Dec. 31

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December 31, 2021

Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

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Happy New Year: Some fishermen and beach walkers enjoyed a beautiful sunset the day after Christmas in Ocean City.

Photo by Chris Parypa

City Manager Eyes ‘Other Interests’

AGH’s Annual Penguin Swim Returns

Beach Replenishment Wrapping Up

See Page 6 • Photo by Chris Parypa

See Page 43 • Photo by Chris Parypa

See Page 4 • Photo by Chris Parypa

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December 31, 2021

December 31, 2021

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Beach Pumping Project Nearly Complete In OC

December 31, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The latest beach replenishment project in Ocean City is nearing the finish line and is expected to be completed ahead of schedule.

Ocean City’s beaches are replenished every four years, or occasionally more frequently if the beaches are severely damaged and eroded during hurricanes or coastal storms. The resort’s beaches have been replenished five times since the inception of the Atlantic Coast of Maryland Shoreline Protection Project.

This year’s beach replenishment project began after the summer season in October with the familiar heavy equipment, pipes and other gear seen around the resort off and on for decades showing up at the staging area at the north end of town near the Delaware line. Over the last couple of months, crews worked practically around the clock from the north end moving south.

The goal was to complete the project, which runs from 146th Street to the north end of the Boardwalk at 27th Street, by the end of the calendar year.

According to the city website’s daily updates on the progress of the beach replenishment project, crews were working in the area between 43rd and 42nd Streets by midweek this week with the goal of reaching the finish line at 27th Street before the weekend.

“Beach replenishment will actually wrap up this week,” said City Engineer Terry McGean. “All went as planned.”

McGean said there were few issues during the project as crews steadily pushed south from the Delaware line.

“They lost a few days to weather and a dredge repair,” he said. “Otherwise, things went very smoothly, and they are finishing ahead of schedule.”

Beach replenishment began in Ocean City in 1994 through a 50-year agreement with the town, Worcester County and the state of Maryland partnering with the federal Army Corps of Engineers, which provides over 50 percent of the funding for the massive undertaking. The overall project includes a wider, elevated beach, a protective sea wall along the Boardwalk and a vegetated dune system from the end of the Boardwalk to the Delaware state line.

Last March, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the Corps and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced an agreement to source sand from the Weaver Shoal about seven miles off the coast of Ocean City. Sand usually sourced from borrow areas in state waters has been depleted from previous replenishment projects.

December 31, 2021

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City Manager Calls Tenure Leading Resort ‘Rewarding’

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BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – In a bit of a surprise, Ocean City’s fifth-ever City Manager Doug Miller turned in his resignation this week nearly six years into the job.

Miller last week announced his resignation in the form of a memorandum sent to the Mayor and Council and other city staffers. The Town of Ocean City on Wednesday made Miller’s resignation announcement public.

“After a good deal of reflection, I have decided to pursue other interests and, thus, hereby resign my position as City Manager for the Town of Ocean City,” the memo from Miller reads. “I wish you all the best in guiding this wonderful city into its bright and promising future.”

Under the town’s charter, Ocean City

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operates under a council-manager form of government with the city manager acting as the chief executive officer (CEO) of sorts of the operation. While the city manager acts at the direction of the Mayor and Council, the position handles the daily operations of the town.

Miller was hired in 2016 after a nearly year-long recruiting and vetting process to replace then-City Manager David Recor, who resigned in 2015 during what was described at the time as a “mutual agreement.” Mayor Rick Meehan served as interim city manager.

“Please join me in wishing all the best to Doug Miller in his next chapter,” City Council President Matt James’s email read Wednesday to all employees.

“Doug has notified the City Council of his decision to resign from the position of City Manager to pursue other inter-

ests. His last day with the town will be January 31, 2022.”

With Miller’s resignation announcement, Ocean City will be seeking its sixthever city manager. Previous city managers were Tony Barrett, Joe Braun, who served only a brief stint, long-time City Manager Dennis Dare, Recor and Miller.

Throughout the most recent changes, Meehan has served as acting-city manager per the town’s charter, a role he will assume once again when Miller’s resignation becomes effective on Jan. 31 and will continue until new applicants are appropriately vetted and a successful candidate is ultimately hired.

In the email to city staff, James spoke highly of Miller’s service to the town.

“Over the last six years, Doug has faithfully served the town by providing oversight for all of the administrative

December 31, 2021

functions of our municipality,” he said.

“His efforts developing the annual budget, working with collective bargaining units and building relationships with his colleagues represents a small sampling of his contributions to the town. His dedication to public service and his professionalism will be missed by many in Ocean City.”

For his part, Miller said in a statement on Wednesday his resignation was based on a decision to pursue other interests and praised his colleagues in the town’s municipal government.

“It’s been a tremendous and rewarding professional experience to serve as Ocean City’s City Manager,” he said.

“I have had the privilege, honor and pleasure to work with the finest group of municipal employees in the state of Maryland. They are truly an outstanding group of skilled and dedicated local government professionals whose commitment to public service is second to none.”

Miller’s resignation announcement comes at a time of significant change in Ocean City. Resort officials for months have been discussing the potential change in the town’s branding and marketing strategy. On his watch, the town has maintained financial stability with a healthy fund balance and growth in many sectors. He also helped navigate the resort through the pandemic.

When Miller was announced as the new city manager in Ocean City in 2016, he called himself “the happiest guy in the room.” When Meehan officially swore in Miller as the town’s fifth-ever city manager, he referred to himself as the “second happiest guy in the room.”

Miller said during his swearing-in ceremony at the time, “I feel like a kid on Christmas morning,” and “When I sought this position, I was impressed by the elected officials and the caliber of people we have working in Ocean City. I just can’t wait to get started. I thank you for the confidence you have in me and I only hope I will live up to it.”

It’s uncertain this week just how the process to replace Miller will play out, but there is clearly a precedent. When Recor resigned in 2015, the town hired Slavin Management Consultants (SMC) to conduct a search for his replacement. It is likely a request for proposal (RFP) will be sent out for the city manager search efforts, but SMC has a history of working with the town dating back to a search in the 1970s for a new city engineer.

During the town’s last search for a new city manager, SMC followed a fivestep process starting with defining the job qualifications and requirements. After winnowing the field of potential candidates, the city council ultimately voted to approve Miller as the new city manager.

Miller cut his teeth early in his career working in Ocean City government, leading to his appointment as town manager of Snow Hill. He also served as town manager in La Plata before becoming city manager in Aberdeen, a position he held for 10 years before returning to Ocean City.

North-End Residential Property Values Increase 20%

December 31, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Buoyed by a surging real estate market, property values in the north end of Worcester County spiked considerably since the last reassessment, exceeding state average gains.

The State Department of Assessment and Taxation (SDAT) this week announced the results of the triennial reassessment of residential and commercial real estate values across Maryland and the news was generally positive.

Each year, about one-third of the residential and commercial properties around the state are reassessed and assigned new values are used to determine property tax amounts.

For property owners, higher reassessments mean higher property tax bills. For governments, more tax revenue is dumped into the coffers unless tax rates are adjusted down.

This year, using the revolving geographic formula that divides Worcester into three relatively equal parts, all residential and commercial properties in Group 1, or essentially the northern portion of the county, including Berlin and Ocean Pines, for example, were reassessed. The figures released by SDAT this week revealed significant gains in property values in the area reassessed this year statewide and locally.

Statewide, residential properties reassessed this year saw their values increase by an average of 12%. In Worcester, residential properties in the north end of the county saw their values increase by 20%, while in neighboring Wicomico, values increased by 22%. Only Charles County exceeded the gains realized in Worcester and Wicomico, coming in at 27% for the reassessed area in that jurisdiction.

On the commercial side, statewide, commercial properties reassessed in the current cycle saw their values increase by an average of 10%. In both Worcester and Wicomico counties, commercial properties reassessed in the current cycle saw their values increase by an average of 6%.

Statewide, the total average increase of residential and commercial properties reassessed increased by 12%. In Worcester, the combined residential and commercial properties increased by an average of 16%, while Wicomico saw its combined residential and commercial property values increase by an average of 18%.

“All 23 counties and Baltimore City experienced an increase in residential property values for the fourth consecutive year, while commercial property values increased in 22 counties and Baltimore City,” said Maryland SDAT Director Michael Higgs. “This is a good indicator that the market remains strong and growth is steady here.”

Among the 14,588 residential properties reassessed in Group 1 in Worcester County in this cycle, 14,067 saw their values increase, representing 96%. In Wicomico, similar numbers bore out with

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97% of properties recording increased values.

More telling is the full cash value of properties in the reassessed areas in both counties. In Worcester County, combined residential property values increased from $3.8 billion to $4.6 billion.

The full cash value of commercial properties in the reassessed area in Worcester went from $1.3 billion to $1.4 billion in the current cycle. In Wicomico, the full cash value of residential properties in the reassessed area went from $1.5 billion to $1.8 billion, while the commercial values increased from $486 million to $514 million.

The SDAT figures released this week reveal a continuing trend of growth in property values over the last decade or more. For example, in Worcester County, combined property values in Group 1

dropped by 20% in 2010, followed by another drop of 14% in 2013. In 2016, Worcester County properties in Group 1 turned the corner in terms of value with an increase of 9% and the same held true in 2019. This year, combined residential and commercial properties in Worcester increased by 16%.

In Wicomico, the combined reassessed value of residential and commercial properties fell by 16% in 2010, followed by another drop of 17% in the next cycle in 2013. After that, Wicomico’s combined property values in that county also turned a corner and jumped by a modest 3% in 2016, 11% in 2019 and 18% in 2022.

Despite the significant increases in values, primary resident property owners in the reassessed areas in Worcester and Wicomico Counties should not

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expect a major spike in their annual property taxes. Primary resident property owners across the state are protected somewhat from major increases by the Homestead Tax Credit and jurisdictions set their own rates.

In Worcester, for example, the assessment cap is set at 3%, meaning primary residents in the assessed area are only susceptible to an increase of 3% per year in their property tax, regardless of how much their property value increased. Second homeowners are not protected. In Wicomico, the assessment cap is set at 5%. In Ocean City, which was not reassessed in the current cycle, the Homestead Cap is set at 0%, meaning primary resident property owners in the resort would not pay higher municipal property taxes regardless of whether their reassessed values increased.

Thank You

For A Wonderful Season!

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Have A Safe & Happy New Year!

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The Twining Family M

Local Hospitals, Health Departments Pivoting With Latest Surge

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Local health officials say a spike in COVID-19 cases is pushing hospitals and testing capabilities to their limits.

As the Delta and Omicron variants continue to spread, local hospital systems and health departments are reporting an uptick in COVID-19 cases and an influx of people seeking COVID-19 tests.

On Thursday, the state reported 2,122 hospitalizations – surpassing its previous record of 1,952 hospitalizations on Jan. 11, 2021 – and a seven-day average positivity rate of 20.63%. And in Worcester County, the positivity rate increased to 21.66%, exceeding its previous record of 17.51% back in May of 2020.

In response to the growing health crisis, local hospital systems took to social

media this week to remind people to stay away from emergency departments unless it is an actual emergency.

At Atlantic General Hospital, for example, Marketing Director Sarah Yonker noted an influx of people to its emergency department and urgent care center seeking COVID-19 rapid tests.

“We’re asking that anyone who is seeking a rapid COVID-19 test to please visit their primary care provider or check with their local pharmacy for rapid COVID-19 testing,” she said. “The Emergency Room is for life-threatening issues.”

As of Wednesday, Atlantic General reported having 10 inpatients with COVID19, with two being cared for in the ICU and nine of the 10 patients being unvaccinated.

“Our ICU has been running at near capacity daily,” Yonker said.

She added Atlantic General will con-

tinue to keep visitation open for non-COVID patients, as it had during the last surge.

“We understand that families play an important role in patient recovery and care transitions, and we want them involved,” she said. “We did not close our doors to our community and visitors during the last surge. We asked visitors to abide by masking and hand hygiene guidelines and were successful in avoiding any COVID spread from visitors to patients or staff.”

She continued, “We will continue to evaluate risks of visitation. With proper precautions, our success during the last surge, and understanding the benefits of visitors for patient care, we currently plan to continue visitation for our non-COVID positive patients.”

At TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, however, all patient visitation has been suspended, along with elective, non-e-

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mergency surgeries requiring an overnight stay.

“A spike in COVID-19 cases, other seasonal illnesses and the many health needs of our communities, coupled with unprecedented workforce constraints have come together to create a perfect storm for healthcare providers,” said Dr. Sarah Arnett, vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at TidalHealth. “We are taking these steps for the safety of our patients and our healthcare team.”

A directive from the state of Maryland, a sharp increase in COVID-19 rates, high patient volumes and demand for hospital beds at TidalHealth led to the decision to pause certain surgeries, the hospital reSEE PAGE 47

Berlin Council Approves Bonus

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Elected officials in Berlin reinstated a holiday bonus for municipal employees.

The Berlin Town Council at its December meeting approved a $500 payment for municipal employees.

Councilman Troy Purnell brought up the issue of employee bonuses at the end of the council meeting this month. Purnell said the town hadn’t given any bonuses for the last two years, though the town did give employees $500 in 2016, $500 in 2017 and $750 in 2018.

“I’d like to see the $500 reinstated for this year,” he said, making a motion to that effect.

Mayor Zack Tyndall suggested officials pull the numbers associated with giving a bonus to present at the next meeting. Purnell said he estimated the $500 payment would cost slightly more than $37,000.

“I don’t want to wait,” he said. “I want to do it tonight.”

Councilman Dean Burrell agreed, pointing out the next meeting wasn’t until January. Tyndall said the town already gave employees a $50 holiday gift card prior to Thanksgiving.

“I would say if you’re wanting to look at possibly reinstating those bonuses that used to be done in years past that you allow us to be able to put those numbers together then we can bring that up at our next meeting,” Tyndall said.

Purnell said the payments could be funded by each department’s contingency funds. When Tyndall asked if stormwater and the other utility funds had enough in their contingencies to cover the amount, staff confirmed they did.

Councilman Jay Knerr felt a $250 payment would be more appropriate.

“Due to the fact it’s an unbudgeted item I’d recommend $250 not $500,” he said.

Purnell’s motion to give employees a one-time $500 payment was approved 3-1, with Knerr opposed because of the amount. Councilman Jack Orris abstained.

Berlin Nonprofit Eyes Eventful 2022

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A local nonprofit continues to move closer toward its goal of bringing a skate park to Berlin.

After successfully revitalizing the basketball courts at Henry Park and purchasing ping pong tables for Burbage Park, members of the nonprofit We Heart Berlin believe they’re moving quickly toward making a Berlin skate park a reality.

“We’ve come a long way,” said Tony Weeg, founder and president of We Heart Berlin.

It was only in July that Weeg and We Heart Berlin began fundraising with a trio of GoFundMe pages, one for the basketball courts at Henry Park, one for ping pong tables at Burbage Park and one for a skate park. When the group secured its official 501c3 status in August, donations really took off. The nonprofit raised the $34,000 it cost to paint the courts at Henry Park and install new basketball backboards and nets and also the funding to purchase ping pong tables for Burbage Park. The tables are now in storage as We Heart Berlin solicits quotes on the cost of hardscaping at Burbage Park to allow for the installation of the tables.

“I hope we’re playing table tennis this spring,” Weeg said.

He said that at the town’s request the nonprofit would also be funding the purchase of a new ADA compliant swing at Stephen Decatur Park.

“It’s fully in line with our mission and a great use of funds,” he said.

With the Burbage Park project expected to be complete in 2022, Weeg said We Heart Berlin was ready to turn its focus entirely toward a bike and skate park. The nonprofit is set to receive the proceeds from alcohol sales at this weekend’s New Year’s Eve celebration in Berlin. Alcohol sales at Oktoberfest raised close to $20,000 for the ping pong project. Weeg believes sales New Year’s Eve will provide another big boost to skate park fundraising and is grateful to town officials for giving We Heart Berlin the chance to be involved.

“It’s great to have the town buying into what we’re selling,” Weeg said.

Longtime Berlin resident Carol Rose, a member of the nonprofit’s board, said she too was encouraged by the community support for We Heart Berlin and

found the group’s enthusiasm for its mission of supporting healthy and sustainable recreational opportunities encouraging.

“I have served on numerous boards and this group of young folks are enthusiastic and wonderful to be with,” she said. “We have a list of projects and I believe with the huge success of our first project at Dr. William Henry Park we have support from the entire community, our parks commission as well as our elected officials to continue with our mission.”

As far as the skate park, Weeg said the next step would be spending $7,500 to engage with a company to design the park, which he expects to cost between $1 million and $1.5 million to build. He’s hoping We Heart Berlin can work with Pillar Design Studios, the company that did the Salisbury Skate Park.

“I’m just waiting on the town to give us more of a green light,” he said.

He added that a skate park had been included on the town’s latest Program Open Space Annual Program for Development. Weeg is also working with county officials to include the skate park in the Worcester County Land Preservation Parks and Recreation Plan.

When asked about location, Weeg said at this point Henry Park, Heron Park and Decatur Park were being considered.

“There’s possibilities at all three,” he said.

Weeg says he wants to be skateboarding at Berlin’s facility by the time he turns 50 in two years. With We Heart Berlin’s success in its first six months, he’s optimistic that will occur.

“I’m as pleased as can be,” he said, noting that the nonprofit’s projects were initiatives he’d initially planned to pursue as a councilman when he ran for election last year.

He said he converted his loss in the council race into a thriving communitywide recreation campaign.

“That loss was the win I needed,” he said. “It’s amazing.”

Weeg expressed appreciation for everyone who played a part in making this year so momentous for We Heart Berlin.

“A big thank you to everyone who’s helped us,” he said. “2022 is going to be huge.”

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Restaurant Company Seeking Housing For J-1 Students

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – As the seasonal housing shortage continues, a local restaurant management company is asking Ocean Pines homeowners to consider hosting J-1 students this summer.

Matt Ortt Companies – Ocean Pines Association’s food and beverage operator – began this week seeking local host families for this year’s J-1 student workers.

The company is expected to have between 80 and 100 students assigned to its six restaurants this summer, according

to co-founder Ralph DeAngelus. A seasonal housing shortage, however, has Matt Ortt’s team calling on community members for assistance.

“Any time we’ve had societal issues, like COVID for example, Ocean Pines residents have stepped up,” DeAngelus said. “They are a super generous community … and it just popped in my head that they might be interested.”

Each summer, roughly 4,000 international students on J-1 work and travel visas arrive in Ocean City and surrounding areas to fill some of the resort’s 12,000 seasonal jobs. In 2020, however,

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the program was essentially shut down because of travel restrictions and federal directives related to the pandemic, resulting in a labor shortage that had businesses scaling back operations. More international students were in Ocean City last summer, but far less than typical.

Exacerbating the seasonal workforce problem, officials say, are the seasonal housing shortages.

“Because of the housing shortage for college students and J-1 students in the summertime, mainly in Ocean City, J-1 programs are being drastically slashed,” DeAngelus said in a news release. “Many of the houses that in the past were used for students have all since been remodeled and are going out to Airbnb, because people can make more money that way.”

In exchange for serving as a host, J-1 students are prepared to pay a reasonable rent based on the season and depending on the quality of the house and distance to work. The average going rate is $2,200 to $2,500.

DeAngelus said students that stay in Ocean Pines will be assigned to work at a Matt Ortt Companies-controlled facility.

“They could work at the Yacht Club or the Beach Club, or the Clubhouse Grille,” he said. “So, by taking in a student, you’re helping Ocean Pines operations.”

Officials say landlords must provide a private bedroom for one or two J-1 students, along with a shared bathroom.

“The J-1 students will be between the

December 31, 2021

ages of 18-28 years of age from many countries around the world, ...,” DeAngelus said. “Landlords can’t specify which country they want to take in a student from, but they can specify whether they want to host a male or a female.”

DeAngelus added landlords can choose to house a J-1 student for free if they wish. However, he added, “these students are prepared to pay a fair rental fee".

“There is an income potential for empty nesters and families wishing to supply their children a great cultural experience, not to mention you will be helping your community and making a dream come true for a young foreign person,” he said.

The deadline to inquire is Jan. 15.

DeAngelus said all applicants must go through a screening process, and host applicants are required to submit to a walkthrough. J-1 students will arrive fully vaccinated and be COVID tested before and after flights.

For more information, contact DeAngelus at 410-726-4747 or Ocean City’s J1 Program Director Anne Marie Conestabile at 443-664-6519 ext. 1039.

“The J-1s have it harder than most American college students because chances are they have a grandparent, an uncle or a cousin who has a condo here.

A college student from Poland certainly doesn’t,” DeAngelus said. “The housing shortage affected them badly … It’s a major disadvantage for them.”

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 11

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Concerns Over Older 3G Devices

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – With the increasing trend toward higher and faster internet connectivity, state and local officials have raised concerns those with older and slower devices could be at risk in cases of emergencies.

The Maryland 911 Board last week issued a warning 3G devices, such as cell phones and tablets, may not have the connectivity needed in times of emergencies in coming weeks. It’s no secret such devices are becoming increasingly obsolete, but many still rely on 3G to connect to law enforcement, emergency services and other needed services. The situation could become more acute in the coming weeks with the calendar flipping to 2022, the state board warns.

“The Maryland 911 Board is issuing a warning to consumers that older phones may cease operating in early 2022 due to the retirement of 3G networks and support for phones using 3G service,” the statement reads. “This may include other devices that use 3G connectivity, such as some medical alert devices, tablets, smart watches and home security systems.”

The potential situation could hit close to home, according to Ocean City Police Department Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller.

December 31, 2021

“In 2022, AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile will discontinue using the 3G network service,” she said. “Throughout the last few years, tons of 3G-dependent phones have gone out to vulnerable adults, domestic violence victims, etc. Although efforts are underway to replace or upgrade the 911-only 3G phones, the Maryland 911 Board is concerned that too many people may be unaware they are in jeopardy of losing service.”

Those with lesser means, the elderly, victims of domestic abuse and others are often provided with slower 3G devices equipped to handle most emergencies, but lack the connectivity for other services. The Maryland 911 Board has warned even those rudimentary services could soon become obsolete.

“Most users of these services will be notified directly by the carriers if this discontinuation effects them,” the statement reads. “However, users of older phones used for 911-only purposes may not be notified if they do not have active service with the provider. It has long been the practice of some organizations for the homeless or domestic violence shelters to provide clients with older phones with no service, since those phones could still be used to call 911 in an emergency. Users of those older 911only phones should be aware they may not work after 3G service is discontinued.”

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Online Assateague Foal Naming Contest Raises $3,350

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

ASSATEAGUE – A new foal born into the herd of wild horses at Assateague on the Maryland side in August has a new name this week after another successful naming-rights raffle.

The Assateague Island Alliance (AIA), the friends group of the Assateague Island National Seashore, which advocates on behalf of the island’s most famous residents, each year hosts naming rights contests for foals born into the herd on the Maryland side. Often, the contests are held as auctions through e-Bay, or other creative contests such as raffles.

Such was the case for the new foal heretofore known only as N2BHS-CKT born in August to Johnny’s Star, also known as N2BHS-CK. The likely sire is Mr. Frisky Hooves. Decades ago, the

The newly named Starlight is pictured.

Photo by Lynn Fisher

National Park Service began assigning alpha-numeric names to the wild horses on Assateague to better track to which bands they belong and the areas on the

island they tend to frequent.

However, the AIA for years has been hosting naming rights contests for the new foals. The contests achieve the parallel goals of assigning a familiar name to the horses by which supporters and advocates can identify them. The contests also help the AIA raise funds for its advocacy programs for the wild horses.

Last week, the AIA announced the naming rights raffle for the new foal known as N2BHS-CKT has been won

by Sheila Navarra of Stormville, N.Y. Navarra has chosen “Starlight” as the new name for the foal, paying homage to the bay pinto filly’s dam Johnny’s Star and “light” from the other horses in the foal’s lineage.

According to the AIA, Navarra is a campground host at Assateague Island National Seashore and was camping on the barrier island at the time the foal

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was born in August. According to the AIA, for that reason it was special for her to have had the opportunity to win the raffle and name this particular foal.

AIA thanked Navarra and everyone else that participated in the naming-rights raffle for Starlight, which raised $3,350 for the organization’s advocacy programs.

Preliminary Pines Budget Released

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – With a proposed budget for the coming fiscal year, association officials are now set to review the spending plan in upcoming meetings.

As part of the annual budget process, the Ocean Pines Association Budget and Finance Committee will hold a review of the community’s proposed spending plan for fiscal year 2022-2023 during a series of public meetings set for Jan. 4-6.

“Following that, the Board of Directors will review the document during public meetings on Jan. 19-20,” an association news release reads. “The Board will hold a final hearing and vote to adopt the finalized budget in February.”

The proposed fiscal year 2022-2023 budget includes total revenues of $16,833,944 and expenditures of the same.

Bulkhead repairs for the coming year total $1,169,921, while capital expenditures total $1,680,515.

The association’s spending plan also proposes an annual assessment of $995 for non-water lots and $1,610 for waterfront lots, representing a $1 reduction from fiscal year 2021-2022.

General Manager John Viola announced the beginning of the budget process late last month. He noted, however, that the association expected to encounter some financial challenges.

“There are headwinds this year …,” he said at a November board meeting.

“Inflation is certainly on the rise and that will affect the budget.”

Viola added that the association must also account for statutory increases in minimum wage this year.

“We will break that out for everybody and what that effect is on our financials …,” he said. “There will also be a separate category for above minimum wage.

As we’ve seen this year, between COVID and everything else, minimum wage maybe is not cutting it for us to hire people or even keep people.”

The proposed budget documents, which include financials for the current fiscal year, can be viewed online through the association’s website, oceanpines.org.

Long-Time Commissioner Remembered As A ‘Shooting Star’

December 31, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The community this week is mourning the death of well-known social activist and former politician James Lee Purnell Jr. He was 84.

Purnell, Worcester County’s first African American elected official, passed away Monday. Area residents say he’ll be remembered for his trailblazing efforts in politics as well as for the decades he spent as a school bus driver.

“Hope, support, guidance, advice and tough love when needed is what Cousin Jimmy would provide to many of us, be it from the driver’s seat of his school bus, from the dais in the commissioner chambers, or while leaning across the hood of his red pickup truck,” Berlin Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said. “He was one of a kind and will be greatly missed.”

Purnell, born in Briddletown in 1937, owned a drapery business before being hired by Worcester County Public Schools as a bus contractor in the 1970s, a role he held for close to four decades. He also became an advocate for the community, eventually becoming president of the Worcester County NAACP. He was heavily involved in the organization’s efforts to challenge the county’s voting practices, which eventually led to the creation of a new minority district. Purnell was elected to serve as the county commissioner for the new district in 1995 and served until 2014.

Purnell, who was known to most as “Jimmy” or “Junior,” was instrumental in bringing a variety of positive changes to the community. His nephew, Gregory Purnell, recalled his efforts to bring county water to the Briddletown area after contaminated well water was linked to the landfill.

“The community was suffering,” Gregory Purnell said. “He stood with the community and we got that water.”

In the wake of that effort, Purnell got involved with the NAACP, according to his nephew, and, once the new voting district was created, became Worcester County’s first African American elected official.

“He was kind of like a shooting star,” Gregory Purnell said. “Once he got going he went to the top.”

He said his uncle remained a humble man despite the various leadership roles he held.

“Everything he touched for the community went for the better,” he said.

Nichols said she remembered Purnell’s guidance from when she was a teenager.

“Back when I was a middle/high school student, he was the president of the Worcester County NAACP and taught us that even as young people we had a voice,” she said. “It was up to us to use that voice and make our concerns heard.”

Commissioner Diana Purnell, who was elected to fill Purnell’s seat once

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he retired, said he was a strong advocate for the people he represented.

“Jimmy was a very active warrior for people’s rights here in Worcester County,” she said. “He fought very hard for the community.”

Purnell served five terms as a commissioner, serving as both president and vice president before retiring in 2014. He received the Tri-County Council’s annual Citizenship Award in 2015 for his outstanding service to the community.

Diana Purnell praised his devotion to not only his district by the entire community of Worcester County.

“He was a good friend and a great advisor,” she said. “We’re going to miss him dearly. I’m asking the community to keep his wife Clemeth in prayer.”

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, in a state-

James Purnell served a commissioner for five terms.

File Photo

ment shared via social media, said he

Page 15

was sad to hear of Purnell’s passing this week.

“Mr. Jimmy, as many knew him, was a beloved member of the Town of Berlin and Briddletown communities,” Tyndall said. “As the first black county commissioner in Worcester County, Mr. Jimmy advocated for our community and the people he represented.”

Gregory Purnell noted that his uncle never stopped advocating for the people even after he retired from political office.

“He was a pillar of this community,” he said. “His name will live on and on for the things he did.”

A service for Purnell is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 1, at First Baptist Church in Salisbury. The viewing will be at 10 a.m. and the service will begin at 11 a.m.

Resort Boardwalk Project On Target For April Completion

Page 16

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A major re-decking of the Ocean City Boardwalk is moving along and on target for an April completion.

The complete re-decking of the Boardwalk has been on the town’s radar for the last couple of years and has been a regular fixture in the capital improvement plan (CIP), a blueprint of sorts on when to schedule and fund major projects. After a couple of pandemic-related setbacks involving the availability of lumber and materials, the project began in earnest in October.

The first phase, which is ongoing now, started on the north end of the Boardwalk and is running from 27th to

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15th streets. The first phase also includes the section from the Ocean City Lifesaving Station Museum to the fishing pier as well as a re-decking of the Boardwalk at Sunset Park. City Engineer Terry McGean said this week the Boardwalk re-decking project is on time and on budget.

“The Boardwalk re-decking is coming along well,” he said. “They are on schedule for April completion. They are moving off the Boardwalk to Sunset Park this week to give the seawall coating contractor time to get well ahead.”

According to McGean, the steel interior portion of the seawall under the cement cap is being recoated because of saltwater erosion over time and the project is also ongoing. The seawall contractor has to stay ahead of the re-

December 31, 2021

Crews are pictured working on the re-decking project earlier this month.

Photo by Chris Parypa

decking contractor in order for the two projects to synthesize and keep moving, which is why the re-decking work

is shifting to Sunset Park.

The second phase of the Boardwalk re-decking project scheduled for next offseason will finish the overall project from 15th Street south to the fishing pier. That work is tentatively scheduled to begin next fall right after Columbus Day and be completed by April 2023.

The entire cost of the two-phase Boardwalk re-decking project is around $2.2 million, which is spread over two years in the town’s CIP. There are also some pier franchise lease funds totaling $100,000 in each year dedicated to the Boardwalk re-decking project.

For safety reasons, the town is asking that visitors and residents do not enter the portions of the Boardwalk under construction and observe the detoured areas, during which work is underway. The Boardwalk remains fully open on weekends and holidays during the re-decking project.

The wooden sections of the Boardwalk were last replaced entirely in 2010 and 2011 with a life expectancy of 10 years, which put the project right in that window for replacement now. The urgency for the project first surfaced during strategic planning sessions over two years ago and it was identified as a priority in the capital improvement plan.

The pandemic caused the cost and availability of lumber to soar, placing the re-decking project briefly on the back-burner. With lumber mills shutting down during COVID, and a high demand for treated lumber during the recent housing boom, the initial bids came in at roughly twice what was budgeted. The shortage has eased somewhat, and the town has been able to procure the necessary materials.

There has been talk over the years of replacing the Boardwalk with some other, more durable and long-lasting material, but resort officials have said often there is no substitute for the genuine article. Plastic or concrete options were explored for cost and durability reasons, but in the end, it was determined the public would not sit still for anything other than southern yellow pine from a traditional standpoint and that is what is being used for the replacement.

Tindley Mural Hopes Remain Alive In Berlin

December 31, 2021

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BERLIN – Efforts to bring a mural depicting the Rev. Dr. Charles Albert Tindley to downtown Berlin are still underway.

Though the Berlin Historic District Commission (HDC) voiced concerns with plans for a mural honoring Tindley this fall, members of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area are still hoping to come up with a concept that works for the town.

“The project is not dead we just need to regroup,” said Lisa Challenger, Beach to Bay’s executive director.

In October, members of the HDC in Berlin expressed concern regarding plans for a mural of Tindley, the gospel music icon born in Berlin, on the Parker building on William Street. They said they were worried about maintaining the town’s historic appearance and some suggested a statue as a better way to honor Tindley.

Challenger said this week that Beach to Bay and interested citizens still wanted to see Tindley recognized with a mural. And while the owner of the William Street location proposed in October has withdrawn his offer of space for the mural, Challenger said another building was now being considered.

“We are now looking at another building and we have some draft designs but none of that is set in stone,” she said.

Members of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area as well as community representatives will meet Jan. 12 at Berlin Town Hall to talk about the project.

Challenger said members of the public were welcome to attend the 10 a.m. meeting as well.

“We’d love to hear from as many people as possible,” she said.

According to Challenger, Beach to Bay Heritage Area received a grant this summer from the Rural Maryland Council to support some African American tourism projects. She said one component of that was a mural, and because there was already discussion locally about honoring Tindley he seemed the obvious person to feature.

“We wanted to pay homage to him,” she said.

Challenger added that murals, in addition to serving as a way to showcase artwork, were also proving to be a valuable economic development tool. She’s hopeful that the project will be able to move forward in Berlin.

“We’ve got a bunch of people that are really interested in seeing this happen,” she said.

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Stop Leads To Weapon Arrest OCEAN CITY – A local man was arrested last week after a concealed deadly weapon was allegedly found in his vehicle following a traffic stop.

Around 1 a.m. last Friday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the downtown area observed a vehicle fail to make a complete stop at 13th and Philadelphia Avenue. The officer initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Craig Powell, 36, of Ocean City.

According to police reports, the officer explained the reason for the stop and Powell became defensive and told the officer he was making it up. The officer reportedly told Powell three other OCPD officers observed his vehicle fail to stop at the stop sign and again Powell denied it, according to police reports.

When the officer asked Powell for his license and registration, and Powell reached for the glove compartment, the officer noticed a handle of a knife positioned between the driver’s seat and the center console. The officer knew Powell had a history of fleeing from prior interactions and asked Powell to place his hands

on the steering wheel, according to police reports.

The officer retrieved the knife by opening the passenger door. The officer examined the knife and determined it had a roughly six-inch blade with sharp straight edge on one side of the blade and a serrated edge on the other side. Powell was arrested and charged with carrying a concealed deadly weapon.

Ruckus In Parking Lot OCEAN CITY – A New York man was arrested last week after allegedly causing a scene at a midtown nightclub parking lot.

Around 10:30 p.m. on Dec. 18, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were patrolling when they assisted with an alleged disorderly individual, identified as Robert Bartone, Jr., 32, of Coram, N.Y. According to police reports, Bartone was yelling at bar staffers and pacing back and forth.

Bartone reportedly walked away from the front gate area and walked hurriedly toward a female, stopped her and yelled a string of expletives at her. Bartone continued to walk through the parking lot, screaming to anyone who would listen that he was intoxicated and that the female he had confronted had assaulted him, according to police reports.

Bartone’s yelling could reportedly be heard from over 50 feet away in violation of the town’s noise ordinance. Bartone continued his tirade as he walked around to a nearby liquor store, where he yelled at other patrons. OCPD officers activated their emergency lights and Bartone sat down on a curb, but continued to yell, according to police reports.

Bartone was ultimately arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, failing to obey an order and disturbing the peace.

He was placed in handcuffs, but refused to calm down, refused to stand up on his own and refused to walk on his own, according to police reports.

He was taken to the Public Safety Building for booking and continued to be uncooperative. He reportedly wiggled around and wrenched his body around his cell and told booking officers he could not breathe.

He was seen by Ocean City EMS, but refused transport to a medical facility.

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OCEAN CITY – A New Jersey man was arrested last week after allegedly scrapping with downtown bar staff and patrons after getting bounced from the establishment.

Around 12:30 a.m. on Dec. 19, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was patrolling in the downtown area and observed a large group of people on the sidewalk near a bar who were staring at a man later identified as Carl Cruz, 35, of North Cape May, N.J., who had taken his shirt off, according to police reports. The officer reportedly observed SEE NEXT PAGE

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Cruz shouting and cursing and raising his arms while trying to instigate a fight with someone in the group, according to police reports.

The initial officer reportedly pulled around the block and called for additional units to respond to the location. Cruz reportedly continued to yell at the crowd and bar staff. Some in the crowd could be heard telling Cruz to just walk away, while another individual could be seen trying to pull him away from the scene, according to police reports.

OCPD officers reportedly observed Cruz walking backward in the travel lanes on Philadelphia Avenue while continuing to yell at the crowd. He was taken into custody at that point for disorderly conduct. An OCPD officer interviewed bar staff and witnesses, who reportedly told police Cruz had been removed from the bar because of his level of intoxication and for being disorderly just before the officer’s arrival, and that the altercation was caused by Cruz trying to fight his way back into the bar.

Once at the OCPD booking center, Cruz intentionally clogged his sink drain and flooded the male holding area while continuing to act disorderly.

was dispatched to a hotel at 46th Street for a report of an individual locked in the building. Ocean City Communications had received a call about an individual locked in a building and were able to get a cell phone plot at a nearby candy store.

OCPD officers arrived on scene and were able to locate an individual identified as Destin Mabbyalas, of no fixed address, locked in a booster pump room at the hotel on 46th Street. Ocean City Fire Department staff arrived to assist and were able to open the door of the booster pump room with special tools, according to police reports.

Mabbyalas told police he was from Virginia, but traveled to Ocean City on a bus.

Mabbyalas reportedly told officers he had friends in Ocean Pines, but was not staying with them. Mabbyalas reportedly told police he had gone to a midtown nightclub to apply for a job, and after he left the nightclub, he attempted to find a warm place to stay for the night.

Mabbyalas told police he pulled on the door handle of the hotel booster pump room and noticed it was open. When he went inside the room, the door automatically closed behind him and locked. Mabbyalas then called Ocean City Communications, who dispatched resources to get him out of the room. Mabbyalas was arrested and charged with fourth-degree burglary.

Midtown Burglary Arrest

Disorderly Conduct, Drugs

OCEAN CITY – A male suspect of no fixed address was arrested on burglary charges last week after allegedly locking himself in a hotel booster pump room.

Around 10 p.m. on Dec. 19, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer

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bation for 18 months.

Around 1:40 a.m. on Sept. 13, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer ran a mobile check on a motorcycle and determined the bike’s tags had been suspended since February due to an insurance lapse. The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect, later identified as Brett Allen, 30, of Greencastle, Pa., got off the bike and attempted to walk away.

OCPD officers advised Allen he was being detained for the suspended registration, to which he replied, “I’m off the bike, you can’t stop me,” according to police reports. Allen, who was wearing Pagan motorcycle club colors, reportedly became irate and argumentative. Allen then got on his cell phone and called for other Pagans to assist him.

About two minutes later, three other Pagan members arrived on the scene.

Page 19 One of the men reportedly told police “I’m sorry for his behavior,” and “This is not the mentality we promote when we’re in Ocean City,” according to police reports.

Meanwhile, Allen continued to be argumentative and uncooperative and prevented the officers from conducting their investigation. At that point, Allen was arrested for disorderly conduct and obstructing and hindering. A search of Allen subsequent to the arrest revealed a set of brass knuckles in his rear pocket.

In Allen’s wallet, OCPD officers allegedly located Suboxone, a controlled dangerous substance. All on all, Allen was charged with disorderly conduct, obstructing and hindering, a weapons violation and possession. Last week, Allen pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and possession and was placed on probation for 18 months.

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‘Knock, Lock, Leave’ Eviction Legislation Discussed

Page 20

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – The Eastern Shore delegation came before county leaders last week seeking support for new legislation changing the rental eviction process in Wicomico County.

In an hour-long work session last week, members of the Eastern Shore delegation met with the Wicomico County Council to seek a letter of support for legislation providing better property protection procedures during rental e-

Delegation Seeks Local Support

victions.

While the current eviction process requires any remaining property in a rented unit to be physically removed from the premises and placed outside, the proposed legislation – championed by the Salisbury Area Property Owners Association – would implement a “knock, lock and leave” process in Wi-

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“We show up with the sheriff on the scheduled day of the eviction, we knock and open up the door for the sheriff, he removes the people or person that is there, and we’d change the locks …,” said Salisbury Area Property Owners Association’s Bret Hopkins. “Nothing is on the street. It’s inside, under a roof.”

Delegates told council members last week the proposed legislation had been brought before the state legislature in prior years and had neared passage in 2020 before the Maryland General Assembly adjourned early in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They also noted the bill had support from the City of Salisbury and the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office.

“It’s a local bill,” said Del. Carl Anderton. “So in order for a local bill to be successful we have to have support from the local governing bodies. That’s why we are asking.”

Officials noted the bill did not change eviction timelines or notices, but simply the process of removing a tenant’s belongings. Michael Weisner, president

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of Weisner Real Estate in Salisbury, argued not only would it reduce blight and protect a tenant’s possessions, but would save the sheriff’s office time.

“I think it’s a win all the way around,” he said.

Councilmen Ernie Davis and Joe Holloway questioned if the legislation included opportunities for tenants to retrieve their possessions after an eviction.

“I just have a problem with the knock and lock and then you’re done …,” Holloway said. “After these people are physically evicted I think they should have some time – whether it’s a day, two days, three days – to say you have 24 or 48 hours to get your stuff. That is my only opposition.”

Councilman Larry Dodd and Councilwoman Nicole Acle said they wanted more time to review the legislation and present it to their constituents.

“For the sake of public transparency, I think we need to really engage the citizens and make them aware of this,” she said.

Council President John Cannon, however, noted that the county council had supported the bill on two previous occasions.

“This will be the third or fourth time we’ve reintroduced this bill,” Sen. Addie Eckardt added.

Councilmen Bill McCain and Josh Hastings said they supported the proposed legislation.

“I think this is the best possible solution we can see …,” Hastings said.

“It saves the county money, you don’t have to have the sheriff out there as long, you put in as many protections as possible to support the tenant, so I’m fully on board.”

Colin Zimmerman, government affairs director for the Coastal Association of REALTORS, told county leaders last week his organization was also in support of the bill.

“We don’t want to move up the eviction process, we don’t want to make it shorter, but we do know at the end of the eviction process, when the sheriff’s office comes and everything gets put on the street, it’s hard for everybody,” he said. “It’s hard for the homeowner, it’s hard for the property owner, it’s hard for the tenant, it’s hard for the sheriff’s office, the city courts, it’s hard to clean up. So being able to lock the doors, protect the property that’s inside, frees up a lot of resources for the county, resources for the property manager, and makes it a little bit more of a pleasant process for everyone involved.”

After further discussion, the council agreed to table the matter, giving officials more time to vet the proposed legislation and introduce it to community members.

“We can put in whatever you want,” Eckardt added. “The players will have changed a little bit this year, so there’s no guarantee it will go through as easily as it did before.”

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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OCPD Fine On Full-Time Front, But Lagging In Seasonals

Page 22

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) is at full-strength in terms of full-time officers, recruiting and hiring seasonal officers and public safety aides continues to be a challenge.

During a review of a Police Commission meeting earlier this month, OCPD Chief Ross Buzzuro last Monday brought the Mayor and Council up to speed on recruiting efforts for seasonal officers and public safety aides (PSAs) for next season. Buzzuro said the department to date has hosted four testing weekends with another scheduled for next month, but recruiting and hiring seasonal part-time officers remains challenging.

“Right now, we’re a little sluggish in attracting and ultimately hiring part-time summer help for 2022,” he said. “Currently, we have 49 seasonal officer applications with 32 in the process. We have 16 PSAs in the process and our next testing date is on January 8.”

Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said it appears to be chronic problem, not only in Ocean City, but for law enforcement agencies around the country in the current climate. DeLuca commended Buzzuro and his staff for somehow always reaching the goals in terms of

seasonal officers and PSAs. “We seem to always have this discussion every year,” he said. “I hear you say sluggish across the country. It was the same way last year and yet you’ve exceeded expectations in your hiring of seasonal officers and PSAs.” DeLuca questioned if every stone had been unturned in terms of recruiting and hiring part-time officers for the department.

“My question is, have you exhausted every avenue?” he said. “What have we done differently this year? Have we exhausted every avenue in terms of age, in terms of social media, in terms of starting salaries, average hourly rates, overtime, hiring bonuses? I’m just wondering if we have gone over every single one of those details.”

Buzzuro said the department consistently attempts to recruit part-time seasonal officers from colleges and universities in the region. He said it has just become more challenging because of the current climate with law enforcement here and around the country.

“We have a model that consistently worked year after year,” he said. “We’ve looked outside the box, but we can’t get too far out of that box because the challenge is this profession is no longer attractive as it once was.”

Buzzuro said DeLuca was right in

December 31, 2021

terms of exploring every option to recruit more officers, but the pool of potential candidates is fairly shallow.

“You hit the nail on the head,” he said. “We’re very fortunate at this time because we’re at full strength with fulltime officers. In terms of hiring part-time seasonal officers and public safety aides, we’re looking at a very narrow group of folks. Most are coming from colleges and universities. It tough to get away from that and reinvent the wheel, so to speak.”

Buzzuro said Ocean City faces obstacles when it comes to attracting parttime officers. He said the resort for years has been a jumping off point of sorts for many seeking law enforcement careers, but that has changed somewhat.

“One of the issues we’re having is the distance and the lack of housing,” he said. “For the last several years, Ocean City has been looked at as a starting ground for careers in law enforcement. We’re the feeding ground for many departments, not only in Maryland, but up and down the eastern seaboard. Our officers become officers elsewhere. It’s not the best business model, but it has worked for us.”

The chief said with the demand for law enforcement officers peaking, potential candidates no longer have to look at Ocean City as a resume builder.

Qualified potential candidates can go

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straight into larger metropolitan departments with possibly better pay or housing opportunities.

“They can start here, but there is no longer a waiting list for other departments like Philadelphia and New York, for example,” he said. “Once you’re vetted, you’re going to become a police officer because there is such a dire need.

They don’t need to come here first.

They can go where they want to work and sign on the dotted line because that’s the shape we’re in. Factor in the pay and the cost of relocation and it has become difficult.”

Nonetheless, the OCPD continues to attempt to attract and hire police officers despite the changing landscape.

“We continue to look at ways to attract people,” he said. “We’re doing our very best, but it’s just trying times right now.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said the news was good, at least on the full-time officer front.

“You talked about being at the full complement of full-time officers,” he said. “That’s in part because I had the opportunity to attend the graduation of new officers on Friday. We have five officers in training and I was able to go and swear them in. You’ve done a great job in recruiting full-time officers. A lot of places haven’t been able to do that, so good job.”

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Berlin Awarded $10K Grant For Beautification Efforts

December 31, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

000 Main Street Improvement grant from the state last week. The funding will help maintain the memorial garden on Main Street, among other things.

“Our downtown has remained beautiful and we want to keep it that way,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and

Memorial Assateague Walk Jan. 1

BERLIN – A $10,000 grant is expected to assist beautification efforts in Berlin.

The Town of Berlin received a $10,-

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND – The public is invited to join Assateague Coastal Trust and staff from Assateague State Park to celebrate the legacy of Assateague Island on New Year's Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Assateague State Park’s day use boardwalk.

A camp fire will be set up with Assateague Coastal Trust’s Billy Weiland and Verena Chase and State Park staff.

Come chat, share stories, ask questions and make a connection. Free hot chocolate and coffee will be available, but guests are encouraged to bring their own mug.

A walk is available Jan. 1 and 2 with state park staff 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

The first Assateague Beach Walk was held on Jan. 1, 1970. The newly formed Committee to Preserve Assateague Island hosted the inaugural event to draw attention to Assateague’s wild beauty.

The Committee to Preserve Assateague Island was created by Ilia Fehrer, Judy Johnson and a few friends who had or-

ganized to rally against early plans for development of Assateague Island, which included a 25-mile highway and a number of commercial enterprises, and the Ocean Beach resort, much like Ocean City. A series of 1962 Nor’easters interrupted construction, and eventually National and State Parks were established. The committee became the Assateague Coastal Trust.

community development director. “This additional funding helps us do that.”

On Dec. 22, the state announced $1.6 million in operating assistance grants, including Main Street Improvement awards. The Town of Berlin was listed as the recipient of a $10,000 Main street Improvement award for beautification, holiday décor and professional development. Wells said the funding would ensure the upkeep of the memorial garden at the intersection of West Street and Main Street. It can also be used for professional development and to purchase any additional holiday décor needed for next year.

She said the grant would ensure that downtown plantings, such as those on Pitts Street and in front of the welcome center, were maintained.

“It’s for downtown greenery and beau-

Page 23

tification efforts and maybe some plants for Pollinator Way,” she said.

Grants were also awarded to Main Street Princess Anne and the City of Salisbury as well as Ocean City for the second phase of Somerset Street, announced Sen. Mary Beth Carozza in a statement.

“I have been a longtime supporter of Maryland’s Main Street program and am grateful for more assistance awarded by Governor Hogan’s administration to my district,” Carozza said. “These funds will go a long way in supporting local business owners that have been devastated by the impacts of COVID-19 in providing much-needed relief. I will continue to work with the local leadership of the Lower Shore Main Streets and continue to support and advance their priorities.”

Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast To Feature Acclaimed Fighter Pilot

Page 24

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – The Annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast will return to Ocean City next month.

On Friday, Jan. 7, the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce will host its 2022 Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City.

For roughly 30 years, the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast has served as an uplifting event where community members – including residents, elected officials, church congregations, local police and fire

departments, the business community, educators and nonprofit organizers – can come together for an inspiring message.

This year’s event will feature keynote speaker Brian Shul, a veteran fighter pilot turned author and photographer.

“I’m very excited for him to come …,” said Heather LaFollette, events manager for the chamber of commerce. “He has a very uplifting story about fighting and not giving up. I think it will do well for the Prayer Breakfast and after everything we’ve gone through the last two years.”

During his 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Shul flew 212 close air support missions in Vietnam before his aircraft

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was shot down. Severely burned with little chance of survival, he spent a year in hospitals and endured 15 reconstructive surgeries before returning to flying jets.

His biography reads, “He flew the A7D, and was in the very first A-10 squadron, becoming an airshow demonstration pilot. Brian also taught at the Air Force’s TOPGUN School and culminated his Air Force career with selection to fly the world’s premier spy plane, the SR-71.

This was a remarkable accomplishment considering that it required an astronaut physical to qualify for the plane that routinely flew above 95% of the earth’s atmosphere. Only 89 Air Force pilots in history ever flew the SR-71, still the fastest plane ever built. Brian flew the Blackbird for 4 years and was the pilot who provided key photos of Libyan terrorist camps to President Reagan during the Libyan Crisis in 1986 when he became the only SR71 pilot ever to fly three missions in three consecutive days.”

Shul retired from the Air Force in 1990 and began pursing his interests in writing and photography. He was the first SR-71 pilot to write a book about the plane, earning him the Aviation Book of the Year honors from the Smithsonian.

Shul then went on to write three other aviation books, for which he did all the flying, writing and photography. He is also the only man in America to have flown extensively with both the Air Force Thunderbirds and Navy Blue Angels in the making of those books.

December 31, 2021

“Brian’s remarkable comeback story has inspired audiences nationwide as today he has become one of America’s most popular keynote speakers,” his biography reads. “He is a recipient of the National Spirit of Freedom Award, the prestigious Silver Eagle Award, and recently was inducted into the Air Force Legends Hall of Fame. Brian is the owner of Gallery One in Marysville, California where his nationally acclaimed nature photography is on display."

LaFollette noted that tickets for the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast are available for purchase on the chamber’s website, chamber.oceancity.org. Day-of registration will be held from 7-7:45 a.m., and the buffet breakfast – provided by Centerplate – begins at 8 a.m.

“It’s a long-time event that’s been held here in Ocean City, and everyone looks forward to it,” she said. “We had to put the Prayer Breakfast on hold last year, but after 2020 and 2021 we are looking for a return to normalcy.”

LaFollette added that the chamber will continue to follow protocols for social distancing. For additional information on the Prayer Breakfast, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, contact Heather LaFollette at heather@oceancity.org or call 410-213-0144, ext. 133.

“This is an opportunity to be around other people while being socially distanced and hear a really good message,” she said. “My hope is it will help to ring in 2022 and lots of wonderful new things.”

CARES Funds Eyed For Airport Facility

December 31, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – A public hearing is set regarding a proposal to use federal funding for the design and engineering of a new fuel farm facility at the Salisbury airport.

Last week, Airport Manager Tony Rudy came before the Wicomico County Council seeking a reallocation of CARES Act funding. Specifically, the airport proposes to transfer $150,000 earmarked for automated parking attendant equipment and $49,000 earmarked for operating and maintenance expense reimbursement to fund the design and engineering of an above-ground fuel farm facility.

“Right now, with the available CARES money we have, we thought it would be a good time to put that to use to fund at least the preliminary design and engineering work that needs to be done,” he said.

Rudy noted that Bay Land Aviation currently operates an underground fuel farm to support fueling operations at the airport. As the tanks are more than 30 years old, the company is required to remove them when its lease agreement with the airport expires in 2025.

“At the end of that lease they’re required to sell the fuel farm to the county or someone else,” he explained. “It has been in the ground for over 30 years now, and the airport’s stance is we don’t want to assume that liability not knowing the condition of the tanks … Our goal is to have those tanks removed at that time.

But in order to keep the airport operating, obviously we have to have another fuel farm up and running.”

Rudy noted the Airport Master Plan identified the need for a new aboveground fuel farm facility. Since the airport recently determined the purchase of automated parking equipment was not eligible for CARES, he proposed using that $150,000 – along with $49,000 in operating and maintenance reimbursements – to fund the project.

“We wanted to reallocate that money because that equipment purchase is not eligible, and we were going to pay for that equipment by using unspent fiscal year 2021 funds,” he said. “We would then be short $49,000, which we would be pulling out of operational expenses in our fourth year of CARES Act allocations.”

When asked if the removal of the tanks was included in the $199,000 design and engineering cost, Rudy said it wasn’t.

“The removal of the tanks is Bay Land’s responsibility,” he replied.

Councilman Joe Holloway questioned Bay Land’s lease agreement.

“Do they not have the option to renew the lease?” he asked.

Rudy noted that they did.

“But at that time we would like to have the tanks out of the ground because of their age and concerns for possible environmental contamination,” he said.

The council agreed to move forward with a public hearing Jan. 4 on the proposed grant reallocation.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 25

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Berlin New Year’s Festivities A Go

Page 26

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The town will once again host a New Year’s Eve celebration — this year featuring a laser light show, ball drop and children’s festivities — on Friday.

Despite rising COVID-19 cases, Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said he’d consulted with the Worcester County Health Department this week and the event was set to go on as scheduled.

“The health department advised they’re not advising anyone to cancel anything but to stress masking and social distancing and the use of hand sanitizer,” Tyndall said Tuesday.

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

December 31, 2021

File Photo

The kids ball drop is pictured in 2019.

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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Firefighters Bring Joy To nursing Home, Help community

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – Ocean City firefighters were busy this holiday season, providing toys and non-perishable food items to families in need this Christmas while also adopting 70 seniors at the Berlin Nursing Home.

In 2018, the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) started giving new blankets to residents at the Berlin Nursing Home at the request of resident Dolores Kenny, who was the Resident Council President. A total of 60 blankets were delivered. The blankets have to be replaced yearly due to the frequency and high temperatures they are washed in, which wears them down faster. The blanket drive was skipped in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

"This year, we gave the blankets to the nursing home staff and they handed them to the residents as we waved to them from the windows," said Ryan Whittington, OCFD public information officer. "We also had Santa with us and he waved to the residents on the upper floor from the bucket of the ladder truck.

It was such a special occasion and we were so happy to be joined by other community members, police officers,

Santa paid a visit to isolated residents of the Berlin Nursing Home last week, delivering new blankets and good will.

Submitted Photo

and members of the Berlin Fire Company."

Firefighters also hosted a Stuff the Fire Truck event at the Berlin Walmart, where toys and non-perishable food items were collected. As a result of the toy and food drive, Berlin and Ocean City firefighters adopted over 10 fami-

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

People in Society Keeping the drinks flowing at the Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House By The Sea Christmas Party were Kermit Curry and Holly Speacht of Residence Inn By Marriott.

by Jeanette Deskiewicz Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Lookout Lounge representatives Chef RJ Stargel, Chef Vern Smith, General Manager Tammy Fultz and Chef Anthony Eppolite had quite a spread for the Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House By The Sea Christmas Party.

Announcing the news of their upcoming expansion for the Children’s House by the Sea were Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation CEO Maryanne Davis and President Brian Morrison at their holiday celebration.

Pam Robertson, Chris Reda, Anne Marie Conestabile and Glenn Irwin enjoyed themselves at the December After Dark held at the Spain Wine Bar in the Cambria Hotel.

OCDC Downtown Association Committee members George Apple and Susie Trombino came out to the Spain Wine Bar for the December After Dark event.

Spain Wine Bar Executive Chef Oscar Benitez and Owner Peter Elias welcomed the OCDC Downtown Association Committee to the restaurant for the After Dark event earlier this month.

Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House By The Sea hosted a Christmas Party with Kimberly and Nick Vranas taking care of the champagne glass raffle.

Selling the 50/50 chances at the Knights of Columbus Christmas Party were Judy and Joe Zanetti.

Lovely ladies Adrienne Celeste and Cheryl Stephens helped deck the Knights of Columbus hall in preparation for this year’s Christmas Party.

Familiar faces of the Knights of Columbus, Mary and Sal Castorina looked fabulous for the group’s holiday gathering.

Page 29

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week:

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Above, a wreath is shown placed on a bench memorializing a loved one on the Boardwalk. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

COMMUNITY News In Photos The Ocean Pines Anglers Club presented the awards for 2021 Angler Of The Year at the December meeting. Pictured, from left, are this year’s winners with their leading catches by species: Frank Tortella, fresh water trout and spot; Scott Carstairs, striped bass and croaker; Bob Woodward, flounder; Ken Thompson accepting for son Adam Thompson, red drum; and Budd Heim, sheepshead. Not pictured were Greg Donahue, bluefish and weakfish; Steve Stein, tuna; Kevin Welkner, tautog; Jim McWinney, black sea bass.

Bourbon Street at the Beach hosted a Diakonia benefit concert by the Jimmy Charles Band last week. During the event the local Knights of Columbus chapter was on hand to present a $1,000 donation. Above, Diakonia Board members Amy Ginnavan and Rob Dunne are pictured with Charles and Knights of Columbus representatives Tom Irwin and Susan Brown.

Photo by Jeanette Deskiewicz

The Executive Committee of American Legion Post 166, at its December meeting approved a donation of $5,000 to be sent immediately to the Department of Kentucky Veterans of Foreign Wars to be used for tornado disaster recovery for veterans. Pictured, from left, are Post 166 Charity Committee Chair Bo Spicer and Post 166/Ocean City VVA 1091 Chapter members Pat Sharkey and Bob Gilmore.

The Republican Women of Worcester County held their annual dinner meeting at the Holiday Inn in Ocean City. Above, guest speaker Sharon Carrick, president of the Maryland Federation of Republican Women, installs new 2022 incoming RWWC Board members Sandy Zitzer, president; Merilee Horvat, 2nd vice president; Amy Mike, recording secretary; Jean Delcher, treasurer; Mary Adair, membership chair; and Theresa Denshuick, corresponding secretary. Not pictured was Liz Mumford, 1st vice president.

Submitted Photos

An ugly sweater party was recently held at the Ocean City American Legion Post 166. Contest winners were, from left, Gwen and Kevin Braecklein, funniest sweater; Mike Torlish, most creative sweater; and and Bonnie Strawbridge, sporting the ugliest sweater.

United Tour Riders (UTR) is a local motorcycle organization based on the Delmarva Peninsula serving the counties of Kent and Sussex in Delaware and counties of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Every year UTR has a Santa Run taking gifts to the children currently living at Diakonia, a homeless shelter in West Ocean City.

This year other fundraising efforts also led to Diakonia being presented with a check for $2,500.

Germantown School Community Heritage Center held its December board meeting at the school to discuss collaborations with the Taylor House Museum.

Partnering on some events will strengthen local history and be beneficial to our community. Pictured are Dr. Cora Small, Taylor House President Melissa Reid, Germantown School President Barbara Purnell and Vaughn White.

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): The New Year brings challenges that can change many things in your life. You need to be prepared not only to confront them, but also to deal with what happens afterward.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): You have what it takes to set your goals quite a bit higher this year. Learn what you need to know and put what you learn into your efforts. A partner offers loving support.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): In true Gemini Twin fashion, you're conflicted about a decision you know you'll have to make in this New Year. Best advice: Get the facts before you make any commitment.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A friend offers you an exciting opportunity for the New Year. Although your positive aspects are strong in most respects, caution is advised. Investigate before you invest.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): You can make this New Year a roaring success.

Start by readjusting your goals to reflect the changes in the economy. Your den-mate offers both wise and loving support.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): The New Year brings new opportunities for change. But you need to be ready to move from the comfortable status quo to the challenging unknown. It's up to you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Your most important New Year's resolution

should be to work out problems with a family member in order to avoid continued misunderstandings. Do it soon, for both of your sakes.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): The New Year has much to offer the intensely determined Scorpian, who isn't afraid to take on challenges and stay with them until they surrender their rewards.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): You'll have many fine opportunities in this New Year. But be warned: Reject offers of "help." You work best when you're free to be your own creative self.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): The New Year offers changes that you might feel you're not quite ready for.

Best advice: Deal with them one step at a time, until you've built up your selfconfidence.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Travel is a dominant aspect of the New Year. This could mean relocating to another city (or even another country) in connection with your education or your career.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): This New Year brings news about a change you've been anticipating. You might have a problem persuading a loved one about your new plans, but he or she will soon go along with them.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a gift for making people feel safe and protected. You would make an excellent youth counselor. (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

New Year’s Day Dinner 1-7 p.m.

Page 31

R E S TA U R A N T & B A R THE FINEST SEAFOOD, STEAKS AND POULTRY

LOCALS’ FAVORITE SINCE 1955

Located In The Courtyard by Marriott 15th Street & Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Md. For Reservations, Call: 410-289-7192/7191 captainstableoc.com

Q BREAKFAST/LUNCH WED.-FRI. 8 -11 A.M. SAT. & SUN. 8 A.M.-NOON Q DINNER & LITE FARE WED.-SUN. 5-9 P.M. PHIL PERDUE ON PIANO FRIDAY

(CLOSED MON. & TUES.) CARRY OUT AVAILABLE CHEF SPECIALS KIDS MENU

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

NEW TO TOWN?

Make sure your estate planning documents are up-to-date!

Power of Attorney Advance Directive Living Will 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 www.batielaw.com

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday ANSWERS ON PAGE 50

Wills & Trusts

Call us for a free 30 minute phone consultation.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 32

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Warm Christmas Days Harper Lee’s story

Still being able to surprise our kids on Christmas morning Old hardwood floors Clint Eastwood

A drawer full of new batteries

Commiserating with other parents An old outdoorsman’s hands

When the teen in the house wakes up early Geese flying in formation Old concert bootlegs

OCEAN CITY vanishing

December 31, 2021

WITH BUNK MANN

In the early 1950s developer Leon Ackerman attempted to establish a community named Ocean Beach on Assateague Island. Fifteen miles of oceanfront property was surveyed with residential and commercial lots laid out. A paved road called Baltimore Boulevard (parts of which still exist today) ran down the center of the development about 10 miles south of Ocean City.

Initial sales were hampered by the lack of sewer and water, flies and the problem of easy access to Assateague. There was no bridge at the time and the ferry from the mainland could only carry three cars per trip.

Ackerman continued to promote his venture and by the fall of 1961 several thousand lots had been sold with 30 houses built or under construction. Ocean Beach was becoming a reality when disaster struck. On March 6, 1962 a Nor'easter, known to history as the Ash Wednesday Storm, destroyed most of what had been built along with much of the infrastructure.

It brought a sudden and permanent end to Ocean Beach.

Today the Assateague Island National Seashore covers the site of the vanished Ocean Beach development.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishPhoto courtesy Ocean City Lifesaving Station Museum ingoc.com.

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 33

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

HELP WANTED SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Year Round, Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.

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

EXPERIENCED CUSTOM PAINTER: Transportation and tools necessary. Call Tom at 443497-0010.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

NOW HIRING FULL TIME BARTENDER Call 410-726-7061 Or Apply Within at 56th Street

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING!

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

•NIGHTWATCH •BOATYARD •MAINTENANCE

ROOMMATES 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.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

CONSERVATION TECHNICIAN/

WEEKLY RENTALS

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.

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

MARINA TRAVEL LIFT OPERATOR

Apply online at delawarestatejobs.com

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

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER 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 1-10-2022 “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

Year Round Positions ~SERVER ~ROOM ATTENDANT ~MAINTENANCE ~HOSTESS ~PURCHASING DIRECTOR ~HUMAN RESOURCES ASSISTANT 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

Check Out The Dispatch Free Online E-dition: www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

FOR SALE

LOOKING EVERWHERE?

Check Here First!

The Dispatch Classified Pages Can Point You in the Right Direction!

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

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

Beautiful solid wood dining set.

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

Selling because moved & too big for dining area.

Must see! $575.

Berlin. 443-880-8885

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

Page 34

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

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 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 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.

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.

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

Third 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-21-000212 LOCKE CAPITAL, LLC C/O ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 Plaintiff vs.

LILLIE E. SKIDMORE 115 WHITHERSPOON LANE NEWARK, DE 19713 AND 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 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

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

Third 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 proceed-

ing 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

Third Insertion NEIL ESKIN ESKIN LAW, LLC 1700 REISTERSTOWN ROAD, SUITE 212 BALTIMORE, MD 21208 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com 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.

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

Third 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 CAM-

DEN 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 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 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

Third 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 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

Third 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 LOR-

Page 35 RAINE 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

Second 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.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9TH day of 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 VICTOR A. LEMBO, ESQ. 658 KENILWORTH DRIVE, #203 TOWSON, MD 21204 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19021 To all persons interested in the estate of RENEE A. PHIPPS AKA: RENEE ANTOINETTE PHIPPS, ESTATE NO. 19021. Notice is given that JACQUELINE L SOUTHERINGTON, 13212 OCEAN DRIVE, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on, DECEMBER 20, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RENEE A. PHIPPS, who died on AUGUST 29, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file

Page 36

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

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. their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20TH 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:

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

Do You Know 6,500+ People Receive The Dispatch’s Daily Buzz Every Day? Sign Up At www.mdcoastdispatch.com And Get Local News As It Happens!

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

pointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY D NAPOLITANO, who died on DECEMBER 16, 2021, with a will.

(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 31, 2021 JACQUELINE L SOUTHERINGTON 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 12-31, 01-07, 01-14

First Insertion

JOHN P HOULIHAN, ESQ. JOHN P HOULIHAN, PA 560 RIVERSIDE DRIVE SUITE A201 PO BOX 272 SALISBURY, MD 21803 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19022

To all persons interested in the estate of MARY D NAPOLITANO AKA: MARY DAISY NAPOLITANO AKA: MARY SCOTT NAPOLITANO, ESTATE NO. 19022.

Notice is given that MICHELLE POSTIGLIONE, 35 ESTHER AVENUE, CONGERS, NY 10920, was on, DECEMBER 23, 2021, ap-

(or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23RD 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:

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 (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 31, 2021 MICHELLE POSTIGLIONE 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 12-31, 01-07, 01-14 LOOKING EVERWHERE?

Check here first!

The Dispatch Classified Pages Print & Online

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 37

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SPORTS

HOME OF THE ORIGINAL FRESH -SQUEEZED “ORANGE CRUSH” over a million sold!

SPECIALS

In The News

SUNDAY: ALL DAY: 30% Off Entrees

HAPPY HOUR

Monday-Friday 3-6 p.m.

$3 Domestic Drafts & Rail Drinks $5 Glasses Of Wine $6.50 Original Orange Crush $8.99 Jerk Chicken $10.99 Wings $8.99 1/2-Lb. Steamed Shrimp $10.99 Steamed Mussels $20.99 2 Dozen Steamed Clams

MONDAY: ALL DAY: $3 Off Margaritas & 1/2 - Off Tacos, Quesadillas & More TUESDAY: 3 P.M. : Italian Night 3-Course Meal $20 1/2 Price Bottle of Wine WEDNESDAY: ALL DAY: $9.99 Burger & Chicken Breast Sandwiches

(Mussel Style Add $2)

FRIDAY: LADIES’ NIGHT 6-9 P.M. $5 Glasses Of Wine $6.50 Original Orange/Grapefruit Crushes $3 Domestic Drafts & Rail Drinks

The winter offshore fishing bite remains active as evidenced by this nice fat striper taken by the Chasin’ Tides Charters with Captain Chase Eberle on Monday.

The Chasin’ Tides limited out on keeper tautog. The big striper pictured above was safely released.

Photo courtesy of Fish In OC

40th Governor’s Challenge Canceled

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – The 40th Governor’s Challenge holiday basketball tournament slated for this week with games practically around the clock at venues all over the region was canceled because of a recent spike in COVID cases.

The annual holiday tournament, which features some of the top prep basketball teams from several states and all over the region was slated for this week, but a rise in COVID cases ultimately doomed the tournament.

“We have been preparing for the 40th anniversary of this tournament for months,” said tournament director James Simmons. “Unfortunately, as COVID-19 cases began to increase last week, teams were forced to withdraw from the tournament. We pushed for-

ward for as along as possible, but we are no longer able to provide participants with the experience they deserve.”

The cancellation of the Governor’s Challenge wiped out games for local prep teams. Decatur’s 5-1 varsity boys team was scheduled to play two games in the tournament, and will return to action on January 4 against Queen Anne’s.

The unbeaten Decatur girls’ varsity team also missed two tournament games and will be back in action against Queen Anne’s on January 4.

Worcester Prep’s boys’ varsity team had two games scrubbed from its schedule and will return to action on January 5 against Arcadia. The Worcester girls also lost two games because of the cancellation and will return to action against Saints Peter and Paul on January 5.

Seahawks Solid In 8th Pat Russo Meet

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

SNOW HILL - Stephen Decatur’s varsity indoor track teams turned in solid performances last week in the Pat Russo Invitational, an annual holiday meet featuring teams from across Delmarva named for the program’s longtime coach.

This year marked the seventh annual Pat Russo Invitational, named for the Decatur track coach and legend who ran the program for 41 years before re-

tiring. Top finishers on the boys’ side included Ethan Justice finishing first in the 800, while Gavin McCabe was fifth. Tristan Dutton finished first in the 1,600, while Justice was fourth. Dutton also finished second in the 3,200. Decatur’s Owen Mielnik finished first in the pole vault.

On the girls’ side, Tiara McDonald was third in the 300, Breanne Ferguson was fifth in the 500, Carolina Novelli was sixth in the 800, and Summer Brenner was fourth in the 55-meter hurdles, and also finished second in the high jump.

NEW YEARS EVE DJ Billy T 3 pm

THURSDAY: 3 P.M.: $19.99 AYCE Ribs & Steamed Shrimp Specials are not to be combined with any other offer, discount or coupon. Some restrictions apply. No substitutions, dine in only. Excludes holidays & holiday weekends.

ENTERTAINMENT SUNDAY: SATURDAY: Rogue Citizens • 1 pm Opposite Directions • 1 pm DJ Billy T • 6 pm DJ Jeremy • 6 pm

THURSDAY: DJ Billy T 3 pm

Open Fri. & Sat. 11am-9pm • Sun.-Thurs. 11am-8pm South Harbor Rd • West End, Ocean City • 410-213-1846 Waterfront WiFi • www.weocharborside.com

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When ATLANTIC HOTEL 410-641-3589 2 North Main St., Berlin Mondays: Earl Beardsley

Berlin Liquor Store

Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

Cold & Warm Beer

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

10% OFF

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(On Orders Of $50 Or More)

Liquor And Wine

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Must bring in coupon. Expires 1.23.22 • MCD

Liquor And Wine

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

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

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th St. & Baltimore Ave. In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays: Phil Perdue

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Dec. 31

BEATS

BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays & Thursdays

COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, Dec. 31: Full Circle CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Dec. 31: Kevin Poole CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St. Downtown O.C. Friday, Dec. 31: Marlin City Madmen Saturday, Jan. 1: Lime Green Band Sunday, Jan. 2: Karoake with Jeremy CORK BAR Saturday, Jan. 1: Going Coastal

DJ WIZ Greene Turtle North: Friday, Dec. 31

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

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays, Sundays, Thursdays

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 31

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Dec. 31: DJ Greg, DJ Robcee, Shake the Room Saturday, Jan. 1: DJ Greg, DJ Hook Crushing Day GREENE TURTLE NORTH 410-723-2120 116th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Dec. 31: DJ Wiz

KEVIN POOLE Crab Cake Factory Bayside: Friday, Dec. 31

WES DAVIS 45th Street Taphouse Friday, Dec. 31

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

Who’s Where When

SHAKE THE ROOM Fager’s Island: Friday, Dec. 31

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

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West O.C. Friday, Dec. 31: DJ Billy T Saturday, Jan. 1: Rogue Citizens, DJ Jeremy Sunday, Jan. 2: Opposite Directions, DJ Billy T Thursday, Jan. 6: 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, Jan. 2

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

SOCIAL Purple Moose: Friday, Dec. 31 Saturday, Jan. 1

FULL CIRCLE Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 31 • 4pm Coins Pub: Friday, Dec. 31 • 930pm

GOING COASTAL Cork Bar: Saturday, Jan. 1

THE DUNEHOUNDS Pickles Pub: Saturday, Jan. 1

PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Friday, Dec. 31: Beats By Styler Saturday, Jan. 1: The Dunehounds Sundays: Beats By Styler Mondays: Beats By Styler Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By Wax SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Dec. 31: The Way Outs, Lima Bean Riot, Full Circle, Gypsy Wisdom, Nowhere Slow, DJ Davie,DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O Saturday, Jan. 1: Nowhere Slow, DJ Buddy O

Page 40

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

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

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

Every Wednesday: Bingo Elks Lodge 2645, corner of Sinepuxent Avenue and 138th Street in Ocean City.

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

Kitchen open for light fare. 410-2502645.

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-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do 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 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. 7: Prayer Breakfast Registration begins at 7 a.m. Breakfast at 8 a.m. then Keynote Speaker, Brian Shul. Table sponsorships still available. Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Bingo For Babies Knights of Columbus Hall at 9901 Coastal Highway in Ocean City. Play all night for $24. Doors open at 5 p.m. with games starting at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments available. Proceeds benefit The Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health.

Jan. 8: Anglers Club Meeting At 9:30 a.m. at the Ocean Pines Library, the crew of the Sea Wolf will talk about

December 31, 2021

their $1 million catch last summer in the MidAtlantic – an 82-pound white marlin.

Jan. 10-16: Restaurant Week Berlin will host with an opportunity to win when you dine at three different restaurants. Get your card stamped and drop at Berlin Welcome Center for a chance to win restaurant gift cards and $100 donated by Bunting Realty.

Jan. 13: Vaccination Clinic From 4-6:30 p.m. at Atlantic Health Center, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin. This clinic is available to those ages 5 and older. Register at www.agh.care/vaccine.

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 Center.

Through Jan. 15: Tree Recycling The Solid Waste Division of Worcester County Public Works will host its annual collection of Christmas trees. Area residents can drop off Christmas trees at the Central Landfill in Newark and the Berlin, Pocomoke, and Snow Hill Homeowners Convenience Centers at no cost. The trees will be ground into mulch for use at the Central Landfill.

Jan. 16: Winter Dinner Meeting The Worcester County Historical Society will meet at the Dunes Manor Hotel.

Dinner guests will learn about Worcester County’s past from Dr. Ray Thompson, retired history professor at Salisbury University. He will speak to the members and guests about the early history of Worcester County. According to Thompson, the Eastern Shore has been fortunate to have the oldest continuous records in British-speaking America starting in 1632 to help people understand who the earliest settlers were. He called them hearty men and women who lived in the frontier environment away from civilization. His talk will look into who they were and their lifestyles and how they transformed the Eastern Shore. He will trace the movements of the settlers up the peninsula of Virginia into Maryland’s Eastern Shore and into Delaware.

Doors will open for the event at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $29 per person and can be purchased by sending a check to Robert Fisher, WCHS Treasurer, 230 South Washington St., Snow Hill, Md. 21863. The deadline for reservations for the dinner, which is open to the public, is Jan. 9.

Feb. 18-20: Boat Show Sponsored by the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, the 39th annual event will feature over 350 boats, 150 exhibitors and 50 boat dealers. Hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 19; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 20.

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 41

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BUSINESS And Real Estate News Commercial Property Sold BERLIN – Wesley Cox, senior advisor with The Hanna Team at SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate, recently closed on a high-profile retail redevelopment, Season's Plaza, located off Route 589 in Ocean Pines. The property is located adjacent to a Walgreens, in front of a shopping center and is planned to be redeveloped as a new Royal Farms.

Wesley and The Hanna Team have completed several transactions with Royal Farms’ real estate team.

"This deal is a great testament of how we operate in a fiduciary manner and proactively cooperate with other bro-

The transaction is part of the process of converting the property on the west side of Route 589 into a Royal Farms.

Submitted Photo

kers,” Cox said. “I specifically targeted the real estate broker for Royal Farms for this property because as a fiduciary I knew it was the best thing for my client.

Their team was great to work with while working through all of the challenges of redeveloping this site."

The Hanna Team is currently ranked in the top 15 in the United States within SVN International and ranked No. 1 in the mid-Atlantic region.

Deputy Director Named SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners named Christopher Clasing as the new deputy director of Public Works. He stepped into his new role with Worcester County Government (WCG) on Dec. 1.

“Chris has served in multiple roles at other Public Works departments on Delmarva,” Public Works Director Dallas Baker said. “I’m excited by his addition to the Worcester Public Works team and am looking forward to working with him.”

Clasing, a registered professional engineer in Maryland, earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Delaware in 2015. He brings six years of experience to WCG.

From 2018 to 2021, Clasing worked with the Wicomico County Department of Public Works where he rose from civil engineer to chief civil engineer. Prior to that time he served as project engineer in the Department of Infrastructure and Development for the City of Salisbury.

“I’m truly appreciative CHRISTOPHER to the commissioners for CLASING this opportunity,” Clasing said. “I look forward to serving the citizens and visitors of Worcester County.”

Clasing, an Eastern Shore resident, is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Eastern Shore Branch, co-founder and past president of ASCE Eastern Shore Branch Younger Member Group, and an active member of the County Engineers Association of Maryland.

He will assist the director in fiscal and operational management of the Fleet, Maintenance, Roads, Solid Waste, and Water and Wastewater Divisions. His responsibilities include preparing bid specifications, reviewing and approving developers’ construction plans for public infrastructure projects, coordinating inspection and acceptance for County maintenance of public facilities constructed by developers, providing engineering comments on proposed public infrastructure projects, and establishing departmental policies and procedures.

Firm Adds Advisor SALISBURY – SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate has welcomed advisor

December 31, 2021 Merry Mears, who will be based out of the Salisbury office with a focus on the Eastern Shore.

Mears is a commercial real estate advisor specializing in industrial, medical, and retail properties, as well as land development. For over 20 years, Mears has worked with a client base that includes local and statewide governments, commercial property owners and investors, and privately operating companies across the globe.

Mears is a dedicated and active member in her community. She has served in a multitude of community leadership roles such as Regent for the University System of Maryland, Board Member of Leadership Maryland, Board Member of the Maryland Economic Development Association and Board Member MERRY MEARS of Maryland Capital Enterprises, among others. In 2020, she was named a Top 100 Woman in the state of Maryland by The Daily Record for her vast contributions in business, community, and mentoring.

Mears is a graduate of Salisbury University and lives in Salisbury. In her free time, she enjoys running, traveling, cooking and spending quality time with her family.

“We are happy to have Meredith as part of the team and excited for her to bring her extensive experience in economic development. She holds the values that are consistent with the SVN core covenants and makes a good addition to the team,” says SVN management.

Stevenson United Methodist Resuming In-Person Church Services Every Sunday At 9 a.m.

– Sunday School Back in Session

Stevenson United Methodist Church

123 North Main St., Berlin, Md. 410-641-1137 • www.stevensonchurch.org

– Service Also Livestreamed On Facebook

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Atlantic General Hospital’s Penguin Swim Returns Saturday

December 31, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Atlantic General Hospital’s 28th Annual Penguin Swim returns on New Year’s Day in front of 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. Organizers decided last week to cancel indoor activities for the annual post-swim festivities, but are still eager to start the new year on a positive note.

“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 annual 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.

The annual swim has also become a tradition for hundreds of residents and visitors and many local businesses and

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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 last week. “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 swimmers 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 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 t-shirt while supplies last.

Advance online registration is recommended, and participants are encouraged to come to pre-registration and ad-

Page 43

vance 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; and Youth/Family.

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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Commissioners Look Ahead To ‘22

Page 44

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Rising costs, unfunded state mandates and the need for a fire and EMS funding solution are among the top issues facing Worcester County in 2022.

Challenges elected officials say they’re preparing for include the cost of the Kirwan Commission’s education mandates and the practicalities of outfitting police with body cameras. Other topics at the forefront are the need for a long-term funding solution for the county’s fire and EMS services as well as growing inflation. The Worcester County Commissioners, however, remain optimistic looking ahead.

“I think we have a great staff and some great minds on the dais,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said. “Together, we’re looking at different things.”

With inflation on the rise, the commissioners expect costs to be up throughout government. Commissioner Ted Elder is worried about the impact on the labor market.

“Our wages are going to have to come up,” he said.

Mitrecic said the county will continue its efforts to be frugal despite costs going up. He noted that the same increases residents see at places like the grocery store and gas stations will impact government operations.

“We’re going to be looking at every budget item line by line,” he said.

Mitrecic added, however, that the county did have a surplus from last year and was looking at ways to increase its revenue, particularly through legislation that will make sure the county receives fees associated with properties being rented through online platforms like Airbnb.

Property tax revenues are expected to rise in the coming year, and the county’s transfer tax revenues are doing well, according to Commissioner Chip Bertino. That doesn’t mean officials are not concerned about the variety of large projects looming on the horizon. He said county staff members were working to compile an outline of significant impending expenses.

“When we talk at the meetings, it’s very easy to talk on a specific issue as to how much this is going to cost or what we need to allocate,” he said. “The challenge though is when you put all those things together — which we rarely do except for budget time — it can be a shock.”

He said it was important for citizens as well to be aware of the county’s financial burdens.

“I think the taxpayers have a right to know and be told what it is we’re looking at because ultimately they’re paying for it…,” Bertino said. “It’s taxpayer funding.”

Anticipated expenses the commissioners have discussed in recent months include educational costs associated with the Kirwan Commission mandates as well as the addition of body cameras to police officers. Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser met with the commissioners last month to review the

Fatal Home Fire In Whaleyville

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

increase in work her office will experience with the addition of body cameras to police officers.

“It’s storage of all this video, it is the manpower necessary to allocate and collate what we have, we’re going to have FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests I’m sure,” Bertino said. “We’re going to need a plan, we’re going to need people I suspect, and we’re going to need a place in which to store all this for a fairly lengthy period of time… There is a hope there may be some federal and or state grant funding that would be available to enable us to get the funds to pay for this.”

Commissioner Josh Nordstrom said funding was his primary concern related to body cameras.

“Do we think the program is a good thing?” he said. “Of course we do, but it costs a lot of money. Money doesn’t grow on any trees here in Worcester County as far as I can tell.”

The commissioners are also eager to continue the county’s recent broadband efforts. While grant funding is expected to help, there could still be costs associated with bringing high speed internet to all parts of the county. Talkie Communications and Choptank Fiber recently connected customers in the Pocomoke area.

“We’re finally beginning to provide actual broadband connections to our rural citizens,” Nordstrom said. “That’s very encouraging but we still have a long way to go.”

Bertino said taxpayers should be able to expect access to broadband.

“It is infrastructure,” he said. “In the 21st century we need to ensure every location—every household, every business—in Worcester County has access to quality broadband.”

Another financial concern for the county is increasing fire and EMS costs.

A committee made up of fire company representatives, county staff and some commissioners has been meeting to determine how best to address funding moving forward but a solution has not yet been identified.

“It’s a matter of crunching the numbers and making sure our departments throughout the county are funded in a way that makes them viable, sustainable and able to provide 24-hour service,” Nordstrom said. “We want to make sure every company has the proper funding they need.”

Though not necessarily 2022 costs, amid the issues on the immediate horizon the commissioners say they have to remain cognizant of the variety of large projects in the county’s capital improvement plan. The planning document includes projects like a new Buckingham Elementary School as well as a sports complex and a new public safety building.

“We have to find ways to increase revenue,” Mitrecic said. “I’m a firm believer that a sports complex is going to be a huge revenue generator for the county.”

According to Mitrecic, the county has identified two possible properties for a sports complex and is expected to enter into negotiations with landowners.

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

WHALEYVILLE – The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate a fatal house fire in Whaleyville this week.

At 2:38 p.m. on Monday, a neighbor called to report a house fire at 11519 Sheppard’s Crossing Road in Whaleyville. The neighbor then entered the burning home and rescued the sole occupant.

Upon arrival, Berlin Fire Company personnel located the female victim and initiated resuscitation efforts. The victim ultimately succumbed to her injuries at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury where she was transported.

“The name of the victim is being withheld pending an investigation by

December 31, 2021

the Maryland State Medical Examiner’s Office,” a news release reads.

Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Matthew Owens said this week the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office.

“The house was a single story, single family dwelling,” he said. “Fire damage to the den/living room area with smoke damage throughout.”

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office was assisted by the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation.

Berlin firefighters were assisted by responders from Showell, Ocean Pines, Bishopville and Willards fire departments.

“The fire company had the fire under control in approximately 10 minutes,” Owens added.

Berlin Restaurant Week Planned

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Community members are encouraged to eat local in celebration of Berlin Restaurant Week.

Returning Jan. 10-16, officials say Berlin Restaurant Week is a chance for residents and visitors to dine at any participating eatery in town, try new culinary creations and take advantage of special offers.

“It’s really important to eat local and support local restaurants,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. “If you haven’t tried one of the newer restaurants, this also gives you an opportunity to try something new.”

Berlin Restaurant Week was established in 2016, when Bunting Realty’s Cam Bunting brought forward the concept of showcasing the town’s restaurants.

“We were at my daughter’s in Bethesda and they were doing a restaurant week event,” she said. “I through this was something good that Berlin could do since it had so many great restaurants.”

Since that time, the annual event has only grown in popularity. Held each year in mid-January, Bunting said Berlin Restaurant Week provides a boost for local restaurants following the holiday season.

“For restaurants, it’s great because it’s a slow time of year,” she said. “And for people, it’s a great time to try restaurants when they aren’t as busy.”

Robin Tomaselli, owner of Baked Dessert Cafe, said Berlin Restaurant Week is a great off-season event for both the restaurants and patrons.

“It is one of the best ideas that has come about in Berlin, particularly in what has been our off-season months,”

she said. “It really does bring in a lot of customers who might not have come in.

It’s also a good opportunity for our business to showcase our savory options, as well as our dessert options. We are looking forward to it, and I think there are some people out there that don’t know Berlin is an exceptional place to dine.”

Blacksmith owner and chef Justine Zegna agreed.

“The timing is perfect for locals who have a bit of time on their hands after the holidays to visit our charming little town and sample some of our fine restaurants and shops, most of which are owned, curated and operated by Berlin locals,” she said. “As a chef it provides the small challenge to create some inventive and affordable dishes that our guests will remember long after January.”

This year, Berlin restaurants will also be joined by the town’s newest eatery, Sterling Tavern. Owner Matt Borrelli said he is eager to welcome new patrons to his establishment.

“My hope is it will bring people to town that don’t normally come to town,” he said.

Berlin Restaurant Week will feature its annual “Dine Three Times” contest.

Those who have dined at three separate restaurants during the week can staple their receipts to the contest card – located at the Berlin Welcome Center or at each participating restaurant – and drop it off in the Welcome Center’s collection box. The contest winner will receive a $100 cash prize from Bunting Realty and restaurant gift cards.

“We have a drawing to see who wins,” Bunting explained.

More information on Berlin Restaurant Week will be posted on the Facebook event page.

December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) Lower School eagerly lined up to visit with Santa and give gifts to those in need at Diakonia. Each Lower School student arrived in the dining hall with a wrapped gift, or several, and handed them personally to Santa for a donation to Diakonia to assist 80 families. Above, front from left, are second graders Nora Rafinski, Amalia Gjikuria, Brooke Arnold, Madelyn Tull, Sloane Kremer, Jaanvi Pandher, Jace Zervakos and Mykolas Doyle; second row, Knox Luttrell, Grant Messner, Jude Waked, Carter Harrison, Piper Coyle, Avrum Gudelsky, Priya Garg and Tobias Blaska; and, back, teacher Abby Harrison, Bianca Prosekova, teacher Julia Alison, Freddy Hertrich, Jack Parks, Peter Van Dalen, Grace Tunnell, Kingsley Giardina and Charlize Damouni.

Below, fifth graders with their gifts for Diakonia are, front from left, Emery Hammonds, Vivian Spraul, Samko Poffenberger and Soren Poulsen, and, back, Londyn Davy, Kylee Hutton, Sophia Mealy and Hannah Coyle. Bottom, fourth graders, from left, are Clara Collins-Ellingsworth, Raia Gorfinkel, Mara McClanahan, ViviAnna Grinestaff and Isabella Rice.

Submitted Photos

Brenda Grover-Nohe, Realtor Direct: 410.493.3847 Brendasg1944@icloud.com Licensed in MD, DE

Gregory M Nohe, Realtor

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8202 Coastal Highway Ocean City MD 21842 Office: 410.723.9450

Page 46

Leonard Forsythe Hodges BERLIN – Leonard “Lenny” Forsythe Hodges, 85, of Berlin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021 at Peninsula Regional Hospital in Salisbury.

He was the son of the late Aloysius Coode and Helen Forsythe Hodges.

Leonard was the loving husband of the late Sheila Marie Howell, whom he married on April 12, 1958, in Washington, DC. Together they celebrated 60 years of marriage before her passing in March of 2019. Leonard was predeceased by his siblings Dorothy Anne Kessler, Aloysius “Brother” Hodges and Marion Hodges.

Leonard was a 1954 graduate of St. John’s LEONARD College High School in FORSYTHE HODGES Washington, DC. He was an accomplished pitcher in his youth and loved playing, coaching and watching sports throughout his life. His greatest joy was attending the games of his six children and 14 grandchildren as they excelled in basketball, football, softball, volleyball, field hockey, swimming, water polo and crew. Leonard also served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years for St John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines.

He is survived by his daughters, Sharon Repass (Matt), Helen Croghan, Joan Bauk (Daniel), Carolyn Bergamini (Peter), Maureen Slay (Alan), and son, Brian (Michele); grandchildren Megan Repass, Michele Eliopoulos (Alex), Riley and Marie Croghan, Lauren Billingsley (Adam), Colleen Balkam (Jim), Patrick and Christine Bauk, Christine and Paul Bergamini, Ryan and Katie Slay, Joe and Johnny Hodges; and great-grandsons Michael Balkam and Georgie Eliopoulos.

A mass of Christian Burial will be private for the family on Jan. 3, 2022. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 4200 Harewood Rd., NE Washington, DC 20017-1554. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

OBITUARIES Donald L. Roberts BERLIN – Donald L. Roberts, 87, went to be with the lord and his loving wife Betty on a beautiful Christmas morning.

He served in the U.S Army-Korea from 1955-1957. Donald loved and drove race cars. He worked 40-plus years for Chevy Chase Chevrolet.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years, Betty Stinson Roberts, and his parents, Doc and Hilda Roberts.

He is survived by his son, Donald Roberts; four step-children, Frank Prather Jr (Brenda), Teresa Marshall (Richard), Sandra Gilmer (Joseph) and John P. Prather; 12 grandchildren; and 17 great grandchildren. Special thanks to his caregivers Sandy and Fran for the wonderful care.

Services will be private.

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Avenue, Berlin, Md. 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com.

Roberta B. Cropper BISHOPVILLE – With heartfelt sadness, Roberta “Betty” B. Cropper, age 88, of Bishopville, passed away with her loved ones by her side on Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021 at home.

She was born in Salisbury and was the daughter of the late Joshua and Floye (Hudson) Bunting.

Betty was a graduate of the Buckingham High School Class of 1951. Betty was a finance clerk at the Town of Ocean City and was given a key to Ocean City at her retirement. Before working for the Town of Ocean City, she had been a secreROBERTA B. tary for the former BerCROPPER lin Milling Co. and also Mumford Sheet Metal Works. She was a member of Wilson United Methodist Church in Bishopville; Women of Wilson and the Bishopville Vol Fire Co. Ladies

Auxiliary.

She is survived by her daughter, Sherry C. Harrington and husband KC of Bishopville; two grandchildren, Dale Cropper (Brittany) and Blakelyn Davis (Ethan); three great grandchildren, Leddie and Kingsley Cropper and Paisley Davis; a step great granddaughter, Deliliah Monroe; a daughter-in-law, Ellen Cropper; several nieces and nephews; and grand dog “Nelli”.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward “Sykes” Cropper; a son, Eddie D. Cropper; three brothers, her twin, Robert Bunting, Harold Bunting and James Bunting; and a sister, Shirley Baker.

The family would like to thank her caregivers, Ruby Purnell, Marie Purnell and Anna Jacobs, for the great care they gave her.

A funeral service was held Dec. 29 at Wilson United Methodist Church in Bishopville. Burial was in the Bishopville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Wilson United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 375, Bishopville, Md. 21813; Bishopville Vol. Fire Co., P.O. Box 350, Bishopville, Md. 21813; or the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, Md. 21811.

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

James Owen Ward, Jr. SELBYVILLE – James Owen Ward, Jr., age 83, died Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021 at his home.

Born in Baltimore, he was the son of the late James O. Ward, Sr. and Vandetta (Kelly) Ward.

He is survived by his wife, Alice Darlene Ward; children Kimberly Do- JAMES OWEN brzykowski (Daniel) of WARD, JR. Eldersburg and James Owen Ward, III (Karen) of Midlothian, Va.; and grandchildren, Addie Nieves, Daniel Dobrzykowski, Makenzy Ward, Kelsey Ward, William Dobrzykowski and Jame-

Balmy December: An unseasonably warm day after Christmas last weekend brought nice crowds to the Board-

walk.

Photo by Chris Parypa

son Ward. Also surviving is a brother, John Ward (Mary Jane) of Shrewsbury, Pa.; sisters Mary Ward of Texas and Joanne Cottrell (Ernest) of Stewartstown, Pa.; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Ward, a United States Marine Veteran, had been owner/operator with his wife, of J.O. Ward Associates in Towson.

He was an active volunteer in the Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House-bythe-Sea. He loved being with his family and vacationing in Florida.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022 at 11 a.m. at the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Rev. Syd Stewart will officiate. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory may be made to Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House-by-the-Sea, P.O. Box 3627, Ocean City, Md. 21843. Letters of condolence may be sent via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

James Lee Purnell, Jr. BERLIN – James Lee Purnell, Jr., 84, of Berlin, departed this life on Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury.

Born in Berlin, he was the son of the late James Lee Purnell, Sr. and Hulda McCray Purnell. He was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church in Berlin, where he served as a member of the United Methodist Men and Past-Administrative Council President. JAMES LEE He was also a member PURNELL, JR. of the Lincoln Lodge No. 53 F. & A.M., Eastern Star, Worcester County Board of Health, and Worcester County NAACP, where he served as Past-President and Vice-President of the Maryland Chapter.

Mr. Purnell was a Worcester County School Bus Contractor for 41 years and Worcester County Commissioner for 20 years. He was the first black Worcester County Commissioner, President, and Vice-President. He was inducted into the Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame in 2016.

He had several other jobs to include Sunshine Laundry, Clifton Cannon Ford, truck driver for Harry C. Burton and James Hartman, and drapery installer.

Loving memories will be cherished by his wife, Clemeth Purnell; three brothers, Osie Henry, Gerald Purnell, Sr. (Lillian), and Benjamin Purnell, Sr. (Laura); two sisters, Patricia Hingleton and Bertha C. Purnell; a special brother, James Bud Church (Allyson); four godchildren, Kimberly Chase-Longus (Ernest), Geneva Green (Stanley), Cindy Green, and Ashley Purnell Foreman (Samuel); and several nephews, nieces, cousins, other relatives, in-laws, and friends.

Mr. Purnell will lie in repose on Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Lewis N. Watson Funeral Home, P.A., 1618 West Road, Salisbury and Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, from 10 to 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church Family Life & Cultural Center, 528 Booth Street, Salisbury. On Saturday, the funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Paul's Cemetery, 10543 Assateague Road, Berlin. If you wish to sign the guestbook, please do so online on the funeral home’s website.

… testing supplies impacted By demand

December 31, 2021

FROM PAGE 8 ports.

“The COVID-19 Omicron variant and the continued presence of the Delta variant are driving high rates of transmission and hospitalization,” said TidalHealth CEO Steve Leonard. “Getting vaccinated can reduce the severity of illness and the risk of transmission and will help take the pressure off our extremely busy facilities.”

In a message posted on social media, the hospital system also discouraged people from using the emergency department for non-life-threatening situations.

“It is important to know, as COVID-19 numbers grow again, our Emergency Departments are experiencing significant volumes of patients needing emergency care,” a Facebook post reads. “Our Emergency Departments are for true emergencies and traumas. We need our teams ready and available to support our community members experiencing real emergencies. TidalHealth does not offer community walk-in or scheduled COVID19 testing at any of our hospitals or emergency department locations within those hospitals.”

With the new wave in COVID-19 cases, officials say demand for testing and at-home test kits has increased.

To that end, health departments in both Worcester and Wicomico counties have expanded their testing clinics to accommodate more people.

Travis Brown, public affairs officer for the Worcester County Health Department, added the agency has also started to request additional at-home testing kits, which are distributed at the county’s five library branches. The health department noted it has seen far more requests than it has in testing supplies.

“We encourage anyone who would like a kit to call the local library,” he said, adding that the service is available for contactless pickup. “I know we get roughly 300 kits every two weeks from the state, and we should have a shipment coming in between Christmas and New Year’s.”

While acknowledging the usefulness of testing, Worcester County Health Department Public Affairs Officer Summer Widmyer encouraged residents to get the COVID-19 vaccine if they have not already done so. She said clinics are posted on the health department’s website.

“We also recommend that they wear their mask, wash their hands often and practice physical distancing,” she said. “If you are sick stay home, and if you are able to get a test, test after symptoms have been showing for two to three days.”

Brown said the best way for someone to protect themselves is to get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shot, when eligible.

“We are always mindful of the potential for spreading COVID whenever folks gather together or travel, so the holidays are time we need to be extra careful as a community,” he said. “If you're not vaccinated and you're eligible, get vaccinated.

If you are traveling or having people over, get tested.”

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 47

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Page 48

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021

Letters To The Editor 50-State Marathoner Offers Inspiration Editor: While we all hoped that 2021 would be a welcome change from the COVID disaster of year of 2020, it appears that our hopes were dashed. Although vaccines are readily available for those who want it and severe illnesses are being curtailed thanks to new precautions, we are now under the Omicron variant and it seems as if the nightmare will never end.

Let’s all hope 2022 will deliver the hopes for a healthy year that 2021 did not totally deliver. Even through the pandemic and endemic or whatever it is officially right now, life does go on. I wanted to share my story of the completion of a goal that took nine years to complete. I share it not to brag, but rath-

er to give encouragement to others and also remind everyone what a great place Ocean City is.

I live in a very competitive household. When my significant other ran the Marine Corp Marathon back in 2005, I knew it was not if I would run a marathon but rather when I would run it. I could not let her have bragging rights all to herself. So, although I hated the idea of even running around the block, I began a training plan and got set for my first marathon. This was in January of 2012 and it was in Miami.

The course was full of spectators and the route took you right through the famed Ocean Drive on South Beach.

Crossing the finish line was an incredible feeling. No longer would there just be one marathoner in the house, there would now be two of us. This was sat-

isfying for a bit, but I soon wanted more.

I eventually decided that as I was getting older, it would be important to stay in shape. So, if I ran a marathon in Florida, why not set a goal of running a marathon in all 50 states? Crazy for sure, but what an experience to stay healthy and to see our beautiful country at the same time. So I registered for my second marathon in Pennsylvania in May of 2012. The challenge was officially underway.

For the next nine years, there was always a marathon on the calendar.

While each race is a constant 26.2 miles they are all quite unique in their own right. There was the freezing rain and ice in Virginia Beach, the snowcapped mountains in Denver at the start of the race that led to a finish line with 98 degree heat at the bottom of the moun-

tain. There were the seals on the beach in Delaware and the mating whales putting on a show as I struggled up the Maui hillside in Hawaii. There was the dreaded St. Louis marathon where I was sick and chugging Pepto Bismol at aide stations instead of water and there was the emotional St. Jude’s Marathon in Memphis, Tenn. where you are greeted along the course by dozens of young cancer patients who cheer you along as you pass the hospital. The final state was Alaska where I crossed the line in August of this year in Anchorage and felt an accomplishment that is indescribable.

I want the readers of The Dispatch to know that if I can run a marathon, anybody can. It is a time-consuming ordeal but the rewards are worth it. And maybe if not a full marathon, go ahead and try for a half marathon, 10K or even a 5K. Set yourself a reasonable goal, stick to it and you can do it. Again, I promise you that if I can do it anybody can do it.

I would also like to say that many of the hundreds of miles that I spent training for my runs were done right here in Ocean City. Late nights and early mornings on the Boardwalk and random back streets in town when the boardwalk gets too crowded. On one very hot day, I started much too late and had a long run scheduled. As I was running in circles around a neighborhood, a concerned neighbor took notice of my rough looks and saw me struggling in the heat.

He offered me a drink of water and gave encouragement. It turned out to be former Ocean City Mayor and State Senator Jim Mathias. These things only happen in Ocean City. Many of the early morning runs started on the deserted boardwalk in the dark. To watch that amazing sunshine rise from the ocean with each lap on the boards is incredible.

No matter what you may do the rest of your day, if you start with an early run on the boards and witness the sun rise it will be a good day no matter what.

Even on the occasional day when I slept the entire remainder of the day after a long run, I still felt productive. I can honestly say that after running 26.2 miles in all 50 states that we have one of nature’s most beautiful areas right here in town. And to mix it up, I would also frequent Assateague Island for my runs where the horses could sometimes make the path an obstacle course.

Where else can one experience such a thing?

In closing, running is time consuming and painful at times. However, the rewards of the accomplishment are second to none. Set yourself a reasonable goal, lace up the sneakers, and go get active. Find a favorite training route and stick to your plan. Absorb the beauty that our area has to offer during your training and the finish line may soon be calling your name. Happy running and Happy New Year.

M. Scott Chismar Ocean City

December 31, 2021

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

Berlin, Md. 21811 PHONE: 410-641-4561 FAX: 410-641-0966 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.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Good Deeds For The Most Forgotten How We See It

Motorists driving by the Berlin Nursing Home last Thursday night might have been worried when they saw a ladder truck from the Ocean City Fire Department at the Berlin Nursing Home.

In reality, good deeds were being carried out by the area’s first responders. The firefighters were delivering new blankets to nursing home residents in honor of Dolores Kenny, a former beloved resident of the facility.

Before the pandemic, the effort also involved spending some time with the senior citizens and bringing good cheer and joy to their lives. In today’s world, personal face-to-face time is not possible. Therefore, the firefighters delivered their donations but thought bringing Santa to the nursing home – via a ladder truck outside their windows – might brighten the residents’ day a bit. In separate efforts, Ocean City firefighters partnered with colleagues from Berlin to “stuff a truck” with toys for underprivileged youth in our community. These are laudable examples of giving back to the community.

While the toy campaign is certainly a huge success, the pictures of the firetruck with Santa on the ladder waving to residents inside the nursing home say it all. It’s equally heart-warming as heart breaking. As anyone with family members in nursing homes during the pandemic understands well, these citizens have been left behind. Due to their own health concerns and mandated safety practices, visitation has been severely limited and even restricted at many facilities, resulting in further isolation for these folks from family and friends.

It’s understandable there is a need to keep the facility and its residents safe. An outbreak at a nursing home would be deadly. Heightened health and safety measures make sense, but it’s unacceptable for these citizens to live their latter years alone. Fortunately, technology has provided some communication opportunities for the families, offering some comfort along the way.

Nonetheless, the severe isolation of nursing home residents – referred to as the silent victims -- has been a serious consequence of the pandemic and will likely continue for several months.

It’s why the efforts of the fire department to spearhead an outreach effort are so important. Anything to break up the routine of the day – especially during the holidays – is commendable.

The social visit to raise spirits means as much as the gift, in this case a new blanket.

Page 49

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green It’s that time of year to offer some predictions for what will make news in the year ahead.

•Worcester County Public Schools will not go virtual next week, as some expected might happen due to rising positivity metrics.

•Saturday mail service will be dropped by the U.S. Postal Service to reduce expenses.

•Democrat Peter Franchot – current comptroller of Maryland – will easily cruise to the governor’s mansion next November over Republican nominee Kelly Schulz.

•During spring budget sessions, the Worcester County Commissioners will reduce the property tax rate for two reasons – a huge influx of tax revenue due to booming property values and it’s an election year.

•Margaritaville plans in Ocean City will return for conversation after stalling earlier this month.

•Major changes will be imminent at the south intersection of Route 50 and Main Street in Berlin with the proposed Athena Plaza – featuring a hotel and other uses – kicking into gear on the west side and the long-vacant former gas station site being sold.

•Forgoing a national search, an internal department head will be promoted as the new city manager of Ocean City early in the year.

•Two new faces will join the Ocean City Mayor and Council after next fall’s election. After 20 years in office, Councilman Lloyd Martin will opt against another term. Martin won a fifth term in 2018 by a four-vote margin over Emily Nock.

•A major snowstorm will occur in late February, representing the first significant snow in three years.

•One new face will be elected to Berlin’s town council next October.

•Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan will not seek the presidency, opting instead to announce plans to represent the state in the U.S. Senate in 2024.

•Caused by long-time Commissioner Bud Church not running for another term, the vacancy for District 3 (West Ocean City and part of Berlin) will attract four candidates, three of which will be Republican.

•Former County Commissioner Virgil Shockley will try again to regain his seat from incumbent Ted Elder. This will be the fifth time Shockley and Elder have faced off for the District 4 commissioner seat with each winning twice. It will be interesting to see in the 2022 showdown if Shockley switching his party affiliation from Democrat to Republican after Biden’s election in 2020 makes a difference.

•For the third consecutive election, Worcester County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic will run unopposed for District 7 (Ocean City).

•Two more COVID variants will surface in 2022, resulting in a cycle of spikes and low periods, as happened with the Delta and Omicron in 2021.

•Though work will not begin in 2022, Ocean City will finalize the specifics of its major Baltimore Avenue reconstruction project. Construction is expected to start in 2023.

•In announcing he will seek re-election, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan will state it will be his final term. He has now served as an elected official in Ocean City since 1985 – 21 years as a councilman and 15 years as mayor.

•The Maryland General Assembly will approve legislation continuing to increase minimum wage once the current rate scaling expires in 2025. The state is currently increasing minimum wage each year – it will become $12.50 on Saturday with phased increases leading to $15 effective Jan. 1, 2025. The legislature will approve a measure adding more augmenting phases, resulting in a $20/hour minimum wage by 2032.

•A nice influx of new tax revenue from the booming property assessments results in the Town of Berlin’s elected officials retaining the same property tax rate as last year.

•A local developer will submit a purchase offer for Heron Park, disclosing a mixed-use project plan to redevelop the southern portion of the property along Old Ocean City Boulevard.

•In a bold move, Ocean City officials will opt to hold Sunfest the last weekend of September, potentially conflicting with the pop-up rally menace. It’s unusual a date has not yet been announced for the 2022 event.

•Berlin and Ocean Pines will both pass short-term rental ordinances before the summer season, •The most significant progress on the sports complex discussion for north Worcester County will be the purchase of land along Route 50.

•Redevelopment continues to be a major trend throughout the year, as two new hotel plans are reviewed in the north end – one on Route 589 another on eastbound Route 50.

•A new Royal Farms will open on Route 589 next to Walgreens, making that seven Royal Farms stores within 30 miles of each other in the tri-county area.

•State Senator Mary Beth Carozza and Delegate Wayne Hartman will cruise through their primary elections unopposed but each face Democratic challengers in November’s general election.

•As a result of increased traffic, speeding and safety concerns, the state will initiate conversations with the Town of Berlin to make Main Street a pedestrianonly plaza.

•There will be no signs of the Big Wheel returning to Ocean City during the summer.

•The Green Bay Packers will defeat the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

C

Puzzle Answers

December 31, 2021

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 31

St. Paul’s

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hristmas sure is different nowadays.

For many years, the kids were up bright and early before the sun full of excitement for what Santa Claus brought them. It was a joyous time of energy and newness. Those mornings of enthusiasm and eagerness are great memories.

Now, with the kids 12 and 13 years old, excitement remains but it’s certainly much tamer, and I think there is even some feigning going on at times. What’s certainly clear is the mornings sure have changed drastically.

Pam was first up early on Christmas, preparing to put her famous breakfast casseroles in the oven. After a late night, I stayed in bed until I heard the boys. I was awoken with Carson shaking me (more like a violent body check) at 6:20 in the morning. I told him I would be right out but to just hang out and don’t go snooping. He was out of the room before I finished the sentence. It would be what it would be I told myself.

We were able to coach Carson to chill for a bit because getting his big brother Beckett up before 7 would not be easy even on Christmas morning.

He has truly found the love of sleep and has even been napping over this holiday break.

When it comes to gift opening, we have the same struggle as most families – getting the kids to slow down so it lasts longer than 15 minutes. They are much better at showing restraint than when they were younger. The boys switched back and forth and it was great.

Though he loved his new electric keyboard and his outside ball return, Beckett showed the most enjoyment over a T-shirt his little brother gave him.

It was black with the phrase, “Bruh!” on it. A silly shirt that he immediately put on and seemed to get into his favorite shirt rotation immediately.

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Though not as animated as Beckett, Carson’s favorite gift seemed to be the stand-up air hockey table that will eventually move from our living room upstairs to a new home.

As the kids have gotten older, the gifts have gotten fewer, but larger, and they seem to understand why. It’s a good thing. Rather than a bunch of small things, each kid picks out a couple big things and we go from there, hoping to mix in a few surprises along the way.

Within an hour of waking up, the gift opening was over, and Pam and I were able to kick back before breakfast. The kids were off doing their thing. It was 8 in the morning and we had the full day ahead of us.

Along with hanging with family, one of our favorite traditions on Christmas Day is a game of kickball with a group of about 40 friends. It’s the opposite of competitive and seems to always end in a tie. It’s a fun way to get outside and catch up with friends. The adults enjoy it just as much as the kids.

Because I’m in my mid-40s, I didn’t escape the game unscathed. On a pop fly, I somehow hurt my right ring finger catching the ball (or as I refer to it – my “l” finger on the keyboard’s home row).

Fortunately, there were three doctors on hand who all agreed I had torn or stretched my extensor tendon because I couldn’t straighten my finger and the tip faced inward toward my palm. It was quite the sight. The result being a splint on my finger, making typing difficult.

The finger injury was a recurring joke all week, especially as I got whooped on at the air hockey table. It turns out I’m terrible using my left hand.

One of my favorite things about Facebook is the daily memories it brings to my attention. This is especially so on big days like Christmas, as it provides an opportunity to see how much has changed with my kids.

One Christmas morning memory that sticks out each year is when 20-month-

it.

No. 2: Donate my son’s coats to kids who will actually wear them.

No. 3: Vow to close my teen’s bedroom door instead of nagging them about the mess.

No. 4: Stop taking their “offishness” so damn personally.

No. 5: Buy a dog so someone is happy to see me when I get home.

No. 6: Buy new forks and spoons and hide them so my kids can’t steal them.

No. 7: Stop making impossible New Year’s resolutions (see No. 4) No. 8: Stop getting so worked up about the small stuff.

No. 9: Find the humor in it all, ‘cus this won’t last forever.

No. 10: Find ways to let my kids know they’re loved every single day.

Numbers eight and nine are what I will work to improve on. I will enter 2022 with the goals of not sweating everything and laughing more at the silly teenager antics of the house. It’s worth a shot.

(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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It required attention, so we took him to the ER at 7 in the morning. In no time, he was glued up and back home no worse for wear by 8 to carry on with the day.

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December 31, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 51

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 31, 2021