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Beach Blizzard: About a foot of snow fell over the Ocean City area last weekend, shutting down most businesses last Saturday and schools on Monday.

See page 43 for more pictures.

Photos by Chris Parypa, above; Nick Denny, middle; Campos Media, bottom.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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February 4, 2022

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Margaritaville Project Revisions Reviewed In OC

February 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Satisfied with some of the conditions recommended by staff and some changes to the design proffered by the developer, resort planners on Tuesday moved the proposed Margaritaville Hotel and Resort complex to the next step.

In August, the Planning Commission reviewed conceptual plans for the proposed Margaritaville Hotel and Resort, which, if approved, would encompass virtually an entire city block downtown on the oceanside facing the Boardwalk between 13th Street and 14th Street. In November, the commission held the requisite public hearing for the proposed planned overlay district (POD) needed to accomplish the major redevelopment project.

However, in December, the developer, NOSC, LLC, withdrew the request and pulled back the application for the POD. In a letter to town planning staff, the developer’s attorney Hugh Cropper explained the developer was proposing some significant changes to the project as it was first presented, but wanted to move forward to discuss the next steps.

Among the changes proffered by the developer was the project will now be under single ownership. The initial proposal anticipated a condominium regime form of ownership with the retail elements of the project. The developer has also engaged a consultant to add enhanced landscape in the setback areas. In addition, the developer is pursuing workforce housing opportunities within walking distance of the project.

The proposed project over 12 different lots would include 265 hotel rooms and three restaurants, including the JWB Grill with high-end steaks and seafood, the Landshark Bar and Grill and a coffee shop and provisions store in the lobby. The project would also include three outdoor pools and one indoor pool, a wellness center and gym, 14,000 square feet of flexible convention space, retail stores facing the Boardwalk and many other upscale amenities.

At the outset of Tuesday’s Planning Commission meeting, Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville outlined some of the changes to the project for commission members. From the beginning, it appeared the lynchpin for the project was the conveyance of a portion of Washington Lane between 13th and 14th streets to meet the requirements of the POD. The existing 16-foot alley bisects the proposed site and the developer originally requested the town abandon that portion on Washington Lane in order to build a consolidated POD project on the vast site.

However, on Tuesday, Neville explained the developer was no longer requesting the alley conversion, and instead was seeking the air rights over that portion of the alley in order to connect the different SEE PAGE 42

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 5

Montego Bay To Deny Small-Cell Towers

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BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While the Town of Ocean City continues its battles against allowing small-cell towers in certain residential neighborhoods, at least one northend community has taken a stand against the towers on its association-owned property.

Over the last couple of years, the Mayor and Council has denied applications from private-sector company Crown Castle to place tall small-cell towers on municipal property and easements in the Caine Woods community and in the Montego Bay community. For the record, Crown Castle installs small-cell towers and nodes around the resort area and contracts with wireless providers such as Verizon and Sprint, for example, to provide hardware.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Crown Castle has filed a pair of lawsuits in federal court challenging the denial of applications for small-cell towers in the north-end neighborhoods. Recently, a federal judge agreed to merge the two cases in the interest of expediency and they continue to move forward after attempts by the town to have them dismissed have been denied.

Meanwhile, the Montego Bay community has been taking action on its own behalf in an attempt to prevent the proliferation of small-cell towers. During a general membership meeting in August, Montego Bay resident Holly Donovan made a motion to that effect.

“The Board of the Montego Bay Civic Association, Inc. shall not move forward with any contract, lease or agreement that would allow placement or siting of cell towers or any type of wireless telecommunications antennas or equipment in asso-

2 20, 202 February PM 1-5

ciation easements, on lamp posts or in or on other facilities owned by the MBCA unless specifically authorized through affirmative majority vote by referendum of membership,” the motion read.

The motion passed by a majority roll call vote of the general membership at 138-22.

However, in December, Montego Bay Civic Association (MBCA) leadership contacted Donovan and reportedly told her some of the verbiage in the approved motion would need to be changed, or the issue would be put out to referendum for the community membership.

The motion passed in August withstood the legal challenge and a special general membership meeting was called for January 24 to discuss the issue. At that meeting, the MBCA Board voted unanimously at 8-0 to let that motion stand and not put the question on a referendum ballot.

School System Officials Review Proposed Budget

February 4, 2022

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – Salary increases for teachers, a feasibility study for Buckingham Elementary School and funding for a few new positions are included in the Worcester County Public Schools budget officials reviewed this week.

The Worcester County Board of Education met Tuesday to review the school system’s proposed fiscal year 2023 budget. Superintendent Lou Taylor said that based on the public budget input session held in December, a key focus in this year’s spending plan was once again teacher salaries.

“The overwhelming sentiment, as it is each year, was once again to ensure our educators and staff receive a fair compensation package,” Taylor said. “The entire leadership team and I are committed to keeping that as a top priority for our FY23 budget. This has to be a priority for us as our compensation package is the driving force behind our ability to attract and retain high quality professionals both within the classroom and beyond.”

Vince Tolbert, the school system’s chief financial officer, said the current year’s budget was $118,393,188. The proposed budget is expected to increase, as raises for bus contractors are included and salary increases for teachers are being developed.

“We’re still negotiating,” Tolbert said.

Health insurance rates have also not been finalized, though Tolbert is optimistic they’ll stay flat or include just a slight increase.

The budget is also expected to be impacted by the addition of a handful of new positions – a special education teacher, mental health workers, a nurse, technology coach and clerical staff.

The school system also plans to spend $125,000 on a feasibility study for Buckingham Elementary School. The study is the first step in the school construction process. Another one-time capital request included in the budget is $80,000 for roof design fees for Snow Hill Middle School and Cedar Chapel Special School.

“The feasibility study will tell us if it’s best to do a renovation/addition or to build a new school,” Tolbert said.

As far as revenue projections, Tolbert said figures had not been finalized. This is the first year of new funding formulas under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation.

“We’re still going back and forth on what we’re going to actually have to work with from a state perspective," he said.

He said final estimates of local and state revenue numbers would be presented Feb. 15, when the board is expected to approve the proposed operating budget.

Taylor expressed his gratitude to the Worcester County Commissioners for their commitment to education funding.

The county typically funds more than 80% of the school system’s budget.

“I am so proud to say that through our collaboration, our budget requests have been fully funded for the past five years,” Taylor said.

OCFD Launches Winter ‘No Ice Is Safe Ice’ Campaign

February 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

timely reminder about the dangers of playing on frozen waterways.

With below freezing temperatures prevailing for much of the last week or so, some shallow waterways in and around the resort area become covered in a thin

Route 611 Land Reclassification Delayed

OCEAN CITY – With the winter deep freeze dragging on, the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) this week issued a

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners delayed deliberations regarding a land reclassification on Route 611.

The commissioners on Tuesday were expected to make a decision regarding a request to reclassify 8.34 acres of land designated Resource Conservation Area (RCA) as Limited Development Area (LDA). The deliberations were tabled, however, at the request of the applicant, attorney Hugh Cropper.

“I asked that it be postponed because of a scheduling conflict,” Cropper said.

Following a favorable recommendation by the Worcester County Planning Commission, the commissioners were presented last month with a request to reclassify the Route 611 property currently home to the Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) office from RCA to LDA. Cropper said an error occurred in the property’s original mapping. Though the land was labeled RCA because it was home to a golf course at one time, techni-

cally principal buildings—such as the former golf clubhouse being used by MCBP—are not permitted in the RCA. Cropper said he was seeking a refinement now from RCA to LDA. South Point residents expressed concern about the proposed change, citing a desire to ensure environmentally sensitive areas were protected. They questioned the need for the change.

Cropper said it was simply to correct the designation so that if MCBP ever leaves the owner can lease the space to someone else. With the current RCA designation, the property can only be used by a nonprofit conservation organization— something that was only made possible by a text amendment approved a few years ago.

“If Coastal Bays left there’s nothing you can do with it,” Cropper said last month.

Because of the array of information presented by Cropper as well as by South Point residents, the commissioners agreed to delay their deliberations regarding the request. With that discussion delayed again this week, it is expected to be held at the commissioners’ next meeting Feb. 15.

sheet of ice. However, as inviting as icecovered portion of the bay or a canal can be, the OCFD is warning residents and visitors of the inherent dangers of walking, playing or skating on a frozen waterway.

A frozen body of water can appear to be safe enough to play or skate on, but wide temperature swings mean local waterways rarely freeze to the point they can safely be played or skated upon.

The OCFD last week conducted water and ice rescue drills as part of the department’s No Ice is Safe Ice campaign.

“Each year, hundreds of people are injured in ice water accidents,” said OCFD Water Rescue Commander and Battalion

Page 7

Chief David Peterson. “It’s very tempting to skate or play on the ice because it looks strong enough to hold you. We seen folks get into trouble on ice and fall below the surface. It’s not worth it.”

Frozen waterways can be especially inviting to kids. To that end, the OCFD is encouraging parents to teach their children about the dangers of playing on ice.

“Walking and playing on ice is inviting and appears to be fun, but children must understand the dangers associated with playing on ice,” said Peterson. “It’s important for children to know that there is no such thing as 100% safe ice. No ice is safe ice.”

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Parking Waiver Request Denied For Downtown Hotel

Page 8

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Parking concerns sent the developers of a proposed luxury resort and spa back to the drawing board last week after the appeals board denied a request for a waiver of some spaces on the planned redevelopment.

Attorney Hugh Cropper, representing the developer Effie’s Beach, LLC and Sarantis Properties, explained the history of the site during a Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) hearing last Thursday. Over the years, the site was once planned as Jennieville, a mixed-use project, and Holt’s Landing. Most recently a site plan for an eight-story condo project had been approved, but that project never came into fruition.

“Since then, there have been five site

plans, one of which was for an eightstory condo,” he said. “It was approved and ready to go, but it was never built.

Thankfully, my clients have it now and want to do a responsible development that meets the comprehensive plan.”

Off and on for decades, there have been attempts to redevelop the old Holt’s Landing property at the base of the town at South Philadelphia Avenue to no avail.

Recently, a development group that has done other notable projects in the resort has begun moving forward with a potential resort hotel complex on the site, but has run into challenges with meeting the required amount of parking for the oddshaped parcel.

Sarantis Properties is well into the planning and design of a new luxury 90room hotel on the site with a full-range of upscale amenities. The property offers

some of the best panoramic views in Ocean City near the Inlet. Tentatively called the Kyma Luxury Resort and Spa, the upscale project came before the Board of Zoning Appeals last Thursday for a hearing on couple of special exception requests, including a waiver of the parking requirements needed to make the project possible on the odd-shaped triangular parcel near the Inlet and the base of Philadelphia Avenue.

There are 61 parking spaces on-site.

The developer is in negotiation with the town to lease the old Whiteside lot, which would provide another 40 spaces, meaning there would be 101 parking spaces for 90 hotel rooms if the 12-spot waiver was approved. Cropper said despite the waiver request, the parking situation would be better than what had been approved for the site in the past.

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“This developer has done a great job in providing as much parking as possible,” he said. “This is so much better than that condo project that was already approved.”

Architect Keith Iott said the location of the proposed hotel complex lent itself to a lot of pedestrian traffic, which could ease the strain on parking in the downtown area.

“That’s the magic of this site,” he said.

“You can walk to all of the downtown amenities. You can walk to the pier, you can walk to the rides, the restaurants and bars. That’s what’s so special about this parcel.” lott said the negotiations were ongoing with the old Whiteside lot, but there were potentially other options for offsite parking in the downtown area for the project.

“There might be something else done with Whiteside in the future,” he said.

“The City Council has committed to 40 spaces, but they might not all be at Whiteside. They will be within 600 feet of the hotel though.”

Cropper said he anticipated some pushback from neighboring residents and other downtown businesses on the parking issue.

“I don’t know in 33 years if I’ve ever done a parking waiver here or in the county that the neighbors have supported,” he said. “Parking is at a premium anywhere you go.”

When it came time for public comment, Cropper’s previous statement proved to be prophetic. First up was City Councilman Frank Knight, commenting in his role as a private citizen and downtown resident and not as an elected official.

“I’m totally for redevelopment of Ocean City,” he said. “This should be done in a responsible way. That means it should benefit everybody. You have in front of you tonight an eight-story, 90room hotel and spa complex. We all know 101 spaces is not adequate for a project this size. They should really be talking about adding spaces rather than waiving them.”

Downtown resident Brian Keith echoed similar sentiments.

“It’s a beautiful design,” he said. “I love the building, but I just hope it never gets built.”

Downtown resident Karen Nelson agreed the project was attractive, but could not get past the parking issues.

“We’re not against the development of that property,” she said. “It just has to be appropriate development. It can’t be taking away parking spaces.”

When it came down to the board weighing in, BZA member Christopher Rudolf said he shared concerns about the uncertainties surrounding the proposed offsite parking.

“I’m having a little heartburn over where these offsite parking spaces are actually going to end up coming from,” he said. “The state where we are right now, I just don’t think that aspect of what is being asked for is ready for prime time.”

BZA member Mark Jahnke agreed there were potential parking issues, but SEE NEXT PAGE

Municipal Officials Review Ping Pong Proposal For Burbage Park

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – Residents could soon be playing ping pong at Burbage Park.

Tony Weeg of We Heart Berlin met with town officials this week to review the nonprofit’s plans to install two ping pong tables at Burbage Park on William Street. Weeg said a few minor steps stand between the project and completion.

“The meeting went great,” Weeg said.

“They gave us the pathway to completion.”

Weeg created the nonprofit We Heart Berlin last year to focus on expanding recreational opportunities in Berlin. Last spring, he shared concept plans for ping pong tables at Burbage Park, the often overlooked green space in front of the town’s power plant. After successful fundraisers throughout 2021, We Heart Berlin purchased the ping pong tables in

November. They’re in storage at one of the town’s facilities as We Heart Berlin finalizes plans for installation.

Mayor Zack Tyndall, who joined town department heads, parks commission members and Councilmen Troy Purnell and Jay Knerr in Wednesday’s meeting, said installation wasn’t far off. He said We Heart Berlin needed to have a site plan drawn and submitted and stormwater impacts reviewed. Meanwhile, the town’s attorney is drafting a memorandum of understanding between the town and We Heart Berlin for the project.

“We just have to dot our i’s and cross our t’s,” Weeg said. “I want to be playing ping pong within 60 days.”

Tyndall said he didn’t see any reason the project couldn’t be completed in the coming months. He’s looking forward to seeing something happen at an underutilized piece of property.

“I think it can really be a nice asset for the town,” he said.

suggested it was a larger downtown problem and this particular developer shouldn’t necessarily have his feet held to the fire over it.

“It’s tough for me,” he said. “People are already saying there is a parking issue down there, so why is it falling on this project specifically?” he said. “With all of the issues with parking down there, nothing has been done about it.”

BZA Chair Alfred Harrison agreed, but said there are always creative ways to make a project work.

“As a resort town, we have an inherent problem with parking,” he said. “It could be a substantial adverse effect.

There are ways for them to come up with more.”

Cropper raised concern the BZA board was holding the project to a different standard.

“I feel like you’re holding us to a higher standard than the code provides,” he said. “The code allows elasticity for unique situations. The staff recommended it. It’s consistent with what you’ve done elsewhere and there are parking problems all over town. The master plan talks about incentivizing redevelopment.”

Rudolf said the developer had opportunities to address the parking waiver issue in other ways.

“I don’t want to make an impossible situation for anyone in town trying to redevelop,” he said. “They could have done it differently and they chose not to.”

With that said, Jahnke made a motion to grant the special parking exception for

waiving 12 spaces, along with a provision for 10 compact parking spaces. Rudolf seconded the motion, which didn’t necessarily mean he supported it.

With just Harrison, Jahnke and Rudolf at the dais, there was barely a quorum and no motion could pass without one member seconding for the sake of a vote. That motion failed 2-1 with only Jahnke in support. Then, Rudolf made a motion to deny the waiver request for the 12 parking spaces. The motion passed 2-1 with Jahnke opposed.

There was still another order of business to dispense with for the BZA. The developer had requested a variance from the 19-foot side-yard setback on the south side of the proposed hotel complex along S. First Street, which is essentially just a paper alley that has not been paved. The request to provide a variance from the side-yard setback and the landscape setback on that portion of the property was needed to allow for a one-story mechanical room for the restaurant in the proposed hotel.

“We’re asking for a one-story structure with only equipment in it,” he said. “There would be no guest rooms, and no restaurant. It’s about 990 square feet. They could put a dumpster out there, or the HVAC system and it would perfectly legal. This developer wants to spend the extra money and enclose it and make it appear to be part of the building with high-end finishes.”

The BZA members voted unanimously to approve that request for a variance from the required setbacks on that side of the building.

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

… Setback Variance Approved With 3-0 Vote By Board Of Zoning Appeals

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County Pursues Grant To Plan Route 611 Bike Path

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Worcester County is seeking $200,000 in grants to plan for a shared use path on Route 611.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week voted unanimously to apply for two grants that would fund a concept study for a shared use path on Route 611.

The path would connect West Ocean City to Assateague State Park.

“The state has money available for these projects,” said Dallas Baker, the county’s director of public works.

Baker told the commissioners he was

seeking approval to apply for two grants, one through the Transportation Alternatives Program and another through the Bikeways Program. He said the county was eligible for the grants because it had included the shared use path on its annual Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) letter. The annual letter to the state outlines the county’s transportation priorities.

According to Baker, if the county gets the $200,000 in grant funding the concept study would identify right-of-way needs, environmental permit requirements and potential utility conflicts.

“Just getting the ball rolling,” Baker

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said. “We can then take that and parley it into future money for design and construction. It’s a very similar process to what Somerset County used to get their project started on building their shared use path long 413 from Crisfield out to 13.

I’ve seen it employed while I was at the state as a successful model and I’d like to do that here to get us a similar facility.”

Baker also updated the commissioners on the other projects included in the last CTP letter. As far as dualizing Route 90, the top priority in the letter, Baker said the state was continuing its preliminary planning work.

“We are in the process of scheduling an update with the Office of Preliminary Planning and Engineering within State Highway,” he said. “We’re looking at possibly the second week in February to discuss how that project is moving along and where we stand on it.”

Though the concept of a third Route 90 lane is included in the letter, the commissioners told Baker they didn’t support that idea, particularly since it involved eliminated the guardrail, and asked that it be removed.

“There were a lot of people around the community working hard to get those guardrails up there…,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said. “That was a major improvement to the roadway by many of us who recognize the danger of that road. I’d hate to see the county advocate to rip up that guardrail.”

Baker said the third lane idea had just been included to generate discussion at

the state level and would be taken out of the county’s next priority list.

“That was to spur the discussion,” he said. “A lot of times what we’ve heard from the state is ‘oh that’s a billion-dollar project that’s going to take a while.’ Well there are other interim improvements that can be made. It was just some suggestions to start the ball rolling.”

He said the state was also looking at the Route 611 and Assateague Road intersection at the county’s request.

“The state has begun conducting an intersection study to determine what improvements they can make to alleviate the congestion and queuing delays at that intersection,” he said.

The state is also reviewing the Route 367/Route 368 intersection in Bishopville.

Pedestrian safety improvements are also set to occur in Berlin.

“State Highway has completed the design for the requested pedestrian crossing at that intersection,” Baker said. “Right now the only way to get across 113 in Berlin is down there by Uncle Willie’s. This would be connecting the AGH side to the Food Lion side.”

When asked about the likelihood of a crosswalk on Route 589 at the Manklin Creek Road intersection, Baker said it had already been approved. He said the state was just waiting for good weather to install it.

Baker told the commissioners they could expect an updated draft of the latest CTP letter next month so it could be sent to the state April 1.

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Pines Board To Consider Bylaw Revisions

February 4, 2022

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – A series of proposed bylaw changes will be discussed at a special meeting scheduled for next week.

On Monday, Feb. 7, the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) Board of Directors will hold a special meeting to discuss motions related to bylaw revisions.

The motions, submitted by Directors Colette Horn, Doug Parks and Frank Daly, propose revisions to several sections of the bylaws, including meeting notices, general manager and director responsibilities, and the resignation and removal of a director.

The board is also expected to consider motions related to the candidate verification process and candidate eligibility requirements.

“A motion has been added to the Candidate Eligibility Section under New Business that addresses the 'owner of record’ definition in all of the sections of our bylaws in which it appears,” Horn said in a statement this week.

As proposed, the definition “owner of record” would read “the person(s) listed on the deed recorded in the Land Records of Worcester County as the owner of property (grantee/party in the second part) within the Subdivision to which votes are attributable. If a trust is listed on the deed recorded in the Land Records of Worcester County as the owner of the property within the Subdivision, then the Record Owner shall be the trustee(s) of the trust who is/are listed on the recorded deed to such property. If a corporation, limited liability company, or partnership is listed on the deed recorded in the Land Records of Worcester County as the owner of the property within the Subdivision, the Record Owner shall be an officer of the corporation, a living person who is a member of the limited liability company, or a living person who is a partner in the partnership as reflected in the relevant entity’s records.”

The board next week will also consider a revision that would require board candidates to be an owner of record of real property in Ocean Pines for a minimum of three years prior to the first day of January of the year in which an election is held, unless they have served on a committee or advisory board for a period of no less than one year prior to May 1 of the year in which the election is held.

“This motion is to clarify ownership and experience requirements for candidates running for the Board of Directors,” Daly wrote.

The board will also consider revisions to the candidate application process, as well as a revision involving candidate eligibility and pending litigation.

“A candidate may not be a plaintiff in an active lawsuit in a Maryland or Federal court, including on appeal, in which

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the Association or any of the Association’s Directors, named in their capacity as a Director, is/are named as a defendant,” the revision reads, “nor may the candidate be named as a defendant in an active lawsuit in a Maryland or Federal court in which the Association is the plaintiff, including on appeal.”

Many of the proposed revisions to be considered next week are in response to a recent lawsuit against the Ocean Pines Association and its Board of Directors.

Last year, four contenders – Rick Farr, Stuart Lakernick, David Hardy and incumbent Frank Daly – vied for two seats on the association’s board, though Farr was later disqualified during the voting process after an anonymous tip raised questions about his status as a homeowner of the address listed on his candidate application.

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

Following a months-long legal battle, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Sidney Campen ruled Farr an eligible Ocean Pines homeowner.

In an opinion issued in January, Campen noted the association had no additional language defining the term “owner of record.”

“At the center of this controversy, is the meaning of ‘owners of record’ as referenced in the By-laws,” he wrote.

“Unfortunately, ‘owners of record’ is not a defined term under Article I of the By-laws, nor is the concept defined in the Declarations of Restriction or the Articles of Amendment and Restatement.”

Campen also asserted the association had adopted an overly restrictive meaning of the term.

“If it is the desire of the OPA to require candidates to be named as owners in the land records of Worcester County, it should amend the By-laws to clarify the term, ‘owners of record,’” he wrote in his opinion.

The proposed bylaw revisions will be considered for referendum at Monday’s meeting. The board will also hold a public hearing on the proposed actions.

Monday’s special meeting will be held in a hybrid format starting at 8 a.m.

Some seating will be available in the administration board room at 239 Ocean Parkway.

For more information, or to view meeting materials, visit oceanpines.org. A video will also be posted on the association’s YouTube page following the meeting.

Page 11

Fenwick Continues To Explore Sites For Dredge Project

Page 12

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Members of a Fenwick Island committee say they will continue to explore deposit sites for the town’s dredging project.

On Wednesday, members of the Fenwick Island Dredging Committee met with Anchor QEA’s Steve Bagnull and consultant Tony Pratt to discuss opportunities for a long-awaited dredging project of the Little Assawoman Bay. Simply put, the dredging project is expected to address shoaling in the backbay system and connect boating channels along Fenwick’s bayside canals to the main channel in the Little Assawoman Bay. As part of that effort, roughly 19,000 cubic feet of dredged material would be moved to another site for reuse, though it remains to be seen what that location

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would be.

In December, committee members began exploring a partnership with Seatowne, a residential community north of Fenwick. The proposed beneficial use project would use Fenwick’s dredged material to replenish roughly 19 acres of wetlands near the community.

On the agenda for discussion this week, Councilman Bill Rymer, committee chair, told members that Seatowne’s homeowners association continues to explore the proposed partnership.

“I got an email back from their president saying the group is excited and interested and for us to keep moving forward, but they did have questions about the project …,” he explained. “Their biggest thing is they need to learn more about what it would look like and feel like on their end of the project.”

While he highlighted Fenwick’s plans

to begin the dredging project early next year, Rymer said it was unlikely the town would receive any agreement from Seatowne in time to apply for permitting.

“Their first opportunity for a community-wide vote is May 27,” he said. “That, of course, will change our timeline.”

To that end, committee members this week agreed to focus on action items the town could pursue as it waited on Seatowne’s decision.

“I’m not comfortable releasing any funds for Seatowne consulting work until I get an official green light from the community,” Rymer said.

During Wednesday’s meeting, the committee voted unanimously to recommend a Phase 1B study of the bay’s south channel. Last month, the committee learned an archeological study had identified an underwater object in the proposed dredge area.

February 4, 2022

“We’ve got this metallic object at the bottom of one of our channels,” Rymer said. “We have a proposal for $10,000 to send professionals in to figure out what it is and if we could deal with it right away.”

Committee member George Murphy said he supported the proposal.

“The $10,000 will get us an answer to what this thing truly is and how hard it would be to remove,” he added.

Bagnull agreed.

“With what we’re proposing, it would be a probe and diver-based effort to identify what it is,” he explained. “Our hope is it’s nothing of significance.”

This committee this week also agreed to explore alternative sites for its dredged material, should the proposed partnership with Seatowne not come to fruition. Murphy suggested the town explore the restoration of Seal Island, located in the middle of the Little Assawoman Bay. “One, I think it’s incumbent on us to do a cost-benefit analysis so it shows we didn’t overlook Seal Island …,” he said.

“Two, I think there’s a large sentiment in the community that we do that, at least look at what it would take to reconstitute Seal Island. The final thing I would like to understand is if reconstituting Seal Island would provide any resiliency.”

Bagnull noted his company had applied for grant funding in 2020 to do preliminary design work for permits to restore Seal Island. While he noted the project supported the state’s restoration and resiliency initiatives, it was a costly endeavor.

“In the grant proposal we talked through how we envisioned the project … ,” he said. “The crux is really the containment and the cost.”

Officials noted, however, it was a project worth considering. To that end, the committee agreed to create a subcommittee of sorts to investigate Seal Island as a potential deposit site.

“We need to take a closer look at that and see what volume is needed to restore it to its target elevation,” Bagnull added.

Pratt also told committee members that he and Bagnull would work together to explore other alternative sites in the coming weeks.

“It’s an open book,” he said. “We can brainstorm anything. We’d like a chance to come back with some concepts.”

Plans for a dredging project in the Little Assawoman Bay began in earnest in 2018, when the town council hired Pratt, former administrator for the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), to guide them through the funding and permitting processes. By the following year, Anchor QEA, a Lewes-based engineering firm, was brought on board to provide design, bidding and construction management services.

The original plan for the project was to work with the Carl M. Freeman Companies to relocate the town’s dredged material to one of the developer’s nearby properties. Those proposals, however, were taken off the table late last year when the county’s denial of a hotel project on the site forced the developer to reevaluate its project, as well as its partnership with Fenwick Island.

Crews Use 'Different Approach' Clearing Roads After Blizzard

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Last weekend’s major snowstorm forced state and local public works crews to think outside the box with their efforts to clear the resort’s roads.

The storm began late last Friday and continued through much of the day on Saturday. By the time the last flake fell, the streets were buried under at least a foot of snow by most accounts. Contributing to the problem were strong, gusty winds that caused the snow to drift in many areas. Road crews were on the case quickly during and after the storm, the magnitude of which might have paralyzed the resort in previous years.

Coastal Highway and Baltimore Avenue are state roadways, making Maryland Department of Transportation-State Highway Administration (MDOT-SHA) crews responsible for clearing them. SHA crews work closely with the Town of Ocean City Public Works Department, which is responsible for clearing the side streets, for example. Deputy Public Works Director Woody Vickers this week explained how the magnitude of the storm caused SHA and the public works department to change their strategy.

“They took a different approach with this one,” he said. “For one, there was the severity of the storm. Secondly, we’ve grown over the years. There are

Large piles of snow collected throughout Ocean City were deposited at the Inlet parking lot.

Photo by Chris Parypa

big events on practically every weekend, so there is more urgency to get the streets cleared quickly with so many people in town.”

Vickers said in a typical snow storm of a couple of inches, SHA’s strategy is to plow Coastal Highway from the median toward the bus lane, where the snow can pile up until it melts and goes away. With last week’s storm, SHA crews brought out their snow blowers and con-

tracted dump trucks to remove the snow from the highway.

“They used a different strategy,” he said. “They plowed from the outside curbs toward the third lane all the way down Coastal Highway and on Baltimore Avenue. When the snow stopped, they came in with big snow blowers and went down behind with big dump trucks to collect the blowing snow and remove it from the highway.”

100’ Wide Lots (Not 60’ Wide) No Trees Central Sewer & Water

The loaded dump trucks then transported the removed snow to the Inlet lot where it was dumped. The result has been mountains of snow on the Inlet lot several feet high. Vickers said that was all part of the plan for severe snow storms, which don’t happen often around the resort area.

“The town has a snow removal plan,” he said. “If we have to haul snow, its trucked to different designated areas around the town. The Inlet lot just happens to be the biggest and most accessible.”

Vickers said the town’s public work crews used a more traditional snow removal on the side streets for which they were responsible.

“From a public works perspective, we did our plowing from curb to curb,” he said. “That’s really the only means we have to clear the streets.”

Another chore to be completed during the major storm last weekend was clearing snow from the southbound traffic signals on Coastal Highway. Driving snow coated the southbound signals making it impossible during the height of the storm to discern what color the lights were.

Drivers were warned to approach all intersections with caution and come to a complete stop before proceeding through them. When the storm subsided, Ocean City Fire Department crews cleared snow from the southbound traffic signals with fire hoses from a truck.

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North OC Battery Storage System Could Hinge On Land Swap

Page 14

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – After a marathon public hearing this week, resort planners agreed to forward a recommendation to the Mayor and Council allowing for Delmarva Power to develop a battery energy storage system on one of two north-end parcels.

It’s complicated, but in layman’s terms, a battery energy storage system, or BESS, would be a fallback energy source in the resort for Delmarva Power and Light (DPL) during times of peak electricity use on the barrier island. It is part of DPL’s efforts to improve and ensure reliability at peak times.

In 2019, the state of Maryland, through the Public Service Commission (PSC), initiated a pilot program known as the Maryland Energy Storage Pilot Program.

The purpose of the pilot program is to explore the efficiency of deploying utilityscale energy storage throughout the state including Ocean City.

Complicating the issue further, DPL owns a lot at 100th Street suitable for the installation of a BESS, while Ocean City owns an adjacent lot of identical size and shape just to the south. For years, the Mayor and Council have been debating a land swap with DPL for the two parcels.

The swap would allow the town to consolidate its other parcels in the area, while DPL would have a suitable site on which to install the state-mandated BESS.

Pictured is a rendering of the proposed battery energy storage system.

Submitted rendering

During Tuesday’s meeting, DPL submitted applications for a conditional use to install a BESS on either of the parcels, depending on the outcome of the land swap. As a result, the planning commission held two separate public hearings contingent on the outcome of the land swap. Attorney Ryan Showalter, representing DPL, explained the situation and the need for the joint approvals.

“We need to construct a battery energy storage system,” he said. “Delmarva Power and Light owns one parcel, and the Town of Ocean City owns the adjacent parcel. There has been discussion for years about swapping the land. By doing so, it would preserve the flexibility

for the Mayor and Council for a future project.”

There was no shortage of technical engineering details provided about the BESS and what it does and what it provides, but DPL’s Heather Roberts explained the need succinctly.

“During high peak times in the summer, the BESS will protect the grid,” she said. “It will help ensure reliability.”

At either location, the BESS would essentially by a rectangular building about 10 feet by 50 feet and around 12 feet above ground level. It would house panels of lithium batteries that could be used as a backup energy source during times of peak usage. It would be fenced in and

screened with landscaping, and the colors of the structure and the surrounding fence would make it bleed into the landscape.

During the public comment period of the hearing, concerns were raised by residents and property owners in the immediate area.

Dr. Leonard Berger, who owns property nearby including the Clarion, which, he mentioned, is under contract for sale, questioned the health aspect of the BESS in the residential areas and wondered if it was just a first step in what could become a larger project.

“I would like to know if it’s going to create any electro-magnetic radiation,” he said. “Will there be transmission lines to follow?”

Deborah Wilson, property manager at the nearby Our Place at the Beach community, questioned if siting a BESS in a residential area would impact property values.

“One of our buildings will look directly at this,” she said. “I’m concerned about the impact on real estate. We’ve had two years of nice gains in property values.”

Carolyn Johnston of nearby Marigot Beach also voiced concern about the potential health issues and pointed to a survey of DPL’s substation at 138th Street as a result.

“I have concerns about safety and lowlevel radiation,” she said. “With the 138th Street survey, it was very low, but the surSEE NEXT PAGE

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… Resort Residents Share Health, Viewshed Concerns

February 4, 2022

vey was done in January. We have concerns about health. When our kids and grandkids come down, we want them to be in a healthy environment.”

Johnston also voiced concern about the impacts on the viewshed.

“As a person who enjoys sunrises and sunsets, it’s exquisite to watch sunsets over the bay in Ocean City,” she said.

“Now, we’ll be watching them over this facility.”

Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said having the BESS on one or the other properties could be the lesser of two evils. DPL has a decades-old permanent conditional use on the property it owns that would allow the company to construct a more impactful electric substation.

“DPL has a permanent conditional use on the property it owns,” he said. “If the land is swapped with the Mayor and Council, the conditional use would switch.

It’s going to be one or the other. The permanent conditional use would extinguish.

That could be a condition of approval.”

Bill Johnston of Marigot Beach voiced concern about the location of his church and other amenities in the area.

“I am concerned about our church— the Church of the Holy Spirit,” he said.

“We can spit on this site near our church.

It is also near the library. There are a lot of kids around and I have health concerns.”

Showalter then attempted to systematically allay the residents’ concerns. He first addressed concerns about what could go there in the future, pointing out DPL has no plans to build a substation in that area.

“We’re only going to build one BESS,” he said. “It’s certainly up to the Mayor and Council to choose what parcel, but only one will be utilized if the Mayor and Council agree to the land swap.”

As far as the viewshed, Showalter said the impact should be minimal.

“We understand this is a concern with the sunset,” he said. “We will screen it with any colors the city desires. From an elevated position, it will look like a lowlevel rectangular structure that can be painted any color. It will blend into the landscape.”

Public Works Director Hal Adkins said the siting of the proposed BESS would have less impact on the bayside viewshed than existing structures in the area.

“It would be behind the library to the west,” he said. “The view of the sunset would not be obstructed by this facility, but rather the top of the library.”

Back to Dr. Berger, he continued to reiterate his concerns.

“There needs to be another location, not in this place,” he said. “It’s in a residential area with a library and three churches. This doesn’t belong there.

They do belong someplace. It’s a great idea, but this is in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Planning Commission Chair Pam Buckley questioned why the BESS needed to be sited in Ocean City in the first place.

“We have been built-out for years, and to the west of us they are building left and

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right,” she said. “Why do we need this on a barrier island? Is this going into the grid to somewhere else?”

Buckley pointed out there are already four substations on the island.

“I can’t wrap my head around why we need more,” she said. “I’m hearing the only reason you’re doing this is because the state is making you. I’m not sure you’ve illustrated a need.”

Planning Commissioner Joe Wilson said a major benefit in approving one or both of the conditional use requests for the BESS could be eliminating the permanent conditional use that could allow a major substation in the future on the DPL property.

“I think if we have an opportunity to extinguish a permanent conditional use, we should do it,” he said. “If the town participates in the land swap, the permanent

conditional use could be extinguished.”

Planning Commissioner Lauren Taylor agreed.

“Clearly, it’s desirable to put it on that piece of property,” she said. “I do have a problem with the fencing. You have to have power in that area. This is one way to get it without another substation.”

Planning Commissioner Palmer Gillis said the south site was advantageous for the proposed BESS if that would eliminate a future substation on the lot.

“I think this is best for the neighborhood to have it on that south lot,” he said.

“It would eliminate any need for a substation in that area. In terms of visibility, it’s just a box and it will be painted to fit into the landscape. This might be the lesser of two evils. I can’t even fathom a substation on the property they are talking about, but we have to provide electricity

Page 15

for Ocean City.”

It appeared the planners agreed siting the BESS on the south parcel currently owned by the town was advantageous, if the land swap is approved by the Mayor and Council. However, the trick was how to accomplish it in the form of a motion.

There was a second public hearing on the parcel owned by DPL, but no real testimony was taken because it would have been redundant with the first hearing.

The Planning Commission first passed a motion to send a favorable recommendation approving the conditional use for the BESS on the town-owned site contingent on the land swap with DPL. After a brief second hearing, the planners approved a conditional use for a BESS on the current DPL parcel to the north if the land swap with the town is somehow not consummated.

State’s Attorney’s Request For 12 New Positions Approved

Page 16

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – County officials approved plans for expanding staffing at the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office to prepare for the implementation of body cameras by local law enforcement.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week voted 4-0, with three abstaining, to approve State’s Attorney Kris Heiser’s plan to hire six new attorneys and six legal assistants. She said the staff would be needed to handle the influx of video as police began to all use body cameras.

“It’s very important that I can begin sooner rather than later because it’s going to take me a while to be prepared,” Heiser said.

Though Heiser has talked to the commissioners about the impact mandatory police body cameras would have on her office before, this week she presented figures associated with the specific staffing plan she believes is necessary moving forward. She said she needed 12 new positions – six attorneys and six assistants – at a cost of $822,918. That would bring her office to 36 staff members in fiscal year 2023. By the following year, she believes she could need as many as 41 individuals on staff.

With Maryland State Police poised to implement body cameras July 1, 2023 and with the Worcester County Sheriff’s

“We become Times Square during the summer and all fingers are pointed at Ocean City,” Meehan said as he expressed the need for a Memorial Day start to Ocean City’s body camera program.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Office and Ocean City Police Department hoping to move forward with programs as soon as possible, Heiser said it was critical she begin hiring now. She noted that the Town of Ocean City had offered to provide office space so some of her attorneys could be based there. Though the second floor of the town’s new public works building wouldn’t be ready until next year, in the interim she said her staff could be housed in another municipally owned space as well as in the district court building.

Commissioner Chip Bertino expressed hesitation about moving forward with the changes too quickly. He compared the current situation to the county’s move to a new radio system several years ago.

“We didn’t have any outside consulting helping us with that,” he said. “It was a mistake. We recognize that mistake …

I’d like to get another set of eyes on our needs as a county for this, to support what we have here and maybe better understand what we’re looking for as we’re going forward.”

He suggested looking for a consultant to help guide the county through the process of preparing for body cameras.

“It’s open ended,” he said. “We don’t know what we’re getting ourselves into.”

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said he’d learned that the public safety costs associated with body cameras could be paid for with the county’s casino revenue.

February 4, 2022

Though that funding is currently paying off the debt associated with Worcester Technical High School, that would be paid off this year.

“I don’t mind putting it off for a couple weeks, but this has to be done before budget time,” Mitrecic said. “The state’s attorney, it might take her four or five months to hire the attorneys she needs, if she can even find them.”

Bertino said he’d still like to look at the issue holistically.

“We need to see everything together and not on the fly during a meeting,” he said.

Commissioner Jim Bunting asked how the body cameras already in use by police departments in Pocomoke and Berlin impacted Heiser’s office.

“The needs of my office aren’t really dependent on if the body camera helps us win the case or not,” she said. “It’s simply the discovery process. We’re required and obligated by the rules of discovery to turn over all of those videos to defense counsel.”

Bunting also questioned the idea of using casino revenue for Heiser’s needs when the county was preparing to build another new school in the near future.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan entreated the commissioners to approve Heiser’s staffing request so that police in Ocean City could proceed with body cameras.

SEE NEXT PAGE

... Staffing Plan Addresses Body Camera Mandate

February 4, 2022

“If you look at what’s occurring across the country, and in other areas, and really, some of the incidents that occurred in Ocean City last summer, the obstacle we face is that the cameras are only facing one way,” he said. “They’re the cell phone cameras that are facing at the police officers. There are no cameras facing from the police officers out to the crowds.

And as you know throughout the country and in Ocean City that causes problems.”

He said Ocean City’s officers would be put in difficult positions this summer.

“These cameras will help deter some of those things from happening and they’ll also be able to record the other side of the story, which is so important today because right now in many cases there’s only one side being told,” he said.

Meehan said if Heiser’s staffing needs were met the resort could proceed with implementing body cameras by Memorial Day. “We think it’s extremely important that we can meet that deadline of this summer,” he said. “I think we’re all going to look back if we don’t and say I wish we would’ve. Because I think we’re going to be put in some difficult situations.”

He maintained that the resort wanted to do everything it could to address any issues, particularly since Ocean City’s population multiplied during the summer.

“We become Times Square during the summer and all fingers are pointed at Ocean City,” he said.

Bertino said he still wanted more information before making a decision.

“I’m asking that we delay a decision until our next meeting,” he said. “There are pieces to this puzzle that sitting here right now I don’t understand.”

Meehan said the window of opportunity was slipping by, as the resort needed to buy the cameras and train officers.

Bertino said the town could do that anyway.

“We want to make sure the state’s attorney’s office is beginning to transition so they can accommodate the requirements when it comes to court cases,” Meehan responded. “We want to be in sync. That’s been our goal from the very beginning.”

Commissioner Ted Elder said he too wanted more information but pointed out that Heiser had never asked for funding she didn’t need before.

Mitrecic said he didn’t see why allowing Heiser to begin recruiting was a problem, as it was unlikely she’d find staff immediately.

“I don’t think there’s going to be people busting down the door to get these jobs,” he said.

Bertino said he was grateful for Ocean City’s offer of office space for the attorneys and that he recognized the need.

“I recognize what the mayor’s saying and I wholeheartedly support what he’s saying but the information we have sitting here right now is not complete,” he said.

A motion from Commissioner Josh Nordstrom to allow Heiser to begin hiring passed with four votes of support. Bertino, Elder and Bunting abstained.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 17

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Stormwater Fee Increases Proposed For Berlin

Page 18

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

Town To Develop Formal Recommendation

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

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BERLIN – Elected officials are expected to continue discussions regarding proposed stormwater rate increases in the coming weeks.

Though a presentation last week called for raising both the commercial and residential stormwater fees in Berlin, council members made no decisions regarding changes. Mayor Zack Tyndall said he’d be working with staff to develop a formal recommendation for a way to improve the stormwater fund’s financial position.

“We really just can’t let this linger for too much longer,” he said. “I do want to make sure that on the 14th we can continue this discussion while it’s fresh in everyone’s minds.”

Darl Kolar of EA Engineering, Science, and Technology, the town’s stormwater consultant, reviewed the town’s stormwater fee structure with elected officials at last week’s council meeting. He reminded officials that the utility, when it was initially created in 2013, was funded both by the annual fees ($50 per residence and $25 per 2,100 square feet of impervious surface at commercial entities) as well as by support from the general fund. Between the two revenue sources, the fund had the finances necessary to apply for various grants.

Those grants allowed for projects such as the submerged gravel wetland on Graham Avenue.

When the subsidy from the general fund ceased a few years ago, however, the stormwater fund began to struggle financially.

“It’s closing its year in the negative with an operating loss…,” said Natalie Saleh, the town’s finance director. “Because of the overall financial health of the fund we cannot sustain it. The stormwater fund is a business fund. It should operate at a profit.”

Kolar said that while the town had completed various stormwater projects since the fund was created, there were still numerous improvements that needed to be made. As a result, he said an adjustment to the fee structure was needed to improve the financial capabilities of the fund. In 2019, the fund had an operating loss of $98,796. In 2020, it had an operating loss of $74,430. In 2021, there was an operating loss of $101,512.

Kolar proposed increasing the residential stormwater fee to $100 a year beginning April 1. He suggested increasing the commercial stormwater fee to $35 per ERU (equivalent residential unit—2,100 square feet of impervious surface). For residents,

the change would mean their monthly stormwater bill of $4.16 would double. The changes would generate nearly $120,000 in additional revenue for the stormwater fund.

Saleh said the additional revenue would cover the fund’s operating loss.

When it ends a year in the negative, that loss is covered by the general fund. Saleh said as long as that occurred the stormwater fund was just repeating the problems the town’s sewer fund had experienced in recent years.

Councilman Troy Purnell spoke in favor of raising the fees and pointed out that the fund needed to be in a positive position to seek grants or loans. Councilman Jay Knerr expressed concern about adjusting the fees, particularly since earlier in the meeting the council discussed implementing new water and wastewater fees.

“You’re hitting people hard and you want to do this right away,” he said. “I understand the need to right these funds and make them solvent but I think we should be doing this at the start of our next fiscal year, not immediately.”

Purnell said officials had been talking about these issues for some time. He added that even though he’d objected to the concept of a stormwater fee when it was proposed, he’d seen how the fees had enabled the town get millions in grants.

“There’s a lot of work that still needs to be done,” Purnell said. “I’d much rather get it out of a grant than the taxpayers.”

Councilman Dean Burrell said he thought the public should have a chance to weigh in on the proposed increases.

Tyndall said he didn’t like to ask citizens for more money but stressed that the professional opinions the town received—from its finance staff, its consultants and its auditing company—stated that enterprise funds needed to break even. Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood agreed.

“We’re going backwards with this fund,” he said.

Councilman Jack Orris questioned the money the stormwater fund already owed the general fund. Saleh said officials could consider repaying that slowly in a few years.

When Burrell again said he’d like to hear from the public regarding the increases, Tyndall said he’d work with Saleh and the town’s consultants to come up with a formal recommendation to present at the council’s Feb. 14 meeting.

“That way we have something to base the discussion on,” he said.

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

OPA Officials Hold Budget Public Hearing Council To Hold Hearing

Page 20

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – A review of the association’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2022-2023 highlighted a public hearing this week.

On Tuesday, Ocean Pines Association General Manager John Viola presented community members with the recommended fiscal year 2022-2023 budget.

The coming year’s spending plan – revised after a series of meetings with the association’s Budget & Finance Committee and Board of Directors – proposes total revenues of $16,408,684 and expenditures of the same.

“We went through everything and took their guidance into account,” Viola said.

“So today what we are going to do is present the budget to the association and answer any questions … along with our analysis and presentation.”

Viola acknowledged the association would have to account for insurance premiums, minimum wage increases and inflation in the coming year. Other challenges, he added, included “mark to market” adjustments for certain positions.

“Especially in this environment – regional and national, not just local – companies or homeowners associations or corporations have had trouble filling positions, especially in the salary range that we have …,” he explained. “We will need to pay to try and get the talent.”

Viola noted, however, that the associ-

ation continued to see improved amenity performance and revenue growth. As a result, officials propose using $450,000 in surplus to reduce assessments by $71.

The waterfront lot differential of $615 would not change.

“It’s taking what surplus we’ve realized … and utilizing that,” he said.

In total, Viola noted the association has recognized a $1.19 million surplus from the prior fiscal year. In addition to a one-time assessment reduction, he proposed using $350,000 in surplus to replenish the roads reserve fund and $60,000 in surplus for the association’s Tdocks project.

“The bottom line is that surplus will have a positive effect on your assessment this year,” he said, “and a positive effect on our reserves, as well as helping to pay for the T-docks.”

Viola added that the proposed budget also recommended price increases for the association’s amenities, including golf, aquatics, beach parking, racquet sports, and recreation and parks.

“Basically, across the board, in every amenity we have growth,” he said. “Now we are recommending price increases …

That has a decrease on the assessment.”

Tuesday’s public hearing also included a review of notable budget changes, including a $267,000 increase in wages and salaries and a $10,000 reduction in legal fees, among other things.

“Legal fees have been going up,” Viola said. “We did review it … and we believe

we can reduce it by $10,000 or reallocate it to the election and referendum expenses we believe will possibly increase this year.”

Viola also presented association members with the contribution schedule for the association’s general placement reserve fund.

“We’ve pushed back the irrigation system at least one year,” he added. “So that will help us to get into that favorability, along with the surpluses that we are generating this year.”

In a review of each department’s budget, Finance Director Steve Phillips pointed out that compensation changes and other requests had resulted in a $319,000 increase in the fire department’s budget.

“There’s about a $250,000 increase in compensation,” he said. “That’s the main driver there.”

He also highlighted a $50,000 increase in the police department budget.

“We have salary increases in there,” he said. “We also have the body camera contract. That’s something that’s on the horizon, and it’s built into the last four months of the year. It’s basically a lease agreement.”

Lastly, officials this week reviewed the association’s reserves and capital items, which includes $125,000 for renovations to the administration building.

A copy of the association’s proposed budget has been made available at oceanpines.org.

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February 4, 2022

On Proposed Pay Raises

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – The Wicomico County Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed bill increasing the salary for elected members of the legislative branch.

On Tuesday, the council voted to introduce a legislative bill that would increase salaries for Wicomico County Council members, commencing after the November 2022 election.

The proposal, first presented by the Compensation and Allowance Commission in December, would increase the council president’s annual salary from $18,000 to $25,000, the vice president’s annual salary from $17,000 to $23,000 and council members’ annual salaries from $16,000 to $21,000.

“In addition to the above compensation, each member shall receive allowances for traveling and any other necessary expenses they may incur in the exercise of their official duties,” council attorney Andy Mitchell said. “Such allowances for traveling and any other necessary expenses incurred by the members of the Wicomico County Council in the exercise of their official duties shall be provided for in the annual operating budget of Wicomico County.”

A motion this week to introduce the legislative bill passed 5-1, with Councilman Joe Holloway opposed and Councilman Larry Dodd abstaining. In January, both Holloway and Dodd stated their intentions to recuse themselves from voting on council salaries, as they had intentions to file for reelection.

“If I was to vote, I’d vote no on this matter because this isn’t a career,” Holloway said at the time. “It’s done more to help the community.”

The proposed legislative bill will now move to a public hearing, which will be held March 1 at 6 p.m. in the council chambers.

In December, members of the Compensation and Allowance Commission came before the Wicomico County Council with recommended pay increases not only for the county council, but for the county executive and the county sheriff as well.

Beginning in 2022, the commission recommended an annual salary of $124,000 for the county executive position (currently $85,000) and an annual salary of $121,000 for the county sheriff (currently $95,000).

Back on the agenda for discussion last month, council members agreed to move forward with proposed salary increases at the county council level, but to table discussions on proposed pay increases for the county executive and county sheriff until the results of a salary study could be reviewed.

“I think it may give us a better perspective, once we’ve seen the salary study for all the positions in Wicomico County,” Council President John Cannon said at the time. “Then we can make this determination.”

BEACON Study Targets Skate Park February 4, 2022

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A local nonprofit is now working with Salisbury University’s BEACON program to collect data related to a Berlin skate park.

We Heart Berlin, the nonprofit focused on expanding recreational opportunities in town, engaged with BEACON (Business Economic and Community Outreach Network) last week. BEACON will look at similar projects and develop costs and a timeline that will be used by We Heart Berlin as it explores skate park funding opportunities.

“This is step one,” said Tony Weeg, founder and president of We Heart Berlin.

Though We Heart Berlin organized the revitalization of the basketball courts at Henry Park last year and is working toward installing ping pong tables at Burbage Park this year, the nonprofit’s long-term goal has been and continues to be bringing a bike and skate park to Berlin. Weeg said the nonprofit’s board members spoke to representatives of BEACON and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore last week to talk about funding opportunities that could be available once the nonprofit has some data to present.

“It was very serendipitous that all this happened at the same time,” Weeg said.

BEACON, who the nonprofit has engaged with at a cost of a little more than

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

$7,700, will spend the coming weeks reviewing projects similar to the one Berlin is pursuing. The organization will review anticipated construction costs, develop a timeline, and consider expected usage and community impacts, as well as funding sources. Weeg said the work should be complete by April so We Heart Berlin can pursue funding through the invitation-only program administered by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.

“It’s amazing,” Weeg said of the opportunity to work with the Community Foundation to identify funding possibilities.

Weeg said that while BEACON would look at several potential locations, We Heart Berlin board members were hoping the skate park would be located at Henry Park. He said Heron Park was more of a passive use nature park while Stephen Decatur Park was for young children and tennis players. Henry Park, with its highway location and popular basketball courts, is already an active sports park and has a field that could accommodate skateboarding infrastructure.

“If we keep them all on brand it makes sense,” Weeg said of the town’s parks.

Weeg said We Heart Berlin members were excited about the momentum the skate park now has and are grateful for all of the community support the nonprofit has received.

“The dollars are appreciated and we’re spending them wisely,” Weeg said.

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OCEAN CITY – A local woman was arrested last weekend on suspicion of driving under the influence and hit-and-run after allegedly colliding with a state truck on Philadelphia Avenue and fleeing the scene.

Around 2:40 a.m. last Sunday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were dispatched to the area of 9th Street and Philadelphia Avenue for a reported hit-and-run incident. The officers met with the victim, who reportedly told police he was driving southbound on Philadelphia Avenue in a Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) truck when he observed a vehicle approaching his truck from the rear at a high rate of speed, according to police reports.

The victim told police he attempted to move out of the path of the vehicle, but the vehicle struck the passenger side door of his MDOT truck. The victim told officers the other driver, later identified as Kelsey Snyder, 27, of Ocean City, initially stopped, exited her vehicle and spoke to the victim, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told police Snyder asked him “Do I need to stay?” She then fled the scene in her vehicle and headed north on Baltimore Avenue. The victim was able to provide a description of the driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, along with a description of the vehicle. The victim told police Snyder’s vehicle should have front-end damage.

Other OCPD officers located a vehicle matching the description with front-end damage in the area of 36th Street and conducted a traffic stop. Officers identified the driver as Snyder, who exhibited signs of intoxication, according to police reports. Meanwhile, the victim was brought to the scene by a Maryland State Police trooper to identify Snyder as the driver who had allegedly struck his MDOT truck and fled the scene.

Based on the victim’s identification, Snyder was arrested at that point for hitand-run and other traffic violations. At the Public Safety Building, Snyder reportedly consented to a battery of field sobriety tests, which she did not pass to the officers’ satisfaction. She then reportedly agreed to a breath test, which returned a result of .22. Additional charges of driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence were added.

Arrest Made For December Assault OCEAN CITY – A Delaware man was located and arrested in Ocean City last Friday following an alleged assault on a female victim at an uptown condo in December.

Around 8:45 a.m. on December 16, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers responded to a residence at 103rd Street for a reported domestic assault

that had already occurred. The officers met with a female victim who reported she had been assaulted by her ex-boyfriend, identified as Matthew Moesle, 27, of Laurel, Del. Moesle had reportedly left after the assault and was no longer at the unit.

The victim reportedly told police she had moved to the unit recently to get away from Moesle. The victim and Moesle had been in a relationship and had a child together, according to police reports. The victim told police Moesle showed up at the unit around 12:30 a.m. on December 16 stating he had baby supplies, but when he arrived he did not have anything for the baby with him, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told police Moesle then passed out in a bedroom, and she let him sleep because she did not want to get into a fight with him. When the baby woke up in the morning, Moesle also woke up, according to police reports.

When the victim told Moesle he had to leave, he reportedly became angry and grabbed the victim by the front of her neck and attempted to push her into a wall.

The victim told police she was able to get away from Moesle and went to a bedroom to find her phone so she could call the police, according to police reports.

Moesle entered the room knowing she had called 911 and grabbed the phone and threw it against the wall, according to police reports. The victim reportedly told officers the couple fought over the phone and she ended up getting pushed to the floor.

Moesle left after the altercation and OCPD officers were not able to immediately locate him. Based on the victim’s statements, a warrant was sworn out for his arrest. He was located last Friday and was arrested and charged with seconddegree assault.

Sleeping In Vehicle Leads To Drug Bust OCEAN CITY – A Delaware woman was arrested on heroin and cocaine possession charges last weekend after resort police found her sleeping in a car in the parking lot of a downtown hotel.

Around 3:25 a.m. last Friday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were patrolling in the area of 21st Street when they observed a vehicle parked on the ground level of a hotel with its engine running and the lights on. The officers approached and observed the driver, later identified as Gudlaug Eichmann, 41, of Millsboro, laying in the front seat.

When the officers approached Eichmann, her eyes were droopy and she did not seem to be aware of their presence, according to police reports. An officer knocked on the vehicle’s door, but Eichmann did not respond. When the officers shined flashlights in the vehicle, Eichmann again did not respond. Finally, after SEE NEXT PAGE

February 4, 2022

... COPS & COURTS the officers knocked on the vehicle’s door again, Eichmann rolled down the window, according to police reports.

Eichmann reportedly told officers she was staying in the hotel, and when asked why she was lying in her vehicle, she told police she was not feeling well. She reportedly exhibited signs she was under the influence. A background check revealed she was wanted on an outstanding warrant from Charles County.

Ocean City Communications confirmed the warrant and Eichmann was arrested at that point. During a search of her person, officers located a folding razor blade with white powder residue on it. During a search of her wallet, OCPD officers located two wax fold containing suspected heroin, a plastic straw with white powder residue and a rolled up $20 bill with white powder residue.

In the vehicle, officers located two plastic vials containing suspected crack cocaine, another container of suspected cocaine and a glass smoking device, according to police reports. Based on Eichmann’s behavior and the amount of controlled dangerous substances located, OCPD officers contacted Ocean City EMS as a precaution, according to police reports. Eichmann was transported to Atlantic General Hospital. During transport, Eichmann admitted she had smoked cocaine. Once back at the Public Safety Building, Eichmann was interviewed and admitted being in possession of heroin and cocaine, according to police reports. She was charged with possession.

Probation For Parking Lot Assault OCEAN CITY – A Georgetown, Del., man arrested in December after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend in a midtown nightclub parking lot pleaded guilty last week to disorderly conduct and was placed on probation.

Around 2:05 a.m. on December 12, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to the area of 49th Street for a reported 911 call. Ocean City

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch Communications advised hearing a female saying “get off me” and a male saying “get out of my car” during the call. The OCPD officer responded to the parking lot and observed a female crying. The officer asked the female if she had placed the 911 call and she acknowledged that she had, according to police reports.

The female victim had a laceration on her lower lip. The victim told police she and her boyfriend, later identified as Keith Wicks, Sr., 58, of Georgetown, Del., had been arguing inside a nearby nightclub.

The victim said when the couple got to their vehicle, the argument turned physical with Wicks striking her in the face and causing the laceration to her lip.

The victim reportedly told police Wicks then drove off, running over her foot in the process.

Wicks reportedly called the victim while she was speaking with the police.

The officers heard Wicks ask on speaker phone if the victim was with the police, which led officers to believe he was still in the area and could likely see them speaking with the victim. An OCPD officer asked for the phone to speak with Wicks in order to have him come back to speak with them, or for them to go where he was.

Wicks reportedly told the officer over the phone he had been in an argument with the victim, but nothing more. He reportedly denied anything physical occurred and that he did not want any involvement with police before hanging up.

The victim provided police with a description of Wicks, what he was wearing at the time and that his Chevrolet Impala had Delaware tags that said “WICKY” on them, according to police reports.

An OCPD officers observed a male matching Wicks’ description about 100 feet from their location and walked toward him. At first, Wicks began to walk away at a fast pace, but eventually complied with the officers’ orders to stop and sit down on the curb, according to police reports.

Wicks reportedly told police the victim had been hitting him inside the nightclub and they left and went to the car.

Wicks reportedly told police the victim had struck and scratched him while in the car and he pushed the victim out of the vehicle in order to defend himself. Wicks did have a scratch on his ear, but contin-

ued to assert nothing physical had happened, according to police reports.

Wicks reportedly told police he was trying to drive away as the victim was attempting to smash his windshield. In the police reports, officers noted Wicks had been telling two inconsistent stories about the incident, during one of which he reported nothing physical had happened, and the other that included him being scratched by the victim as he was pushing her out of the vehicle.

Wicks continued to deny causing the victim’s bloodied lip, however. Based on the evidence and testimony, OCPD officer determined Wicks was the primary aggressor and he was arrested and charged with second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. Last week, Wicks pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and was placed on probation for one year.

Guilty Plea For Hotel Trespassing OCEAN CITY – A White Plains, Md., man arrested in November after allegedly punching his girlfriend and then refusing to leave the hotel property where the alleged incident occurred pleaded guilty to trespassing this week and was placed on probation.

Around 9:10 p.m. on November 10, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a hotel at 16th Street for a reported domestic assault that had already occurred. The officer met with a female victim in the hallway on the second floor, who informed the officer she had arrived that day in Ocean City with her fiancé, identified as Carl Jones, 43, of White Plains, Md. The victim told officers she was lying in bed when Jones struck her in the head with his fist, according to police reports.

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

Jones was ultimately arrested and charged with second-degree assault, disorderly conduct and trespassing. This week, he pleaded guilty to the latter and was placed on probation for one year.

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CIP Review Highlights Plans For New Pittsville Library

Page 24

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Discussions on capital funding for a new Pittsville library, water and sewer infrastructure and broadband highlighted a meeting with county leaders this week.

On Tuesday, Acting County Executive John Psota, Finance Director Pam Oland and members of the Wicomico County Council kickstarted a series of work sessions to discuss the proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal years 2023-2027.

“In short, the capital improvement plan embodies the long-range strategic vision for the county,” Psota explained. “To this end we are proposing projects that will maintain or enhance core services of education, public safety, roads and general government while supporting and pro-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

moting community, quality of life and economic development.”

The capital planning document, first presented to the community in November, includes more than $145 million in capital projects over the next five years.

Oland, however, noted that projects in the next fiscal year had the most focus.

“In fiscal year 2023, we are looking at $26.6 million worth of bonding projects, primarily at the board of education, Wor-Wic and the airport, $6.5 million in pay-go and almost $20 million of grantfunded projects,” she said.

As part of a yearly review, council members meet with county department heads to discuss proposed projects added to the CIP. And on Tuesday, officials met with Wicomico County Public Library Executive Director Seth Hershberger to discuss plans for a new Pittsville branch.

For 17 years, the library has existed in a 1,290-square-foot trailer. Officials noted the CIP proposes using $37,500 in fiscal year 2023 to examine the feasibility and develop a design for renovating another building in Pittsville, and $375,000 in fiscal year 2024 to move forward with improvements.

“It’s still in consideration as to what is the best location and best property for this …,” Oland said. “Right now, they are focusing on existing buildings, which would lead toward lease and the county having to fund the majority of the cost.”

Hershberger said the construction of a new library on an acquired piece of land would cost millions of dollars and would likely take years to complete. He noted, however, that the library’s current lease in Pittsville ended in two-and-a-half years.

“It’s our intention to get out of the dou-

February 4, 2022

ble-wide trailer that we’re leasing now on a little corner of school property by the time our current lease is up, which is in about two-and-a-half years,” he explained. “The plans here are broad enough that it could entail the possibility of leasing another building in the Pittsville area and renovating that.”

When asked about proposed locations, Hershberger said he had a few options in mind. However, he noted that any renovations on leased space would have to be funded by the county.

“That’s why there’s also not a subsidized amount from the state because we would need to own property for the state to fund a capital project,” he said. “So we would be relying on this council and the county entirely if we were going to lease a building and renovate.”

Councilman Joe Holloway, however, said he supported the idea, noting that residents on the east side of Wicomico had been waiting years for a new branch.

“I think a move toward renovating an existing property would be a good move,” he said.

Council members this week also met with Airport Manager Tony Rudy to discuss proposed projects at Salisbury Regional in the next five years. They also talked about the county’s plans to implement countywide water and sewer, which Councilman Bill McCain pointed out was missing from the CIP. “This is our five-year capital improvement plan,” he said. “We can’t borrow anything if it’s not in the CIP. I’m assuming we’ll be spending money in the next five years on implementation of our water and sewer plan. With that said, I’m looking for a number in our CIP.” Psota said he couldn’t add unidentified projects to the CIP. “We have to go through the permitting process and that’s the biggest objective at this time, in addition to changing the comprehensive water and sewer plan … ,” he replied. “That has to all happen for projects to align. Once we get an identified project, we have to line the funding up and find where the revenue sources are. As that progresses, it can be added to the CIP.” Councilman Josh Hastings also questioned if broadband projects would be added to the CIP. “Are we putting any capital money toward broadband expansion in the coming years?” he said.

“If so, where would that go?”

Psota said broadband projects would not be added until funding sources were identified. It should be noted that Wicomico has entered into a partnership with Talkie Communications, a Chestertownbased internet service provider, to secure state grant funding for broadband infrastructure projects.

“Should grant funding come down from the federal government or the state, that would be assessed at that time,” he said.

The council on Tuesday also voted unanimously to extend the adoption of the CIP from Feb. 15 to March 15, allowing the council more time to review the proposed capital budget and program.

New School Compost Program Sees Success

February 4, 2022

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Officials say a new composting program has enabled students at a local high school to divert more than 300 pounds of food waste.

Since September, a group of students at Stephen Decatur High School have been hard at work composting scraps from the school’s cafeteria kitchen. Teacher Mandi Wells says the program, made possible through partnerships with Go Green OC and the Surfrider Foundation, is the first of its kind for Worcester County Public Schools.

“I know we’re the first school in the county to compost at this level, and I think we’re the first school on the shore to compost at this level …,” she said. “I think it’s great to be groundbreaking on environmental issues around the area. Hopefully once this gets out, other schools will see it and will want to start doing it as well.”

At the beginning of the school year, Wells – an advisor for the school’s Surfrider Club – partnered with Go Green OC and founder Josh Chamberlain to introduce a composting program at Stephen Decatur. For the past four years, Go Green OC has partnered with The Hobbit Restaurant owner Garvey Heiderman to implement a composting program among Ocean City eateries.

“Mandi was encouraged by the way the city was accepting our program and moving into composting,” Chamberlain explained. “So she wanted to start the program at the high school.”

Utilizing micro bins from Go Green OC, and funds from the Surfrider Foundation to purchase equipment, students in Shannon Bone’s fifth-period science class took charge of the program by collecting, weighing and composting food scraps from the cafeteria.

“I think the biggest thing they’ve learned is teamwork because they had to share responsibilities …,” Bone said. “I think they also felt good about themselves by doing something good for the school and doing something good for the environment. They also liked being the founding class and having ownership of this program.”

To date, the school has collected more than 300 pounds of compost, which will be used on school grounds, Wells said.

Bone added that the initiative has also gained the attention of school staff, who have started bringing in their own compost material.

“They are learning how we can offset our carbon footprint and improve this program,” she said.

As many of the students managing the program are ninth and 10th graders, Bone added they will be able to oversee the program as it grows in the coming years. The composting initiative will also be used to help Stephen Decatur apply for its Maryland Green School certification.

“For them, it’s their hard work that’s allowing our school to take a leap toward that,” she said.

Now knowing that the program can be successful, Wells noted the goal is to expand the school’s efforts with the help of Surfrider Club members.

“Next year or the end of this year, we

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

might try setting out bins in the cafeteria for students who want to compost …,” she said. “We definitely want to move it to the actual cafeteria next year, but we have to work on promoting it the right way. That’s where I’m going to get my group involved.”

Chamberlain said Stephen Decatur’s composting program is an example of composting efforts that can be achieved at the school level. He added that proposed legislation moving through the Maryland General Assembly – House Bill 150 and Senate Bill 124 – could make such programs eligible for grant funding.

“We are encouraging our followers to send a letter to (Sen.) Mary Beth Carozza and encourage her to support that kind of legislation because it costs money to build these compost bins and maintain them,” he said. “Any money would be great, and we already have a bunch of schools reaching out to us wanting to do this.”

Page 25

Students at Stephen Decatur High School have composted more than 300 pounds of food waste through a new program. Above, from left, are Go Green OC founder Josh Chamberlain, The Hobbit Restaurant owner Garvey Heiderman and teacher Mandi Wells with the school’s new compost bin.

Submitted Photo

Page 26

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – The following represents a collection of press releases about local students.

•James Madison University’s Dean's list for the fall 2021 semester included Caroline Pasquariello of Berlin, who is majoring in marketing, and Corinne Krasner of Berlin, who is majoring in musical theatre.

•Laila Mirza of Berlin has earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with High Honors from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. She also made the Dean's List for the Fall 2021 semester at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

•Hannah Burke of Ocean City has been recognized for outstanding achievement by being named to the McDaniel College Fall 2021 Dean's List with High Honors.

•The following area students were awarded Dean's List honors for academic achievement during the fall 2021 semester at St. Mary's College of Maryland, the National Public Honors College. Earning a semester grade-point average of 3.5 or better on 12 or more graded credits were Katie Dennis of Ocean City and Erin Hurley of Berlin.

•Regan Bunting of Snow Hill was named to the Muhlenberg College Dean's List for the Fall 2021 semester.

•The following local students have earned degrees from University of Maryland Global Campus in fall 2021: Keri

February 4, 2022

ANNOUNCEMENTS Payne, Bachelor of Science, Social Science (Berlin); Emily Trimble, Bachelor of Science, Psychology (Berlin); and Owen Hanratty, Bachelor of Science, Business Administration (Selbyville).

•Gavin Hentschel of Berlin is among the more than 1,300 cadets and students recognized at The Citadel for their academic achievements during the fall.

•The following area students have been named to the University of Delaware Dean's List for the Fall 2021 semester: John Keller of Selbyville, Kennedy Butch of Selbyville, Michael Payan of Selbyville, Hunter King of Fenwick Island, Isabella Osias of Bethany Beach, George Ward of Bethany Beach, Yan Wu of Selbyville, Carly Collins of Bethany Beach, Emily Tharby of Selbyville, Brigid Morrissey of Selbyville, Jewel Yanek of Selbyville, Kelhan Bailey of Bethany Beach, Bailey Singer of Selbyville, Anna Grace Farnum of Selbyville, Bethany Pasmore of Bethany Beach, Ana Calles Zamora of Selbyville, Maria Ziethen of Selbyville, Madison Johnson of Selbyville, Claire Singer of Selbyville, Peyton Koch of Selbyville, Thomas Harris of Selbyville, Sydney Dovi of South Bethany, Logan Snapp of Selbyville, Erika Hallam of Selbyville, Jessica Janney of Ocean City, Fallon Vande Poele of South Bethany, Alexandra Gorsuch of Selbyville,

Alexandra Hall of Selbyville, Bethany Snapp of Selbyville and Zachary Lingenfelter of Selbyville.

•Tara Fischer was named to The University of Alabama Deans List for the fall semester 2021. A total of 11,979 students enrolled during the fall 2021 term at The University of Alabama made the dean's list with academic records of 3.5 or above.

•More than 1,920 students have been named to the Fall 2021 Dean's List at Kutztown University, including Page Athey of Selbyville.

•Alexander Jett of Ocean City qualified for the Fall 2021 Dean's List at Belmont University.

•Tanner Leonard, of Berlin, graduated from Hood College in January with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration.

•Erin Trask of Berlin was named to the College of the Holy Cross Fall 2021 Dean's List. A member of the Class of 2024, Trask is majoring in History/Spanish. Trask was among more than 1,375 students named to the Dean's List.

•Bucknell University has released the dean's list for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2021-22 academic year including Hebron’s Cheyenne Katz, 2022, Education.

•Chadwick Fischer, a Nichols College

student from Berlin, achieved Dean's List status for the fall 2021 semester at Nichols College, which ended in December.

•Nearly 2,500 undergraduate students at Coastal Carolina University were named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2021 semester including Katherine Mitchell, a Marine Science major of Berlin, and Lily Timmons, a Biology major of Ocean Pines.

•Nearly 1,000 students were named to the President's List at Coastal Carolina University for the Fall 2021 semester, including Sophia Edens, a English major from Berlin.

•Gabrielle Izzett of Berlin is one of 428 students at Shenandoah University who made the President's List for the Fall 2021 semester.

•Shenandoah University honored the 1,024 students who made the Fall 2021 Dean's List including Gabrielle Izzett of Berlin and Julianna Fohner of Ocean City.

•Grace Watson, a freshman Biblical Counseling major from Berlin, was among approximately 660 Bob Jones University students named to the Fall 2021 President's List.

•Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania congratulates the nearly than 2,300 students who were named to the Fall 2021 Dean's List including Emily Gottfried, from Berlin, a(n) PTE*Early Child(PK-4)/DHH major.

•Kai McGovern, Forestry major, has SEE NEXT PAGE

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February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE

BY COLLIN MACOMBER

SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – The last month of 2021 was filled with lots of new information – the new omicron variant of the coronavirus first hit U.S. shores, along with cautions that its level of vaccine resistance is best mitigated by a booster shot. That’s good news for the fully vaccinated.

As to be expected, the investment markets took a hit when omicron was first identified. While they tend to recover over time as we normalize, defend and find new ways to cope with the virus, it’s im-

... ANNOUNCEMENTS been named to the dean's list for the fall 2021 semester at the University of Vermont. McGovern from Berlin is in the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources.

•The following local students were named to the Dean's List for the fall term at University of Maryland Global Campus.

portant to remember that markets are most volatile during periods of uncertainty.

And not knowing when this pandemic will end is almost certainly going to rattle the investment markets throughout 2022.

However, December also demonstrated significant employment levels, including news of the highest level of labor participation (61.8%) since the lockdown of March 2020.

Moving forward, Morgan Stanley is not particularly sanguine about the investment markets, indicated Mike Wilson, chief U.S. equity strategist and chief investment officer. Between the ongoing

Recognized were Kathleen Arbin of Ocean City, Erin Bilenki of Berlin, John Dembeck of Ocean City, Rachel Dypsky of Ocean City, Jennifer Hardester of Ocean City, Allison Hunter of Berlin, Steven Lentz of Ocean City, Sibel Lorentz of Ocean City, Steven Pacobit of Ocean City, Keri Payne of Berlin, Megan Runyon of Berlin, Edith Sipos of Ocean City, Nina Tomaselli of Ocean Pines and Emily Trimble of Berlin.

cyclical downturn and the Federal Reserve’s recognition that rising inflation may not be transitory, the money manager recommends that investors take a defensive stance toward equities and consider sectors like health care and consumer staples.

The new year is a good time to take stock of your asset allocation. Rebalance allocations that have strayed from your target percentages and make sure that your strategy remains on track to meet your goals. If you’d like help conducting a New Year’s portfolio review, please contact us today.

Merrill’s Global Wealth & Investment Management Investment Strategy Committee maintains a level perspective when it comes to opportunities in 2022. The wealth manager believes that while valuations are likely to remain flat or drop somewhat, it sees profit growth and outperformance in stocks, particularly in the financials, industrials, energy and materials sectors, and has a long-term positive outlook for technology.

In December, the Federal Reserve an-

nounced it would aggressively cut back on bond purchases in the new year and anticipated the need for several interestrate increases during 2022. However, it’s worth noting that while rate increases are designed to dry up capital and put the brakes on inflation, it’s not necessarily a bad scenario for investors. In fact, over the past three decades, whenever the Fed embarked on a progressive rate hike, the S&P 500 increased, on average, 7.7% higher over the ensuing 12 months.

Note, however, that COLLIN MACOMBER past performance is not an indicator of future results and that the current economy is at least partially driven by forces not seen since the 1918 Spanish flu. We highly recommend you consult with your financial professional before making any portfolio moves relating to the current market environment.

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

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

People in Society Berlin Intermediate School Principal Ryan Cowder and Builder's Club Faculty Advisor Jane Slotter received $500 from Kiwanis Ocean Pines/Ocean City Club President Tim Lund and Builder's Club Advisor Doreen O'Connor.

by Jeanette Deskiewicz Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Knights of Columbus Bingo Chairman Tom Anderson and Grand Knight Tom Herwig welcomed Joann Manole, Executive Director of the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health to speak at their January Community Supper.

Mac & Cheesin it for a good cause was Believe in Tomorrow Prom Queen Candidate Courtney Blackford backed by her co-workers at The Residence Inn OC - Javar Jackson, Rachel Perkins, Rae Cannon and Carlie Bozman.

Providing music to taste by at the Mac & Cheese Cook Off for Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea were Sally McGee, Ryan Abbott, and Adam Bilenki of Rabbits Anonymous.

Salted Vines Winery General Manager Preston Russell thanked Kristina Malone for her participation in their Annual Crock Off to benefit Meals on Wheels Cheer Center.

Winetenders Jennifer Kidwell and Maria Just poured the sips to go with the savories at this year’s Salted Vines Vineyard and Winery Crock Pot Cook Off.

Welcoming tasters into the 2022 Crock Off Fundraiser for Meal on Wheels Cheer Center were Sandy Myers and Ann Garvey of Salted Vines Vineyard and Winery.

Believe in Tomorrow volunteers Jim Hamlin and Cindy Malament helped out with raffle ticket sales at the Mac & Cheese Cook Off.

Tia Tuvesson designed the sculpture which father Tuve Tuvesson of South Point created for the "My Favorite Things" art exhibit on display last month at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

Serving the monthly community supper with a smile were John Sharkey and John Hughes at the Knights of Columbus Hall on 99th Street.

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

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19 Big Screens To Watch All Your Sports Action • Keno Decatur’s Gavin Solito takes down an opponent during the Seahawks’ big win over Parkside last week.

Submitted Photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity wrestling team swept a pair of matches last week, beating Parkside, 51-9, in a big Bayside Conference match, then routing Easton, 83-0.

With the pair of wins, the Seahawks improved to 8-1 on the season, their only loss coming to Cape Henlopen back on January 8. Against Parkside, Emmanuel Valenzuela won at 195, Henry Brous won at 220, Michael Rayne won at 285 and Juan Hinojosa won at 106.

Aaron August won at 113, Liam Hugues won at 120 and Coby Drummond won at 132. Timothy Lyons won at 138, Gavin Solito won at 145, Evan Haworth won at 152, and Noah Reho won at 170.

Against Easton, Hinojosa, August and Hugues won by forfeit in the lower weight divisions. Reid Caimi won at 126, Drummond won at 132, Lyons won at 138 and Solito won at 145. Haworth won at 152, Parker Intrieri won at 160, Reho won at 170, Jack Quisguard won at 182, Alex Koulikov won at 195, Brous won at 220, and Rayne won at 285.

Decatur Solid In Bayside Track Meet

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity indoor track teams turned in solid performances at a Bayside Conference meet last week with the boys finishing third and the girls coming in fifth overall.

On the boys’ side, in the 55-meter dash, Jaden Holland was 18th and Evan Justice finished 27th. In the 300, Riley Calloway was 15th, Connor Herr was 16th and Ethan Cowder finished 25th.

Gavin Weeks finished 15th in the 500.

In the 800, Ethan Justice was first and Tristan Dutton finished second.

Dutton finished second in the 1,600, while Ethan Justice finished fourth. Brian Herbert finished 10th in the 3,200.

Owen Mielnik finished first in the pole vault and Xavier Arnold finished fourth

in the shot put.

On the girls’ side, Tiara McDonald was ninth in the 55-meter dash, while Miah Schwind was 12th and Summer Banks finished 18th. McDonald also finished third in the 300 and third in the 500. Also in the 500, Breanne Ferguson was 11th. Macy Woroniecki was seventh in the 800, while Carolina Novelli finished 12th and Rachel Plata was 16th.

In the 1,600, Amber Marshall finished sixth, while Clarice Piela was eighth and Chloe Resnick was 14th. Woroniecki was third in the 3,200, while Novelli was fourth. In the relays, the Decatur girls were seventh in the 4x200, fifth in the 4x400 and third in the 4x800. Rachel Peretz was fourth in the shot put, while Tanner Ellis was 11th and Sasha Mete was 15th.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The First State Detachment Marine Corps League this month donated $1,000 to Courtney Blackford’s prom queen campaign for Believe In Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea’s annual Prom Night fundraiser. Pictured from left to right are John Daddezio, Marty Kwesko, Courtney Blackford and Bob Broderick.

The Ocean City Lioness Lions presented a check to Relay for Life for their upcoming event. Left to right, are President Bev Topfer, Dawn Hodge representing Relay for Life and Vice President Donna Greenwood.

Painter Rebekah Simonds and poet Eric Roache teamed up for the Shared Visions exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, an annual collaboration between artists and writers. The show ran through Jan. 29.

At a recent meeting, Cindy Veist, executive director of Women Supporting Women, spoke about awareness and support for breast cancer survivors. Ocean City Lioness Lions Club President Bev Topfer, left, and Vice President Donna Greenwood, right, presented a donation to Veist for Women Supporting Women’s work in the community.

Photographer Joe Scukanec greeted visitors to his studio on the 2nd floor of the Ocean City Center for the Arts during January's art opening on Jan. 14.

Officers of Ocean City American Legion Post 166 are pictured presiding over the first meeting of 2022. Treasurer George Barstis, far right, announced that the organization donated $257,875 to local, regional and state charities, first responders, veterans groups, cultural and environmental organizations and college scholarships to students in 2021. Other officers at the table, left to right, are Chaplain Ben Dawson, First Vice Commander Pat Sharkey, Commander Tom Wengert, and Adjutant John Bussard.

A revolutionary mitral heart valve procedure was performed for the first time at TidalHealth. Nationwide, only about 600 Valve in Valve Trans-Catheter Mitral Valve Replacement (ViV TMVR) procedures are performed each year, making unique this option locally. Leading the clinical team at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in performing the first ViV TMVR were, in the front, Steven Hearne, MD, on the right, Stephen Wilson, PA-C and left, James Todd, MD.

February 4, 2022

Company Promotions Announced WILLARDS – Deeley Insurance Group, an independently-owned insurance agency, is excited to announce the promotions of Cindy Hall to Executive Vice President and Matt Jones to Vice President of Sales.

Cindy Hall joined Deeley Insurance Group in 2016, and was promoted to VP of Sales in 2017. She has more than 25 years of leadership experience with Fortune 500 companies within the food services and CINDY HALL hospitality industries.

“Cindy’s secret weapon is her relentless positivity,” agency President Laura Deeley Bren notes. “People just enjoy talking with her, even about insurance!

Her optimistic energy supports our whole team and drives us to succeed.”

Hall has an education degree, which supports her desire to continuously learn, promote team building and help individuals achieve their goals.

Matt Jones joined Deeley in 2019 as Personal Lines Manager and was promoted to Sales Manager in March of 2020, expanding his support to Commercial Lines, on-site Claims specialists and all Client MATT JONES Advisors.

“Matt’s depth of knowledge is an amazing asset,” reflects Bren. “His calm demeanor and the peace of mind he brings our clients embodies our promise to help them Be Sure.”

Before joining Deeley, Jones worked for 10 years in personal lines insurance and financial services.

Commercial Property Purchased WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Brandon Heaver, Advisor with SVN Miller represented a local buyer in the purchase of Big Lots located in Williamsburg, VA. Big Lots, along with The Home Depot, is currently an anchor to Victory Village, a 175,000 SF shopping center located on Mooretown Road.

Heaver represented the Salisburyarea private equity partnership in their search for a qualifying 1031-exchange property. His search encompassed investment opportunities throughout the eastern and midwestern United States.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Local Mechanic Recognized

Transportation. And last, Danzi’s colleagues presented him with “The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award” in recognition of “50 years of exemplary aviation maintenance experience, distinguished professionalism and steadfast commitment to aviation safety”.

The letters of recommendation written in October 2021 by local aviators and mechanics (Hunter H. Harris, Mathew Sager, Paul E. Nuwer II, and Larry D. Kelley) all echo Danzi’s long standing, high level of aviation maintenance, trustworthy expertise, and steadfast dedication to aircraft safety, as well as his respect in the aviation community, which is a very tight knit group here on Delmarva.

Normally, the FAA would arrange for a public presentation, at a suitable FAA or industry function. An appropriate FAA representative would present the award to Danzi in formal recognition of his achievement. However, because of COVID, that could not take place. Nor could the local hangar/aviation club host even a semi-formal event for many months, also due to COVID, especially here in Delaware. So instead, Robert Danzi’s aviation colleagues held their own private event, in respect for their friend, 1/17/22, which they will all remember forever.

Now that the presentation is over and recorded, the FAA will post the name of Robert O. Danzi, Selbyville Delaware, January 2022 Master Mechanic Award, to the electronic Roll of Honor.

GEORGETOWN, Del. – On Monday January 17 Mr. Robert Orin Danzi was presented “The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award” from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The brief, private event took place at Danzi’s current business office/hangar at Sussex Aero Maintenance on the Delaware Coastal Airport, Georgetown, Delaware. Fellow aviators and mechanics surprised Danzi when they arrived early in the afternoon. They returned his Biography/Resume and gave him their letters of recommendation, which were part of the nominating application submitted last October. Then, from the FAA they presented him a “Certificate of True Copy,” a complete airman file on him, beginning December 1969 (just 2.5 years after his high school graduation) ending October 10, 2021. This is a “Blue Ribbon” package of research documents, detailing over 50 years of Danzi’s steady employment, completed and sealed by the Airmen Certification Branch of the Federal Aviation Administration, Department of

NEW CASTLE, Del. – Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore recently received a grant from Capital One to support financial empowerment of people with disabilities. The grant will support a financial education program that will benefit participants in Easterseals day programs for adults with physical and intellectual disabilities.

The program is hosted virtually so all program participants and Capital One employee volunteers, who host the program, are able to participate in this interactive and fun class that supports the fundamentals of financial empowerment.

“Easterseals depends on the support from our local community to continue to provide inclusive, quality and engaging programs,” Ken Sklenar, Easterseals President/CEO, said. “We are grateful for Capital One’s commitment to supporting our mission so that people with disabilities and seniors can live, learn, work and play in our communities.”

BUSINESS And Real Estate News “Brandon made the comprehensive search for qualified properties, negotiation and settlement process seamless and straightforward on this complex, twopart deal. From early-stage financial analysis, through the scheduling of inspections and fielding questions throughout, Brandon consistently went above and beyond to make sure all the elements of these deals came together,” said the buyer.

Big Lots’ most recent quarterly earnings report showed that net sales increased 8.1%, sales in the company’s e-commerce and omni-channel platforms increased more than 130% year over year, and gross profit jumped 8.1% year over year. With just under 10 years remaining on the lease, and scheduled annual increases, the investment proved to be financially beneficial. The deal settled on November 23, 2021.

State Commission Appointment SALISBURY – Kathryn M. Fiddler, DNP, MBA, RN, Vice President of Population Health at TidalHealth, was recently appointed by Governor Larry Hogan to serve on the Maryland Commission for Women.

The Commission for Women is a 25member board established by state law and charged with the responsibility to study the status of women in our state; recommend methods of overcoming discrimination; recognize women's accomplishments and contributions; provide informed advice to the executive and legislative branches of government KATHRYN FIDDLER and direct attention to critical problems confronting women.

Commissioners are appointed by the Governor with the consent of the State Senate and serve four-terms without compensation.

Dr. Fiddler joined TidalHealth in 2016, and is responsible for leading its Popula-

Page 31

tion Health efforts health system and in the community.

She provides leadership for Patient Care Management teams at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and TidalHealth Nanticoke and Care Coordination for the Peninsula Regional Clinically Integrated Network. She also has responsibility for the Richard A. Henson Research Institute, School Based Wellness Clinics, Alice B. Tawes Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Assisted Living, as well as collaborative community efforts including the Salisbury Wicomico Integrated First Care Team (SWIFT) community paramedic program, the Wagner Wellness Van and partnership with the Living Well Center of Excellence.

Dr. Fiddler holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, a Master’s of Science and Bachelor’s in Nursing degree, both from Salisbury University and an MBA from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Financial Education Grant

Page 32

Who’s Where When COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Tuesdays: Trivia CORK BAR Saturday, Feb. 5: DJ Wax Sunday, Feb. 6: Mercury Agenda

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Best Beats

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Feb. 4

On The Beach BEATS BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays & Thursdays Cork Bar: Saturday, Feb. 5

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Feb. 4: Opposite Directions Tuesday, Feb. 8: Taylor Knox Wednesday, Feb. 9: Jack Bannon CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St. Downtown O.C. Friday, Feb. 4: The Bills Saturday, Feb. 5: Quartermen Duo, Deviation By Design Sunday, Feb. 6: Karaoke with Jeremy

February 4, 2022

Pickles Pub: Mondays Karaoke with Wood

FIRST CLASS Ocean Club/Clarion: Friday & Saturday, Feb. 4 & 5 DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Feb. 5

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Feb. 4: DJ Robcee Saturday, Feb. 5: DJ Groove HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T Saturday, Feb. 5: Side Project, DJ Jeremy Sunday, Feb. 6: Opposite Directions Thursdays: DJ Billy T

TAYLOR KNOX Crabcake Factory Bayside: Tuesday, Feb. 8

THE DUNEHOUNDS Pickles Pub: Saturday, Feb. 5

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Fridays, Sundays, Wednesdays

OCEAN CLUB 410-524-3535 10100 Coastal Hwy. In The Clarion Hotel Friday & Saturday, Feb. 4 & 5: First Class PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By Styler Saturday, Feb. 5: 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, Feb. 4: Abby Lee Duo, DJ Cruz Saturday, Feb. 5: High Five Swan Dive Trio, Element K DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz Thursday, Feb. 10: Full Circle Duo, DJ Cruz

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Friday, Sundays, Thursdays

DEVIATION BY DESIGN Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Feb. 5

DJ JEREMY Harborside: Saturday, Feb. 5 Crawl Street: Sundays

BLAKE HALEY Greene Turtle West: Tuesdays

HIGH FIVE SWAN DIVE TRIO Seacrets: Saturday, Feb. 5

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Feb. 4 Harborside: Sunday, Feb. 6

DJ CRUZ Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, Feb. 4 & 5

February 4, 2022

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.

Feb. 5: Drive-Thru Fried Chicken From 11 a.m. until, Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in Willards will offer for $14 each. Dinner includes four pieces fried chicken (breast, wing, thigh and leg), string beans, mashed potatoes, gravy, cole slaw, applesauce, roll and cupcake. Please stay in your car and use east driveway. 410-835-8340.

Feb 8: The Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association Meeting The Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association is having its next meeting on Tuesday February 8th. The meeting is held at the American Legion of Berlin, Post 123 on Old Ocean City Blvd. Meeting officially starts at 7:30 p.m. Show up early to get a seat, meet and mingle with new friends, have a beverage or bite to eat.

This month’s guest speakers are from the U.S. Coast Guard, stationed in Ocean City. They will be speaking on new regulations, navigation, safety issues and answering questions. Guest are welcome to attend. For any questions contact ACSA President Ron Smith, at: smitty3894@aol.com.

Feb.10: Job Fair Worcester County Government invites

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 33

Things To Do

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.

those seeking rewarding career opportunities to attend the WCG Job Fair, from noon-3 p.m. The job fair is being hosted on the 3rd floor of the Worcester County Government Center in Snow Hill. For a complete list of WCG job opportunities, visit https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.md.us/

Feb. 10, 17: Audition Prep The Ocean Pines Players announces Pre-Audition Prep Class for the May production of “The Big Bad Musical.”

The free class is designed to review the music and concept of the musical. This class will be offered twice, from 6-7 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Community Center.

The purpose is to encourage the youth in the community to participate in live theater.

Feb. 11: Valentines Sip ‘n Shop 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Includes welcome champagne, appetizers, local vendors, entertainment, and door prizes. $10 donation at the door will benefit American Legion Auxiliary Unit 166 programs. Held at American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, OC. Email enock@nockinsurance.com for more information.

Feb. 12: Valentine Dinner Sons of the American Legion Post 166 23rd Street and Philadelphia Avenue to host, including N.Y. Strip steak and shrimp dinner, baked potato, vegetable, dessert and complimentary drink. Cost $20 per person. Tickets available at the Post or call 410-289-3166.

Feb. 12: AGH Pfizer Clinic From 9 a.m.-noon at the Barrett Medical Building, 10231 Old Ocean City Boulevard, Berlin. This clinic is available to those ages 5 and older. Register at www.agh.care/vaccine.

Feb 15: Legion Meeting

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 166 will meet at 6 p.m. for social hour with meeting at 7 p.m. at American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 23rd Street, Ocean City. If you have a family member that is a veteran or active military, join the mission to support veterans, active military, and their families. Current members and those interested in becoming a member are encouraged to attend.

Feb. 18: Oyster Fritter Sandwiches From 2 p.m. till at the American Legion Post 123, 10111 Old Ocean City Blvd.

Public is welcome. Cost $9.

Feb. 18: Spaghetti Dinner Berlin Fire Company will hold carryout dinner 4:30-7 p.m. featuring spaghetti with meat sauce, salad and garlic toast for $12.

Feb. 18-19: Chess Tournaments Show off your skills and compete against other chess players during the annual Adult & Youth Chess Tournaments at the Wicomico Civic Center.

The youth tournament, for ages 5-18, kicks off at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 18.

Players are guaranteed four matches and can register in advance for $7, or day-of for $12.

The adult tournament, for participants 18 and older, begins at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8. Registration is $20 in advance or $25 at the door and players are guaranteed three matches. Rated youth players are welcome in the adult tournament.

Awards will be given to first, second and third place winners of each division.

Players are also encouraged to bring their own chess sets and clocks.

Register online at www.WicomicoRecandParks.org.

Feb. 18-20: Boat Show Sponsored by the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, the 39th annual event will

Things To Do activities are printed free of charge. To ensure that an event is listed in a timely manner, please submit information as early as possible, since all items will be listed in advance as space permits. Be sure to include the date, name of event, time, location, address and a contact number.

Email to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com; fax to 410-641-0966; or mail to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Feb. 19: Fried Chicken Dinner Drive-thru pickup only from 11 a.m.-until at New Hope United Methodist Chuch in Willards. Menu includes mashed potatoes, greens, string beans, roll and dessert. 410-543-8244.

Feb. 19: Virtual Dr. Walk Check out Atlantic General Hospital’s Facebook page at 9 a.m. where there will be a short presentation from a provider. You can then walk your favorite route and share selfies online using #walkedwithagh. tsimmons@atlanticgeneral.org.

Feb. 22-23: Auditions The Ocean Pines Players announces Youth Auditions for the May production of “The Big Bad Musical” at the Ocean Pines Community Center located at 235 Ocean Pkwy. With no experience necessary, these auditions are open to ages 8-17 and designed to be safe, casual, and fun. A cast of 18 is necessary. For more information and the audition form, please go to: http://sites.google.com/view/oceanpinesplayers or email Director, Frank Pasqualino BigBadMusicalOPP@google.com.

Feb. 23: Grief Support Group From 5:30-7p.m. in Atlantic General Hospital’s Conference Room 1, the goal of the support group is to provide hope for the future at a difficult time. Gail Mansell, 410-641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org.

Feb. 26: Spa Day This popular event returns to the Community Center with a Mardi Gras-style twist! Kids can enjoy an hour of pampering including nail painting, hair styling, a Mardi Gras craft, and snacks on Saturday, Feb. 26. Appointments are available from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Pre-registration is required. Call 410-641-7052.

March 3-6: OC Film Festival In partnership with the Art League of OC, this festival features films by local and international filmmakers of every background and genre. Screenings at multiple venues around OC. ocmdfilmfestival.com.

Page 34

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week:

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Some icicles are pictured above Saturday night hanging off the Sportland sign on the Boardwalk. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Temper that Aries impatience. Demanding answers or results before they're ready to be revealed could create more delays. Take time out for fun with family or friends.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Someone involved in your latest venture makes new demands that you find disturbing. While you dislike being a quitter, it might be best to drop this project and move on.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): A decision could involve more serious implications than you first thought.

Get more information and seek the counsel of trusted friends before you sign or say anything.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): It's a good time to reconsider some of your plans, especially those involving major investments of money and/or time. Expect to hear from someone in your past.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Love continues to dominate for both single and paired Lions. In the workplace, deal with a co-worker's thoughtless comments before they cause problems later on.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): You might be angry enough to end a friendship because of something you were told. But consider the source of the gossip before you act.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Your

career move seems to be stalled. Request a meeting to discuss the situation. It will be a learning experience for everyone involved.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): That important relationship is about to move to a new level. Continue to be patient, and resist pushing it even further. It still needs time to blossom.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Paired Sagittarians do very well at this time. However, some challenges loom for single Archers who are considering stronger romantic commitments.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Be patient. A misunderstanding is close to being completely resolved, as new facts emerge that will help change those stubborn minds.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): A change in a personal relationship reveals some long-hidden truths. Your challenge now is to use this new information wisely for all concerned.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Draw on your deep reserves of good Piscean common sense to avoid taking the lure from someone who thinks he or she can get the best of you.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a remarkable ability to make friends with strangers. This allows you to command an army of devoted admirers. (c) 2022 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

Berlin Liquor Store

Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

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

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 46

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

OCEAN CITY

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 36

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Avoiding weekends at ski resorts

vanishing

February 4, 2022

WITH BUNK MANN

Getting hooked on a new show

A snow-covered Main Street in Berlin Views from atop a mountain The Bengals’ playoff run

Lunar New Year celebrations Good road trip kids

Stocked grocery store shelves When volunteering is fun A crowd of kids sledding

All the close playoff games this year

Shortly after the completion of the beach replenishment program, a fierce Nor’easter struck Ocean City on Jan. 4, 1992. It produced the second highest water level in the town’s history, topped only by that of the March Storm of 1962.

Severe flooding took place in the downtown area and erosion was widespread along the beachfront. Fortunately, no buildings were lost because the new seawall had protected the Boardwalk and the dune line north of 27th Street had done its job. It was said that the threeyear long beach replenishment program had paid for itself in just three days.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanPhoto courtesy the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum ishingoc.com.

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 37

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

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

443-754-1047.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– PART TIME COMPANION: Needed for active elderly woman, Berlin area. 2 days per week, 3 hours a day. Assist with light household chores and driving.

Email: JRudy44@icloud.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––

CARPENTERS & CARPENTERS HELPERS

Call 410-641-9530

Sealevel LLC Is Now Hiring!

Is Currently Recruiting For Full-Time GROUNDS WORKERS

16+ year experienced underground excavation company in search of skilled laborers for installation of underground utility work.

Experience preferred but willing to train.

Requirements: strong work ethic, positive attitude.

Position is full time, year round 40+ hours/week, overtime provided. Pay rate based on experience.

Call 443-497-4216 to schedule interview.

Will perform landscaping and property maintenance, assist with minor carpentry and painting, operate hand and power tools. High School Degree/GED required.

Valid driver’s license and driving record less than 4 points (MD). Excellent benefits, including paid time off and retirement. $32,947 Annually/$15.84 Hourly.

Apply online: OR CONTACT HUMAN RESOURCES: 410-632-0090

Tools, Transportation, Driver’s License PATTERSON & SONS BUILDERS

Worcester County Government

https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.md.us/

Must have:

Exp. Required!

TEQUILA MOCKINGIRD NORTH: 129th Street. Hiring year round server must be flexible with hours.

Hiring year round bus person.

Email jenvank@yahoo.com for application and to set up interviews.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– DENTAL ASSISTANT: Small family dental practice seeking a Dental Assistant. Must be x-ray certified.

Please send a resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

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

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER FLOATER

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

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

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

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker/Floater position available for our North Ocean City and Millsboro locations.

Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please email resume to kelly.drexel@fbwbank.com or call Kelly at 410-250-1512 Application cut off is 2-14-2022 “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 ~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

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 2-14-2022 “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

Worcester County Government Is Currently Recruiting For CORRECTIONAL OFFICER TRAINEES Responsible for supervising inmate population to ensure security, custody and public safety for the Worcester County Jail. $45,240 Annually. Must be 21 years of age, possess High School Degree, valid Driver’s license with less than 4 points (MD). Must successfully pass pre-employment testing to include: background check, drug and alcohol testing, physical, fitness testing, and psychological testing. Excellent benefits, including paid time off and retirement.

Apply online: https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.md.us/

OR CONTACT HUMAN RESOURCES: 410-632-0090

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

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

Worcester County Government Is Currently Recruiting For An ACCOUNTANT Responsible for general accounting and administrative duties. Assists in all phases of accounting and financial reporting. Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or related field with 2 years or equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible accounting and fiscal experience preferably in a government setting. Excellent benefits, including paid time off and retirement. $49,878-$55,016

Apply online: https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.md.us/

OR CONTACT HUMAN RESOURCES: 410-632-0090

HELP WANTED EXTERIOR PAINTERS & CAULKERS

TOP PAY!!!

PLEASE CALL 443-614-0234 REAL ESTATE FOR SALE BY OWNER: Huge spacious double wide with outside building in nice park in West OC. Excellent condition. Fully furnished. All real wood furniture. All appliances, etc., etc. Call for more details and appointment to see.

443-523-7878.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

RENTALS

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

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

COMMERCIAL

410-289-8581

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 Now 410-977-7254

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

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

Third Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19030 To all persons interested in the estate of THOMAS MICHALOWICZ, ESTATE NO. 19030. Notice is given that KARIN ANNE EDDY, 1156 RINCON DEL MUNDO, ESCONDIDO, CA 92029, was on, JANUARY 12, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of THOMAS MICHALOWICZ, who died on DECEMBER 21, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12TH day of JULY, 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 JANUARY 21, 2022 KARIN ANNE EDDY 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 01-21, 01-28, 02-04

Second Insertion WIDDOWSON AND DASHIELL, P.A. 312 W. MAIN STREET, SUITE A-SOUTH SALISBURY, MD 21801 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-FM-21-000029 IN THE MATTER OF DIANE MILLS PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN OF PERSON AND PROPERTY OF ALLEGED DISABLED PERSON NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN A petition has been filed seeking the appointment of a guardian of the person of DIANE MILLS, who is alleged disabled person.

If you are related to or otherwise concerned with the welfare of the alleged disabled person, you may obtain further information from the court at 1. W. Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863.

Any response must be received by the court no later than 30 days after the date of issue of this notice. Date of Notice: January 21, 2022.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 28, 2022 MARY M. KENT JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MD TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

Second Insertion JOHN F. ROBBERT ESQ. 29H ATLANTIC AVENUE OCEAN VIEW, DE 19970 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19029 To all persons interested in the estate of ELIZABETH S. KANGAS AKA: ELIZABETH SLEDZ KANGAS, ESTATE NO. 19029. Notice is given that ANN T KANGAS, 113 ELIZABETH WAY, BETHANY BEACH, DE 19930, was on, JANUARY 20, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ELIZABETH S. KANGAS, who died on NOVEMBER 21, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20TH day of JULY, 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 JANUARY 28, 2022 ANN T KANGAS 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 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 Second Insertion PROCINO-WELLS & WOODLAND, LLC MICHELE PROCINOWELLS, ESQUIRE 225 HIGH STREET SEAFORD, DE 19973 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19042 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS COURT of SUSSEX COUNTY, DE, appointed BARBARA MCGUIRE, 111 CRAZY HORSE TRAIL, MILLSBORO, DE 19966 as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of ELLEN E GALIFARO, who died on JUNE 11, 2021, domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is SHERRI HOLDER, whose address is 6861 AMERICAN CORNER ROAD, DENTON, MD 21629.

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 JANUARY 28, 2022 BARBARA MCGUIRE 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 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

Second Insertion B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET PO BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19043 To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN WILLIAM SHIPE, ESTATE NO. 19043.

Notice is given that CRYSTAL HIRSCH, 602 LANCASTER COURT, SALISBURY, MD 21804, was on, JANUARY 18, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN WILLIAM SHIPE, who died on NOVEMBER 23, 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 18TH day of JULY, 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 JANUARY 28, 2022 CRYSTAL HIRSCH 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 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

Second Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19044 To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM T COLEMAN JR, ESTATE NO. 19044. Notice is given that HEATHER FERGUSON, 181 JOE MELTZ ROAD, WARWICK, MD 21912, was on, JANUARY 19, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM T COLEMAN JR, who died on NOVEMBER 21, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19TH day of JULY, 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

February 4, 2022

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TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 28, 2022 HEATHER FERGUSON 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 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

Second Insertion JAMES A. LIST, ESQ. THE LAW OFFICE OF JAMES A. LIST 5700 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 100 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19045 To all persons interested in the estate of DELLA ANN TRUITT, ESTATE NO. 19045.

Notice is given that STEPHANIE TRUITT-DRIMAL, 10135 BEAVERDAM CREEK ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on, JANUARY 19, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DELLA ANN TRUITT, who died on JANUARY 13, 2022, 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 19TH day of JULY, 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 JANUARY 28, 2022 STEPHANIE TRUITTDRIMAL 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 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

Second Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, TRUSTEE PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000176 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843-3307 Plaintiff v.

TIMESHARE REDEMPTION, LLC., ET AL. Defendants NOTICE ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, this 21st day of January, 2022, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 21st day of February, 2022, pro-

vided a copy of this Order be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 14th day of February, 2022.

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share interval: TIMESHARES SOLD:

Condominium Unit 303 Time Interval 22 Price $1250.00 Purchaser David DeVito Condominium Unit 303 Time Interval 30 Price $4500.00 Purchaser LJCH Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

303 38 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

303 39 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

303 40 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

303 42 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval

303 43

Second Insertion AYRIKA FLETCHER, TRUSTEE PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000180 BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC. P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843-3307 Plaintiff v.

STEVEN C. PHOEBUS, ET AL. Defendants

Page 39 NOTICE ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, this 25th day of January, 2022, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 21st day of February, 2022, provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 14th day of February, 2022.

Time Interval Price Purchaser

36 $60.00 LJCH

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 37 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 39 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 42 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 45 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 46 $50.00 BC

TIMESHARES SOLD: BC=Bay Club Time Share Owners Associates, Inc. LJCH=Lemonjuice Capital Holdings, LLC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 47 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 12 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 49 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 39 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 50 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 40 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 51 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 42 $50.00 BC

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 28, 2022

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 49 $50.00 BC

TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 01-28, 02-04, 02-11

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 50 $50.00 BC

First Insertion

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

304 52 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 3 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 4 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 10 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 11 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 16 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit Time Interval Price Purchaser

305 17 $50.00 BC

Condominium Unit

305

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share interval:

W. HANK FISHER III, ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES, P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-22-000020 DELORES O. ADKINS 2716 BYRD ROAD POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 Plaintiff vs.

DANIEL G. GUNBY JR. 2711 ELLICOTT DRIVE BALTIMORE, MD 21216 AND ROBERTA COTTMAN 711 WESTOVER CIRCLE SALISBURY, MD 21801 AND WORCESTER COUNTY ATTN: PHIL THOMPSON,

Page 40

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 COLLECTOR OF TAXES 1 W. MARKET STREET, ROOM 1105 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND ALL PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER COUNTY, MD DESCRIBED AS: 84’ X 336’, JENKINS ORCHARD NR S SIDE BYRD RD, TAX ACCOUNT NO. 01-004654 Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: ACCOUNT NO. 01-004654, PROPERTY DESCRIPTION 84’ X 336’, JENKINS ORCHARD NR S SIDE BYRD RD, DEED REFERENCE: 0028/0439, ASSESSED TO DANIEL GUNBY AND MARY E. GUNBY, BUT CURRENTLY OWNED BY DANIEL G. GUNBY JR. AND ROBERTA COTTMAN. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is thereupon this 26TH of January, 2022 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 28th day of March, 2022, and redeem the property described above 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 title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 04, 2022

BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 02-04, 02-11, 02-18

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19034 To all persons interested in the estate of BONNIE LEE HAMPE, ESTATE NO. 19034.

Notice is given that KATHERINE LYNN MCCLOSKEY, 87 NOTTINGHAM LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on JANUARY 13, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of BONNIE LEE HAMPE who died on NOVEMBER 8, 2021 with a will.

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

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any

extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 04, 2022 KATHERINE LYNN MCCLOSKEY Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 02-04

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19038 To all persons interested in the estate of MICHAEL ROBERT DELOVICH, ESTATE NO. 19038. Notice is given that MICHELLE DELOVICK FINNERTY, 1102 MILL CREEK ROAD, FALLSTON, MD 21047, was on JANUARY 24, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of MICHAEL ROBERT DELOVICH who died on OCTOBER 5, 2021 without a will.

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

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails

or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 04, 2022 MICHELLE DELOVICK FINNERTY Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 02-04

First Insertion RUSS ROBINSON, III 152 W. WASHINGTON ST. HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-22-000021 KELVIN P. SMITH Plaintiff vs.

JUDY SPENCER AND MARTESHA M. SPENCER AND CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION AND MARINER FINANCE, LLC AND ANY AND ALL KNOWN OR UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JUDY SPENCER OR MARTESHA M. SPENCER OR ANY PERSON WHO MAY CLAIM THROUGH JUDY SPENCER OR MARTESHA M. SPENCER AND WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND (for Maryland Annotated Code 14-836(b)(1)(v) purposes only) SERVE: ROSCOE LESLIE, COUNTY ATTORNEY ONE W. MARKET STREET, ROOM 1103 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND ALL PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY IN ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 3, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND, DESCRIBED AS 1 1/2 ACRES NEAR

February 4, 2022 SOUTH SIDE FLOWER STREET NEAR PITTS BRIDGE, AND ASSESSED IN ACCOUNT NO. 03-014649 TO JUDY SPENCER AND MARTESHA M. SPENCER. Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the following property in Worcester County, State of Maryland, sold by the Finance Officer of Worcester County, State of Maryland, to the Plaintiff, Kelvin P. Smith, the parcel of land as described as follows: ALL THAT PROPERTY IN ELECTION DISTRICT NO. 3, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND, DESCRIBED AS 1 1/2 ACRES NEAR SOUTH SIDE FLOWER STREET NEAR PITTS BRIDGE, AND ASSESSED IN ACCOUNT NO. 03-014649 TO JUDY SPENCER AND MARTESHA M. SPENCER AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN THE DEED RECORDED AMONG THE LAND RECORDS OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN LIBER 5438 FOLIO 188.

More than six (6) months have passed since the date of the sale and the property has not been redeemed by any party in interest.

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

The sale date was on May 21, 2021, and more than six (6) months have passed since that date.

It is thereupon this 28TH of January, 2022 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in one newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three consecutive weeks, on or before the 2nd day of April, 2022, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 2nd day of April, 2022, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter the final judgement will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff to said property of fee simple title, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 04, 2022 BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 02-04, 02-11, 02-18

First Insertion ARLETTE K BRIGHT ESQ THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B SALISBURY, MD 21804 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19056 To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTINA E. WALK, ESTATE NO. 19056.

Notice is given that NICOLE L. GROFT, 31784 SCHOONER DRIVE, MILLSBORO, DE 19966, was on FEBRUARY 01, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of CHRISTINE E. WALK who died on DECEMBER 14, 2021 with a will.

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

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 04, 2022 NICOLE L. GROFT Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 02-04

Court Denies Appeal In Worcester Cocaine Distribution Case

February 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A Snow Hill man convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine in October 2020 and sentenced to 12 years in prison had his appeal denied this week by the state’s Court of Special Appeals.

In October 2019, Laron Collick, now 41, of Snow Hill, was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

In October 2020, following a not guilty plea, Collick was convicted in Worcester County Circuit Court of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. He was sentenced to 20 years, with all but 12 years suspended. On appeal, Collick contended the court abused its discretion in failing to preclude the admission of certain evidence, and the state’s failure to comply with its discovery obligations.

Prior to trial, Collick filed a motion to dismiss the case, or in the alternative, to prohibit the introduction of the forensic chemist’s report and several incriminating calls that he made while in jail, on the grounds that the state had failed to timely disclose those materials in discovery. For example, Collick’s defense counsel indicated he had not learned the name of the forensic chemist, nor the results of the chemical analysis until two months after the report had been filed.

Similarly, Collick’s defense counsel indicated during the motion to dismiss hearing he had only received the actual recordings of the defendant’s incriminating jailhouse calls two weeks before the trial date. In both instances, the state acknowledged there were some delays in the discovery phase, but none significant enough to prevent the case against Collick from going to trial.

“With respect to the chemist’s report, the prosecutor acknowledged that it had not been timely provided, which the prosecutor informed the court was due to his not having been sufficiently prepared,” the appeals court opinion reads. “As to the jail calls, the prosecutor stated he did not remember exactly when they came into his possession, but that he did not listen to them and learn that they had evidentiary value until August 2020, or approximately one month before they were disclosed.”

In its opinion, the Court of Special Appeals determined the delays in the discovery process did not warrant dismissing the case, and were not egregious enough that they couldn’t be cured with a continuance. As for Collick’s incriminating jailhouse calls, the court opined the defendant and his counsel should not have been taken aback by their admission.

“Specifically, the court noted that any surprise with the respect to the jail calls was lessened by the fact the appellant had made the calls himself, and was presumably aware of their contents,” the opinion reads.

OCPD Issues Tips To Prevent Vehicle Break-Ins The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – With vehicle break-ins on the rise, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) this week issued tips on how to keep vehicles and valuables safe.

There has been an increase in vehicle break-ins locally recently, causing the OCPD to reach out to residents and visitors with advice on how to avoid becoming a victim. Deputy Communications Director Ashley Miller said there have been a handful of vehicle break-ins reported in the downtown area recently, causing the department to issue safety tips this week to remind residents and visitors on ways to protect their vehicles and valuables.

Most of the tips are common sense, but some of them are things most motorists might not consider. For example, always lock vehicle doors, even if the plan is only to be gone for a couple of seconds,

according to Miller.

“Remember, it only takes seconds to steal items from your car,” she said. “It’s not uncommon for thieves to walk down a row of parked vehicles looking for unlocked doors. Also, make sure car windows aren’t left open.”

The OCPD advised to not leave valuables in a vehicle. Often, individuals leave valuable items in plain sight in their vehicle, which greatly increases the chances the vehicle will get broken into. Miller also advised to place items out of sight before reaching a destination.

“Someone may be watching when you put your valuables under a seat or in the trunk, and the moment you’re gone, a thief could break into your car,” she said.

“Place those items in a safe place before you head to the park, the beach or a baseball game, etc. Valuable items that thieves target are GPS units, credit cards, money, packages and so forth. If you can’t

Page 41

take the items with you, secure them in a safe place in your vehicle, like a locked glove compartment or your trunk.”

Avoid leaving packages or shopping bags out in the open. Lock them in the trunk if the vehicle is going to be left unattended. Again, motorists are advised to park in busy, well-lit areas and pick a parking spot where there is a lot of activity.

Alarms and anti-theft devices work, and thieves are always looking for the easiest target. However, simply having an alarm will not always prevent thieves from breaking in if valuables are left in plain sight.

“If your vehicle is stolen, or property is taken from the vehicle, there are several things you can and should do,” said Miller.

“Call the OCPD immediately. Provide a complete description of the items that were stolen. Also, provide your license plate number, make and model of the vehicle, year and color, plus the VIN and insurance company.”

… Revised Hotel Project Includes Employee Housing Aspect

Page 42

FROM PAGE 4 elements of the project. The developer would agree to improve that section of alley from the existing 16 feet to 23 feet and agree to maintain it as a public throughway.

Neville said the 265-room hotel and resort complex would meet the 90,000 square feet requirement with a portion of the easement along Baltimore Avenue expected to be deeded back to the property owner. Neville also explained some other potential conditions including setback requirements, no outdoor sales of food or beverages from the retail elements, no outdoor displays of merchandise, no freestanding signs, including A-frame signs on the Boardwalk, no public bicycle rentals, although bicycles could be provided to hotel guests, no sound amplification on the Boardwalk and appropriate hours of operation for the retail spaces.

Neville also discussed the parking requirements for the project and said the developer had more than enough spaces.

“We heard about a parking deficiency and the impact on the neighborhood,” he said. “With 400 spaces proposed and 350 required under the code, they probably have an extra 50 to work with.”

The Planning Commission directed much of their attention to the developer’s proffer to find workforce housing in the nearby vicinity for the vast project. Planning Commissioner Palmer Gillis questioned how that would be accomplished.

“Where is the workforce housing and how far away is it?” he said. “How many employees are you expecting and how many would be working at one time?”

Cropper explained total workforce for the entire complex is expected to be between 300 and 400, with 80 working at one time during the season. He said the developer has a contract on a property within walking distance with an estimated 48 beds for workforce housing.

Commissioner Lauren Taylor voiced

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022

A revised plan for the Margaritaville project between 13th and 14th streets in Ocean City is pictured along the Boardwalk.

Rendering by Becker Morgan Group

similar concerns.

“With the workforce housing, there has to be a number,” she said. “Is it five rooms?

Is it 50? There has to be a target number.”

Planning Commission Chair Pam Buckley attempted to do the numbers. She said it sounds like there would be 80 workers in a single shift with three eight-hour shifts each day for a facility that is open 24 hours.

“That’s 240 right there,” she said. “It sounds like 50 beds isn’t going to go very far.”

Cropper said the developer has secured some offsite seasonal workforce housing and is constantly looking for more opportunities in close proximity.

“There is a property under contract,” he said. “It currently houses 48 workers. It’s on the corner of 14th Street and Coastal Highway. We’ve talked about up to 80 peo-

ple on a shift, but obviously not 80 people at 4 a.m.”

Cropper said while the property under contract has 48 beds, there are also 20 parking spaces under the developer’s control nearby that could be considered part of the workforce formula.

“We have more than enough parking,” he said. “We could designate some of that parking for the seasonal workforce. They could drive from elsewhere and park over there and walk a block to work.”

Taylor said that could work, with 48 workforce beds and another 20 employees with parking spots nearby, bringing the estimated number to 68.

“Our recommendation should be walking distance,” she said. “That’s the theoretical goal. This is a business decision for them. If they have a workforce problem, they will figure out a way to solve it.”

The plan is for the Margaritaville complex to provide valet parking service. There is ample parking on site for guests, including those who choose to valet, but the planners voiced concern the valet parkers might choose to utilize on-street parking in an already tight parking area.

“I think we need to assert the valet service should not be using street parking,” said Buckley. “That needs to be a stated goal.”

No action was taken on the requested planned overlay district for the Margaritaville project. Instead Buckley instructed staff to take the notes and comments and conditions suggested and imposed and come back with a proposal for the next planning commission meeting.

“We need staff to go back and wrap all of this up in a nice bow and bring it back to us with a recommendation,” she said.

successor,” she said in a statement.

“This request was conveyed to John via our corporate counsel, Jeremy Tucker, along with a proposal for adjustment of responsibilities during the period of transition. I am pleased to announce that John has agreed.”

Viola first stepped into the role of interim general manager in April of 2019.

And in December of that year, he signed an extended contract running through June 30, 2022.

Prior to moving to Ocean Pines, Viola worked in the private sector as a certified public accountant, including 28 years with Avon, where he finished as assistant global controller. Within the association, he has served as chairman of the budget and finance advisory committee and as the community’s chief financial officer, though on a volunteer basis.

In December, Viola announced his resignation as OPA’s general manager, opting to abbreviate his 30-month term

by four months and begin his retirement after Feb. 28. It now appears Viola will remain in his position through at least mid-September.

Joining Viola as the new senior executive assistant is Rosanna Montalvo, who will begin in her capacity on Feb. 14.

“Rosanna has a wealth of administrative experience in the nonprofit, public and private sectors,” Viola said in a statement. “Her strong customer service and communication skills will be an invaluable asset to the Association.”

In her role as senior executive assistant, Montalvo will hold a dual role as a confidential assistant to the general manager and the OPA Board of Directors. She will also take over as the association’s assistant secretary, a position currently held by Public Works Office Manager Linda Martin.

New to the Ocean Pines area, Montalvo most recently worked as the executive administrative assistant and mar-

keting, research and development coordinator for a nonprofit organization serving adults with behavioral health and developmental disabilities and their families. In her new role, Montalvo will fill the vacancy left by Michelle Bennett, who officially resigned on Nov. 30.

Viola last week also announced the association would lose its payroll and human resources manager, Kathy Stryjewski, who announced her retirement.

Her last day will be Feb. 18.

“The time and support that Kathy has provided OPA is greatly appreciated.” he said. “She has been a part of many projects, including the compensation study, the development of employee self-assessments, and redevelopment of performance evaluations, to name a few.”

He continued, “Kathy’s hard work, professionalism and friendliness will be missed. We wish her quality time with her family and an enjoyable retirement.

We will be posting to fill this position immediately.”

Ocean Pines General Manager To Stay Put Through Summer

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – A slew of changes to the association’s administration have been announced.

Last week, Ocean Pines Association (OPA) President Colette Horn reported that General Manager John Viola, who submitted his resignation in December, would remain in his position through midSeptember.

“After consulting with John Viola regarding his recent resignation as General Manager, and discussing transition planning with the Board, I am pleased to announce that the Board unanimously agreed that it is in the best interests of the Association to request that John rescind his resignation and continue in his position as General Manager via an extension to his existing contract at least through the second week of September to facilitate a smooth transition for the entire organization upon the hiring of his

February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

Blizzard Snapshots: A foot of snow in the Ocean City area is a big deal and our team of photographers worked the event like true professionals.

Photos by Nick Denny, top left; Campos Media, top right; Chris Parypa, middle row, second row from bottom and bottom left; and Campos Media, bottom right.

Page 44

Renée Lauer Greene OCEAN CITY – Renée Lauer Greene, age 73, died Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022 at her home in Ocean City, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Milford, Del., she was the daughter of the late Winthrop Bellamy Lauer and Edna Peters Lauer, both of Ocean City. She was preceded in death by her loving and faithful husband, Edward Russell Greene III in 2021.

She is survived by her daughters, Gretchen Greene Hancock and her husband Chad E. Hancock and Stacie Greene Brown and her husband Christopher Brown, all of Ocean City.

There are four granddaughters, Emma Renée RENÉE LAUER Hancock and her fiancé GREENE Stephen Bontempo, Sarah Hancock, Josephine Palmer, Elizabeth Palmer, and their father Christopher Palmer. She also has two step-grandsons, Matthew Brown and PFC Justin Brown.

She is also survived by her sister-inlaw, Susan Lauer. She was preceded in death by her brother, Teddy Lauer.

She was a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Class of 1966, and The Jefferson School of Business in 1968. Renée was a member of Atlantic United Methodist Church in Ocean City and served on the church’s Altar Guild for many years.

Renée loved the outdoors. She was an excellent fisherman, loved swimming in the ocean, and walking the beaches of Ocean City, Hog Island, Va. and Assateague Island.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Evelyn Patricia McLaughlin

Summer months were spent in Ocean City surrounded by extended family and enjoying the beauty of Assawoman Bay, regularly hosting traditional crab feasts with the family’s own harvest and actively participating in the Bridgepoint community.

A devout Catholic, Pat attended the Church of the Ascension in Fort Myers Beach, Fla. and St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Ocean City.

She was preceded in her death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Robert.

She is survived by four children, Richard Kevin McLaughlin of Avondale, Pa., John David McLaughlin of Juno Beach, Fla., Robert Wade McLaughlin of Bangkok, Thailand, and Mary Anne (Jack) Sculley of Hockessin, Del.; grandchildren USN CDR Robert Francis (Jennifer) O’Donnell MD of Suffolk, Va. and Wade Richard McLaughlin of Los Angeles, Calif.; and great grandchildren Caroline Elizabeth, Audrey Evelyn, Matthew Robert, and Tyler Joseph O’Donnell. Also surviving is her brother-in-law, Alan Tracy McLaughlin of Fairfax, Va., sisters-in-law Annette Hofmann McLaughlin of Ocean City and Dr. Gabriel McLaughlin of McLean, Va.; four nieces; three grandnieces; and cousins USN Capt. (ret) Tom (Sharon) DeBeck MD of Wilmington, N.C. and Chuck (Chris) Wade of Frederick, Md. A viewing will be held at Burbage Funeral Home on Feb. 4 from 3 to 5 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Luke’s Church in Ocean City on Feb. 5 at 1p.m. followed by a graveside ceremony at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Fort Myers, Fla. where she will join her beloved husband Robert in eternity.

OCEAN CITY – Evelyn Patricia McLaughlin of Fort Myers Beach, Fla., known as Pat, passed peacefully at home on Jan.28, 2022, surrounded by family and devoted caregiver Maureen Claudia Thompson, in Ocean City at age 93.

Born to the late Marcellus Eugene Wade Jr. and Evelyn Welsh Wade in Buck Lodge, Montgomery County Maryland on Jan. 14, 1929, she was “Sweet Petunia,” the treasured youngest of six children.

She graduated from Georgetown Visitation in Washington DC and began her career at the National Institutes of Health, where she met the love of her life and future husband, Robert B. McLaughlin, whom she wedded in 1951.

Pat was an avid sports person, excelling in basketball in her youth, a league champion bowler in Madison, TN, and a lifetime golfer, which she played well into her 80’s. She also enjoyed needlepoint and sewing, adorning her homes with her work. After raising four children in EVELYN Nashville, Tenn. and Wil- PATRICIA mington, Del., where she MCLAUGHLIN worked in the insurance business, in 1984, Robert retired from DuPont and they made Fort Myers Beach their home, enjoying the beauty of the sea and developing many lifelong friends among their fellow residents at Shamron Beach Condominium. One could often find her engaged in one of her favorite past-times, shell collecting. She was a member of the Shadow Wood Country Club women’s golf league and enjoyed regular nights out with her girlfriends attending the performing arts at the Barbara Mann Theater.

BERLIN – Judith Maureen Jones, age 75, died on Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022 at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Washington DC, she was the daughter of the late James and Louise (Barriere) Downs. She is survived by her sons, Craig Jones and his wife Kristine of Mashpee, Mass. and Charles Jones and his wife Kira of Albuquerque, N.M. and special niece Pamela Miller and her husband Chuck of Pittsburgh, Pa. There are four grandchildren, Emma, Abagail, Caleb and Jonathan Jones.

JUDITH Mrs. Jones earned her MAUREEN JONES bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, and had worked as a contract officer for the Department of Defense before moving over to NASA in Greenbelt. In 2000, she moved to Ocean Pines and transferred her job to the Wallops Island facility before retiring in 2003. She began her “retirement job” with Ocean Pines Library shortly after that which became her second family. She loved to bake, and throw parties for her fellow employees. She very much loved her job, and her library family.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Feb. 6 at 3 p.m. at the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Rev Joseph Kennedy will officiate. A donation in her memory may be made to Friends of the Ocean Pines Library, 11107 Cathell Rd, Berlin, Md. 21811. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

OBITUARIES Renée is well known for her talent with needlework. For over 40 years she designed Ocean City cross stitch patterns known as Greeneframes for Salty Yarns on 8th Street and the Boardwalk.

Services were held. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Atlantic United Methodist Church, 105 4th St Ocean City, Md. 21842 or to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733 Salisbury, Md. 21802.

Letters of condolences can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Maureen Elaine Canale OCEAN CITY – Maureen Elaine Canale, 63, peacefully passed away on Jan. 26, 2022 surrounded by her children.

Maureen was born on Sept. 23, 1958 to Beatrice and Richard Miller MAUREEN in New Jersey. Maureen ELAINE CANALE moved to Newark, Del. where she enjoyed watching the Blue Hens. In 1996 Maureen and her three children moved to Ocean City, practicing real estate for Moore, Warfield and Glick followed by Coldwell Banker. In 2014, Maureen joined the Taphouse hospitality team.

Maureen will be remembered as a mom to many, always there to listen, and give advice. She had a great love for people, gardening, music, New York, the New York Yankees, Bruce Springsteen, coffee,

February 4, 2022

and, of course, her home state of New Jersey.

Maureen was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her three children, Christopher, Dominic and Francesca, and her grandchildren, Brooklyn, Robert, Skyler and Silas.

A celebration of her wonderful life will be held at a later date.

Will Bishop POCOMOKE – Will Bishop, 40, of Pocomoke, passed away on Jan. 10, 2022.

Will A. Bishop was born on Nov. 24, 1981 in Salisbury. He was the son of Sandra M. Bishop and the son of Harry C. Bishop Jr. He is survived by his sister, Lisa M. Butler, and his brother-in-law, Terry ButWILL BISHOP ler, nephew Stevie Orth and niece Elizabeth M. Butler.

He was very patient and very compassionate to his family and his friends. He enjoyed his computer and his friends on Facebook. He will be awesomely missed.

There will be a memorial service at a later date. 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.

Judith Maureen Jones

February 4, 2022

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

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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

Fee Increases Can Wait For New Budget How We See It

It seems a certainty fees for town services in Berlin will be heading up considerably soon, but we disagree they are needed at the start of the next fiscal quarter.

Berlin property owners need to be keeping a close eye on how their elected officials are governing. The decisions ahead will hit their bank accounts. Last week, new flat fees were suggested to bolster the capital reserve funds for the water and sewer utilities. New quarterly charges were discussed of $5 per residential EDU ($10 for businesses) and $14.50 per residential EDU on the sewer side ($29 for commercial). Implementing the fees in the quarter starting April 1 would bank the town $120,460 by June 30. Last week stormwater fees were discussed and they are likely heading up as well. The question is how much.

Nine years ago, the town’s stormwater utility was created with two employees starting on July 1, 2013. During a discussion of the town’s utility funds at the time, then-Berlin Mayor Gee Williams said, “they are all financially sound and there’s no crisis among any of them,” referring to the electric, water and wastewater utilities. At a meeting in January of 2013, many business owners criticized the stormwater utility fee structure – commercial properties paying $25 per 2,100 square feet of impervious surface (for example, the county schools in town are charged $14,825 annually) and residential properties paying a flat $50 fee. The idea was the utility would help secure grants and create a master plan to address chronic flooding.

The proposal put forward by the consultant this week was to double the residential fee to $100 and increase the commercial fee by 40% to $35 per 2,100 square feet of impervious surface.

The additional revenue would cover the stormwater fund’s operational losses, halting the status quo practice of robbing the general fund to balance it.

The discussion later this month about increasing these fees needs to include estimates on new tax revenue the Town of Berlin will see from booming assessments. While it’s true the user fees should support the individual utility funds serving residents, an argument should also be made town citizens and businesses should not have to correct a problem in one quarter. This problem has been years in the making. It’s not an emergency to correct the issue.

If the fees are increased as proposed, they should start with the new budget on July 1. In the meantime, we would like to hear what the town plans to do with the significant new revenue coming its way from booming property reassessments. The fee increases would be palpable if they came with an outline of a property tax rate reduction due to the soaring property values in town.

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Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green Though the Margaritaville project seemingly back on track made headlines this week, there was also a lower profile development plan reviewed last week at the Board of Zoning Appeals level in Ocean City. An eight-story, 90-room hotel is being eyed for the former home to the Holt’s Landing restaurant at the south end of Ocean City on the bay north of the Oceanic Motel. This is a unique property in downtown Ocean City.

Triangular in nature, the property offers some unique vistas and has been ripe for commercial development for more than 30 years.

Since Holt’s Landing was razed in the late 80s, the bayfront property – located south of Sunset Park and north of the Oceanic Pier – has been proposed for several different developments with five site plans approved along the way. A mixed-use concept called Jennieville was in the works for many years but never materialized after being granted a 125-parking space waiver. Back in 2013, preliminary site plan approval was granted for Buccaneer’s Caye at Shipwreck Cove, which consisted of a nearly 11,000square-foot restaurant and tiki bar with some on-site employee housing.

Ingress and egress issues eventually led to the project being scaled down and then never heard from again. Similar projects, like an eight-story condo most recently, have come and gone with no serious action.

A major problem with the unique site is parking and vehicular access.

The hotel developer working through City Hall came before the BZA last week seeking a 12-spot parking waiver from the code’s stipulations for the site. The developer is hoping 101 spaces for a 90-room hotel and spa will be approved. The tricky part is there will only be 61 parking spaces on the hotel site with 40 more coming from across Philadelphia Avenue on cityowned property that may or may not be leased to the private property owner.

It’s the gray area that seemed to derail the approval. As has been an issue in the past with previous site plans, the on-site parking issues must be worked out. As BZA member Chris Rudolf said, “I’m having a little heartburn over where these offsite parking spaces are actually going to end up coming from. The state where we are right now, I just don’t think that aspect of what is being asked for is ready for prime time.” Seeing the votes were not there for approval, developer attorney Hugh Cropper said, “I feel like you’re holding us to a higher standard than the code provides. The code allows elasticity for unique situations. The staff recommended it. It’s consistent with what you’ve done elsewhere and there are parking problems all over town. The master plan talks about incentivizing redevelopment.”

My hunch is we will see this project again as the developer is reportedly committed to building on the site.

A foot of snow usually shutters schools for days. The timing of the blizzard arriving Friday night into Saturday followed by bright sunlight for a couple days is mostly to credit for the quick return to normalcy around here, but there clearly seemed to be a better approach to clearing the roads. Credit goes to the state roads departments partnering with the local public works departments to remove the massive amount of snow in a timely fashion. There seemed to be better collaboration behind their mutual efforts this time around.

Whenever I vacation at a destination, it’s always intriguing to observe what’s happening there compared to here in our resort area. I spent a week in Vermont skiing last week. Nosey by nature, I asked a lot of questions of businesses and employees, and the responses mirror the same struggles Ocean City had last summer – help and supply chain issues.

Help is an issue everywhere. As was the case here last summer, there were desperate signs posted on businesses looking for help as well as encouraging patience, or “begging” as one merchant wrote in his handwritten note posted on the door. One sign I took a picture of read, “We are doing the best we can, please be patience with us as we are desperately understaffed.” Another sign on a breakfast place read, “Sorry, folks we had to close today. We needed a break. Be back tomorrow or the next day (Friday at the latest).”

At the Mount Snow resort, things were much different than four years ago. Despite it being peak season, most restaurants were not fully functional as a result of help issues and the pandemic. Rather than multiple entrances to enter the various restaurants and stores within the main lodge, there was one main entry where a vaccination card had to be shown for each entrant with masks required. Most of the lift operators at the resort were Visa workers but the language barrier prevented me from getting more information. Nepal and Nicaragua were common countries seen on the nametags. Similar to last summer here, conversations with employees and business owners showed fatigue but excitement about pending snow storms.

Additionally, supply chain issues were rampant on all fronts. Restaurants, retail stores and grocery stores were selling whatever they could, but it was common for items to be unavailable at any given time. Storeowners seemed accustomed to answering the questions, promising customers were being offered all they had.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

W

February 4, 2022

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 35

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e packed seemingly everything we own and headed to Vermont for an extended vacation last month.

We left on a Saturday and it snowed the night before at home. We arrived back on home the following Sunday and there was a blizzard the day before. Therefore, we left the snow, to head to more snow and came home to a great deal of snow. It was a winter vacation after all.

This is the second time our family spent a week at Mount Snow in Vermont. We love it. Though I would prefer a warm destination over the mountains for vacation, I admit there is a charm to getting away and spending our days skiing and evenings relaxing at our rental home. It’s a simple vacation, the biggest goal being for nobody to get hurt while also unplugging for some downtime. It was mission accomplished on both fronts.

The highlight of the vacation for me was watching the kids enjoying themselves on the mountain and then the quiet nights with no practices, games or appointments. The nights are always short on ski vacations, as the days are long and exhausting. It’s a great feeling.

Though the experiences were quite different for each of them, both Beckett and Carson enjoyed their first real vacation in a couple years.

•A critical piece with any vacation we take is a plan to make it a successful and enjoyable trip for Carson. A ski trip is no different than Disney World in that regard. We need to ensure there is fun to be had for both kids.

We like Mount Snow in Vermont for Carson, 12, because of the Adaptive Sports program. An independent chapter of the Move United organization, the program matches youngsters with disabilities with trained volunteers who encourage, support and guide them through a day of skiing. Carson partic-

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ipated in the program four years ago and did well working with the volunteers.

We felt confident the same would be the case this year.

A video describing the program puts it best, saying, “Out there on the slopes, Adaptive Sports at Mount Snow embraces everything we come here to experience – exhilaration, new challenges, respect, humor and joy.” All these things were on display throughout Carson’s time with the volunteers.

For five straight days, his days went like this – from 9:30-11:30 a.m. he skied with his volunteer(s); lunch break till 1 p.m. where he ate a hot bowl of chili every single day in the same lodge restaurant; 1-3 p.m. skiing; and then back to the lodge restaurant for wings every day to celebrate his day. Kids on the spectrum like a schedule, and this was how his days went on vacation. After four hours of skiing, he was exhausted. It was a great routine for him to embrace and it worked great for us as well.

These programs matching inspiring volunteers with kids with disabilities are near and dear to our heart. Carson surfed with Surfers Healing in August and skied with Adaptive Sports in January. The people who work within these organizations have the best of intentions. We paid handsomely for the opportunity for Carson to participate, but there is an incredible value for us to be able to ski on our own knowing he’s having fun, being included and is safe.

In fact, by nature of how the mountain is laid out, we often were able to watch Carson ski on the beginner slopes with his volunteers, who stand out thanks to sporting bright orange vests. He needed a lot of assistance at first but then slowly worked his way to being tethered by the volunteers and then being independent. At one point, two of the male volunteers opted to take him to the summit for a run down one of the green trails, Long John. I was shocked to hear this was being considered but trusted them to keep him safe. I was glad he was giv-

en the opportunity to ride on the big lift and see the top of the mountain.

Though we were hoping to run into him along the way, we never actually saw him. When Pam picked him up for lunch, she was briefed on what one of the volunteers described as an “incident.” It seems one of the volunteers stumbled on the run, taking a tethered Carson down with him for a fall. It rattled Carson, who must have taken in his surroundings and gotten scared. The three of them walked a bit before realizing they were going to need help getting down the mountain. Carson then got to ride on the back of an all-terrain snow vehicle from the top of the mountain to the base. It sounds like it was a fun adventure and Carson gave it all double thumbs up.

•For Beckett, we enrolled him in ski school for the week with kids his age.

He skied for six hours each day with the ski school and then he and his mom – who are both advanced skiers – made some runs before the lifts closed for the day. This was when Carson and I tried out the different wings at the lodge.

There were several times during the week when Beckett, 13, remarked how he loved skiing and couldn’t believe how happy it made him. This was huge coming from a teenager who can run the extreme of emotions at times.

Throughout the week, while Pam and I were skiing, we would see Beckett with his group zipping from here and there past us. He would start each day with questions as to why he must go to ski school and can’t be on his own all day. He would end each day exhausted and talking about where they went on the mountain and what runs they did. He had a blast and wants to go back.

(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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February 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 4, 2022