Delmarva Dancing donated $500 to the American Legion Riders Post 8 Veterans Fund. Pictured left to right are American Legion Riders Ted Jenkins, Marty Macklin, Jim Leopard, Bill Lawson, Marty Krupinski, Delmarva Dancing President Eileen Smith, Secretary Peggy Parkinson, Secretary, and American Legion Riders Director Jim Parkinson.

The Sons and Daughters of Italy Ocean City Chapter 2474 this week delivered a car-load of Christmas gifts to two area families that needed a little neighborly help this season donated through the Saint Vincent DePaul Society. Pictured above, David Melocik (center) takes delivery of the presents from SDOI President Vincent Mollicone, Sal and Mary Castorina and Bob Ackerson.

Submitted Photos Salisbury University recently donated 4,000 COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to the Lower Shore Vulnerable Populations Task Force for use by area homeless shelters. Pictured, from left, are Michele Ennis, Lower Eastern Shore Vulnerable Populations Task Force coordinator; Richard Hutson, Lower Shore Vulnerable Populations Task Force bilingual program and outreach director; and Natalie Booth, SU Campus Health nurse.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City last week held their weekly meeting for the holidays. Pictured above, Club President Tim Lund leads the celebration from the podium.

The Ocean City - Berlin Rotary Club sold hot chocolate at Berlin’s Merry Marketplace. Pictured from left are Margaret Mudron, Rotarian Treasurer and Taylor Bank employee; Debbie Rickards, Taylor Bank, Arlan Kinney, Rotarian, and Taylor Bank employees Rachel Ferebee, Danielle Scott and Jennifer Figgs.

The Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) public art program’s latest utility box painting was completed recently by local artist Bill Cioccio. The project on South 1st Street was sponsored by Trimper’s Rides.

Worcester Prep students Dylan and Hunter Simons, along with Jayden and Dillon Scopp, donated a $1,000 check to Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services (WYFCS), along with a television donated by the Scopp family and game system donated by classmate Ryan Lenox and family.

University Students Compete In 6th Annual Sales Championship

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

Above, Dr. Amit Poddar, Mid-Atlantic Sales and Marketing Institute director, left, and Geoff Turner, president and CEO of Choptank Transport, right, present a ceremonial check to first-place winner Molly Riordan.

Submitted Photo

SALISBURY – When it comes to making sales, students in Salisbury University’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business are winners – some of them literally.

Some 81 students recently vied for top honors during the SU Mid-Atlantic Sales and Marketing Institute’s (MASMI’s) sixth biannual sales championship competition. The event included two contests, one for overall sales and one for elevator pitches.

Molly Riordan of Paramus, N.J., received $1,000 for her first-place finish in the overall sales competition. Runnersup included Nolan Gallagher of Queenstown in second place ($500); Nina Bendt of Boyds in third ($200); and Elizabeth Weant of Taneytown in fourth ($100).

Heather MacMaster of Sykesville topped her competitors in the elevator pitch session, taking home a $100 prize. She was followed by Alexis Black of Berlin in second ($75), and Travis Farrell of Clements in third ($50).

Winners were decided by judges, buyers and observers representing MASMI sponsors and local businesses.

The event followed an “etiquette dinner” for the students and corporate partners, also hosted by the institute.

Gold Sponsor Choptank Transport also was the product sponsor. The four finalists were tasked with selling the shipping logistics company’s services to its CEO, Geoff Turner.

Additional sponsors included Sunbelt Rentals, APPI Energy, CED Sterling, Enterprise Holdings, Gartner, Northwestern Mutual, Orkin Pest Control, Perdue Farms, Pohanka of Salisbury, Risk Placement Services, SherwinWilliams, Stanley Black & Decker and UNUM. Associate MASMI members included

Capital Electric, Cvent, OC Beachfront Rentals, SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate, Tom James and United Rentals.

In addition, Capital Services, Inc., participated as a guest company.

Full Service Real Estate Settlements • Serving The Resort Area Since 1989

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

People in Society Selling the 50/50 raffles at the 23rd Annual Chili Cook Off were Jean “Bean” Keagle, Mandi Wells and Kathy McDaniel to benefit the Worcester County G.O.L.D toy drive.

by Jeanette Deskiewicz Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Sponsors of the 23rd Annual Chili Cook Off included Cori Butler, Leslie Miller and Joel Feldman of Livian Mid-Atlantic, Billy Apostolou and Caleb Miller of Direct Mortgage Loans, and Terry Loughlin of Carey Distributers.

Chili Cook Off B-Boys, Boz and Bigler, kept the crowd entertained with football pools and trivia games at this year’s fundraiser.

Greene Turtle West bartenders Courtney Hevner and Dusty Rothschild cooled all the tasters’ tongues off at the 23rd Annual Chili Cook Off.

Welcoming guests in to the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum Holiday Open House were Volunteer Beth Ladd and Museum Aide Allan Beres in the gift shop.

Powellville residents Jack Brittingham and Jim Phippin came out to American Legion Post 123 earlier this month for the oyster fritter sandwiches.

Members of the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra, Jeff Schoyen and Sachiho Murasugi, performed holiday music selections at the Christmas Cocktail Open House at the Taylor House Museum.

Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum Curator Christine Okerblom and Assistant Curator Cara Downey oversaw the Ornament Making Station during their Holiday Open House.

Frying up the oyster fritters were Bob Harrison and Richard Widgeon at American Legion Post 123 in Berlin.

Taylor House Museum Administrator Heather Nottingham and Board Member Jon Andes poured refreshments for attendees at their Christmas Cocktail Open House.

Leadership Spots Low Interest Rate Scored For $58M In Bonds Change Hands On Wicomico Council

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Councilmen John Cannon and Ernie Davis were appointed to new leadership positions on the Wicomico County Council this month.

In 4-3 votes, members of the Wicomico County Council elected Cannon to serve as their new president and Davis to serve as their new vice president. The two councilmen will replace outgoing Council President Larry Dodd and Vice President Joe Holloway.

“I’d like to thank the council members for their support,” Cannon said during the recent meeting. “I’d also like to thank Councilman Dodd and Councilman Holloway for their two years of service, and I congratulate Vice President Davis on your nomination and election. I look forward to a great year in 2022.”

At the first meeting each December, the council elects a president and vice president from among its members. The president – or vice president in his or her absence – is tasked with setting the agenda and presiding over all meetings.

“On all questions before the council, the president and vice president shall have and may exercise the vote to which each is entitled as a council member,” said Council Administrator Laura Hurley.

“Tonight is the election of president and vice president.”

At Tuesday’s council meeting, nominations were also made to have Dodd continue to serve in his current capacity, with Councilwoman Nicole Acle serving as vice president, but the vote failed with Councilmen Bill McCain, Josh Hastings, Davis and Cannon opposed.

“For the last two years I’ve had the honor and pleasure to serve as president of the Wicomico County Council … ,” Dodd said, recognizing council staff, the council and county attorneys and the citizens. “I look forward to continuing the work for the citizens of District 3 for Wicomico County.”

Cannon, owner of a property management company, was first elected to the council in 2006 and served as president for four years. Upon his return to the legislative body in 2014, he was reelected president and maintained that position through 2019, when the council elected Dodd as the new president.

Davis – a former Maryland State Police trooper and operator of Mid Atlantic Power Washing and Mid Atlantic Transportation – was first elected to the Wicomico County Council in 2014. He is also a past president of the Wicomico County Democratic Central Committee and past president of the Wicomico County School Bus Association.

“I’d like to thank Joe and Larry for their leadership over the past two years,” he said in his comments.

SALISBURY – Officials say a high credit rating and a large bond issuance attracted 12 bidders to Wicomico’s $58 million bond sale.

The Wicomico County Council voted this month unanimously to approve a resolution awarding $58.23 million in general obligation and tax-exempt bonds to finance several major projects in the county. Finance Director Pam Oland told county leaders the bond solicitation resulted in 12 bidders and a low true interest cost of 1.625%.

“When we went to the market in 2018, over 3% was our interest rate …,” she said. “2017 was the lowest interest rate that we’ve gotten before, and that was 2%. So we beat our 2017 number and almost halved our 2018 number.”

Wicomico County’s bond issuance in-

cludes funding for a new public safety building, a renovation and addition at Mardela Middle and High School, the construction of a new landfill cell, and a new Applied Technology Building at Wor-Wic Community College, among other things.

Oland noted that the county also sold $16.95 million in taxable bonds last week to refund existing debt at a lower rate. The taxable bonds had eight bids and a true interest cost of 1.849%.

“That will result in savings of over $900,000 over the remaining life of the bonds,” she said.

Councilman John Cannon applauded the results of the bond sale.

“That’s really fortunate that it turned out like this because this is really one of the largest bonds that we’ve ever put out there,” he said. “And to have the opportunity with the lowest financing I can remember in a long time, that is very good.”

Oland added, “The number of bidders

CHRISTMAS DAY PLAY FREE AT 68TH STREET 11AM-5PM

Page 33

was very strong, and the fact that the county got that many bidders in both sets is a testament to our bond rating and what we show as the strength of the county.”

In November, Wicomico County received a AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings and a Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service. Acting County Executive John Psota argued those ratings, coupled with Wicomico’s strong financial position, led to a successful bond offering.

“All of these projects are critically important for Wicomico County and I am pleased to report they are moving forward,” he said in a statement. “Such favorable reports from the credit rating agencies, along with a very strong market response to our bond offering, reinforces that our fiscal management in Wicomico County continues to be strong.”

After further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Ernie Davis absent, to approve the resolution.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 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 a peaceful Boardwalk is pictured last week. 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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December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): With the new year's opportunities almost within reach, the Arian's courageous aspects are raring to go. And don't be surprised if a lot of people follow the zodiac's most trusted leader.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Change lies ahead for the brave Bovine who is ready to shuck off the tried and true to try something new. But appearances can be deceptive. Check it all out before you charge into anything.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): This week promises a peek into what the new year holds for the Gemini Twins, both in love and careers. Family matters continue to be a factor in decisions you're going to be facing.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): As you move into the new year, your travel aspects grow stronger, and you might find yourself making decisions about a destination and a traveling companion sooner than you'd expected.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): The new year holds both glitter and gold. This means Leos and Leonas should begin getting the facts they'll need to separate the real thing from the sham in order to make important decisions next year.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A good way to start the new year might be to arrange for a visit to someone you haven't seen in a long time. You also might want to pick up that project you put off a while back.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): As you contemplate the new year's potential,

you might want to talk things over with people who are or have been where you want to go. Their experience and advice can be helpful.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Someone close to you might feel like you have no more room for him or her in your life. This calls for immediate reassurance of your love so you can start the new year on a high note.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): The coming year will bring more people into your life. Some situations might not work out as well as others.

But overall, everyone earns something, and that's always a good thing.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): The new year could find you indulging in one or more of the hobbies you've always wanted to take up. And don't be surprised if they ultimately direct you toward a new career.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): The artistic Aquarian should find more opportunities in the new year. You might even make some potentially helpful contacts as you gather to ring in the year 2022.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): The new year offers challenges for Pisceans who want to make better use of the skills they now have and learn new ones. Personal relationships show stronger positive aspects.

BORN THIS WEEK: Although at times you tend to be a bit judgmental, you are generous and caring and very much beloved. © 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 58

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

vanishing

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 36

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

OCEAN CITY

December 24, 2021

WITH BUNK MANN

Visiting a new city Bison steak

Working out in the morning

Random warm December days Thick-skinned elected officials A clear conscious

Santas on fire trucks

Staying in a new hotel

Showing my kids something new

Not working the day after Christmas A great brunch after church

Ocean City had a different appearance 90 years ago. This photo, taken from the second-floor porch of the Atlantic Hotel in 1930, shows "rolling chairs" -the Boardwalk Tram of that era -- prominently displayed in the foreground. The original bandstand, constructed in front of Dr. Francis Townsend, Sr. 's Washington Pharmacy, is the deck-style platform extending over the beach in the center of the picture. Free band concerts were the highlight of summer weekends throughout that decade and into the early 1950s.

The beach was narrow in those days and the wooden jetties stretching northward in the distance were an early attempt to combat erosion.

The Boardwalk was a popular place to promenade but the dress code was more formal than today. Men in suits and ties and ladies in dresses and high heels were a normal sight in the mid-afternoon. Nobody would have thought to stroll down the Boardwalk in just a bathing suit and no one would have ever worn an "off-color T-shirt" in the 1930s. It was a more gracious and courteous time.

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

Photo courtesy of The Dispatch

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

SPORTS In The News

Seahawks Sweep Three, Improve To 5-1

Decatur’s Trybe Wise goes up strong during the Seahawks’ 84-34 win over Crisfield last week.

Submitted photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity basketball team swept three games last week to improve to 5-1 on the season.

The Seahawks started the week by taking care of Washington, 47-38, and followed that up with an 84-34 win over

Crisfield. In perhaps its biggest win thus far in the early season, the Seahawks took down county rival Pocomoke, 75-57, last Friday. Decatur’s only loss thus far this season came against Snow Hill, 70-67, back on December 10. Next up for the Seahawks is a December 28 game against Caesar Rodney in the Governor’s Challenge tournament.

Decatur Girls Stay On Major Early Roll

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s girls’ varsity basketball team stayed on a major early-season roll last week, sweeping three games to improve to 5-0 on the season.

The Seahawks started the week by routing county rival Snow Hill, 63-11, and

followed that up with a 65-10 blowout against Crisfield a day later. Decatur continued their winning ways with a decisive 57-14 win over another county rival Pocomoke.

Through five undefeated games, the Seahawks have outscored their opponents, 304-99. They are averaging about 61 points per game, while allowing an average of just 20 points per game.

Worcester Girls Win Streak At Three

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Worcester Prep’s girls’ varsity basketball team ran its current win streak to three with a pair of wins last week.

The Mallards beat Holly Grove, 3727, last Tuesday. Worcester led 23-5 at

the half and pulled away for the win.

Lily Baeurle led the way with 25 points, while Morgan White pitched in five. On Thursday, the Mallards beat Broadwater Academy, 46-30. Baeurle again led the way with 24 points, while Natalie Brushmiller scored six and Morgan White and Ansley Gardner scored five each.

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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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 SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Year Round, Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047.

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

PART-TIME SECURITY JOB Secure premises and personnel, patrol property, monitor surveillance equipment, inspect building, equipment and access points, sign in co-owners and guests, maintain security log.

Salary $13 to $14 per hour based on experience. Part-time, year-round position. Interested candidates should email Michelle Jones, Head of Security Atlantis at AtlantisHSOC@gmail.com or call 410-524-9100.

AUTOMOTIVE If you are looking for a change, NOW is the time!

We are an automotive business with several parts stores, service centers, and a used car dealership with multiple locations. We are now hiring for PARTS STORE ASSOCIATES for our location in Ocean Pines, Maryland. Great Pay and Benefits including Company Matched Retirement Plan.

Call 302-339-6910

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

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 TOP WAGES! EXCELLENT BENEFITS! HOUSING AVAILABLE! 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 EOE M/F/D/V

POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES NOW HIRING MITIGATION CREW LEADER Must have relevant experience and clean driving record/ background. Based in the Berlin/OC area. Wage is BOE from $17-$22/hour. We offer paid training, vacation, and personal days, as well as a quality benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Benefits after 90 days.

Please call us to set up an interview at 410-251-1096.

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

POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER

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

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

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

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

HELP WANTED

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

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 1-3-2022 “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

ROOMMATES

REAL ESTATE

94TH STREET HOUSE: Hot Tub. House in bad shape. Cheap rent or will accept work in lieu of rent.

Must love dogs, other pets welcome. Prefer no drug addicts or sociopaths. Pls Call Rob 410-7265200. Best time to call after 4pm.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

HOUSE IN OCEAN PINES: $300,000 OBO. Call 301-6330474.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 2 Office/Retail Spaces for Lease.

Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Commercial Office in Ocean Pines Area Approx. 1000SF Available January 410-977-7254

RENTAL NEEDED LOOKING FOR ROOM RENTAL: Short to long term. Quiet, friendly, middle aged contractor, no bad habits. Working in Sussex and Worcester County. 302-470-5216.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

RENTALS

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

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

Follow The Dispatch On Facebook, Instagram & Twitter, And Get News Updates As They Happen!

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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

Got Yard Sale?

FOR SALE

THE DISPATCH

December 24, 2021

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.

is the best way to get the word out!

Must see! $575.

Berlin. 443-880-8885

Print & Online www.mdcoastdispatch.com

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. 19006 To all persons interested in the estate of REBECCA LONG RUARK AKA: REBECCA LONG RUARK PAPARELLA, ESTATE NO. 19006. Notice is given that CHARLES PAPARELLA, 8004 GREENBRIAR SWAMP RD, SALISBURY, MD 21804, was on, DECEMBER 02, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of REBECCA LONG RUARK, who died on NOVEMBER 16, 2021, without a will.

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

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

sented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 10, 2021 CHARLES PAPARELLA 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 12-10, 12-17, 12-24

Third Insertion DON E. RICHARDSON ESQ. P.O. BOX 258 SALISBURY, MD 21803 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19008 To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM H BIVENS, ESTATE NO. 19008.

Notice is given that BETTY M BIVENS, 12209 OCEAN GATEWAY, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on, DECEMBER 02, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM H BIVENS, who died on SEPTEMBER 17, 2021, without a will.

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 DECEMBER 10, 2021 BETTY M BIVENS 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 12-10, 12-17, 12-24

Second Insertion 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 JUNE, 2022.

NEIL ESKIN ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000211 LOCKE CAPITAL, LLC C/O ESKIN LAW, LLC

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 Plaintiff vs.

BRIAN D. JONES 4543 MANOR VIEW ROAD BALTIMORE, MD 21229 AND AARON JONES 4543 MANOR VIEW ROAD BALTIMORE, MD 21229 AND NAOMI JONES 4543 MANOR VIEW ROAD BALTIMORE, MD 21229 AND STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL S/O BRIAN FROSH, ATTORNEY GENERAL 200 ST. PAUL PLACE BALTIMORE, MD 21202 AND WORCESTER COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE S/O PHILLIP G. THOMPSON, COLLECTOR 1 W. MARKET STREET ROOM 1105 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED BELOW; ALL HEIRS, DEVISEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, AND EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, GRANTEES, ASSIGNS OR SUCCESSORS IN RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, AND ANY AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY AND PREMISES SITUATE IN THE WORCESTER COUNTY, KNOWN AS 11829 STEAM MILL HILL ROAD, WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872 AND DESCRIBED AS LEGAL DESCRIPTION 15245 SQ FT STEAM MILL

HILL N OF WHALEYVILLE BEING KNOWN AS DISTRICT 03 ACCOUNT NUMBER 001105 ON THE TAX ROLL OF THE COLLECTOR OF TAXES Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as 11829 Steam Mill Hill Road, Whaleyville, MD 21872 in Worcester County, State of Maryland, sold by the Director of Treasury for Worcester County, State of Maryland to Locke Capital, LLC, the Plaintiff.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 17, 2021 BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

Second Insertion NEIL ESKIN ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208

A DESCRIPTION of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: Legal Description 15245 SQ FT STEAM MILL HILL N OF WHALEYVILLE, District 03 Account Number 001105 Known as 11829 Steam Mill Hill Road, Whaleyville, MD 21872.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000212

The complaint states among other things that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.

vs.

LILLIE E. SKIDMORE 115 WHITHERSPOON LANE NEWARK, DE 19713

It is thereupon this 9TH OF DECEMBER, 2021 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th day of FEBRUARY, 2022, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgement will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title to said property in Fee Simple, free of all liens and encumbrances.

AND

LOCKE CAPITAL, LLC C/O ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 Plaintiff

THE ESTATE OF LILLIE E. SKIDMORE S/O PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE 115 WHITHERSPOON LANE NEWARK, DE 19713 AND STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL S/O BRIAN FROSH, ATTORNEY GENERAL 200 ST. PAUL PLACE BALTIMORE, MD 21202 AND WORCESTER COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE S/O

December 24, 2021

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 PHILLIP G. THOMPSON, COLLECTOR 1 W. MARKET STREET ROOM 1105 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED BELOW; ALL HEIRS, DEVISEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, AND EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, GRANTEES, ASSIGNS OR SUCCESSORS IN RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, AND ANY AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY AND PREMISES SITUATE IN THE WORCESTER COUNTY, KNOWN AS MARKET STREET, SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND DESCRIBED AS LEGAL DESCRIPTION 6 ACS N W SIDE R-394 S OF SNOW HILL BEING KNOWN AS DISTRICT 02 ACCOUNT NUMBER 011662 ON THE TAX ROLL OF THE COLLECTOR OF TAXES Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863 in Worcester County, State of Maryland, sold by the Director of Treasury for Worcester County, State of Maryland to Locke Capital, LLC, the Plaintiff.

A DESCRIPTION of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: Legal Description 6 ACS N W SIDE R-394 S OF SNOW HILL, District 02 Account Number 011662 Known as Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

The complaint states among other things that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.

It is thereupon this 9TH OF DECEMBER, 2021 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th day of FEBRUARY, 2022, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint

or thereafter a final judgement will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title to said property in Fee Simple, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 17, 2021 BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

Second Insertion NEIL ESKIN ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000213 LOCKE CAPITAL, LLC C/O ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 Plaintiff vs.

CLARENCE JONES 4214 RIDGEWOOD AVENUE BALTIMORE, MD 21215 AND THE ESTATE OF CLARENCE JONES S/O PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE 4214 RIDGEWOOD AVENUE BALTIMORE, MD 21215 AND STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL S/O BRIAN FROSH, ATTORNEY GENERAL 200 ST. PAUL PLACE BALTIMORE, MD 21202 AND WORCESTER COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE S/O PHILLIP G. THOMPSON, COLLECTOR 1 W. MARKET STREET ROOM 1105 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND

ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED BELOW; ALL HEIRS, DEVISEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, AND EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, GRANTEES, ASSIGNS OR SUCCESSORS IN RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, AND ANY AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY AND PREMISES SITUATE IN THE WORCESTER COUNTY, KNOWN AS PUBLIC LANDING ROAD, SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND DESCRIBED AS LEGAL DESCRIPTION 10 ACS COR PUBLIC LANDING & MCCABE CORNER ROADS BEING KNOWN AS DISTRICT 02 ACCOUNT NUMBER 009013 ON THE TAX ROLL OF THE COLLECTOR OF TAXES Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863 in Worcester County, State of Maryland, sold by the Director of Treasury for Worcester County, State of Maryland to Locke Capital, LLC, the Plaintiff.

A DESCRIPTION of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: Legal Description 10 ACS COR PUBLIC LANDING & MCCABE CORNER ROADS, District 02 Account Number 009013 Known as Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

The complaint states among other things that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.

It is thereupon this 9TH OF DECEMBER, 2021 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th day of FEBRUARY, 2022, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgement will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title to said property in Fee Simple, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 17, 2021 BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

Second Insertion NEIL ESKIN ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000214 LOCKE CAPITAL, LLC C/O ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 Plaintiff vs.

RONALD MOLOCK, SURVIVING OFFICER OF THE MOLOCK GROUP, INC., A FORFEITED ENTITY 9849 WALLERTON ROAD MARDELA SPRINGS, MD 21837 AND STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL S/O BRIAN FROSH, ATTORNEY GENERAL 200 ST. PAUL PLACE BALTIMORE, MD 21202 AND WORCESTER COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE S/O PHILLIP G. THOMPSON, COLLECTOR 1 W. MARKET STREET ROOM 1105 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED BELOW; ALL HEIRS, DEVISEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, AND EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, GRANTEES, ASSIGNS OR SUCCESSORS IN RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, AND ANY AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY AND PREMISES SITUATE IN THE WORCESTER COUNTY, KNOWN AS 708 SECOND STREET, POCOMOKE, MD 21851 AND DESCRIBED AS LEGAL DESCRIPTION 76’ X 136’ W SIDE 708 SECOND ST POCOMOKE BEING KNOWN AS DISTRICT 01 ACCOUNT NUMBER 015958 ON THE TAX ROLL OF THE COLLECTOR OF TAXES Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as 708 Second Street, Pocomoke, MD 21851 in Worcester County, State of Maryland, sold by the Director of Treasury for Worcester County, State of Maryland to Locke Capital, LLC, the Plaintiff.

Page 41 A DESCRIPTION of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: Legal Description 76’ X 136’ W SIDE 708 SECOND ST POCOMOKE, District 01 Account Number 015958 Known as 708 Second Street, Pocomoke, MD 21851.

The complaint states among other things that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.

It is thereupon this 9TH OF DECEMBER, 2021 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th day of FEBRUARY, 2022, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgement will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title to said property in Fee Simple, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 17, 2021 BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

Second Insertion MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18988 Notice is given that the SURROGATE COURT of CAMDEN COUNTY, NJ, appointed ANNETTE MURPHY, 425 AUSTIN AVENUE, BARRINGTON, NJ 08007, as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of JAMES C. MURPHY SR., who died on OCTOBER 03, 2020, domiciled in NEW JERSEY, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ., whose address is 115 BROAD STREET, PO BOX 910, SALISBURY, MD 21803.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND coun-

ties: 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 DECEMBER 17, 2021 ANNETTE MURPHY 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 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

Second Insertion NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18993 Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS COURT of NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE, appointed JOSEPH MORGAN, 39 W 711 BENTON LANE, GENEVA, IL 60134, and PATRICK GERARD MORGAN, 316 PENN STREET, WYNNEWOOD, PA 19086, and RICHARD A. MORGAN, 5 ISABELLA COURT, HOCKESSIN, DE 19707 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES of the Estate of JOAN F. MORGAN, who died on MAY 14 , 2021, domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is JOHN A. SURJCEK, whose address is 8906 WHITETAIL COURT, PERRY HALL, MD 21128.

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

Page 42

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 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 DECEMBER 17, 2021 JOSEPH MORGAN Foreign Personal Representative PATRICK GERARD MORGAN Foreign Personal Representative RICHARD A. MORGAN 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 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

Second Insertion NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19010 Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS COURT of PHILADELPHIA COUNTY, PA appointed YOLANDA J. CUSAAC, 7 WESTBURY DRIVE, LUMBERTON, NJ 08048, as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of LORRAINE E. BRINKLEY, who died on DECEMBER 27, 2015, domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is NATHANIEL DOVE, whose address is 5202 DEVENPORT COURT, GLENN DALE, MD 20769.

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 DECEMBER 17, 2021 YOLANDA J. CUSAAC 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 12-17, 12-24, 12-31

First Insertion STEVEN W RAKOW, ESQ. 5700 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 305 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19011 To all persons interested in the estate of LISA M MCCAFFREY, ESTATE NO. 19011. Notice is given that PATRICIA GADO, 150 NOTTINGHAM LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on, DECEMBER 09, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LISA M MCCAFFREY, who died on AUGUST 12, 2021, without a will.

fore the 9TH day of JUNE, 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 DECEMBER 24, 2021 PATRICIA GADO 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 12-24, 12-31, 01-07

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19020

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.

To all persons interested in the estate of KAYE PHILLIPS JONES. ESTATE NO. 19020.

Notice is given that TRACI JONES KERRIGAN, 203 SPOONBILL CIRCLE, ST. AUGUSTINE, FL 32095, was on DECEMBER 17, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of KAYE PHILLIPS JONES, who died on NOVEMBER 27, 2021 with a will.

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 be-

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 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 DECEMBER 24, 2021 TRACI JONES KERRIGAN Personal Representative

December 24, 2021 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 12-24

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19014 To all persons interested in the estate of MARY LUCILLE BOMBINO. ESTATE NO. 19014. Notice is given that CYNTHIA WATSON, 7215 ETONIAN COURT, PITTSVILLE, MD 21850, was on DECEMBER 17, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of MARY LUCILLE BOMBINO, who died on MAY 22, 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 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 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 DECEMBER 24, 2021 CYNTHIA WATSON 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 12-24

Bottle Shop Offers New ‘Build’ Program

December 24, 2021

WEST OCEAN CITY – Over the last several months most businesses have adopted some form of “pivot, change and adapt” into their daily operations to better serve their customers. The latest example for the West-O Bottle Shop would be the “Build A Case” program.

Though most consumers are accustomed to receiving a slight discount when purchasing a full case of a product versus just a singular six pack, the newly implemented “Build-A-Case” program allows customers to add variety into their purchase and still receive a “case” discount of up to 10%.

For example, instead of having to buy four, six-packs of just one product to receive the case discount, the bottle shop encourages customers to mix it up with variety. The customer can now choose between any of the six packs available in the store, whether it be a domestic, imported or craft beer and even the everexpanding selection of pre-made cocktails.

“We have always prided ourselves on the selection available in the shop,” said co-owner David Hambury. “Now we are rewarding our customers with a financial discount to add variety to their purchases. With our town being a vacation destination, the new program allows the customer to stock up the beach house with everyone’s preferred choice. For those of us lucky enough to call Ocean City home, the Build-A-Case program will still be helpful. Why get four six packs of one brewery, one style or one flavor?”

The new program is not limited to simply four, six-packs. Many products are offered in four-, eight- or 12-pack configurations. To receive a discount, Hambury explains, “the entire case must be comprised of equally packaged products. For instance, four, six-packs, six, four-packs, or three, eight-packs equals a 10% discount. Two 12 packs is a 6% discount.”

Co-owner Sara Hambury added, “with the growing popularity of Seltzers and Ready-to-Drink cocktails, we hope our customers will appreciate mixing up all the fun and different offerings. Really, who wants all 24 of one taste?”

The Hamburys credit Beer Manager Will Rothermel with brainstorming the idea for the new program.

“Will brought fresh eyes and an innovative solution to the perpetual problem of inventory management,” said David Hambury. “So not only do our customers get a great new incentive, but implementing this plan also contributes to an even more smoothly run business. We are not aware of any other store in our industry offering a Build-A-Case. Will really had an ingenious idea."

Hambury added the store continues to offer 20% off mixed cases of wine and 10% off mix-and-match six packs (which is six different beers.) Additionally, the shop plans to reopen its inside bar once the ongoing labor shortage is properly addressed internally. Apply online at westobottleshop.com

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Check Presentation:

Page 43

The First State Detachment, 689 of the Marine Corps League made a formal presentation of $10,000 to the Semper Fi and America’s Fund at an Ocean City Maryland City Council meeting this month. Funds were raised at the second annual Semper Fi Bike Ride held Oct. 17. The ride was extended to include a 63-mile distance ride this year. Retired Colonel Sabrina Hecht represented and received the awarded funds on behalf of the Semper Fi & America’s Fund and presented a “Certificate of Thanks” to the Mayor and City Council for their continued support.

Pictured, from left, are Brad Hoffman, Bob Broderick, Hecht and Marty Kwesko.

Submitted Photo

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE NEWS Bank Announcement BERLIN – Taylor Bank has announced Andrea Adams has joined its team as Senior Vice President, Director of Branch Administration.

Adams brings over 35 years of experience in banking to her new position with Taylor Bank, where she will focus on branch performance and employee development.

“We are pleased to welcome Andrea to the ANDREA Taylor Bank team. She ADAMS has a well-rounded background in banking, leadership and team building that will help us to further grow and deepen customer relationships,” said Taylor Bank President and CEO Ray Thompson. “She will also serve as a great mentor for our team of managers throughout our markets.”

Adams has previously held senior

leadership roles at Bank of America, including Market Sales Manager/Market Leader and Regional Operations Support Manager. She is located at Taylor Bank’s Ocean Landing Branch on Samuel Bowen Boulevard.

Deputy Director Celebrated SNOW HILL – During their Dec. 7 meeting, the Worcester County Commissioners paid tribute to Public Works Deputy Director John Ross, PE who will retire later this month following a 19-year career with Worcester County Government.

“John has been responsible for so many improvements, which have increased the resiliency of our water and waste water systems,” Public JOHN ROSS Works Director Dallas Baker said. “His knowledge and insight are going to be missed, but what will be missed more is

the great person John is. I wish him and his wife a long and happy retirement.”

Ross played an integral role in numerous infrastructure projects, including the ongoing improvements to the Ocean Pines water system, the wastewater collection, and pumping systems, as well as the latest expansion of the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). He also helped spearhead the construction of the new Mystic Harbour WWTP, pump station, and spray irrigation projects.

“I look back on my career with Worcester County and all that we have accomplished over that time,” Ross said. “I would single out former Public Works Director John Tustin, who most influenced me. Since I was coming from the private sector, John taught me how to work in the public sector in general, and he always supported me during our time in Worcester County. I would also recognize the dedicated personnel in the Water and Wastewater Division, County Administra-

tion staff, finance team, environmental, and planning groups who were always available to help.”

Ross played an integral role in the overall management of the Water and Wastewater Division of Public Works, where he planned, directed, and administered day-to-day operational activities, as well as water and wastewater treatment plant and pump station upgrades and expansions.

Pocomoke Hotel Sold POCOMOKE – Senior Advisor Wesley Cox of the Hanna Team at SVN -Miller Commercial Real Estate announced the sale of a 62-unit Choice Hotel. Shailesh Shah, a broker within SVN located in Virginia, teamed up with Cox for the sale of this successfully performing hotel.

The subject property consists of five buildings, an outdoor pool, and all guest rooms had been renovated at this wellmaintained hotel.

“Shailesh and I stayed persistent with our efforts and after a dozen showings, we were able to find the right buyer to meet the seller’s goals,” said Cox. “The seller was realistic with their time-frame, and we ultimately found an out-of-state buyer that saw the value in this property who will successfully operate this hotel into the future.”

Faculty Awards Presented SALISBURY – This year’s Salisbury University Alumni Association Faculty Appreciation Award winners are “profound,” “fantastic, “influential,” “inspiring” and “tireless,” according to their former students.

The association honored five with the accolade as part of SU’s annual Fall Commencement celebration. They include Drs. Stephen Adams, Management and Marketing, of the Franklin P. Perdue School of Business; Claudia Burgess, Early and Elementary Education, of the Samuel W. and Marilyn C. Seidel School of Education; Brandye Nobiling, Public Health, of the College of Health and Human Services; Brian Polkinghorn, Conflict Analysis and Dispute Resolution, of the Charles R. and Martha N. Fulton School of Liberal Arts; and Eugene Williams, Biological Sciences, of the Richard A. Henson School of Science and Technology.

“SU has incredibly dedicated professors who are deeply invested in their students,” said Lili Leonard, Alumni Association president. “Each year, the Alumni Association’s Awards and Scholarship Committee spotlights five of them, representing each of SU’s academic schools and colleges.”

In their nominations, alumni frequently gave eloquent and heartfelt praise to this year’s recipients, whom many said helped shape their experiences at SU. Adams “is a constant source of inspiration and wise counsel to his students,” said one alumnus. He “is a brilliant author … [and] values his students’ ideas and helps them to refine and develop their entrepreneurial talents.”

“Dr. Burgess is, without a doubt, the most influential instructor I had during my time at SU,” said her nominator. “More than anything, I’ll never forget how she challenged us to think about what our roles as teachers really were.”

“I would not have achieved many of my SEE NEXT PAGE

December 24, 2021

... BUSINESS NEWS academic and professional successes if it were not for Dr. Nobiling,” said a former student. “As a professor, advisor and chair, she has shaped the program into what it is today. Her countless efforts and time spent working hard pays off with each graduating student.”

Polkinghorn’s “ability to teach through story, inspire the uninspired and imprint a profound sense of feeling educated … changed my life and has changed the lives of countless others,” said an alumnus. “He is a go-getter, a builder and a uniter.”

“Dr. Williams is a true educator who loves science,” said a former undergraduate and current graduate student. “His commitment and dedication to teaching is unwavering, and any student is lucky to have him as a professor.”

Program Officer Named SALISBURY – Cathy Diekmann has joined the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore as Program Officer where she will lead the administrative aspects of scholarships and provide additional support in nonprofit capacity building.

“Cathy’s expertise in the nonprofit sector along with her program development and relationship-building skills, are a great addition to the Community Foundation,” said CFES President Erica Joseph. “We are excited to expand our CATHY DIEKMANN team and put Cathy’s skills to use in helping Lower Shore nonprofits and students.”

Diekmann’s professional background includes her most recent position as the Director of Membership Services for the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, along with over 25 years of experience in conflict resolution education, training design, and nonprofit program development.

“For years, I have been encouraged by the Community Foundation’s mission to serve the common good of the Lower Eastern Shore by connecting people who care to causes that matter. I am grateful to now have a more direct role in serving that mission,” Diekmann said.

Charity Gift Secured SALISBURY – United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES) recently received a gift through the David & Alice Bernstein Charitable Remainder Trust, which will contribute to the 1944 Legacy Fund. Through this generous gift, UWLES will be able to honor the Bernstein Family annually while continuing their work to meet critical needs across Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

“We are honored that the Bernstein family chose UWLES to steward a portion of their trust,” said UWLES’ Leadership & Planned Giving Officer Cathie Thomas.

“Being able to contribute to this fund allows us to have a lasting impression on the Lower Shore for many years and helps to share with the community the options they have when they are doing their estate planning.”

UWLES was also pleased to honor the wishes of the family by facilitating a gift to HALO (Hope and Life Outreach) to create an onsite laundry facility.

Where Is Housing Market Headed?

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE

BY KRISTIN COANE

SPECIALS TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – Low inventory, low-interest rates and pandemic-induced retirements have been driving a very tight, competitive residential real estate market for several years. In the third quarter of 2020 alone, nearly 27 million Baby Boomers decided to retire rather than return to a work environment that might threaten their health and shorten their lifespan.

To possibly recoup lost income by retiring earlier than intended, many Boomers are opting to sell the family home and downsize to a smaller, more easily-maintained house or condominium, or even reinvest in a second home. This, in turn, has put pressure on the lower-cost spectrum of the housing market, crowding out

many first-time homebuyers. Millennials who were hurt early in their careers by the Great Recession are now positioned to buy their first home, only to be squeezed out by attractive cash offers from downsizing Boomers.

Recent positive jobs reports indicate the Federal Reserve may begin tapering bond purchases by the end of the year. This could trigger higher interest rates starting in 2022. Higher interest rates won’t help Millennials much, as mortKRISTIN gages will become more COANE expensive. Retirees, on the other hand, who can perhaps pay for a home in cash, also benefit from higher interest rates on insurance and fixed-income products.

Tapping home equity is a viable way to create extra income for retirement expenses. However, this strategy only works if retiring homeowners can find a less expensive property, suitable for aging in place, without overspending in today’s market. After paying for a less expensive home in cash, retirees can use the sale proceeds to create a reliable income stream through a variety of insurance products. Please feel free to contact us to learn more.

While higher interest rates may cool down recent red-hot housing demand, a Wharton real estate and finance professor doesn’t see the market as another bubble about to burst. He sees the competition between Boomers and Millennials as a phenomenon that will continue for several years, with demographics – rather than economic factors – driving both demand and prices.

(The writer is part of the team at Key Financial Services. The entire KFS team can be reached at 410-629-0357.)

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When ATLANTIC HOTEL 410-641-3589 2 North Main St., Berlin Mondays: Earl Beardsley CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th St. & Baltimore Ave. In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays: Phil Perdue

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Dec. 25

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DJ BILLY T Harborside: Friday, Dec. 24 Sunday, Dec. 26 Thursday, Dec. 30

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 31

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Saturday, Dec. 25: DJ Robcee Sunday, Dec. 26: Fizz Friday, Dec. 31: DJ Greg, DJ Robcee, Shake the Room GREENE TURTLE NORTH 410-723-2120 116th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Dec. 31: DJ Wiz

DJ JEREMY Crawl Street Tavern Sunday, Dec. 26

WES DAVIS 45th Street Taphouse Friday, Dec. 31

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 47

Who’s Where When

FIZZ Fager’s Island: Sunday, Dec. 26

RICK & REGINA Crabcake Factory: Wednesday, Dec. 29

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West O.C. Friday, Dec. 24: DJ Billy T Sunday, Dec. 26: Opposite Directions, DJ Billy T Thursday, Dec. 30: DJ Billy T OCEAN CLUB 410-524-3535 10100 Coastal Hwy. In The Clarion Hotel Friday, Dec. 31: City Groove, On the Edge Saturday, Jan. 1: On the Edge

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, Dec. 26 Seacrets: Thursday, Dec. 30

ON THE EDGE Ocean Club/Clarion: Friday, Dec. 31 & Saturday, Jan. 1

MARLIN CITY MADMEN Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, Dec. 31

FULL CIRCLE Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 31 • 4 pm Coins Pub: Friday, Dec. 31 • 9:30 pm

GOING COASTAL Cork Bar: Saturday, Jan. 1

CITY GROOVE BAND Ocean Club/Clarion: Friday, Dec. 31

PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Friday, Dec. 24: Beats By Styler Saturday, Dec. 25: TBA Sunday, Dec. 26: 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. Thursday, Dec. 30 Opposite Directions Friday, Dec. 31: The Way Outs, Lima Bean Riot, Full Circle, Gypsy Wisdom, Nowhere Slow, DJ Davie, DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O

Page 48

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.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do Has bingo all year. Doors open 4:30 p.m. with first game sharply at 6:30 p.m.

Kitchen open for light fare. 410-2502645.

Dec. 27-29: Bus Trip The 50+ Senior Center in Ocean City at 104 41st Street, is planning an overnight trip to Cape May. Contact Siggy at 410-289-0824 for further information.

Dec. 31: OC NYE Fireworks Promptly at midnight at Northside Park after a walking trail of Winterfest of Lights. Admission fee to Winterfest applies, fireworks free.

Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Concert The Ocean City Performing Arts Center will host a brief meet and greet with O-

cean City officials followed by a free concert.

Jan. 1: AGH Penguin Swim The 28th Annual Penguin Swim will take place once again on the beach at 1 p.m. in front of the Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel at 91st Street All participants are required to register either online or in person and check in on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day to receive a wristband to gain access to the swim area. Advance online registration is recommended at www.aghpenguinswim.org Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Run The Quiet Resorts Charitable Foundation and the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce are continuing

December 24, 2021

the New Year’s Day tradition with the Annual Hair of the Dog Run and Leo Brady Exercise Like the Eskimos Plunge. Run, walk and plunge into the New Year with these fun, family-friendly events. Proceeds benefit the local community by providing grants to non-profits and student scholarships. The 5K run will start at 10 a.m., followed by the 1 Mile walk at 10:05 a.m. The Leo Brady Exercise Like the Eskimo Plunge will take place at noon. This year, both events will celebrate their post party at the Bethany Boathouse, which will have a special opening for the holiday weekend. Enjoy music, great food, drinks, and an all you can eat nacho bar. To register, visit thequietresorts.com

Jan. 5, 12, 19: Art For Wellness The Worcester County Library is offering the program with art therapist Sivan Perdue. This program is made possible by a grant from the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore through the Katherine Ellen Brown Community Fund.

While this is not a therapy session it does provide the chance to explore the mind through creation. This is a threepart series at our Snow Hill branch on consecutive Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Space is limited to eight individuals and all supplies are included. Register at WorcesterLibrary.org under “Events,” or call for assistance, 443-783-6164 or ecoelho@worcesterlibrary.org.

Jan. 6: AGH Job Fair Atlantic General Hospital and Health System will be kicking off 2022 by hosting a job fair in search of motivated candidates to join the team, from 3-6 p.m. at the hospital. All interested candidates should call 410-641-9612 or contact jobs@atlanticgeneral.org to register.

Jan. 6-7: Vocal Auditions The Ocean Pines Players announces open vocal auditions in preparation for the February 2022 original cabaret, “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” Call Director Karen McClure at 703-7270528 to schedule your vocal audition on one of the two days. Plan by preparing an upbeat song and a ballad of your choosing to sing at the audition. (No more than two minutes for each song.)

Jan. 7: Cash Bingo The Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary will be holding a cash bingo at the main station. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Doors open at 5 p.m. and early birds begin at 5:45. Regular games begin at 7. Twenty regular games, two specials and jackpot. 50/50. Food and beverages available for purchase. Call 619-922-9950 to reserve your tickets.

Jan. 14-15: Children’s Theater Ocean Pines Children’s Theater announced the upcoming production of the musical, Disney’s Frozen, Jr. Performances will be Jan. 14, 7 p.m. and Jan. 15, 3 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center, located in the Ocean City Convention Center. Tickets may be purchased through ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Ocean City Convention.

Resort Tourism Commission Favors Someone Is Missing Continuing Sports Alliance Agreement At Christmas

December 24, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – After some debate, resort tourism officials last week recommended a continuation of Ocean City’s agreement with Worcester and Wicomico counties on the Mid-Atlantic Amateur Sports Alliance (MAASA).

In 2014, Ocean City entered into an agreement with Wicomico County to establish MAASA, an alliance that allowed the two jurisdictions to pool their collective resources to attract and retain major sporting events and tournaments to the Lower Shore region. In 2015, Worcester County joined the alliance.

During Monday’s Tourism Commission meeting, Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said the time was coming in the near future on a decision to renew the MAASA agreement. The contract was last renewed in 2017 and runs for five years.

There is an opt-out clause that can be enacted for any of the parties by March 1 of each year. The town’s financial commitment to the alliance is a $6,000 annual fee, which is the same commitment in the partnership supplied by Worcester and Wicomico counties.

By most accounts, the program has been wildly successful and has been used as a model for similar alliances across the country. The concept is to pull the collective resources of the partners in the alliance to create a destination for major amateur sports tournaments and

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

competitions. For example, Wicomico and Worcester might have the athletic facilities to handle the events, while Ocean City has the hotel rooms and other amenities to accommodate the players, coaches, families and friends, for example.

By and large, tourism commission members were supportive of renewing the MAASA agreement, but Perlozzo said the contract might need a little tweaking.

“We need to spell out the contract a little better,” he said. “We need to talk about revenue. The way I see it, it’s five years. There are two major events associated with MAASA.” Perlozzo said Ocean City needs to continue to expand its horizons outside of the MAASA alliance.

“We have other events we need to look at,” he said. “They aren’t going to support anything that is strictly in Ocean City, just as we aren’t going to support events in Wicomico exclusively. It’s a mutual agreement.”

Councilman and commission member John Gehrig agreed the mutual relationship could be better defined.

“I think I called it the worst deal of all time,” he said. “It’s on both sides really.

We need to make it work better for all of us. The more we bring to the region, the better off we’ll all be.”

The commission voted to send a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and Council to renew the MAASA agreement.

Pocomoke Library Plans Unclear

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

POCOMOKE – Library officials are reevaluating options for the Pocomoke branch after learning a grant tied to plans for a facility at the old armory location was not received.

During the summer, the City of Pocomoke shared plans for demolition of the long-vacant armory building to provide space for a new Pocomoke branch of the Worcester County Library. When strategic demolition grant awards were announced by the state in early December, however, the City of Pocomoke was not among the recipients.

“We know not every request will be funded,” said Worcester County Commissioner Josh Nordstrom, who represents the Pocomoke area. “We certainly wish Pocomoke would have been included.”

In August, Pocomoke City Manager Jeremy Mason presented plans for the demolition of the old armory building as well as an adjacent condemned building.

He said municipal officials hoped to see a see a new library on the city block encompassed by Second Street, Clarke Avenue, Maple Street and Willow Street.

Though there were at one time plans to turn the armory into a youth center, Mason said this summer the building was too far gone.

“It’s boarded up,” he said at the time.

“There’s glass, bricks falling onto the street at any given time. It’s been broken into more times than anybody really knows. It’s a cool building. It’s got a lot of history, but it was just abandoned completely. There’s the gymnasium, the ceiling’s falling in, the windows are busted, those are asbestos tiles on the floor.”

With the news that the city did not receive the grant, Worcester County Library Director Jennifer Ranck said the library board would be discussing the issue in January.

“Moving forward the library will need to evaluate all options and work with the county commissioners to determine the best location,” she said. “The library would like to apply for a FY24 state capital grant to help offset the cost of construction, finalizing the site is a crucial step in that process. The branch is over 51 years old and a major renovation or replacement branch is critical to meeting the needs of the community, now and in the future.”

Angelo Russo January 22, 1975 To August 20, 2003

ove We L gelo An You,

Page 49

Let this be a loving reminder that someone is missing today, someone our hearts still hold onto as we travel along life’s way.

Someone who made life so special for all those who gather here, someone who won’t be forgotten, but cherished from year to year.

And now as we pause to remember, let us all fondly recall how dearly each of us loved him and, oh, how he loved us all.

Merry Christmas

County Joins Opioid Settlement Against Drug Companies

Page 50

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – The Wicomico County Council voted this week to join a multi-billion-dollar settlement against four national drug companies.

On Tuesday, the council voted unanimously to opt into a $26 billion settlement with drug distributors McKesson Corp., Cardinal Health Inc. and AmerisourceBergen Corp. and drug manufacturer Johnson & Johnson for their alleged roles in the country’s opioid epidemic.

Specifically, the settlement will resolve allegations that the three distributors failed for years to monitor and report suspicious orders of opioid products, which resulted in diversion of those drugs on a massive scale, as well as claims that Johnson & Johnson deceptively marketed its fentanyl products to healthcare providers and patients.

“A number of years ago, Wicomico County filed suit in United States District Court for the District of Maryland against the aforementioned defendants

December 24, 2021

Distribution Formula Being Discussed

in an opioid-related lawsuit …,” said Andrew Illuminati, attorney for the county’s law firm. “At the same time Wicomico County filed its lawsuit, a number of political subdivisions across the United States filed similar lawsuits against the same defendants, resulting in what’s called multi-district litigation with all the lawsuits being consolidated.”

Since that time, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh has announced the state’s participation in the settlement, joining 41 other states, five territories and the District of Columbia. He noted in a September news release that McKesson, AmeriSourceBergen, and Cardinal Health could pay Maryland and its subdivisions up to $411.17 million, while Johnson & Johnson could pay up to $91.6 million.

Illuminati told council members this week Frosh’s announcement essentially meant the state’s subdivisions, including Wicomico County, have until

Jan. 2, 2022 to decide whether to join the settlement. While the attorney general has proposed a framework that distributes 30% of settlement proceeds to the state and 70% to local government entities, the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) has proposed an alternative framework to alleviate some of the requirements in accessing settlement funds.

“Waiting to hear from the attorney general would be the best course of action,” he told council members. “However, with a Jan. 2 opt-in settlement decision … a decision has to be made.”

To that end, Illuminati noted that outside legal counsel had recommended that Wicomico County join the settlement, but with a recommendation that the attorney general adopt the MACo framework.

“Even if the attorney general doesn’t adopt the MACo framework, Wicomico County should still remain in for settle-

ment purposes because we have an understanding of what Wicomico County will likely receive under the attorney general’s framework,” he added.

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to approve a resolution announcing the county’s participation in the national settlement.

Under the settlement agreement, the distributors will also adopt extensive monitoring and reporting programs to address suspicious orders and diversion of opioids, and Johnson & Johnson will cease its sale of opioids. The extent to which Maryland receives its full share of the recovery will depend on the level of participation in the settlements by the state’s counties and municipalities.

“No amount of money could ever compensate for the devastation wrought by the opioid epidemic,” Frosh said in a statement. “But these settlements will bring much needed funds to address the harms Marylanders have suffered.

The funds will provide addiction treatment, prevention, and other abatement programs across the State to help Marylanders recover.”

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Wicomico charter Review committee Proposes changes

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – A discussion on recommended changes to the county’s charter highlighted a council meeting this week.

On Tuesday, members of the Charter Review Committee (CRC) came before the Wicomico County Council to present 24 recommended charter changes for the council’s consideration. Chair Mike Dunn said the recommendations addressed some of the perceived charter issues that have plagued council members and executive staff in recent years.

“Our goal was to look at this charter and try to figure out a way for it to be a vehicle to provide the potential for as much good governance as possible …” he said. “We realize the things we present are things that the county council or county executive’s office might not agree with.”

Dunn noted that the first topic for the committee’s consideration was the county executive form of government.

“There was a unanimous vote to recommend it stay in place,” he said. “That was the very first thing we did.”

Dunn added that committee members

also considered if any charter weaknesses had contributed to negative interactions between the county council and the county executive, and if any punitive language should be added to address violations.

“From the committee’s review, it seemed clear to us not only was there a lack of communication, but outright dislike or distrust …,” he said. “The CRC concluded adding punitive provisions were not practical. These so-called charter problems were more often people problems.”

Other recommendations, Dunn noted, included establishing a minimum age of 25 for council positions and 30 for the county executive position.

The committee also recommended eliminating a charter provision requiring the county executive to come before the council following their election to appoint department heads.

“We are all well aware of the mass exodus of former employees …,” he said.

“We think that was a contributing factor.”

In addition to listing the committee’s recommendations, Vice Chair Bob Benson provided the council with a list of discussion topics the committee considered

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Page 51

but took no action on. He asked the council to consider future discussions on the revenue cap and the elimination of at-large district representatives, among other things.

“The county council should consider a specific committee to address it if they want to consider it,” he said.

For their part, council members thanked the committee for its work.

“This is a Herculean task, and we had an amazing group of people …,” Councilman Josh Hastings said. “Thank you for your leadership.”

County attorney Paul Wilber noted the recommendations would be discussed at future work sessions. Any charter resolutions, he added, must be passed by early June so that they can be added to next year’s ballot.

“The next step will be for the council to consider the work of the Charter Review Committee in numerous work sessions,” he said.

Members of the Wicomico County Compensation and Allowance Commission also came before the council this week to present their compensation and allowance recommendations for the county executive, county council and the

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Beginning in 2022, the commission recommended an annual salary of $124,000 for the county executive position (currently $85,000), $25,000 for the Wicomico County Council president (currently $18,000), $23,000 for the Wicomico County Council vice president (currently $17,000) and $21,000 for council members (currently $16,000).

The commission also recommended increasing the sheriff’s salary to $121,000.

“The current annual compensation amount for the County Sheriff position is $95,000,” a memo to the council reads.

“In the department, there are currently 10 deputies being paid more than the Sheriff, ranging from $98,681 to $128,770. In addition, there are two other positions with annual salaries of $116,329 and $130,436. After careful deliberation, a majority of the members of the Commission (with one ‘NAY’ vote) have decided to recommend an annual compensation of $121,000 for the Wicomico County Sheriff position, beginning in 2022.”

The commission’s recommendations will also be discussed in future work sessions.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Jeanne Lynch TAYLORVILLE – Jeanne Lynch, 81, departed this life on Dec. 19, 2021.

She was born the second day of December 1940. The oldest daughter of Melvin and Louise Sklar Rabstein. She was raised and attended school in Frederick.

She is survived by her husband, Nelson Lynch of Taylorville; her son, Mark Nevin, friend Ceallaigh Reddy of Somerville, Mass.; two stepdaughters Cassandra and Heather Lynch; two sisters Susan Kaplan and husband Andy of Chicago and Linda Hoffman and husband MilJEANNE ton of Sarasota, Fla.; LYNCH and two grandchildren Aaron Nevin of Brooklyn, N.Y. and Zacadia Nevin of Burlington, Vt. She worked for Caine Real Estate and later as an independent insurance agent of Aflac Insurance.

Jeanne entered local politics when the State of Maryland, Dept. of Natural Resources, decided to build a music pavilion on the Isle of Wight. She ran for county commissioner as a Republican against Jim Barrett in 1990. Jeanne, along with fellow Republicans, Reggie Hancock, Sonny Bloxom, Floyd Bassett and George Hurley, swept the election.

Jeanne was the first woman ever elected in Worcester County as a commissioner. Later she became the first woman president of the Worcester County Commissioners.

Jeanne ran again in 1994 and 1998, winning both times. In 2002, she decided 12 years was enough as a county commissioner. She ran for the Maryland House of Delegate's seat for Wicomico and Worcester counties, losing to the incumbents, Bennett Bozman and Norman Conway.

Jeanne was the second recipient of the Golden Osprey Award presented by the Coastal Bays Program. It was given to her by Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich for her decades long struggle to protect the coastal bays.

Boardwalk Project:

OBITUARIES In 2011, Jeanne and Nelson settled in Silver City, New Mexico for three years followed by three years in Jensen Beach, Fla. In 2021, they returned home to Taylorville.

Many thanks to Anna Smith and the gang at Coastal Hospice.

A Celebration of Jeanne's Life will be held at a later date.

Joseph William Latchford, Jr. BETHANY BEACH – Joseph “Joe” William Latchford, Jr., 85, passed away on Dec. 8, 2021, after a short time with multiple health issues.

He was born on March 5, 1936 in Baltimore, son of the late Joseph W. Latchford, Sr. and Eleanor Moan.

After graduating from Mount St. Joseph High School, Joe was a rate analyst for Koppers Company for approximately 10 years. He went on to work with Environmental Elements for traffic and transportation of boats, trains, trucks and airJOSEPH planes. Joe’s activities WILLIAM and interests were many. LATCHFORD, JR. He was a Blue and gold Information Officer at the U.S. Naval Academy and founded the U.S. Naval Academy Parents Club. He was a member of the Alpha Transportation Fraternity and the Traffic club of Baltimore.

He served on the Council of Logistic Management and also served on the Transportation Department Advisory Board for Catonsville Community College. He was a U.S. Naval Academy nomination staff member for Representative Thomas McMillen for four years and remained a member of the Propeller Club until he passed. A person of faith, he was a member of the Catholic Church of the Good Shepherd, and is presently a parishioner at St. Ann Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister.

Joe is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Dolores “Lorrie” Latchford (Hemelt); his son, Joseph “Joey” W. Latchford, III of Madison, Tenn.; and his brother, Paul Latchford of Sparks Glencoe, Md. The family would like to thank the staff, doctors, and nurses at Harrison House in Snow Hill for their excellent care and dedication.

A memorial mass to celebrate his life was held on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, Del. with a repast to follow in Delaney Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Online condolences can be made by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Carlton Aldon Murray SELBYVILLE – With heartfelt sadness the family announces the passing of their beloved husband, father and grandfather, Carlton Aldon Murray, 74, of Selbyville, Del. Carlton passed away peacefully on Dec. 16, 2021 at the University of MD Shock Trauma in Baltimore with his family lovingly by his side.

Carlton was born on May 29, 1947 to the late CARLTON Clifton A. Murray and ALDON Esther (Cooper) Murray MURRAY of Selbyville. He attended the Selbyville High School and was a proud Rebel.

Carlton excelled at basketball, track and football. He was honored to receive the MVP award in the 1965 University of Delaware Blue & Gold Game and was the first person to receive this award south of the C&D canal. Carlton went on to graduate from the University of Delaware and proudly served in the United States Coast Guard. Carlton loved his community of Selbyville and

A construction worker is pictured last week preparing the support beams for the new lumber as part of the Boardwalk reconstruction project.

Photo by Chris Parypa

December 24, 2021

served his community through the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company as an EMT and firefighter, lifelong member and past President, treasurer and secretary. He was a member of Salem United Methodist Church, life member of the Selbyville Elks Club and the Salisbury Gun Club.

He is survived by his loving family, wife, Janet D. Murray; son, Christopher A. Murray (Mandy) of Frankford; two daughters, D. Rene Pusey (Douglas) of Frankford and Christine Davis (Steve Chapman) of Port Deposit, Md.; two brothers, Clifton Murray (Dolores) and Jay Murray (Nora); two sisters, Jane Long (Marvin) and Kay Lowe (Ernie), all of Selbyville; and three grandchildren, M. Karin Tyndall (Danny), Trevor D. Pusey and Colton A. Murray. He leaves behind his faithful armchair companions, a dog Eli and a cat Charlie.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Ada Mae Adkins.

Together with his brothers, they owned and operated Murray Brothers Farm, M&L Contractors and Bunting & Murray. Carlton’s passion for nature was best shared with his family and friends. He loved to hear the wings of waterfowl slice through the crisp morning air as they set in on the water reflecting the light of dawn. He loved the anticipation of the hunt, each time he was in the deer stand he would pray Lord just let us see a deer tonight, and if the hunt was successful, he enjoyed nothing more than showing off his harvest at the shop with the fellowship of family and friends. He went on many successful fishing trips during his life, but as of late there was nothing he enjoyed more than riding back to the dirt hole on summer evenings and fishing with his grandkids, reeling in the most beautiful largemouth bass. He loved to go camping with his family and kick back around the campfire at night. He loved to spend hours in the shop with his son working on their drag cars and spent countless days at the track, filled with pride each time Chris did a burn out and sped fearlessly down the track.

One of the highlights of the racing career was when CAM racing won Bad 8 Door-Slammers.

There will never be enough words to capture this amazing man with a big heart and generous spirit and how much his family loved him. Out of all the accomplishments in his life, the one that brought him the most pride and joy was his tight knit family. Out of all of his passions, nothing made him light up more than seeing his family together, spending time in the swamp that he loved.

A funeral service was held at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 22 at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville with Pastor David Hudson officiating. Burial was in Redmen's Cemetery. A visitation was held Dec. 21 at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105 or to the Selbyville Vol Fire Co., P.O. Box 88, Selbyville, Del. 19975.

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

Committee Recommends Clear Wording On Shuttle Ban

December 24, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Potential ordinances related to shuttles, storage units and commercial parking in residential districts, among other things, are being considered as a Fenwick committee moves forward with its research.

On Wednesday, members of the Fenwick Island Charter and Ordinance Committee met to discuss proposed ordinances involving several town issues.

Kicking off this week’s agenda included a discussion on shuttles.

“I believe we need to have a formal vote of what we’ll be recommending to the council,” said Councilwoman Natalie Magdeburger, committee chair. “Town Manager Pat Schuchman and Police Chief John Devlin have both weighed in and do not believe shuttles should be part of the Fenwick landscape.”

In April, the committee held a meeting on a proposed ordinance amendment prohibiting shuttle services and low-speed vehicles on town streets and roadways.

While the town code prohibits shuttle bus services, the committee was asked to review the ordinance and suggest changes

Body Cams, Tasers Purchase Approved

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Officials in Wicomico County this week agreed to waive the bidding process for the purchase of bodyworn cameras and Tasers.

On Tuesday, the Wicomico County Council voted to authorize Axon Enterprise Inc. as a sole source vendor.

While competitive bids are required for purchases exceeding $25,000, the council this week ultimately waived the bidding process to allow the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office to purchase new body cameras and Tasers from the company and to update existing equipment and software systems.

“We needed to purchase more cameras and expand the current contract,” said Major Tod Richardson. “In order to do that we need a new contract, and that’s why we’re here before you.”

Richardson told council members this week the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office first launched a body-worn camera system in 2018, well ahead of the state’s mandate to implement the use of bodyworn cameras by 2025.

“This is merely an update of our current program because we’ve had to expand due to state mandates,” he said.

In addition to updating its software systems and equipment, Richardson noted the department was also looking to purchase additional dash cameras and body-worn cameras for its Emergency Response Team.

“It’s being slowly phased in,” he said.

With no further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Ernie Davis absent, to approve the sole source vendor request.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

that clarified the definition and use of a shuttle service after the town was approached by a business looking to operate a shuttle service in Fenwick Island.

Back on the table this week, Magdeburger noted she had draft amendments proposed by prior committee members but wanted the group’s input on the matter. Schuchman noted that while its wording wasn’t clear, the intent of the town’s existing shuttle ordinance was.

“That was the intent of the ordinance, to make sure it wouldn’t happen here,” she said.

Officials said the ordinance and any related amendments couldn’t restrict shuttles along Coastal Highway, as it was a state road. They noted, however, that it would address shuttles along town-owned roads and side streets.

“It just seems it might be very dangerous for both pedestrians and cars,” Coun-

cilwoman Jacque Napolitano said. “It’s a concern.”

After further discussion, a committee voted unanimously to ban shuttles in Fenwick Island and to forward related ordinance amendments to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

“I will get it approved by our town solicitor,” Magdeburger said. “Assuming it’s approved, I’ll get it for a first reading at the January council meeting.”

The committee this week also discussed proposed ordinances for PODS storage units, though members agreed to discuss the issue at length at their next meeting in January.

“I think the only issue we’ve had on the PODS have been primarily from the commercial [district],” said committee member Roy Williams. “Talking to residents, I think they would like to see something in writing that limits the size and limits the number.”

Page 53

Committee member John Nason also pitched proposed ordinances limiting commercial parking on improved and unimproved lots within the residential district, with some exceptions for home occupations or those provided in sections of the town code.

“Currently, nothing related to commercial parking in the residential zone is expressed …,” he told committee members this week.

Other proposed ordinances discussed this week involved flood mitigation, towels on bannisters, and the screening of mechanicals.

“I think we require screening for all new commercial buildings or for retrofits, if it’s structurally sound …,” said committee member Ann Riley. “I’m personally an advocate for mechanicals on the roofs. That doesn’t mean that building heights should be taller.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 24, 2021

STUDENTS In The News

The annual Student Government Association-sponsored Food Drive at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) ran from Nov. 15-Dec. 9. The Upper School gathered to sort and divide canned goods and non-perishable food items that will be donated to several local organizations. This year, WPS had a special kickoff to the annual event. In celebration of the school’s 50th year, each homeroom set a goal to collect 50 can goods in three days. If the goal was met, that homeroom was allowed a dress down day, where students could wear red, white and blue instead of their traditional uniform. Every class achieved the goal. Above, Briar Parsons, Will Wells, Hunter Simons and Mia Lovitt sort non-perishable food items. Below, Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School Mike Grosso, Aysuh Batra and Riley Schoch organize can goods during the food drive.

Second from bottom, Katherine Abbott, Camden Rayne, Megan Waller and Charlotte Catapano pack boxes for one of the local organizations to receive a donation. Bottom, Maggie McCabe and Kathy Zhang take a break from packing donations to smile for the camera.

Students in Shelby Matassa's kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary School have been busy learning about different holidays and traditions. Matassa was joined by English Language teacher Alicia Wallace to read "'Twas Nochesbuena," a book highlighting Latino traditions. Students practiced saying phrases in both English and Spanish. After enjoying the read aloud, students created their very own "Flor de Nochebuena," better known in English as a Poinsettia. Pictured are, front, Fernanda Pineda Espinoza, Dayana Barroso-Pichardo and Caleb Russo; middle, Samantha Osorio Saldana, Teague Hammond and Ellie Smith; and, back, Wallace and Matassa.

Submitted Photos

Students in Kelly Powell's fifth grade Enrichment Class at Berlin Intermediate School created natural pH indicator ornaments with Poinsettia dye. They then decorated their ornaments with different acids and bases. If they used an acid, the ornament turned hot pink. If they used a base, it turned dark green. Pictured are Chloe Chen, Ellie Wells and Emily Baskerville.

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 55

Announcements BERLIN – The following students were recognized by their individual colleges and universities with press announcements sent to this newspaper.

• The following students completed their program requirements to graduate with a certificate (CT), associate of applied science (AAS), associate of arts in teaching (AAT), associate of science (AS) or associate of arts (AA) degree from Wor-Wic Community College this past summer.

Berlin: Jurgita Blake, CT, Nursing; Sierra Nicole Dacre, AA, General Studies; Lesley Downes, AS, Nursing; Marie E. Fontello, AA, General Studies; Kevin W. George, AA, General Studies; Patrick M. Keller Jr., CT, Criminal Justice; Patrick J. Maratea, AS, Nursing; Jessica L. Murray, AAS, Education; Jainita Patel, AS, Nursing; Catherine Anne Serio, AS, Nursing; Sherri L. Smith, AS, Nursing; Alivia Frances Spagnola, CT, Nursing; Austin M. White, AA, General Studies; and Luke C. Zolenski, AA, General Studies.

Bishopville: Jamie L. Walsh, CT, Nursing.

Newark: Sachin Dhungel, AS, Nursing; and Lauren E. Lewis, CT, Nursing.

Ocean City: Jillian Alascio, CT, Nursing; Rachel N. Dypsky, AA, General Studies; Emma S. Hamilton-Blackford, CT, Criminal Justice; Terrance L. Jankouskas, CT, Criminal Justice; Brittany L. McDaniel, AA, General Studies; Benjamin E. Panitch, CT, Criminal Justice; Jenna L. Radford, CT, Nursing; Ilona Randolph, AS, Nursing; Ean W. Spencer, CT, Criminal Justice; Ryan R. Walker, CT, Criminal Justice; and Jessica N. Wieber, CT, Criminal Justice.

Pocomoke City: Colby R. Speta, AA, General Studies; Devin Grace Thompson Elutrio, AA, General Studies; LaShae Q. Wise, CT, Nursing; and Makayla Wright, AAS, Education.

Snow Hill: Drew Elizabeth Harper, CT, Nursing; Delaney L. Taylor, CT, Nursing; and Bethany Waters, AA, General Studies.

Stockton: Kathryn S. Savage, CT, Nursing.

Whaleyville: Jane C. Failla, CT, Nursing.

Laurel: Zachary A. Coco, CT, Criminal Justice.

Lincoln: Toccara N. Godwin, AS, Nursing.

Millsboro: Rachel Raines, AA, General Studies; and Amanda Smith, AS, Nursing.

Milton: Sophia P. Hernandez, AS,

Did You Know?

15,000 People Receive The Dispatch’s Daily Buzz Each Week. www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Nursing.

Selbyville: Isaiah C. Stoner, CT, Criminal Justice.

Parsonsburg: Justin M. Koser, CT, Criminal Justice; and Layla Marie Renshaw, CT, Criminal Justice.

Willards: Samantha M. Bowden, CT, Nursing; and Margaret Frances Cropper, AS, Nursing.

• James Madison University welcomed the class of 2025 to campus this fall. The incoming freshman class represents an accomplished, diverse group of individuals who hail from 35 states, the District of Columbia and 11 countries around the world. Local students joining the campus were Taylor Barrett of Ocean City and Alyson Thiel of Ocean Pines.

• Nina Jacobsen of Whaleyville graduated from the University of Maryland College Park with a Master of ScienceM.S. degree in Electrical Engineering.

She is the daughter of Wade and Susan Jacobsen.

• The following local students made the Dean's List for the summer term at University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). To be eligible for the honor, a student must have completed at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC. The students were Keri Payne of Berlin, Nina Tomaselli of Ocean Pines, Michele Dietz of Berlin, Jennifer Hard-

ester of Ocean City, Josephine Sidleck of Ocean City, Steven Lentz of Ocean City, Emily Trimble of Berlin, Owen Hanratty of Selbyville, Megan Runyon of Berlin and Rachel Dypsky of Ocean City.

• The board of trustees at Wor-Wic Community College recently recognized the recipients of scholarships awarded to local high school graduates.

This year’s scholarship recipients are Ashley Brumbley from Delmar Middle and Senior High School, Brian Butler from Holly Grove Christian School, Kolbie Cvach from Salisbury Christian School, Amber Dickerson from Wicomico High School, Mackenzie Elliott from Parkside High School, Makayla Fetters from Snow Hill High School, Megan Gandy from Washington High School, Karina Mendoza Garcia from Crisfield High School, Katelyn Morrison from Pocomoke High School, Felicity Shockley from Mardela Middle and High School and Emily Stitely from Stephen Decatur High School.

The board of trustees provides a twoyear full-tuition scholarship for the most academically-talented high school senior applicant from each of the 10 public high schools and two of the four private high schools in Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset counties.

• Zachary Tucker of Fenwick Island is one of two Lebanon Valley College student-athletes named a captain for the 2021-22 men's basketball season by

head coach Brad McAlester. A season ago, Tucker earned his second-career All-MAC Commonwealth honor after having been named Honorable Mention in 2019-20. Last season, Tucker was second on the team with 15.2 points per game and went 50-for-60 from the free throw line. His highest-scoring game of the season came against Stevenson on March 11 when he racked up 28 points, including four 3-pointers.

•Sharon Olynyk of Berlin has earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University College of Health Professions. The award is given to students who perform at a superior level in their coursework.

•Morgan Mathey, a native of Berlin, was recently initiated into the Salisbury University Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society. The Society welcomed 350 new initiates from 17 universities during October 2021.

•Lauren Grow of Selbyville, a senior Intelligence Analysis major, was named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2021 Semester at York College of Pennsylvania.

•Jason Hentschel of Berlin, has earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. Hentschel was among approximately 1,480 undergraduate and graduate students who earned degrees during the Summer 2021 semester.

Page 56

Nurses, Doctors Rising To Meet New Pressures The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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 ONLINE WEBSITES: mdcoastdispatch.com facebook.com/thedispatchoc twitter.com/thedispatchocmd instagram.com/thedispatchocmd J. STEVEN GREEN Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com

NEWS DEPARTMENT SHAWN J. SOPER Managing Editor ssoper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHARLENE SHARPE Staff Writer/Copy Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com BETHANY HOOPER Staff Writer bhooper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHRIS PARYPA Photographer

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

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

December 24, 2021

How We See It

The holidays represent a natural time of reflection, an opportunity to express appreciation to those near and dear.

From a community perspective, we think the nurses and doctors who have faced intense pressure over the last two years rank at the top of the list.

The coronavirus is here to stay. It appears we will be in a cycle of rising and falling metrics dependent on the season and various variants’ potency and spread for the foreseeable future. The pressure is intense. Rising cases and hospitalizations combined with constant testing and vaccinating along with typical medical emergencies and procedures combine to make for a difficult work en-

vironment for all in the medical field.

Today we shine this spotlight of gratitude on our medical industry for enduring what has been an unimaginable period of stress, pivoting through changing state and federal directives and workforce constraints.

Nurses are on the frontlines of everything, juggling high volumes of individuals and assuming unusual responsibilities daily. Emergency room doctors are dealing with unique circumstances managing symptoms and a variety of case severities. General practice and family doctors have their own struggles. Hospital administrators have the difficult task of managing it all. Add to all the coron-

avirus responsibility with rising mental health concerns and the medical industry is clearly under pressure.

With the holiday season here, many of these medical care providers will be working while we are with our respective families. They will be away from their loved ones, while also weary of bringing home a highly transmissible virus that could have varying effects on their family members. We thank them for their will to continue helping those in the community, while recognizing the trying times they are serving in. We should not take them for granted, and the holidays provide an opportunity to recognize their efforts.

Letters To The Editor Ad Agency Recognized Editor: I would like to recognize and thank the Baltimore based advertising firm of MGH who has been the Town of Ocean City’s advertising agency for the past 20 years representing the Town as our agency of record. Over the two decades they have represented Ocean City, MGH has played significant role in helping us become the successful resort destination we are today.

When you look back over the past 20-year partnership, what MGH has accomplished is significant. MGH built and developed our Tourism website, www.ococean.com. Our advertising efforts drive visitors and potential visitors to this site. They built our Tourism Facebook page, which has grown to over 1 million followers.

When you look back at the campaigns over the years, MGH took Ocean City to new levels. The “Rodney the Lifeguard Campaign” was a huge hit and Rodney became a superstar of Ocean City. He was loved and recognized by many.

When people saw an advertisement for a beach destination with Rodney, they immediately recognized that beach as Ocean City Maryland.

The End of the World Campaign was creative and eye catching. The Cicada Free Zone Campaign was a fun, tongue and cheek campaign we did when the cicadas emerged 17 years ago everywhere throughout the state but Ocean City. The Vacation Days Campaign reminded everyone not to pass up the opportunity to visit Ocean City. The Fun Family campaign played on what Ocean City truly is about, a family resort with something for everyone. Most recently, during one of the toughest times our town (and country) has faced, they created 10 Miles of Memories, which brought us all back together after a difficult year battling the effects of Covid-19. During one of the hardest times, MGH reminded our visitors of the importance of families making memories in Ocean City, Maryland.

Along with seasonal campaigns, MGH played an important role in advocating for Ocean City when we needed it most.

When the town joined Governor Hogan and Comptroller Franchot to support staring school after Labor Day, it was MGH who supported our promotional and public relations efforts.

MGH helped Ocean City gain national exposure a number of times including coverage on the Today Show, CNN and other major networks. We completed numerous media tours on morning shows in Baltimore, Washington and Philadelphia over the past 20 years.

MGH had the ability to get us on TV where it counted and when it counted.

We even brought Ocean City, and Rodney, to Baltimore for Ocean City days at Oriole Park.

I don’t believe any of these efforts would have been possible without the true partnership and passion of the people at MGH. Andy Malis, MGH President, and his team believed in Ocean City and were dedicated to our success.

His team including Lindsey, Christy, Dave, Chris, John, Heather, Marah and so many others were familiar faces and daily contacts with our staff.

Although MGH choose not to participate in our recent agency review, their work and their commitment will not soon be forgotten. After 20 successful years together, we are both moving forward in new directions. As we move forward, I do not want MGH to be forgotten for where they have taken Ocean City. They have positioned us to where we are today and, put us in position, to continue to succeed.

We have shared success and established the kind of professional business relationship and friendships that made it all possible. I want to thank MGH and Andy Malis for their commitment to Ocean City and wish them the best of luck moving forward.

Mayor Richard W. Meehan Ocean City

Redistricting Concerns

Editor: In a letter printed on Dec. 3, from various Democrat (not democratic) committees and clubs, along with so-called “progressive” groups, there is a call for adding part of the Baltimore Washington metropolitan area to our voter base on the Eastern Shore. That they would quote Ben Franklin regarding our ability to “keep our Republic” is curious given that these groups seem to oppose a republic form of government and want to do away with the electoral college and prefer a mob rule version of democracy.

Despite the weak claims that they seek to restore balance and democracy to the First District, it is really a power play to have all of Maryland’s eight congressional districts controlled by their party. They readily admit that they also seek retribution against the current Representative, Andy Harris, because he had the audacity to vote against the certification of several states that gave their votes to Joe Biden. The states in question had violated their own state constitutions to obtain the results that their Democrat leaders wanted. I believe that Rep Harris was voting for the will of the majority of people in his district due to these concerns which never got a fair legal hearing because courts refused to hear the facts, claiming that there was “no standing” or the cases were filed too soon or too late.

The letter writers try to paint Rep. Harris as an extremist and by doing so paint many residents of the Eastern Shore in the same manner. They further state that Rep. Harris has tried to minimize what happened at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 when it’s clear that the partisan Democrat committee looking into the events are engaged in a witch hunt to place blame rather than discover the truth. They call the events an insurrection but not a single person has been charged for that crime. They criticize Rep. Harris for voting against giving gold medals to Capitol Police. This complaint SEE NEXT PAGE

December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor is rich coming from a party that has openly been in favor of defunding the police. Anyone, that has seen video footage at the Capitol on Jan. 6, knows there were questionable and unexplained actions taken by the Capitol Police. The Capitol Police Department comes under the jurisdiction of Congress which means that it is currently controlled by Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats. I can think of no other police department in the country that would not face serious scrutiny for the unjustified fatal shooting of Ashli Babbitt.

As stated at the beginning of their letter, it was addressed to State Delegate Jones and State Senator Ferguson. So, the fate of who gets to vote in the First Congressional District will and has been decided by two Baltimore area Democrat politicians. The redistricting proposed by the letter writers received an “F” grade from the Princeton Gerrymandering Project. Hopefully, sanity will prevail if this redistricting effort makes it to the legal system.

Joe Kelly Ocean City

Hypocritical Republicans Editor: There is a lot of talk in the media about Congressional Redistricting here in Maryland right now. Perhaps you have seen Governor Hogan and the Republicans in our state delegation have cried “Gerrymandering” and talked about how their map would “end” it here in Maryland.

In reality, their map has nothing to do with ending gerrymandering, and their map has more to do with protecting the stream of campaign donations for their re-election campaign. Allow me to explain.

In 2010, the Maryland General Assembly passed a congressional map that made MD-01 unwinnable, thus ensuring Congressman Andy Harris would never face a competitive re-election campaign. To put it simple, our district was drawn to put so many Republicans in it that Andy Harris would always win with at least 60% of the vote.

As a member of Congress, even though Congressman Harris never faced a competitive election, he was still able to raise millions of dollars every cycle from lobbyists, Special interest groups, you name it. However, since he didn't face a competitive election, Congressman Harris would take that money and funnel it to the Maryland Republican Party, local Republican Central Committees, and down-ballot Republicans running for state and local offices.

Don’t believe me? Here is a look at the amount of money some of our local Republicans have taken from Andy Harris. This information can also be found in campaign finance reports on the Maryland Board of Election website.

Maryland Republican Party, $100,000; Senator Mary Beth Carozza, $10,725; Maryland House Republican Caucus, $7,000; Delegate Carl Anderton Jr., $5,000; Delegate Johnny Mautz, $2,500; Senator Addie Eckardt, $2,000; Del-

egate Chris Adams, $2,000; Delegate Wayne Hartman, $2,000; Maryland Senate Republicans, $1,000; and Wicomico County Councilwoman Nicole Acle, $500.

Their opposition to the Maryland Legislative Redistricting Commission has nothing to do with being opposed to Gerrymandering. If they actually did, they would oppose it when Republican County Councils did it with county maps, and they would publicly support the For The People Act, which bans Partisan Gerrymandering nationwide But they aren't. Their opposition is because our new congressional map puts Congressman Harris in a competitive district where he could lose.

What does that mean for those who take money from Andy Harris? Well, with Harris in a competitive district now, he will have to use his money to try and get himself re-elected, thus cutting off thousands of dollars in re-election funding for them.

Let this serve as a lesson to all that you should never throw away your morals for funding from a Western Shore politician because one day that politician will no longer be able to fund you.

Jared Schablein Pittsville (The writer is the chair of the Lower Shore Progressive Caucus.)

Drilling Ban A Must

Editor: When we make an investment, especially a costly one, we want it to be built to last; we don’t want to make an investment that needs to be replaced only a short time later. Thankfully, we have a real chance to invest in a future that is built to last – a sustainable future without damaging offshore drilling along our coastline. The Senate has an opportunity to permanently protect our coasts from dirty and dangerous offshore drilling through the Build Back Better Act that recently passed the House.

Accounting for current fuel demand, offshore drilling in Maryland and Delaware would only provide seven days’ worth of gas and eight days’ worth of oil off the coast in both states. We need energy solutions that will serve our communities for generations to come. We simply cannot afford the risk of a devastating oil spill or routine pollution from offshore drilling that threatens our health, livelihoods, and environment.

We need our Senators in the MidAtlantic – Senators Cardin and Van Hollen in Maryland and Senators Carper and Coons in Delaware – to protect our coastal economy by fighting to permanently protect the Atlantic Ocean from offshore drilling. Thank you Rep. Hoyer of Maryland for your leadership in protecting our coasts and for fighting to keep this important provision as a cornerstone of this legislation. Please, prioritize the ban on new drilling in the Build Back Better Act, so we can protect our coast from dirty and dangerous offshore drilling once and for all.

Anna Weshner-Dunning (The writer is a Field Representative with Oceana Maryland and Delaware.)

Page 57

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green It’s that time of year to reflect on how wise, or unwise in many cases, I was with my predictions for 2021 in this space last year.

Right On The Money •Fortunately, it was the right call to predict the year would not include any government-required stay-at-home orders in Maryland.

•COVID-19 vaccinations did become readily available in all pharmacies in the first half of the year.

•Ocean City did not require masks on the Boardwalk last summer.

•As expected, plans were announced to demolish the existing Phillips Beach Plaza Hotel and surrounding properties to make way for a large-scale development.

It was learned in 2021 the project proposed was a massive Margaritaville resort complex. The proposal appears to be stalled at this time and it’s unknown whether plans will move forward next year.

•It was the right prediction to expect more foreign student workers would be in Ocean City last summer as a result of President Biden lifting the previous administration’s travel ban.

•Worcester County Public Schools did welcome all students back last winter before most other jurisdictions and were able to maintain in-person instruction ever since.

•The Maryland General Assembly approved sports gambling legislation during its 2021 session. The first bets were waged at Ocean Downs Casino last week.

•As I predicted and honestly hoped, serious crime was down in June and much improved over the June of 2020.

•Despite concerns over lumber prices, Ocean City did move forward with its Boardwalk reconstruction project as planned this fall.

•There were no annexations approved by the Berlin Mayor and Council this year.

•A modified Springfest did occur in May in Ocean City, as predicted, but Sunfest was almost back to normal come September except for a headline act having to cancel at the last minute.

•The BJ’s on the Water property did change hands in 2021 with the new operators renaming the business with grand plans to redevelop the bayfront site.

•Advanced optimism paid off, as the pop-up rally in late September was mild compared to previous years.

•Berlin did bring back the popular Ice Ice event – borne out of the pandemic last year – on Black Friday to kick off the holiday season.

•Public schools across the state did open in the fall providing a virtual learning option for students, but in most jurisdictions the numbers were low for digital learners. For instance, in Worcester County, less than 10% of the student body opted for virtual instruction.

•Based on the sheer volume to review, I predicted the federal government would streamline forgiveness applications for the second round of PPP loans. In many cases, the forgiveness came within a day or two for smaller loans qualifying for the simpler review.

Way Off The Mark •Masks in public places were not required throughout the first half of 2021, as I thought they would be. However, facial coverings are now required in public schools.

•The summer season of 2021 did not see restaurants having to adhere to capacity restrictions. Though bars were allowed to return to 2 a.m. closings, most operations opted for earlier closings due to staff concerns.

•Wrong I was with my guess Berlin would not get a demolition grant from the state for the Heron Park property this calendar year. Word came last week the town had received $500,000 toward the demolition effort. However, I was correct when I predicted the new council would express an interest in selling parts of the property.

Those efforts are underway.

•Many predictions typically come from inside information or intuition. This was not one of those instances. I missed the mark with the claim a petition effort will be launched to raise the maximum number of vehicles on the Assateague OSV area from 145 to 170. Nothing of the sort happened, but Assateague did continue its pandemic surge in popularity throughout 2021.

•A federal stimulus payment was never linked to vaccination status as I thought it might be.

•The Town of Ocean City did not revert back to the ride-along model at Winterfest of Lights as I thought it would. I expected the city to offer a hybrid event of pedestrian and ride-along capabilities. The annual lights display returned as a walking event only.

•The betting man in me was wrong as last winter did not feature a major snow storm. It’s been a couple years now since we have had a measurable snowfall.

•Legislation was not passed allowing grocery stores and big box retailers to sell alcohol.

•Though limited and later in the summer season, the riverboat in Snow Hill did begin operations this year.

•As far as my Super Bowl prediction, the Kansas City Chiefs did not defeat the Green Bay Packers. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers crushed the Chiefs to the win the title.

Still In Limbo •Gov. Larry Hogan did not announce this calendar year his intention to seek the presidency in 2024.

•Current Maryland Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford has not announced an intention to seek the Republican nomination for governor in 2022.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Puzzle Answers

December 24, 2021

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 35

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short trip to Atlanta last week turned out a lot different than expected.

Beckett and I were to have a little getaway to start his holiday break. Since we share a love for sports, we decided to take a quick flight to see a professional basketball game. We opted to head south to eliminate weather concerns, though he tried to convince me a trip to California to see Steph Curry play would be best.

We compromised on the Atlanta Hawks and another of his favorite players, Trae Young. As luck would have it, as we were eating lunch in the airport awaiting our flight, he saw an alert come through my phone from ESPN that Young had tested positive and would miss the game.

By the time the plane landed, the game was postponed because many other players in the game either tested positive or were to quarantine as close contacts. Several other games were canceled as well across the country.

Confirmation the game was canceled came shortly after we landed. I waited until we were off the plane to tell him, and asked Pam – who was home with Carson – to do some quick research on some fun things on a Sunday night in Atlanta since the game was scratched. I was hoping to be able to tell the kid the game has been canceled but we are going to do this or that. Time to make lemonade out of lemons for sure.

As we were talking through the airport, I decided I would just tell him. He was disappointed, but I was proud of how he handled it for the most part.

He really wanted to see a professional game and got busy searching on his phone for other games within driving distance. He was striking out. I had just done the same thing, so I knew how frustrating it was for him.

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His disappointment quickly transitioned into a fixation on what we could do. I assured him we would find fun, but let’s first get to the hotel and drop off our stuff. Once we got to the hotel, I was beginning to wonder if this trip was doomed. Next door was the College Football Hall of Fame – which we would have loved to tour and have our 40-yard dash runs timed – but it closed just as we arrived. Our hotel hosted a highly acclaimed magic and comedy show most nights of the week with our day there being one of the dark days.

For a few minutes, I thought we had lined up a tour of the nearby NFL Falcons stadium but that too turned out to not work out.

We decided we were just going to explore the city. We found a huge arcade complex with a lot of televisions showing the Ravens game. Things were starting to look up.

Because he has never met a stranger, he quickly started hanging out with some other kids his age. These new friends told him about a trampoline park about 20 miles away he had to check out. After a quick web search, I agreed it was incredible so off we went in an Uber to nearby Macon, Ga., at 7 p.m. on a Sunday. It was one of those moments when I just reminded myself it’s an adventure and all about the teenager at this point. I made a deal with him – 90 minutes and then we go get a nice dinner.

The trampoline park turned out to be a wise choice. He played basketball the entire time on a cool surface that propelled him in the air enough to dunk on a hoop. It was fun to watch him play several games. After his time was up, he was exhausted. He was so tired he didn’t notice I ordered him bison sliders for dinner. I didn’t tell him until the next day he can now say he likes bison meat.

On the walk back to the hotel, the

realities of city life were not lost on him.

There were dozens of homeless people sleeping along the fence to Centennial Olympic Park, which was built for the 1996 Summer Olympics games.

Though he has seen homeless people before, it always hits hard as a real eye opener. He’s baffled by how people become homeless.

We had some time the next morning before we were to fly home. We were in Starbucks right after they opened in the morning. It appears to be a morning ritual for the place to allow the homeless in the area to come in, get a free cup of coffee and warm up for a few minutes. It was something to behold, and I am glad Beckett got to see the best of humanity on display.

A little while later, we were walking to check out a nearby store and Beckett gave half of his cookie to a homeless guy. When I asked what the guy said, he said, “oh snap, thank you man” and gave him a huge smile.

Another memory from an imperfect trip was a random run-in at the airport.

Since people nowadays use chairs for their luggage to ensure social distance, we were sitting on the floor at our gate when a black man joined us. When it was time to board, Beckett offered to help the man up because it was obvious he was sore. A conversation ensued, and Beckett quickly learned the man was Ginuwine, a well-known R&B entertainer. Neither one of us recognized him at first until he said his name.

We quickly grabbed a picture before boarding.

It was certainly an adventure, one not as expected, but nonetheless involved creating new memories together.

(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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December 24, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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December 24, 2021