May 26

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

Residents, Officials Share Short-Term Rental Concerns

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Frustration with the shortterm rental regulations approved last year highlighted a meeting of the town council this week.

A week after a Main Street couple had to call the police when inebriated residents of a neighboring short-term rental entered their home at night, numerous citizens approached elected officials to share their concerns. They said they were upset the ordinance regulating rentals had been approved but was not being enforced.

“Where is this breakdown occurring?” asked Lauren Georgevich, who was upstairs with her young son when strangers entered their house last week, mistaking it for the Airbnb next door.

“There’s a problem we’re all acknowledging it and not a lot is getting done about it. It’s going to end up with somebody getting hurt.”

Planning Director Dave Engelhart told the council this week that his office had received 12 short-term rental applications and had approved six.

The applications that were denied were all denied because they were not the owner’s primary residence, which in the residential district they are required to be under the town’s ordinance.

“I’ve been out of the office for medical reasons,” Engelhart said. “In the interim things exploded at this one address.”

He said going forward, his office would try to review applications quicker. He noted that his department already communicated regularly with town po-

lice and would be advised of any situations that arose with law enforcement.

Chief Arnold Downing, however, pointed out that his department was meant to respond to violations of law, such as noise concerns.

Councilman Jay Knerr asked if the licensing process could be quicker. Engelhart said licensing primarily depended on inspections, which he thought the contractor the town used could have done in about two weeks.

“I just want to make sure we have a solid process in place…,” Knerr said. “We’re looking like fools up here.”

Councilman Jack Orris said the discussion was bigger than just the one problem property. He said the issue was enforcement.

“The plan going forward you presented is what’s already here,” he told

Engelhart. “It just hasn’t been done.”

He said the town needed a code enforcement officer.

Councilman Steve Green asked who residents should be complaining to when they noticed an unlicensed property being rented short-term. Engelhart said they should reach out to his office.

“Neither the police or my department can tell those people checking in to get lost,” Engelhart said. “We have to go after the owner.”

Green pointed out the ordinance had been approved in October but notification hadn’t gone out to applicants whose license had been denied until March.

“There was a lot of work before we could kick off,” Engelhart said, adding that inspections hadn’t been conducted until February.

Green said he felt applicants needed to be advised that no renting was to be done while applications were pending approval.

“It’s a quality-of-life issue,” he said.

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols expressed frustration that properties were still being rented whether they were licensed or not.

“That’s the part that aggravates me more than what’s happening in specific locations,” she said. “It’s the people that are flying under the radar. They’re making money off of this. We’ve told them no and they’re still doing it.”

She said Engelhart’s department needed a code enforcement officer to help, particularly since most short-term rentals weren’t doing things that rose to the level of police response.

In the portion of the meeting set aside for public comments, resident David Wells said he felt the town’s shortterm rental regulations had been rushed.

He told the council he’d been advised his short-term rental passed inspection in March but still didn’t know whether he had a license.

“I think we all can agree short-term rental was approved way too quickly,” he said. “There’s no one that’s going around, as Ms. Nichols discussed, enforcing the laws set by the town.”

He suggested the town look at occupancy restrictions to keep the rentals manageable.

“I just think we jumped in headfirst and we didn’t know what was at the bottom,” he said.

Wells added that short-term rentals could benefit the town, particularly as it was now a destination but one that residents didn’t want to see change.

“Listen, I used to live here when I could sit on Main Street and put my legs out in the middle of the street eating chicken wings at the IGA and not a car would go by,” he said. “Now, to see what the town of Berlin is like, that is a testament to our town council, our citizens, the businesses here.”

Resident Kim Holloway pointed out the mayor had never signed the shortterm rental ordinance.

Frustrations Aired Over Enforcement School System Delays Budget Adjustments

“When your mayor doesn’t back it and your mayor doesn’t sign it, it makes me wonder what kind of enforcement is being done and if a blind eye is being turned to a situation we’re all very passionate about,” she said.

Holloway agreed that the town was in desperate need of a code enforcement position.

Anne Marie Pollack said she’d searched Airbnb just before the meeting and found nearly 20 properties available in town for short-term rental.

“At some point someone has got to start implementing these ordinances that you all voted on for us as citizens,” she said. “You all do the ordinance and then it seems like this one is just floundering.”

She said residents had done their job by sharing their concerns with elected officials but then the ball had been dropped. She said the town was starting to seem like one that put tourist dollars ahead of resident safety.

Jennifer Hickman, a neighbor of the Main Street rental that has been the source of recent problems, said it wasn’t fair that people who followed the rules had to be concerned for their property and welfare.

“I am pretty sure that property will be rented again,” she said. “It is not fair to all of us that this continues to go on.”

Berlin resident Adam Davis said the various fines that would be issued if rules were enforced could help fund the salary of a code enforcement officer. Georgevich said she didn’t blame Engelhart, as he’d made it clear when short-term rental regulations were initially discussed that it would be difficult for his department to handle.

“You asked for help, and it was not supplied,” she said.

Orris thanked residents for attending and spoke again of the need for enforcement.

“We need to make sure everybody’s safe and the rules that we set are followed and enforced,” he said.

Nichols reminded residents that elected officials lived in town too.

“Are we going to fix it? We hope so,” she said. “We live here just like you do. We don’t want to see this happen any longer.”

Green said he didn’t disagree with anything he’d heard.

“As far as moving forward, that’s the thing,” he said, adding that officials now needed to address citizen concerns.

Green said the shorter application review timeline that Engelhart mentioned was a start but acknowledged that the two-person planning department likely needed another worker. He said that was a conversation officials could have as they discussed the budget at the next meeting.

“This has been—it’s embarrassing, I’m sorry to say,” he said. “I just want us to move forward.”

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – School system officials will not adjust the Worcester County Public Schools proposed budget until the Worcester County Commissioners have finalized their budget.

Though the commissioners voted May 9 to approve a maintenance of effort (MOE) budget for the school system, education officials said this week the school board would not yet be making changes to the proposed budget, which was based on a nearly $5 million larger allocation from the county.

“The board of education will likely meet very soon after the county strikes the budget on June 6, as at that time, the local share for the board of education will be finalized,” said Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs.

During a school board meeting last week, Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert advised the board that a MOE budget would not allow the school system to fund the cost-of-living adjustment already promised to teachers and support staff. He said the county allocation would actually be $279,000 less than the current year’s allocation.

“Mr. Tolbert was correct in stating without fully funding the board's FY24 budget request, there is not adequate funding available to meet the previously negotiated salary increases for educators and support staff as well as the agreed upon increases for our bus contractors without making significant cuts that will likely impact programs and materials of instruction that support student learning,” Sterrs said. “Regardless, if the budget struck on June 6, funds the board of education at maintenance of effort, which is $4.5 million less than requested, the negotiating teams will have

to go back to the table to renegotiate with both of our associations as well as have discussions with our bus contractors.”

While the school system is waiting for the county’s final budget decision, Chip Bertino, president of the commissioners, said the education budget was already decided.

“The commissioners addressed the board of education budget earlier this month,” he said. “I don’t foresee anything changing.”

He added that the county still hadn’t received the detailed budget information staff had been requesting since April. That request for information was submitted last week as a Public Information Act (PIA) request. It now has to be answered in 30 days.

“We started on Monday to comply with this PIA, and we will make sure they get the necessary documents,” Todd Ferrante, president of the school board, said this week.

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Association will move forward with a new voting contractor.

Last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors voted 4-2-1 to approve Election Trust as the association’s new voting contractor. The Washington-based company will be tasked with printing and handling all election materials for the upcoming board election at a cost of $15,994.50.

“I think this is one of the things we need to do moving forward with the technology we have,” said Director Rick Farr, board liaison for the Ocean Pines Elections Committee. “And I think it’s one of the things that would be best for the association.”

The board had before them last week a motion submitted by Farr to enter into an agreement with Election Trust to conduct and perform all printing, mailing, receipt and counting of all votes in the 2023 board election. The bid totaled $13,937.50 for paper-only contract costs and $15,944.50 for both paper and online contract costs.

For her part, Director Colette Horn questioned why the association would need hybrid voting services after the board agreed to eliminate online voting for the upcoming election. She also questioned why the association would not move forward with its existing vendor,

Berlin-based ACE Printing & Mailing.

“The election committee’s argument was that the processes that the vendor used for many years was not in dispute and was not a problem,”Horn said. “So I’m not appreciating why we would be going out of state for a vendor whose involvement in this process, particularly with respect to the issue of mailing things back and forth, why that is going to be an improvement over a company that we used previously, at no cost savings whatsoever. And we’re giving up an opportunity to support a local business. I’m not going to vote in favor of

this.”

Ocean Pines Board Votes For New Election Contractor Committee’s Process Questioned

In a memo submitted to the general manager and the board, Elections Committee Chair Tom Piatti said ACE Printing & Mailing had declined to bid on services for the 2023 election. To that end, committee members conducted research to find a national company that could perform election services. The association received bids from two companies – Election Trust and Survey & Ballot.

“Not only do we find Election Trust to be the best value, but they also offer an ‘Observable Live Count’ option,” he wrote. “Also, there will be no back-and-forth electronic exchange of election data as was done in 2022 and OPA will no longer have to procure software or equipment for ballot counting purposes.”

In an interview this week, ACE Printing & Mailing owner Thom Gulyas said he has worked with Ocean Pines for more than two decades. He said he had never declined to bid on election services.

“It’s a shame that it’s come down to this,” he said. “I just want to make sure that those folks in the Pines know I’ve been in business almost 40 years. I have not turned down any job.”

Gulyas said he had received a request for quote (RFQ) but argued he didn’t have enough information about vacancies or the number of people running to accurately bid. He recalled telling the committee his services would be comparable to years past.

“Imagine I went into a construction office and said, ‘I want you to build me a home, give me a price. I’m not going to tell you anything else about it, give me a price,’” he said. “How can I do that? There’s no way, and I made them aware of this.”

During last Saturday’s board meeting, Director Frank Daly shared his concerns about the RFQ process.

“We can’t ignore the situation that the vendor we used for all our past elections has said, ‘I’ve been iced out for some odd reason from this one,’” he said.

He also questioned if Election Trust had the capability to confirm received ballots.

“It appears if they have that capability that would take care of certain questions regarding using somebody out of the area …,” he said. “That’s something we should put in, and that seems to me that that’s worth the cost of doing.”

There were also concerns about late ballots and the reliability of the U.S. Postal Service. While he said he had no sympathy for those who turned in ballots too late to be counted, Daly said he saw some advantage to having the association maintain its dropbox location at the police station. He said the association could then collect those ballots on the cutoff date and mail them overnight to Election Trust.

“At the beginning I was not a big fan of continuing to drop it off at the admin building …,” Association President Doug Parks replied, “But at the end of the day I think it’s practical because people are used to doing it that way and there’s not a lot of overhead or risk with continuing

Alcohol Compliance Checks Eyed OC Police To Use New ID Scanner

OCEAN CITY –The Ocean City Police Department, in cooperation with the Worcester County Health Department, will be conducting alcohol compliance checks during the summer season. This enforcement effort will take place at area bars, restaurants, and alcohol

… Pines Decides Between 2 Bidders For New Contract

to offer that service.”

For his part, Director Steve Jacobs said he opposed the selection of Election Trust, as using the Washington-based company violated procedures set by Resolution M-06, which states it’s the committee’s responsibility to count ballots and that ballot counting must be conducted in a room to accommodate the process and association members wishing to observe the count.

“There cannot be any question that this language assumes the count and the ability to witness the count is to be local and not on Zoom, Teams, Skype or anything else,” he said.

Jacobs also questioned the committee’s process for selecting a new vendor, as there had been no evidence of a public meeting, a meeting agenda, or meeting minutes. He added that choosing Election Trust would cost the association more money, as postage was not included in the bid.

“Why are we spending more than $16,000 to do this?” he said.

Parks responded to Jacobs’ questions about Resolution M-06. While he argued there were different interpretations of the language, the wording could be changed.

He noted that a first reading of revisions to Resolution M-06 were reviewed earlier in the meeting. He said modifications could be made before the next board meeting.

“We will look at M-06 next month for a second reading,” he said. “And those will be incorporated and discussed to see if they are valid and relevant to be included in there.”

After further discussion, the board voted 4-2-1, with Parks, Farr, Director Monica Rakowski and Director Stuart Lakernick in favor, Jacobs and Horn opposed, and Daly abstaining, to approve Election Trust as the new voting contractor for the 2023 board election.

Gulyas said in an interview this week he hopes to work with the Ocean Pines Association on future elections.

“I’d love to still do the job,” he said. “I don’t understand why they feel they are going to get anything better at twice the cost. It makes no sense to me whatsoever.”

retailers throughout the resort.

The purpose of this operation is to ensure that employees of businesses that provide alcohol are making a concerted effort to avoid selling to individuals under the age of 21. Personnel under the age of 21, accompanied by plainclothes law enforcement officers, will be visiting bars, restaurants, and alcohol retailers attempting to purchase alcoholic beverages.

This year, the Ocean City Police Department will be testing out the BISU ID Scanner. The scanner is intended to give accurate and precise responses to the identification cards being scanned. Police hope that the scanner will serve as an additional tool to help keep the community safe. The department is offering additional training upon request to business establishments.

The Ocean City Police Department would like to remind all business owners that serving alcohol to underage citizens is not only illegal but can have a detrimental impact on their business and the underage individual involved. The OCPD encourages everyone to obey all alcohol regulations to ensure a safer resort town.

OUR DISCOVERY FLIGHT GIFT CERTIFICATE ... The Gift They’ll Never Forget!

Our Discovery Flight is a one full hour adventure that will last a lifetime. Includes pre-flight briefing, intro to flying and at least 1/2-hour of actual hands on flight time. You will be flying our Cessna aircraft with a FAA-certified flight instructor at your side. You sit in the pilot’s seat. You fly the aircraft! Includes your own pilot log book. Located at the Ocean City Airport.

GREAT

Berlin Council Reviews Pay Study, Proposed Adjustments

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Overall, municipal employees in Berlin are paid 8.5% below market, according to a pay study.

Though it’s been talked about for weeks, the contents of a pay study the Town of Berlin had conducted by PaypointHR are now available to the public on the town’s website. Elected officials discussed the study and their plan to increase the pay for positions that were below market at a work session on Monday.

“I think folks are at least pleased to see some action,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “It might not be the full action we all want to do but at least we’re making an effort and we’re not saying it’s going to sit on a shelf somewhere.”

The town spent slightly more than

$30,000 to have PaypointHR conduct a compensation study for the town. The study looked at demographics, cost of living, pay rates in similar jurisdictions and even involved PaypointHR staff meeting with town employees to get their input.

While Berlin’s elected officials had initially planned to increase salaries that were identified as low to 50% of the market rate, they adjusted that figure to 35% due to budget constraints.

The proposed budget also includes a cost-of-living increase of 2% for all employees. Going forward, the town plans to establish a step and grade system for all positions.

“Tonight’s really to whittle down any questions we may have before we move forward with budget adoption on June 12,” Tyndall said.

Councilman Jay Knerr asked if a study

like this had ever been done before.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said nothing to this level had ever been completed.

“We’ve never undertaken this formal of a process,” she said. “I believe we utilized resources available from Salisbury University or perhaps even UMES but I don’t think they did this level of data gathering.”

Councilman Steve Green asked if employees had seen the study and what their reaction had been.

Kelsey Jensen, the town’s human resources director, said the study had been shared with employees. She said the majority seemed pleased the town was doing something.

Some, however, said that their pay wasn’t being adjusted because they’d worked for the town so long they weren’t below market.

“I explained that we’re working on the step and grade system, it would be in place next year and hopefully approved, then we could place them more appropriately on the scale so next year they’d see more of that impact,” Jensen said, adding that this was a starting point for the town. “I think people were understanding of that, as disappointed as some may be. I think they understood that we’re correcting a problem that’s been here and we’re trying to start somewhere.”

She noted that an employee who’d left the town recently had cited pay as the main reason for their decision during an exit interview.

Knerr asked if making the proposed adjustments would put the town in a better position to hire and retain employees.

“I hope so,” Jensen responded. “I think that it makes us a lot more clear as well in what we’re looking for.”

She said previously, she’d interviewed candidates for a position and offered them the job only to find out the pay the town was offering was nowhere near what they were expecting. Following the pay study, the town will be able to have salary ranges in places to list when advertising to fill vacancies.

“Without a range we’re not being very transparent in our hiring process,” she said.

Councilman Dean Burrell said he was glad the town had done the pay study even if officials couldn’t immediately address every issue identified.

“I wish we could do more but we can only do what we can do,” he said. “We are acting on the information presented to us in this study. It will allow us to be able to document treating all employees across the board regardless of which department they work in.”

He added that he wanted to see an assessment of the town’s positions so that when department heads requested additional staff, elected officials would know if more employees were warranted or not.

“Where I sit, I’m not able to assess the validity of those requests,” he said. “I would like to have somebody from the outside, if possible, come in and do an assessment of our organizational structure and how human resources are allocated in that structure and then I would be able to say to a department head or anyone on the street, we don’t need to hire an administrative assistant now because of this and so. It just makes things more transparent and more observable.”

Jensen said along with the positive comments she’d heard there had also been some concern among employees regarding the fact that the proposed budget didn’t include the one-time payment staff typically received around the holidays.

“In any process there’s going to be some tough moments,” Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said. “This might be one of those.”

Councilman Jack Orris agreed and said the town didn’t have unlimited resources.

“I hope staff realize that we are trying,” he said.

Council Delays Skate Park Decision

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Town officials said this week they wouldn’t select a location for a skate park until the Berlin Parks Commission weighed in on the issue.

While a presentation of the skate park location study was on Monday’s agenda, Mayor Zack Tyndall told members of We Heart Berlin officials would not be making any decisions without the input of the commission.

“As we’ve said in the past you’ve got to get the parks commission’s recommendation on a site before we’ll vote,” Tyndall said.

Since early 2022, We Heart Berlin, a local nonprofit focused on promoting recreational opportunities in Berlin, has been focused on bringing a skate park to town. On Monday, Tony Weeg, executive director of the nonprofit, and Jeff Smith, president, presented the town council with a skate park location study. We Heart Berlin hired Spohn Ranch, a wellknown skate park design company, to review Stephen Decatur Park, Henry Park and Heron Park as potential locations for a Berlin facility. They evaluated the sites based on six different factors – visibility, accessibility, design canvas, barriers to being shovel ready, infrastructure and environmental impact.

“At the end of the day Stephen Decatur Park was picked as the best location,” Weeg said.

Spohn Ranch suggested the skateboarding infrastructure could be built adjacent to the parking lot near the pond. While the actual elements for Berlin’s skate park haven’t been selected yet, the concept drawing Spohn Ranch shows at Stephen Decatur Park features a flow bowl on one side, a street section in the middle and a pump track on the other side.

Weeg said he needed the town to formally select a location so We Heart Berlin could pursue grants to help with construction.

Councilman Jay Knerr said he’d heard from several residents this week who supported the concept but had concerns about a skate park at Stephen Decatur Park.

“What they’re saying is this particular area is often used for overflow parking for events uptown on any given weekend,” he said. “To put the skate park in this particular area would eliminate that.”

He said the solution could be to put the skateboarding infrastructure on the southeast section of the park.

“The decision’s up to you guys,” Weeg said.

Tyndall asked if the location proposal had been brought to the town’s parks commission.

“We figured the parks commission had already been involved in the early processes,” Weeg said.

Tyndall said he always wanted to hear

SEE PAGE 12

A potential skate park design included in the feasibility study by Spohn Ranch shows a skateboarding facility near the pond at Stephen Decatur Park. This concept features a flow bowl on the left, a street section in the middle and a pump track on the right. Submitted Rendering

… Commission To Review Location

FROM PAGE 10

feedback from the town’s boards and commissions.

“I’m not sure what the parks commission would do different than the professionals,” Weeg said. “If we were going to leave it up to the parks commission, we could have saved the $20,000.”

Councilman Dean Burrell said the town always had items related to the parks go to the parks commission first.

Councilman Steve Green asked how the park would compare in size to other area parks. Weeg confirmed it would be about the size of the Ocean City skate park.

“I think the study is great,” Green said. “Thank you for funding it. That’s tremendously valuable. I do think that if it goes before the parks commission it needs to be a yay or nay for Stephen Decatur Park.”

He added that he didn’t understand why the skate park had been put on the agenda if there was to be no action and pointed out that there were numerous people in attendance, including children, to show support for the skate park.

“I feel like we’ve wasted these people’s time quite frankly,” he said.

Tyndall maintained that the location recommendation had to come from the parks commission.

Later, in the portion of the meeting dedicated to public comments, resident Andrea Lahr said skate park supporters had tried to talk to parks commission

members in the hall after Weeg’s presentation.

“I have never been so rudely spoken to,” Lahr said.

She expressed frustration with the lack of options for children who wanted to skateboard.

“What the kids are asking for is a place to safely skate,” she said, “and they are asking that Berlin supplies that for them. They aren’t asking to run crazy all over the town. Everybody is so bent out of shape because they don’t want a skate park.”

Blair Parsons told the council she lived near the park on Kenwood Court. She said she’d skateboarded as a child and wanted to see a skateboarding facility in town but questioned Stephen Decatur Park as the location.

“Putting it next to a nature pond that has been created as a green space for walking I think takes from the beauty and nature aspects of the park,” she said. “I was looking at my backyard today and imaging a giant concrete structure. I think it would take away from the charm of what is one of the best green spaces that we have in town.”

Resident Kim Holloway said it was not fair that the skate park had been included on the agenda if there wasn’t going to be any action taken. She said it seemed as if the group was being thrown back and forth.

“It was a big injustice for them and their group and all of the hard work they’ve done,” she said.

CAPTAIN CARAPICO’S CREATIONS

& CAP’NS SLICE PIZZA RUSTY ANCHOR SUSHI

Twenty-four years ago at a local downtown brew pub in Ocean City, brick oven pizza was not as well known and beloved as it is today but it remains not your ordinary pizza. Back then, a young man with baggy shorts and no shoes or shirt walked into the pub and pizzeria asking if we were hiring.

I told him to go get some shoes and shirt and come back at 5 p.m. and we will make some pizza together.

The young man had inspiration and goals to make the best pizza around. His product eventually led to many California Pizza Kitchen and most recently he fabricated a brick oven pizza trailer on the island where tourists and locals alike patronized.

Yancy Carapico has now brought his work ethic and perseverance to Berlin to The Cap’ns Slice. Come see what you have been missing. He has attended countless pizza conventions throughout the country and learned many combinations from international travel.

Yancy also mentored under Angelo Competiello, who beat Bobby Flay on his network show.

Looking forward to seeing you soon and having you try the tastiest pizza on Delmarva. - Chris DiForte

The Cap’ns Slice located at 8 Pitts St. Berlin, MD 21811

Open Thursday-Monday 11am-8pm. • Closed Tuesday & Wednesday.

Offering a variety of pizzas by the slice, salads, sides and beverages for carry out. Call ahead for whole 18” pizza pickup. Call 667-288-1039.

Follow on Facebook @ The Cap’ns Slice and on Instagram @thecapnsslice for daily & weekly specials.

Algae Blooms Emerge In Fenwick Canals

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials say they continue to seek help from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) regarding the emergence of algae blooms in local canals.

Two weeks ago, officials with the Town of Fenwick Island were made aware of algae blooms in the canals south of Dagsboro Street. Mayor Natalie Magdeburger noted that the town is awaiting response from DNREC, which controls state waterways and responds to algae bloom occurrences.

“It’s from warm water and nutrients,” she said, “so we need DNREC to come in and figure if there’s a source.”

Magdeburger said the town had initially reached out to DNREC. However, the agency had informed Fenwick Island officials that staff could not assess the situation until after Memorial Day.

“We can’t do anything until they do their assessment,” she said.

When the algae blooms were first reported, the town observed thick algae covering the south canals, particularly off Oyster Bay Drive. In an update this week, Magdeburger noted that conditions had improved off Oyster Bay, but that algae remained, with the worst algae blooms located off Surf Avenue.

“I believe in some of the canals, the situation is a little better,” she said in an interview Tuesday.

Magdeburger this week also provided an update on beach replenishment work in Fenwick Island.

Last Friday, the town received notice that a broken pipe bringing sand onto the beach would need repairs, extending dredging activities to early June. And on Tuesday, officials learned of other equipment delays.

“We got word today that they’ve made the pipe repairs, but their dredge now has to go back to fill up with gas,” Magdeburger said. “So they won’t start until after Memorial Day … I don’t know how much further that delays us.”

Beach replenishment was scheduled to start in Fenwick in July. Working with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Philadelphia District Commander Lt. Col. Ramon Brigantti, however, the agency was able to hire a second dredge company to complete work in Delaware’s coastal communities ahead of Memorial Day, beginning in Fenwick. Crews began work in Fenwick Island last Monday, and continued through the end of last week, when the first delays occurred.

An algae bloom off Surf Avenue is pictured. Photo courtesy Natalie Magdeburger

Concerns Raised Over Public Meeting Agenda Changes

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Citizens are adjusting to a new council agenda format at Berlin’s town meetings.

In recent months, the town has updated its meeting agenda format and has limited public comments to a dedicated portion of the meeting. While the changes came as a surprise to some in attendance at this week’s meeting, Mayor Zack Tyndall said the new practices related to the growing trend of First Amendment audits. “It’s the time we live in,” Tyndall said.

Berlin Officials Questioned Over Comments

Dozens of citizens attended this week’s town council meeting, as two hot topics — a Berlin skate park and short-term rentals — were on the agenda. They quickly grew frustrated when attempts to ask questions or interject comments were silenced by elected officials, who advised them they’d be able to speak at the end of the meeting during the portion set aside for public comments. When that time arrived, residents expressed their frustration.

“Why were questions excluded from this meeting?” resident Marie Velong said. “That wasn’t the way the dialogue used to be. You exclude questions from the public at a time that would be relevant to the topic at hand. Waiting until the end and not answering does nothing for communication with the people that are attending. To me I don’t do any better now coming to this meeting than I would sitting at home watching it. It seems like we should have some say in how you construct your agenda.”

Resident Kim Holloway also commented.

“I’m a little disappointed as well we don’t get any answers when we have questions,” she said.

Tyndall attempted to address the issue when it came time for his comments. He said it pained him to not be able to respond to citizens, many of whom he’d known his entire life. He said the changes to the agenda and meeting procedure were related to First Amendment audits. The audits are a largely social movement in which citizens walk into municipal meetings and buildings with their cameras in hand to film government in action.

“Unfortunately, a lot of our time, staff time, council time, conference time, is committed to these First Amendment au-

ditors, and training and direction from legal counsel — LGIT, our legal counsel — on how to handle it and how to structure our meetings, our daily operations,” Tyndall said. “It’s not something that’s really a high point I think of when I think of the service a community organization like the Town of Berlin provides to our residents. Please know it doesn’t bring me joy.”

He added that the new agenda format, which includes a consent agenda, proclamations, discussion and items for approval as well as specific sections for comments from the public, council and mayor, had been developed in line with those of neighboring jurisdictions.

“Our meeting structure is not uncommon,” he said. “What we did is we pulled from other resources, even throughout Worcester County. Our meeting agenda and the language that’s on here is the exact same thing you may see in another municipality within Worcester County.”

He added that some public meetings didn’t even provide citizens with the option of commenting.

“It’s something that we have valued for a long time,” he said. “We love the feedback, positive or negative or critical or not critical.”

The mayor said hearing from citizens was important to Berlin officials and would not be disappearing. He added that he kept track of comments and would follow up with residents.

Harborside Still Crushing 30 Years Later

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

WEST OCEAN CITY – The owners of a popular dockside bar and grill credit their three decades of success to their loyal customers and employees.

This year, Harborside Bar & Grill celebrates 30 years of operation at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor. Co-owners Chris Wall and Lloyd Whitehead said what started as a fledgling restaurant and bar is now a go-to destination for residents and visitors alike.

“It has grown a lot,” Whitehead said. “We have the same people that now have kids and now their kids come in. Some even work here.”

In 1993, Wall and Whitehead opened Harborside Bar & Grill. At the time, both were working at Phillips Seafood Restaurant. But when a space became available along the harbor, the pair jumped at the opportunity.

“Lloyd had already finished college, and I stopped off and bought a bar before I went back to college,” Wall said.

The owners recalled that first year of operation, only having enough money to clean up the restaurant before opening the doors.

“We joke there’s no ‘U’ in harbor and ‘E’ on grill,” Wall said. “We couldn’t afford to buy the vowels.”

Whitehead said money was tight and help was limited.

“Early on it was rough,” he explained. “We had some employees but by the first winter it had got down to one or two. We were cooking, bartending, waiting tables, doing everything that first year or two.”

But their luck would soon change. In 1995, after experimenting with different recipes, Harborside released its freshsqueezed orange crush. The drink, they said, was a hit.

“Orange vodka came out in 1995, and that fall we played with a bunch of stuff to get the orange crush and a couple other drinks,” Wall said. “But that one took off on the drink menu the following season.”

Today, patrons flock to Harborside to get a taste of “the original orange crush,” as well as the restaurant’s various spinoffs, including grapefruit crush and creamsicle crush.

“A lot of restaurants that do the crushes pre-squeeze their juices,” Whitehead said. “Here, it’s almost part of the show, seeing how many guys are doing it at one time. It’s ridiculous how many they do at one time.”

The restaurant also offers an extensive menu with a wide variety of appetizers, sandwiches and entrees. While many patrons come for the orange crush, Wall said they are just as pleased with the food.

“It was a bar that served food,” he said. “We turned it into a restaurant with a kickass bar.”

Whitehead said the menu ranges from burgers and chicken sandwiches to fresh seafood.

“We have a lot of emphasis on seafood – crab cakes, steamed shrimp, scallops,” he said. “For our scallops, literally the boat parks next door.”

Being located along the commercial harbor comes with several advantages, the owners say. Patrons not only enjoy dockside views and fresh seafood, but they can pull their boat into any one of the 18 slips.

“It’s a laidback atmosphere,” Whitehead said. “You’ve got people coming in and out on the boats, a lot of outdoor dining. It’s a lot of fun.”

Wall noted Harborside is a place where patrons of all ages can find everything –from food and drink to views and entertainment.

“What can’t they find?” he said. “You want burgers? An unbelievable CAB steak? Fresh seafood? You want waterfront? Inside? Outside? You want sports on TV? We have a plentiful mix of just about everything you’d want.”

The owners added they can also find great service. Wall said their 30 years of operation would not have been successful without the support of their staff.

“I think we owe a lot to our staff over the 30 years to get us where we are,” Wall said.

Whitehead agreed.

“And our parents,” he added. “They were there at the beginning for us and helped us get through the early years.”

For more information on Harborside Bar & Grill, visit weocharborside.com. The restaurant opens daily at 11 a.m.

Outdoor seating is pictured along the water at Harborside in West Ocean City.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Grant Funds 10 Security Cameras For Berlin

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Law enforcement now has the assistance of cameras in downtown Berlin.

Police Chief Arnold Downing this week announced that 10 cameras are now in place in the downtown area. They’re expected to enhance the abilities of police to respond to local issues.

“As a police department, we know we won’t be able to enforce everything ourselves as men and women of the department,” he said. “The force multiplier is technology.”

Last year, the town received a $76,300 Community Safety Works Business District Grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The funding was used to purchase modular vehicle barriers to be used during special events as well as security cameras.

The fisheye cameras have been placed on utility poles in the downtown area. Locations include Jefferson and Gay streets, Broad Street, Jefferson and Main streets, William Street, Commerce Street and South Main Street. The other cameras cover parking areas, such as those on William Street, Pitts Street, North Main Street and even the parking lot behind Sisters. Downing pointed out the town already had cameras at Henry Park, the 500 block of Bay Street and Decatur Street.

Downing said the new cameras, which can be moved or adjusted as needed, just

went live Monday and the best vantage points and locations for each camera are still being reviewed. He added that the camera feeds are not available to the public now but acknowledged that possibility would be explored moving forward.

He expects the cameras to prove helpful during investigations, as police in the past have struggled to compile video from various businesses’ cameras.

“If we have an actual accident, violation of law, and we’re looking for a certain vehicle or person we’ll be able to type in color and we’ll be able to see every blue car that went by,” Downing said. “We’ll be able to see everybody wearing a black shirt. We’ll be able to pull those from the different cameras.”

He added that the South Main Street camera would also be able to read license plates so that if something occurred, po-

lice could check after the fact if a certain vehicle had passed by.

Another almost $50,000 grant is expected to soon fund a license plate reader for Route 113. Downing said two license plate readers, one for each direction, would be placed on Route 113 in front of the police station.

He said that would be helpful when there were situations like Amber Alerts or when neighboring agencies were looking for a particular vehicle.

Mayor Zack Tyndall thanked the DHCD for the funding, as it had enabled both the installation of the cameras and the purchase of the modular vehicle barriers.

“We are very appreciative of their support,” he said.

Downing said his department is also working with a vendor on speed cameras and will soon be assessing locations.

An image from one of Berlin’s 10 new cameras is shown. Submitted Photo

Drugs, Gun After Traffic Stop

BERLIN – Maryland State Police arrested two men last week after uncovering a stolen firearm and suspected cocaine following a traffic stop in Worcester County.

The operator of a Toyota Camry, Javon Brittingham, 31, of Salisbury, has been charged with possession of a stolen firearm, reported stolen from Georgia, and other gun-related charges. Brittingham was also charged with driving under the influence, possession of a controlled dangerous substance and other related traffic charges.

Brittingham had one passenger in the vehicle, identified as Rodney Smith, Jr., 29, of Salisbury. Smith was also charged criminally with possession of a stolen firearm and other gun-related charges.

Around 3 a.m. Friday, a trooper from the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack

conducted a traffic stop on a 2020 Toyota Camry, operated by Brittingham, on westbound Route 50, west of the Berlin Barrack for speeding. Upon contacting Brittingham, the trooper noticed signs of possible impairment. A further investigation on the scene revealed a stolen firearm and suspected cocaine.

Brittingham and Smith were arrested on the scene without incident and trans-

ported to the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack for processing. Both were transported to the Worcester County Detention Center where they were seen by a District Court Commissioner. Brittingham is currently being held on a $5,000 bond. Smith is currently being held without bond.

Fentanyl Distribution

OCEAN CITY – An undercover investigation has resulted in heroin and fentanyl distribution charges against an Ocean City resident.

Back on Jan. 20, Ocean City police began working in an undercover capacity to target drug distribution. One of the individuals identified in the probe was Bimini Howard, 60, as a distributor of bundles, or “bun,” which represents several glassine bags rubber banded together containing a mixture of heroin and fentanyl.

An undercover officer arranged to meet Howard in a convenience store parking lot for a $70 bundle. After the drug transaction took place, Howard was charged with distribution of a schedule I drug (heroin) and distribution of a schedule II drug (fentanyl).

Drug, Gun Charges

OCEAN CITY – A Cambridge man is facing trespassing and drug charges.

On May 21, around 10 p.m., Ocean City police was alerted to suspicious circumstances around a 4th Street condominium unit. A resident was sitting inside his unit when his door opened but nobody entered. When the man looked outside, he saw Alex R. Williamson, 39, in a green jumpsuit near a “no trespassing” sign before he left the area. Nearby Williamson was located and confirmed as the suspect for trespassing.

While being searched, police found a bag containing cocaine on Williamson. A K9 Smoke scan of Williamson’s vehicle alerted positive. Police found a loaded revolver underneath the driver seat. Williamson denied any knowledge of the gun and declined to give consent for a DNA swab.

Williamson was charged with trespassing, possession of a schedule II drug (cocaine) and two counts of transporting a loaded handgun in a vehicle.

Attempted Vehicle Theft

OCEAN CITY – A few unsuccessful attempts to steal a vehicle in north Ocean City last weekend led to weapon and theft charges against a Washington, D.C. man.

On May 20, witnesses reported to Ocean City police suspects were trying to break into a vehicle around 132nd Street. Upon arrival, police determined two males broke the rear passenger window to a 2015 Kia Optima and tried to “hot wire” the vehicle. The suspects fled the scene but were later seen walking on the road. Police were later alerted the individuals involved in the earlier incident were back in the area.

The victim told police a black male with a flashlight was seen in the victim’s vehiSEE NEXT PAGE

cle. He was identified as Dennis M. Abadio, 23. When the victim approached him, Abadio fled the scene. Later, Abadio and another suspect returned to the scene and nearby restaurant security video showed them around the same vehicle, attempting again to break into the vehicle before fleeing the scene again. Police were able to locate Abadio nearby. As police were arriving, a witness told the officer Abadio had tossed a handgun onto a nearby building’s roof. Police retrieved the gun, which had a bullet in the chamber, and identified it as stolen.

Abadio faces numerous charges including intent to commit vehicle theft, possessing a stolen firearm valued at $439, carrying a loaded handgun and using a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Exhibition Driving Charge

OCEAN CITY – As part of the special event zone last week, Ocean City police issued 23 citations for exhibition driving, including one repeat offender from last year.

On May 19, around 10:20 p.m., a police officer on marked patrol near 97th Street observed a Chevrolet Camaro accelerate aggressively enough “to emit extreme excessive engine noise,” according to a police report. The officer noted in the report it was violation of state traffic law generally and specifically the new rules and regulations put in place for the special event zone, which was in effect from May 16-21.

Del., was identified as the driver. When approach by police, the driver was noted as saying in the police report, “Excessive noise, excessive noise again. I already beat that one, you want me to beat it again? I’ll beat it again.” Buresch was charged with the same offense of exhibition driving on Oct. 8, 2022.

Weapon Arrest

OCEAN CITY – An observed exhibition driving incident led to weapon and driving while impaired charges last week.

On May 19, Ocean City police observed a Audi S4 traveling 54 mph in a posted 30 mph zone on Coastal Highway around 34th Street. The motorist, Dimas Salvador Arroya Sarien, 21, of Salisbury, was seen passing vehicles in the bus lane in a reckless manner by accelerating quickly and abruptly, making a loud noise.

Believing the behavior qualified as exhibition driving under the special event zone, police pulled the vehicle over. Arroya Sarien had an expired license and performed poorly on a battery of drunk driving tests. He was found at police headquarters to have a blood alcohol beyond the legal limit.

An inventory of the vehicle found an assisted opening knife and unloaded handgun under the passenger seat. The gun was found to not have a serial number.

Arroya Sarien was charged with driving while impaired, unlawful possession of a firearm without required serial number or approved marking, unlawful receiving of a firearm without a serial number, transporting a handgun on himself and public roads and possession of an assisted opening knife.

“OCEAN CITY CHRO NICLES ”

OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES

Reminiscing Maryland’s Beach Resort

BY HUNTER “BUNK” MANN

BUNK MANN’S NEWEST BOOK O N OCEAN CITY HISTORY

“Ocean City Chronicles” is the final book in Bunk Mann’s 3 volume historical series which began with “Vanishing Ocean City’ in 2014 and continued with ‘Ghosts In The Surf” in 2019. Centered around his articles in Ocean city’s award-winnning newspaper the Maryland Coast Dispatch , his latest book features 285 of the most popular ones over the past 11 years. It includes hundreds of photos of long vanished hotels & restaurants, the great storms & fires, deep sea fishing, boardwalk attractions & amusements, and stories of the people who turned a small 19th-century fishing village into a modern, year-round destination.

“Ocean City Chronicles” is a comprehensive history of Maryland’s famous oceanfront resort in a hardbound coffee table book featuring cover art by noted artist, Paul McGehee. Supplies are limited so order your copy today!

Book Signing Sun., May 28 • 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum

Ocean City Chronicles can be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com. Visit the website for further information and photos.

“Ocean City Chronicles” will be available at select location in Ocean City, Berlin, Ocean Pines and online. If you liked “Vanishing Ocean City,” & Ghosts In The Surf’ then you will love Bunk Mann’s third book of photos and OC history.

OC Lifesaving Museum

F ager’s Island

Donaway Fur niture

Mann Proper ties

Seacrets

Crab s To Go

Wockenfuss Candies

Berlin Auto Wash

Har poon Hanna’s

T he Buzzed Wor d

OC Chamber Of Commer ce

M R Ducks

M alib u’s Surf Shop

OC Ar t League

Caprichos Books

Kitty ’s F lowers

Victorian Char m

Park Place Jeweler s

Cop y Central

Toy Town/ Snow

T he Bay Country Shop, Camb ridge, MD

Theodore Buresch, 24, of New Castle,

Showell Elem. Class Publishes Book

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A book written by local second graders will soon be helping students across the world appreciate the ocean.

A book written and illustrated by students in Mackenzie Keyser’s class at Showell Elementary School during the 2020-2021 school year is now being published. Proceeds from the book will support the Kelly Slater Foundation, which raises awareness and provides funding for environmental causes.

“All the money is going to go to the Kelly Slater Foundation, which is going to get the books into schools around the world,” Keyser said. “Our local kids are going to be teaching other kids.”

In the fall of 2020, when virtual learning was in place as schools were closed

during the pandemic, Keyser said she was struggling to keep her young second graders engaged.

“A big thing for me as a teacher is I want to bring the real world to my kids,” she said.

That was difficult to do through a computer screen, but when it came time for a lesson on biographies, she came up with the idea of finding someone famous who’d be willing to chat with her students via Zoom. Keyser, who grew up in the Ocean City area, immediately thought of someone she’d always looked up to—Slater.

“I asked and he responded right away,” she said. “He stayed on Zoom with us for over two hours.”

He answered kids’ questions, told them stories, took them on a tour of his house in Hawaii and even played the ukelele for them. The story that stuck with them, Keyser said, was that of a surf trip when he’d get tangled in handfuls of trash each time he paddled. They were worried about that happening here.

“The Ocean City Surf Club lets you adopt a beach,” she said. “Our class adopted 15th Street.”

They went on to pick up trash for months, logging their finds in a database. When Keyser advised Slater of the impact he’d had on the students, he suggested the class create a book on the topic and Zoom with him again. That they did, writing and illustrating a book that shows the impact of trash and how easy it can be to keep the beach clean if everyone takes part.

“He said he loved the message in the book and would love to publish it,” Keyser said.

Di Angelo Publications will be printing “Keep Our Beaches Clean! What if Everybody Did That?” which will be available through preorder on the Di Angelo Publications website and will be on sale in bookstores in March 2024.

Keyser advised the now-fourth graders of the exciting news earlier this week. Between the interaction with Slater and the publication of the book, Keyser believes students have had a truly meaningful experience.

“They’re never going to forget this,” she said.

She’s thrilled that her former students will be able to share a part of that experience with other students through the book. She pointed out the talk with Slater was all it took to inspire them to want to clean up the beach in Ocean City.

“It shows that kids naturally care about their world,” she said. “They want to take care of it.”

She said proceeds from the book would go to Slater’s foundation, which will use the money to get the books into classrooms around the world to inspire interest in protecting the environment among young students.

“It’s incredible that our little small town is being recognized worldwide,” Keyser said.

Camden Pradon, a student in Mackenzie Keyser’s 2020-2021 second-grade class, is pictured cleaning up the beach as part of a months-long project. Submitted Image

Citizen Celebrated For ‘Generational Impact’ On Children

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – School system officials honored a local woman for nearly six decades of dedication to the education of Snow Hill children.

The Worcester County Board of Education last week recognized Barbara Butler for 58 years of service to local children. Butler created the Haven House program at Snow Hill Elementary.

“Mrs. Butler, we owe you a huge debt of gratitude,” said Jon Andes, school board member and former superintendent.

Matthew Record, principal at Snow Hill Elementary School, introduced Butler at last Tuesday’s board of education meeting. Record said she’d first worked as a teacher and administrator for the school system and after retirement, continued her efforts with an after-school program on Dighton Avenue. Andes said he still recalled meeting her in 1997 when he visited Dighton Avenue.

“I remember meeting this young lady who said this program’s going to be here, we’re going to get it done, we’re going to make a difference and you’re going to do what I tell you to do. And I said ‘Yes ma’am,’” Andes said.

Eventually the volunteer-based program was moved to Snow Hill Elementary School, as the school had ample space and a partnership with the education institution would enable the program to seek grant funding. In 2004, the Haven House became the county’s first after-school program to receive a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant.

“That really opened up an opportunity to increase enrollment,” Record said.

Andes said many of the students who graduated from Snow Hill High School had been impacted by Butler.

“We are so blessed and so fortunate to have Mrs. Butler in our community and doing everything she did, starting on Dighton Avenue and then moving to Snow Hill Elementary School, and making a phenomenal difference in the lives of our children,” he said. “Many students who walk across the stage from Snow Hill High School started at the Haven House program and it’s all because of her that they’re walking across that stage in two weeks.”

Record said the program played a huge role at Snow Hill Elementary.

“It has been a staple for all children but a point of pride for the African American community in Snow Hill,” he said.

Haven House provides young students with homework assistance, academic enrichment and youth development. The program is operated with support from Oasis Ministries.

“It is truly a community and school working together,” Record said.

He credits Butler’s passion and dedication with making Haven House the influential program it is for local children.

“You can walk through the halls of Snow Hill High School or walk through the Snow Hill community and kids will tell you ‘I was a Haven House kid. Mrs. Butler made me who I am today,’” Record said. “There’s been a generational impact and we really have Mrs. Butler to thank.”

Pictured, from left, are SHES Principal Matthew Record, Board of Education President Todd Ferrante, Barbara Butler and Superintendent Lou Taylor. Submitted Photo

County To Weigh Residential Use In Commercial District

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – A bill that would allow residential development in the C-3 commercial district will move forward for consideration by local officials.

Two of the Worcester County Commissioners agreed last week to put their names on a bill that would allow multifamily dwellings in the C-3 district.

“It certainly would allow people to use their property to house their employees if necessary and have commercial space on the front side,” said Commissioner Joe Mitrecic. “I think it’s a good idea. I do support it for that reason.”

Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting, told the commissioners last week that the Worcester County Planning Commission had voted unanimously to give a favorable recommendation to a proposed text amendment that would allow multi-family dwellings in the C-3 district. Keener said it would mean that a developer could have 65% of a property commercial and then use the remaining 35% for high density residential. Keener noted the only C-3 property was around the Home Depot area.

Commissioner Jim Bunting asked how much the density would increase over what was currently permitted, as right now C-3 property can have residential but it has to be attached to the commercial portion. The text amendment would allow commercial on one section of the property and residential on a separate portion of the property.

“It’s apples to oranges,” Keener said, adding that she couldn’t make a comparison unless she had a specific footprint to consider.

Commissioner Eric Fiori said there was a limited amount of commercial space available and didn’t believe increasing residential within the commercial district made sense.

Mitrecic said it could help provide more housing though. He added that was an issue in Ocean City and beyond.

“… it’s a problem throughout the upper end of the county,” he said. “We have no employee housing left. This would allow a developer to have his commercial entity in the front and employee housing in the back possibly.”

Fiori acknowledged there was a need for residential.

“Yes, we do have a need for housing but the idea that a developer that owns this prime C-3 property is going to build this property, lease it out commercially in the front, and then, because they’re such a friendly developer, they’re going to create employee housing in the rear seems a stretch at best,” he said.

Mitrecic and Commissioner Diana Purnell agreed to put their names on the bill to allow it to move forward for consideration.

Oasis Travel Night

Featuring Representatives from The St. Martin’s Tourism Board and The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Board and numerous hotels throughout the Caribbean FREE EVENT

Wednesday, June 7th, 6-8pm Waterman’s Seafood Company in West Ocean City, 2nd Floor Please join us. Light fare included, drinks available for purchase at happy hour prices.

RSVP to info@travelwithoasis.com or 410-213-9330

Resort Council Unanimously Supports Budget

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials last week voted to adopt the fiscal year 2024 operating budget with a tax rate set above the constant yield.

Last week, the Mayor and Council had before them a second reading of the fiscal year 2024 operating budget. The town’s spending plan, which totals $155,155,151, includes a general fund budget of $105,073,940 and a tax rate set at $0.4526 per $100 of assessed value.

“This is to adopt the fiscal year 2024 proposed operating budget,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said.

In March, City Manager Terry McGean and Budget Manager Jennie Knapp presented the Mayor and Council with the proposed fiscal year 2024 budget. And over the course of two weeks, city officials held a series of budget work sessions to discuss topics such as emergency services and public safety requests, room tax, advertising and more.

The budget approved on second reading last week features a tax rate of $0.4526 per $100 of assessed value, which is the same as the current fiscal year tax rate. Because the rate is higher than the constant yield rate – or the rate needed to provide the same level of revenue as the prior year – the town expects to generate real property tax revenues of $43,219,002, which funds 41% of the general fund budget.

The budget also features $3.4 million in capital projects for the coming fiscal year. The spending plan allots $1.8 million for street paving, $1.5 million for the capital maintenance fund and $100,000 for Boardwalk redecking.

Projects approved as “pay-as-you-go” in the capital maintenance fund include $1.1 million for street paving, $200,000 for canal dredging, $100,000 for storm drain cleaning, $100,000 for Ocean Bowl Skate Park repairs and $80,000 for City Watch surveillance cameras.

With no further discussion last week, a motion made by Council Secretary Tony DeLuca and seconded by Councilman Peter Buas to approve the fiscal year 2024 budget on second reading passed in a 7-0 vote.

More information on the fiscal year 2024 budget can be found on the town’s website, oceancitymd.gov.

“I’d like to thank our budget manager, the city manager and all the department heads for bringing forward a responsible budget and for holding the tax rate at the same rate it was last year, while at the same time continuing to fund all the necessities that we have funded in the past and continue to fund in the future – our street paving, our canal dredging,” Mayor Rick Meehan said earlier this month.

Boardwalk Scene: Visitors, including this multi-tasking father, are pictured lining the Boardwalk last Thursday morning before the opening Cruisin parade of participants.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Pines Board Approves Legal Contract

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Officials in Ocean Pines voted last week to approve a contract for legal services.

In a meeting last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve a legal contract from the law firm of Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand. While the board voted last month to approve the use of the new law firm, officials last week voted to approve the specific terms and conditions of the contract that have been submitted by the law firm and reviewed by the board.

After a lengthy debate, the Ocean Pines board voted last month to award a contract for legal services to the Ocean City-based law firm of Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand. While several praised the community’s current general counsel – Lerch, Early & Brewer – President Doug Parks argued it was good business practice to explore other opportunities.

“This motion says to contract for legal services,” he explained at the time. “This does not mean we have a contract yet. What it means is we are open and going to pursue Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy and Almand to enter into a contract.”

Parks told the board last month the association had sent a request for proposals to five law firms. Of those solicitations, two firms – Aryes, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand and Lerch, Early & Brewer – responded.

Those opposing the selection of Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand argued the association’s current legal counsel had top litigators spanning various legal specialties. They also questioned if hiring Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand would represent a conflict of interest, as the firm had represented two sitting board members in other legal matters.

“I’m also concerned about potential conflicts on the issues in which their other local clients’ interests, such as Ocean City, may conflict with ours,” Director Colette Horn said at the time. “And I would like to hear, before we sign the contract, their plan on how they would handle such conflicts when and if they arise.”

After further discussion, Director Steve Jacobs made a motion last month to postpone the consideration of a new law firm until the board members could meet publicly with Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand and share their concerns regarding conflicts of interest. The motion failed in a 42 vote. A majority of the board then voted to approve and award a contract for legal services to the law firm of Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand.

Back on the agenda for discussion this week, Jacobs questioned if the board’s concerns and suggestions had been addressed in the contract.

“Yes, we forwarded that information to counsel earlier this week and those changes will be made,” Parks replied.

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to approve the contract from Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand.

Pines Board Establishes System For Fining Violators

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Board members last week voted to establish a system for fining properties in continual violation of the community’s guidelines.

Last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors voted unanimously to establish a system for fining property owners who continue to violate the community’s guidelines in the sections of Ocean Pines that grant the board the authority to do so.

Director Colette Horn, liaison for the Ocean Pines Architectural Review Committee (ARC), said the request was made in an effort to use enforcement tools that could minimize the time between notice of, and compliance with, outstanding violations.

“People who live in Ocean Pines full time are asking that the board use their powers of enforcement, limited as they may be, to compel enforcement in all of the sections,” she said. “I will also add there was an effort last year that we started the process of trying to change the declarations of restrictions in those sections that don’t have fining authority that would allow enforcement of short-term rental restrictions and potentially, in the future, to compel enforcement of the ARC violations and other rule violations in those sections using the power of fining.”

While not every section of the community includes the authority to fine property owners in its declarations of restrictions, officials say the motion would allow the

board to penalize owners in sections that do authorize fines.

“It was noted by Frank [Daly, director], astutely, that many who are in continuing violation may not care about their voting rights and may not care about their ability to use their amenities,” Horn said. “Most people do care about a fine that would be imposed upon them.”

For his part, Daly said he supported the establishment of a fining system. However, he cautioned the board. He argued many homeowners did not trust an association board to levy fines.

“Overall, I would say that the number of properties here that are in disrepair right now don’t have a serious impact on the community, but they sure have a serious impact on the people around them …,” he said. “I support it for that reason, with the caution to move ahead in a very measured manner to develop trust, that you can use this new weapon you are asking for.”

Horn noted that the community’s guidelines were objective.

“Trust really rests on the degree of which a decision is made objectively versus subjectively,” she said. “We have objective criteria in our guidelines, we have objective criteria in the rulebook … The application of fines is meant to be an objective process. It’s a yes or no.”

Director Steve Jacobs questioned a fining system in sections where the declarations of restrictions do not give the board the authority to do so.

“My question is where the DRs are silent, can Ocean Pines, as a larger body,

impose a system of fines similar to what’s in this resolution?” he asked.

Daly noted the board couldn’t fine in the sections where the declarations of restrictions don’t give the board the ability to do so. He added that legal counsel had also advised the board it could not recover legal fees when taking violations to court unless it was outlined in the section’s declarations of restrictions.

“We may want to check with our new counsel,” he said.

Association President Doug Parks said he wanted to consult the association’s attorney on the board’s ability to impose fines. He said he didn’t want the board to

take actions it is not supposed to take.

“I believe the association has the authority to impose the fine,” he said. “The way in which we’re doing it is what I want to research.”

With no further discussion, the board voted 7-0 to establish a system for fining property owners with continuing ARC violations in sections that authorize the board to do so. Those sections include Innerlinks, White Tail Sanctuary, The Point, Mumford’s Townhouses, Colonial Village North, Marina Village Condominiums, Marina Village Townhouses, Mumford’s Landing Single Family, Harbor Village and Triple Crown Estates.

Area Agencies Respond To Residential Fire

BERLIN – The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a residential structure fire that occurred on Woodlawn Road.

The Berlin Fire Company was dispatched for a reported house fire at 5:39 p.m. Upon arrival, crews experienced fire conditions in the garage portion of the home that had been converted into a bedroom. Crews worked to quickly bring the fire under control. The single occupant of the home received minor burn injuries but refused EMS treatment.

Assistance was provided by Ocean City, Showell, Berlin, Ocean Pines, Bishopville, Willards fire departments.

The cause of the fire is considered accidental and is believed to have been contributed by unattended cooking in the garage bedroom.

Officials Discuss Fire, EMS Funding

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Representatives of the Berlin Fire Company told town leaders the funding the municipality is proposing would not get the agency through the year.

“We can’t operate on inadequate funds the entire year,” attorney Joe Moore said.

Moore and David Fitzgerald, president of the Berlin Fire Company and Berlin Fire/Emergency Medical Services, met with Mayor Zack Tyndall and the town council on Monday during a work session. While the meeting was set to review proposed fire and EMS contracts, there wasn’t time to complete the process. Elected officials, however, did share some concerns. Councilman Jay Knerr asked Fitzgerald if the reports he typically handed out during his quarterly presentations to the council could be provided the week before. He pointed out that it was a lot of information to digest while Fitzgerald was speaking.

Councilman Dean Burrell said he’d like the reports to feature more financial information.

“We’re up here trying to determine possible funding,” he said.

Tyndall said that the town had asked for the proposed contracts, and the amount of funding being requested, back in February. He said it was more difficult for the town to find funding for the agency at this point in the budget process. The fire company has requested $200,000 in funding while EMS has requested more than $500,000. The town had budgeted about $116,000 for fire and about $283,000 for EMS. A big unknown is the $125,000 grant the town requested from the county for EMS. The county is not planning to fund the grant, according to public budget documents.

“It’s very challenging to go back through and make that change retroactively,” he said.

On the fire company’s part, Fitzgerald asked that the town seek input from the Berlin Fire Company related to proposed developments. He said the county solicited input from emergency responders when its boards reviewed potential development.

Fitzgerald also objected to the concept of an allocation of a certain amount being set aside for the fire company as a whole and then broken into two grants, one for EMS and one for fire.

“The fire company is eventually going to end up with zero because if you keep lumping it together, the employee cost of the EMS corporation is going to continue to rise …,” he said. “Something’s going to get zeroed out.”

Tyndall said officials would have to find another time to revisit their review of the EMS contract, as there was limited time during Monday’s work session.

Moore assured officials that fire company representatives would be happy to provide whatever information the town needed.

“We stand ready to justify the request,” he said. “It’s not a secret. If we can’t justify it, I can commit they won’t ask for it, because each year we struggle to get through the year.”

The damaged residence after Monday’s fire is pictured.

Photo courtesy of Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office

Memorial Day Ceremony On Tap

BERLIN – The largest Memorial Day ceremony in the region returns to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines on Monday, May 29, starting at 11 a.m.

The event each year draws thousands of people to the memorial grounds and features music, demonstrations, and public speakers honoring U.S. Military men and women who gave their lives in service.

“Memorial Day honors all who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our county,” Veterans Memorial Foundation President Marie Gilmore said. “This year’s ceremony, as those before it, will honor the brave men and women who served our country and lost their lives in doing so.”

Gilmore said the keynote speaker this year will be retired U.S. Marine

Corps Maj. Al Soto.

The ceremony will also honor local Gold Star families. During World War I, families would fly flags or banners with a blue star for every immediate family member serving in combat. If one of them died, a gold star replaced the blue star.

Walter Webster, a member of the Maryland East Chapter of Ex-POWs, will place a wreath in honor of all current and former prisoners of war.

The program will also include patriotic music performed by Randy Lee Ashcraft, The Delmarva Chorus, and Glen Mohr with the St. Luke’s Contemporary Choir.

The program is scheduled to run for one hour.

Public parking will be available at Veterans Memorial Park on Route 589 and Cathell Road in Ocean Pines. Limited seating will be available during the Memorial Day ceremony and guests are encouraged to bring chairs. No seating will be supplied for the special dedication ceremony.

In case of inclement weather, the Memorial Day ceremony will move to the Ocean Pines Community Center and be announced on the www.oceanpines.org and www.opvets.org websites and on social media.

Veterans are pictured taking part in last year’s Memorial Day ceremony in Ocean Pines. File photo by Campos Media

Worcester Youth & Family Program Seeks Mentors

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Officials at Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services are seeking male volunteers to participate in the agency’s Worcester Connects mentoring program.

Nearly three years ago, Worcester Youth and Family launched Worcester Connects, a youth mentoring program designed to help students who need a positive role model in their lives. Now, officials are seeking volunteers – particularly men – who can spend time with a mentee.

“No one really realizes it, but everyone has a mentor in their life in one way or another, whether it’s a coach or a parent or somebody in your family,” said Worcester Connects Director Kayla Figueroa. “Everyone had someone to get them to where they are at. That’s what we are giving these kids.”

Each year, kids in grades 1-12 are referred to the Worcester Connects program, matched with a volunteer mentor, and participate in both individual and group mentor activities.

Since its inception, the program has grown from 10 participants to 30. But officials say they now have 16 kids on the waitlist. Eleven of them are boys who are looking for a male mentor.

“It really does make a difference,” said Volunteer Supervisor Ryan Foley. “It can

be the difference for a kid going down one path versus the other.”

Figueroa said kids can be referred to Worcester Connects for a variety of reasons, though many come for social interactions outside of home or school. She said the program provides students with a mentor who can spend time with them twice a month.

“It’s really pairing a student with a volunteer from the community,” she explained. “The mentors are required to

see their kid at least twice a month, whether it’s picking them up and going to lunch, hanging out at the house, taking a walk around the park. And we also offer group events that are free to the families.”

Participation is simple, officials say. Mentors must be at least 18 years old and must complete a background check and online training. Once a volunteer has been screened, they are paired with a Worcester County student, focusing on

their strengths and interests through twice-monthly meetings.

“Something that really changes kids is when you have an adult in your life that cares about you just to care about you,” Foley said. “They have no other incentive, and that’s really what this is.”

Monthly outings can take place anywhere with a guardian’s permission. Worcester Connects also directs mentors to free community events and offers free monthly family activities such as bowling nights, Shorebirds games and movie theater outings, all made possible through the generous support of community businesses.

“We like to get the entire family involved,” Figueroa said, “because if they are comfortable hanging out with us, then the kids are more comfortable and more likely to show up.”

Officials say those interested in volunteering with Worcester Connects can call Worcester Youth and Family at 410641-4598, or email Kayla Figueroa at kaylaf@gowoyo.org or Ryan Foley at rfoley@gowoyo.org.

“It’s fun in my opinion,” Figueroa said. “It’s a good way to give back, it’s a good way to get involved in the community, and if you don’t have anything to do this weekend, why not hang out with a kid? … I feel like it just makes you feel good about yourself, especially when you see the connections that you make with the kids.”

Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services, pictured above, is seeking volunteers for its Worcester Connects youth mentoring program. Photo by Bethany Hooper

Old Pro Golf Celebrates 60 Years

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Despite the many changes that have occurred in town over the last 60 years, the connections of Old Pro Golf say their attractions remain a constant for locals and visitors.

Throughout May, Old Pro Golf is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a month of specials and events. President Scott Schoellkopf said the company is showing appreciation to its customers and employees with discounts, free games and random prizes.

“We appreciate the people that want to celebrate the 60th with us,” he said. “It’s a celebration but we’re not going anywhere. We’re excited to see what the next milestone holds.”

Old Pro Golf is a family owned and operated business founded by Herbert and Aileen Schoellkopf in the early 1960s. While Herb Schoellkopf spent much of the 1950s designing, building and operating miniature golf courses, driving ranges and other amusements along the East Coast, he opened his first Old Pro Golf on the Ocean City pier in 1963.

“Old Pro Golf is synonymous with my dad, Herb Schoellkopf,” Scott said. “He started building miniature golf courses in the 50s for other people. At one point he had a contract to build one in or near Ocean City, and he fell in love with the area. So his first course was on the pier.”

In the years that followed, Herb Schoellkopf would go on to produce other miniature golf courses throughout Ocean City, including 23rd Street, 28th Street, 68th Street and 136th Street. As the town

The indoor Old Pro Golf course on 136th Street is pictured.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Eastern Shore Physical Therapy

FROM PAGE 41

grew, Old Pro Golf grew along with it.

“Basically one thing my dad did was he grew with Taylor Bank,” Scott said. “When they opened a location at 20th Street, he bought a piece of land at 23rd Street. When they did midtown, his next piece of land was 28th Street. He grew from the south end to the north. And when Taylor Bank bought a piece of property at 140th Street, he bought one at 136th Street. That was one of his quips. He followed the banks north.”

That business strategy, Scott said, served him well. Today, the four locations attract more than 300,000 visitors annually.

“My dad was pretty much a creative genius,” he said. “He was a very hardworking, creative and, at times, very lucky guy … Everything you see goes back to him.”

Over the course of his career, Herb Schoellkopf designed and built more than 150 miniature golf courses. He was also credited with being one of the originators of the Philadelphia School of Miniature Course Design. His courses often featured elaborate themes, mechanical figures, obstacles and more.

“There are other courses out there that try to mimic the game of golf …,” Scott said. “His theory was more that the shots were more bank shots, target shots, and there were obstacles, moving figures and all of that. Then we added more water features, landscaping and fog.”

Today, each Old Pro Golf location features different themes. Guests can play the Temple of the Dragons course at 23rd Street, the Renaissance Castle course at 28th Street, the Prehistoric Dinosaur and Undersea Adventure courses at 68th Street, or the Safari Village and Caribbean Pirates courses at 136th Street. Patrons will also find the next generation of family operators at the helm.

“We joke that everybody that works here is either a family member, or a friend, or a friend of a family member,” Scott said.

Despite the growing number of attractions in town, Scott said Old Pro Golf remains a staple among residents and visitors. He said visiting an Old Pro Golf course is a quintessential Ocean City experience.

“Our real demographic is the 8- to 12year-old who brings his family,” Scott said. “But then when they get older and have their families, especially after 60 years, we have had third and fourth generations coming. They played with us in the 60s, and now they are bringing their grandchildren.”

In celebration of Old Pro Golf’s 60th anniversary, the company will host appreciation days for military members, educators and first responders throughout the month of May. Patrons ages 60 and older can also play for free. For more information on Old Pro Golf, visit oldprogolf.com.

“The interesting thing about being around for 60 years is how much has changed, and yet how much has stayed the same,” Scott said. “The game has not changed one bit. You still have a ball and a club and a hole and a family playing golf.”

The original Old Pro Golf on the Wicomico Street Pier is pictured in 1963.

Submitted Photo

410-641-2900 • WWW.EASTERNSHOREPT.COM

314 FRANKLIN AVENUE, SUITE 405 (NEXT TO LAB CORP), BERLIN, MD. 21811

Resort To Discuss Cannabis Reform

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials are expected to discuss the state’s new cannabis reform bill and the on-site consumption of marijuana.

In last week’s meeting of the Mayor and Council, City Manager Terry McGean presented officials with a tentative agenda for the May 30 work session. Among the discussion points, he said, is the onsite consumption of cannabis license.

Earlier this month, Gov. Wes Moore signed Maryland’s cannabis reform bill into law, paving the way for recreational sales beginning July 1.

In the November election, two-thirds of voters supported a state referendum to legalize recreational marijuana. The legislation signed into law this month essentially establishes an adult-use cannabis industry through the creation of tax rates and licensing framework.

In an interview last week, McGean said the council will specifically talk about cannabis sales and on-site consumption measures contained in the bill. While a municipality cannot establish zoning or other requirements that create an undue burden to a cannabis licensee, it can

choose to either authorize, prohibit or place restrictions on on-site consumption.

“We will discuss that and if the council wants to allow it or ban it,” he said.

The topic was also discussed at last week’s Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said the issue would soon be discussed by the Mayor and Council.

“The state code has some language in there that local jurisdictions can adopt exclusion zones for cannabis sales for recreational use,” he said. “The council is about to consider that.”

Neville noted that the issue would also need the commission’s consideration in the coming weeks.

“The reason I’m mentioning this to the planning commission is that we may be in a position to put some standards in the zoning ordinance which creates the scenario of coming to the planning commission for a public hearing or recommendation to the council …,” he said. “Because the state law kicks in in July, we may be in a race in the next month or so to hold a hearing and consider that issue … It is something that may be controlled through zoning ordinance sections.”

Four Candidates File For OPA Board

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Four candidates will run for two open seats on the association’s board.

Last week, Ocean Pines Association Secretary Stuart Lakernick announced that he has certified four candidates as eligible to run in the 2023 Board of Directors election.

The candidates, in alphabetical order, are Elaine Brady, Jeffery Heavner, John Latham and Jerry Murphy.

In March, the elections committee announced upcoming dates for the 2023 election process, including filing and voting deadlines.

This year, candidates will vie for two seats currently held by Doug Parks and Colette Horn. As both are serving the last year of two consecutive terms, they cannot run again because of term limits.

It should be noted there could also be a third open seat on the board, as Director Frank Daly has announced his intentions to sell his home in the Pines. However, it remains to be seen if any potential vacancy will impact this year’s election process.

“We are in the process of selling our home but no firm dates have been nailed down at this time,” Daly said in a statement last month.

The voter eligibility deadline is July 6, and hybrid candidate forums will be announced in coming weeks.

The ballot deadline is Wednesday, Aug 9, with ballot count and vote totals announced on Aug. 11.

The seven-member volunteer board is the governing body of Ocean Pines. Terms for elected directors are three years.

For questions about the election, contact elections@oceanpines.org.

People in Society

by Charlene Sharpe

Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary shared water safety tips with kids at Bay Day.

Volunteers Amy Peck and Linda and Larry Prus welcomed visitors to Bay Day in Ocean Pines.

Jack Orris and Heather Nottingham were guest bartenders at Sisters for a fundraiser for the Taylor House Museum. Ryan Mills and Noah White volunteered at Bay Day in Ocean Pines. Sandy Neitzel and Kara McClymont represented the Salisbury Zoo at Bay Day.

Go Green OC shared composting information at Bay Day. Gabby Ross and Brenda Davis of Assateague Coastal Trust are pictured at Bay Day.

Volunteers taught children about horseshoe crabs at Bay Day.

Jay Knerr, Mary Lynn Knerr and Donna Compher attended a fundraiser benefiting the Taylor House Museum at Sisters in Berlin.

Patricia Brennan and Jack Power paused for a photo at Bay Day.

Ocean City-Berlin Club Awards Student Scholarships

Submitted Photos

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club presented $115,000 in scholarships to students at Stephen Decatur High School last week. Above, recipients of two future teacher scholarships – each for $20,000 – were students Mackenzie Lawrence and Kaeli Newcomb. The students are pictured with club members Larry Campbell and Charlie Smith. Above right, Campbell and Smith and Kathy Cater are pictured with Decatur scholarship recipients Natalie Canham, $10,000; Anas Omar, $10,000; Madeline Pusey, $10,000; Summer Banks, $15,000; Autumn Drew, $15,000; and Oscar Li, $15,000. The club will also award $30,000 in scholarships to Pocomoke High School students and another $30,000 to Snow Hill High School students. The club will be presenting $40,000 to students at Wor-Wic Community College.

New Playground Opens:

On May 16, Town of Ocean City officials and the Recreation and Parks Department held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Northside Park playground. The department received a grant through the Department of Natural Resources’ Community Parks and Playground program to replace a portion of the playground. The new structure includes a variety of slides, bridges, climbers, interactive play panels and more designed to encourage social play and enhance fine motor skill. Above officials are pictured cutting the ribbon and some even took a spin on a new piece of equipment.

scholarships Presented: On May 18, nine students from Stephen Decatur High School received college scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each from the Delmarva Irish American Club (DIAC). Proceeds from the DIAC's St. Patrick's Parade are used to fund these scholarships. Pictured, from left, are DIAC board member and SDHS teacher Brian Shane and recipients Summer Banks, Eric Bell, Summer Brenner, Collin Bunting, Natalie Canham, Mackenzie Lawrence, Audrey Mumford, Raven Wheatley and James Watkins.

Photo

Patrol Personnel Kick Off Coverage Season Saturday

BY DAMIEN SANZOTTI SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

OCEAN CITY – I hope this first article finds you all doing well and staying safe while the Ocean City Beach Patrol has been preparing for the summer.

The beach patrol must be ready to keep people safe beginning Memorial Day Saturday. I have a feeling this summer is going to be another one for the record books. This off season has been amazing as Ocean City has been bustling all winter long.

It seems there are more events than ever scheduled for this summer in Ocean City. There are still some of the fan favorites like the Ravens Bash and Air Show as well as some newer additions including a second try at Oceans Calling Festival and the second year of professional bull riding on the beach. There is something for everyone and entertainment is abundant here in Ocean City. For more information visit the Town of Ocean City’s webpage found at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/.

I would guess the beaches of Ocean City are going to be packed this summer. Guests of the town did a great job of spreading out last summer and I am sure there are groups that would enjoy a similar experience this summer. Please be mindful of others when visiting the beaches and do your best to leave enough room at the back of the beach to allow our vehicles to fit through in the event of an emergency. The beach patrol is really looking forward to having a fun, safe and productive summer.

Take your landscaping to the next level with AC Plant and Turf. Trees and shrubs are a generational investment. Maintaining the size, appearance, and overall health is our number one goal. Our team of certified arborists have designed specific, effective plant health care programs. Our Turf team understands the importance of a thick, luscious green lawn and how it can add value to your home. After an initial soil sample, AC Plant and Turf can design a custom seven step fertilizer program that will keep your lawn as healthy and weed free as possible.

NOW HIRING PLANT CARE TECHNICIANS

The Ocean City Beach Patrol is on duty everyday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. beginning on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and leaving our stands for the last time in 2023 on Sunday, Sept. 24. If you should have any questions, simply approach one of our friendly lifeguards, they are very knowledgeable regarding anything Ocean City related. If serving the public as one of our Surf Rescue Technicians is something that appeals to you, we will be holding Pre-Employment Physical Skills Evaluations (testing) on Saturday, June 3 and 10, 2023, at Dorchester St. and the Boardwalk. Following successful testing we provide paid training ($18.44 hr.) in our Surf Rescue Training Academies, which begin on June 18. New to this summer is a signing bonus of $500 and the chance to earn overtime pay. To register for one of these try-outs go to our website at www.joinbeachpatrol.com.

I hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time in Ocean City while making new memories with your loved ones! “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!” As added protection for you and your family always locate the nearest stand with a guard and swim on that beach.

(The writer has been with the beach patrol for 20 years and is currently a sergeant. He is a physical education teacher for the Worcester County Public School system.)

Members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol are pictured last summer communicating through semaphore. Photo by Chris Parypa

DAMIEN SANZOTTI

BUSINESS AND REAL ESTATE NEWS

Leadership Promotions

BERLIN – Taylor Bank is pleased to announce a series of recent leadership promotions and a new hire.

Lauren Ruhl has joined the bank as human resources manager. In her role, Ruhl will oversee the execution of the bank’s human resources function. Ruhl brings over 14 years of experience and industry knowledge to Taylor Bank.

Jen Scott, vice president, has been promoted to banking product manager. In this position, Scott will manage the servicing and fulfillment of our retirement and IntraFi Network product solutions. Scott has been a member of the Taylor Bank team since 2013. Previously, she held the position of branch manager for main office.

Casey Robinson, assistant vice president, has been promoted to regional branch manager. In this position, Robinson will oversee the Ocean Pines branch and main office. Robinson has been a member of the Taylor Bank team since 1996. Previously, he held the positions of branch manager for the Ocean Pines branch and the midOcean City branch.

Lisa Caldwell was promoted to branch operations manager. In this position, Caldwell will oversee branch operations for multiple branches in partnership with our regional branch managers. In addition, she will assess and mitigate risk through inspection of our processes. Caldwell has been a member of the Taylor Bank team since 2016.

Olivia Schorr-Smith has been selected to participate in the Taylor Bank Management Trainee Program. During the program, Schorr-Smith will sub-

merse into various departments of the bank with specific concentration in our deposit operations department. She will participate in strategic and personal development projects and attend both internal and external training events. SchorrSmith has been a member of the Taylor Bank team since 2018. Previously, she held the position of loan processor.

Lindsay Foxwell was promoted to senior business services specialist. In this position, Foxwell will collaborate with internal partners to develop new business relationships and service existing business relationships, via our electronic banking solutions. Foxwell has been a member of the Taylor Bank team since 2019. Previously, she held the position of electronic services representative.

“We are pleased to welcome Lauren to our team and to announce the promotions of Jen, Casey, Lisa, Olivia and Lindsay,” said Ray Thompson, president and CEO of Taylor Bank. “Taylor Bank is growing and finding new ways to best serve our communities across Delmarva. Whether through hiring or promotion, we are building a team of experts to help individuals, families, and businesses reach their unique financial goals.”

Fundraiser Announced

WEST OCEAN CITY – Outlets Ocean City is honoring our brave men and women who have served our country.

We are partnering with the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) to raise money and awareness for veterans, active-duty military and their families as part of National Poppy Day.

Beginning May 15 and continuing through Memorial Day, Monday, May 29, Outlets Ocean City will be collecting donations throughout the center to raise money for the ALA. Make your donation at Customer Service, suite 685, to receive a poppy to wear, plus you’ll be rewarded with a Poppy Savings Card. The Poppy Savings Card is valid for either 25% off a single, full priced item or 10% off already discounted item at participating stores. Participating stores include Michael Kors, Under Armour, Old Navy, Mione’s Pizza, Doggie Style, and Deadstock.

The red poppy is a nationally recog-

In recognition of Health Vision Month, held each May, the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce celebrated the new Wink! Vision location with a ribbon cutting. Wink is Ocean City's newest eye care facility offering state of the art exams, luxury eyewear and contact lenses. The office is located in West Ocean City just west of the Route 50 Bridge and is locally owned and operated.

nized symbol of sacrifice worn by Americans since World War I to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedoms. Wear a poppy to honor those who have worn our nation’s uniform.

Outlets Ocean City is a 198,800square-foot outdoor shopping destination located on Route 50 in West Ocean City, just minutes from the Ocean City beaches. The value-priced center features a collection of over 30 retailers featuring national brands including: Adidas, American Eagle Outfitters, Coach, HomeGoods, J.Crew Factory, Michael Kors, Old Navy Outlet, Skechers, Under Armour and more. Plus, find local retailers like BulkMore, Pepper Palace, Mione’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant and OC Chopsticks Asian Bistro. For more information, visit outletsoceancity.com. For additional information on the Poppy Program, contact Alane Damore, General Manager at Outlets Ocean City. Alane.Damore@outletsoceancity.com.

Center Accreditation

BERLIN – The Commission on Cancer (CoC), a quality program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), has granted three-year accreditation to the John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center at Atlantic General Hospital.

centered care.

Because it is a CoC-accredited cancer center, the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer as a complex group of diseases that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists. This multidisciplinary partnership results in improved patient care.

“Seeking cancer treatment locally is typically the best option for patients because it allows them to avoid the physical, emotional and financial hardships that can come with long-distance travel to a cancer center. This re-accreditation shows that our community can trust the care we provide here at the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center,” said center director Chanelle Lake. “And, it’s a testament to the good work that our dedicated staff do every day.”

The Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center has held CoC accreditation since 2018.

The CoC Accreditation Program provides the framework for the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center to continuously improve its quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease, and end-of-life care. When patients receive care at a CoC facility, they also have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic coun-

To earn voluntary CoC accreditation, a cancer program must meet 34 CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through an extensive survey process and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient- SEE NEXT PAGE

LAUREN RUHL

JEN SCOTT

CASEY ROBINSON

LISA CALDWELL

OLIVIA SCHORRSMITH

LINDSAY FOXWELL

seling, and patient centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life.

Like all CoC-accredited facilities, the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center maintains a cancer registry and contributes data to the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB), a joint program of the CoC and American Cancer Society. This nationwide oncology outcomes database is the largest clinical disease registry in the world. Data on all types of cancer are tracked and analyzed through the NCDB and used to explore trends in cancer care. CoC-accredited cancer centers, in turn, have access to information derived from this type of data analysis, which is used to create national, regional and state benchmark reports. These reports help CoC facilities with their quality improvement efforts.

CoC-accredited facilities diagnose and/or treat more than 70 percent of all newly diagnosed patients with cancer. When patients choose to seek care locally at a CoC-accredited cancer center, they are gaining access to comprehensive, state-of-the-art cancer care close to home.

Entrepreneurship Competitions

SALISBURY – For the second time in 36 years, tacos won the day at Salisbury University’s annual student Entrepreneurship Competitions.

On the eve of Cinco de Mayo, judges voted the student business plan for Tacos Del Mar, a Mexican-inspired catering company, as the best out of 59 entries in the 2023 contest — the most in SU history.

The proposal echoed one of the competition’s earliest winners, Peter Engler, whose entry in 1989 led to the establishment of Nacho Pete’s, a popular fastcasual Mexican restaurant in Salisbury in the 1990s.

The six SU students who established Tacos Del Mar hope the $17,000 prize package they won through this year’s competition find similar success. It included the $15,000 Richard A. Bernstein Achievement Award for Excellence, named in honor of the competition’s founder and sponsored by LWRC Interna-

tional and Rommel Chesapeake, as well as the Taustin Group Award, representing $1,000 in business plan consultation services, and $1,000 through the event’s “Invest in My Idea” poster session round.

The business is the brainchild of Thomas Zinzi Jr. of Clarksburg, Md., who sought an alternative for affordable latenight dining in Salisbury. Creating a menu using traditional family recipes, he spent several weeks catering off-campus student events and fulfilling individual delivery orders before recruiting the help of friends from SU.

“Our competition, obviously, is Taco Bell, Cookout and Royal Farms,” said presenter Robert Turner of Queen Anne, Md., listing restaurants near campus that attract hungry students after most others have closed.

With a company mission that also includes philanthropy, they also have partnered with and support the EVAN Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of and providing support for those affected by childhood cancers. Zinzi has a close connection to the foundation: It was founded in memory of a family friend who passed away from neuroblastoma.

Along with Zinzi and Turner, the winning group included students Walter Arias of Pasadena, Md.; Sammuel Batis of Clarksburg, Md.; Michalec “Mitch” Milauskas of Brunswick, Md.; and Christian O’Hern of Sykesville, Md.

Manager Welcomed

OCEAN CITY – Paradise Properties Inc. is proud to announce the addition of Jennifer Dieste to our staff as a property manager.

A graduate of George Mason University with a Bachelor of Science degree, Dieste has been involved in various segments of the real estate industry from an office manager for a local construction firm and as a licensed Realtor. She is also a certified group fitness and personal trainer.

Fred C. Wetzelberger II, CPM, CMCA, president of Paradise Properties Inc. states, “We welcome Jen to the Paradise team. Her real estate background and experience will make her a valued member to our staff and clients.”

In her spare time, Dieste loves to fish and volunteer for various organizations including Autism Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and the board of directors for her HOA.

JENNIFER DIESTE

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The First State Marines of the Eastern Shore are the first donor to have provided funds for the procurement and installation of the first newly designed bike racks that Ocean City will place strategically along the Boardwalk. Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan was on hand for the dedication of the bike rack that was placed at the Boardwalk’s gateway on North Division Street. Submitted Photos

The Lower Eastern Shore Group of the Maryland Sierra Club participated in Bay Day at Ocean Pines on May 7. The group focused on zero waste and emphasized “Reuse-Repurpose, Reclaim and Recycle.” Pictured are, in front, Denise and Ben Cervantes, rear, Sierra members Pat Trate, Judy Davis and Maggi Gallaher.

Believe in Tomorrow recently benefitted from a bingo fundraiser at Sterling Tavern in Berlin. The fundraiser will support the Children's House beach respite programs.

The Builders Club of Berlin Intermediate School (BIS), a Kiwanis Student Leadership Club, made 34 blankets to donate to the residents of Diakonia on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. The 5th and 6th grade students are pictured learning about Diakonia’s mission from Susan Blaney.

Morgan Connolly and Everly Hill had a joint 6th birthday party this year. Instead of presents, they asked for their kids to either make a homemade card and if they would like to make a donation to the Cricket Center. The $1,000 they raised was matched by a $1,000 donation from Movement Mortgage. Hill, left, and Connolly, right, are pictured with their mothers, Kellie Meehan and Pam Rocco, presenting a check for $2,000 to The Cricket Center staff members Josiah, Wendy Myers, Althenia Jolley, Lauren Cooper, Shaina Boyd and Leslie Valerio.

The General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently welcomed four new members during a luncheon meeting at the Worcester Preparatory School. Regent Talley Hann and Chaplain Barbara Rusko administered the oath of membership to Barbara Bush, Betty-Jane Cain, Christine Nanna-Lieb and Carol Mongelli. Each has traced their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. Pictured are Barbara Rusko, Betty-Jane Cain, Christine Nanna-Lieb, Barbara Bush, Carol Mongelli and Talley Hann.

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week: Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Above is a scene from the Inlet during last weekend’s Cruisin event. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 94

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Problems begin to affect relationships, both personal and professional. Act now to shore up those weak foundations before it all comes crashing down around you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Take a break from all that hard work you've been doing. There's nothing like some well-earned fun and games to charge up those Bovine batteries and send you back fully energized and ready to go.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Deception can sometimes affect perception. You should take a longer, deeper look at what you're being offered. Things might not be quite what you first thought they were.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A friend's loyalty suddenly comes into question. But, before you rush to judgment, listen to what they have to say. This could be an important learning lesson for you.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): The time has come for you to set things right. Your courage will help you meet the difficult challenge ahead. Others will be inspired by your actions and rally to support you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A stubborn insistence that your way is the only way to solve problems could make things worse than they are. Open your mind to suggestions from others.

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

close associate reveals a secret that could affect an upcoming decision. Rely on your natural instinct to weigh everything carefully, to help you get through this dilemma.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Congratulations! Your decision to take action and deal with a long-simmering situation in the workplace begins to pay off. In addition, a family member has some good news.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): You still need to persuade your partner that you're sincere in wanting to save this relationship. Remember: Performance speaks louder than promises.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): A disappointment in the workplace can be a blessing in disguise. Take another look at your goals and see if this is the path you really want to follow.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Avoid winding up in the middle of an unpleasant family situation by reassuring your cantankerous kinfolk that you love them all -- but that you won't take sides.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): A successful workplace move begins to pay off with offers of new opportunities, but some might come with strings attached. Check them all carefully before deciding.

BORN THIS WEEK: You love to entertain. You appreciate fine food and elegant surroundings. You're happiest when you make other people feel good about themselves.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Quiet mornings alone in my kitchen Playoff college lacrosse games

Youth athletes with a strong work ethic

Barefoot on fresh grass

The Orioles’ excitement

A great coach’s speech to team after a loss

A rose bush in full bloom

Leftovers as good as the first time

A day with no allergy issues

A successful grassroots effort

Dimmable lights in every room

Edwards 5 and 10 was a fixture on the Boardwalk at North Division Street for 75 years. The original store opened in 1937 and was one of just a handful of Ocean City businesses that stayed opened year-round. Managed for many years by Al Harmon, who also served as Ocean City’s fire chief for part of that time, Edwards had a little bit of everything in stock. It was often said that “if you couldn’t find it at Edwards, you probably didn’t need it.” Many still recall the sloping wooden floor and how it creaked. Legend has it that the floor had been built over the old Showell swimming pool and hence its odd configuration.

The original building, shown circa 1964, was razed in 1988 and replaced by the modern masonry building that stands there today. Edwards 5 and 10 continued in that location for many years. The space is now occupied by an expansive and modern Quiet Storm Surf Shop.

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

Photo from Bunk Mann’s collection

AGH Celebrates 30 Years: The Atlantic General Hospital Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Celebration was held last Thursday at Newport Bay Farms. More than 600 citizens turned out to celebrate their community hospital. Above left, AGH Foundation Chair Steve Green, left, and Anniversary Celebration Co-Chairs Emily Tunis and Sara Hambury, right, present Matt, Jessica, Brax and Kingsley Giardina with a gift from Jeffrey Auxer Designs for hosting this event at their family farm. Above right, standing from left, are Harry and Madalaine How, Jay and Mary Lynn Knerr and Gail Whaley, and seated, Nancy Howard and Janet Trimper. Below, from left, are Dr. Christine Neto and Dr. Michael Hooker; Celebration Co-Chairs Emily Tunis and Sara Hambury; and former Foundation Chair Todd Ferrante and AGH Board Past Chair Greg Shockley. Submitted Photos

Among the 600-plus guests in attendance were, above left, Kelly and Chris Williams and Jennifer and Matt Krauter, and, above right, Tom and Beth Hershey and Beverly and Marvin Steen. Below left, from left, are Inna and Shawn Kotwica and Alex and Nikolay Mutavchiyski; Dr. Stephen Waters and Foundation Board member Bill Harrington; and Foundation Board Sam Glaeser, Lindsey Correa and Jessica Jersey.

Pines Focusing On Public Safety Education Efforts

OCEAN PINES – Ocean Pines Association President Doug Parks underscored recent pedestrian and bicycle safety messaging during an Ocean Pines board meeting on Saturday.

Parks read through a recent Ocean Pines communication that he said was important "in light of the tragedy that happened a couple of weeks ago when a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle and killed" on Ocean Parkway.

“It has to do with people walking on the streets [and] the direction they're supposed to be walking in,” Parks said.

According to Maryland code, “Where a sidewalk is not provided, pedestrians must walk on the left shoulder or the left side of a roadway, facing any traffic that might approach from the opposite direction. Walking on the opposite side is a violation of Maryland Transportation Code 21-506b, and violators are subject to a $50 fine.”

"The idea is that we see a lot of people walking, especially on Ocean Parkway, with their back to the traffic," Parks said. "I think this is something that people should be aware of and try to practice more often."

Parks said it was probably not practical for the association to fine violators, but he added, “that education and knowledge is important, and those rules are for the public's safety.”

On the subject of bicycle riders, Parks referenced another section of Maryland code states riders cannot wear headphones or ear plugs in both ears because "they cannot hear the traffic."

"Just be aware of those kinds of things," Parks said. "A little bit of practice, a little bit of encouragement, maybe you mention it to a friend ... there are some laws out there for the safety of people either on bicycles or walking on crowded parkways."

Parks also reminded homeowners that the annual Memorial Day celebration will return to Veterans Memorial Park on Monday, May 29 at 11 a.m.

"If you're so inclined, please attend that event to honor those who have served our country. I think it's very important that they be recognized,” he said.

Lastly, Parks said a homeowner asked about cell towers at the last Board meeting, and he promised to investigate the issue.

"I've started that process and John and I have been reaching out to Verizon, [and] there's some logistics and things that we're coordinating. Whether or not we will get a new cell tower, I can't guarantee that,” Parks said.

“I will share updates on the issue when they are provided,” he added.

Changing Of Guard: On May 19, the Coast Guard station in Ocean City hosted a change of command ceremony. Family members and Coast Guard officials watched as Senior Chief Charles Dawkins took over command from Master Chief Nathan Beach, who is retiring. Beach, above left, was credited with leading the busy station during tumultuous times, as a government shutdown and the COVID-19 pandemic occurred during his command.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

with Scott Lenox

Happy Memorial Day weekend to all. Welcome back to the Fish in OC column here in The Dispatch where now through October I’ll be bringing you all things fishing related in and around Ocean City. We’ll talk what’s biting and where, and we’ll talk some of the biggest and best fishing tournaments in the entire world, including the 50th Anniversary of the White Marlin Open.

Before I get started, I’d like to thank Editor Steve Green for having me back, and I’d like to say tight lines in Heaven to my good friend Shawn Soper who we lost far too young on Feb. 15 of this year. Here’s to calm winds and following seas my friend.

We had what I would call a very mild winter this year with pretty much zero accumulating snow. I was out of town a bunch for trade shows, but I’m pretty sure Old Man Winter was in a good mood this year. The mild winter allowed water temperatures to stay a little warmer than usual so tautog fishing was good all season long and we’ve had some early arrivals of some of our inshore species.

The first notable keeper fish of the 2023 season came on Jan. 25 when Morgan Mericle caught a 31” rockfish at

the Route 50 Bridge. We had another “earlier than usual” first of the year on March 26 when Dakota Bittner landed a 16.75” flounder in the Thorofare. Another early first fish came on April 25 in the south bay when Dillon Scopp netted a 23” speckled trout, and then on May 11 Brian Brannan caught the first grey trout, or weakfish, while drifting for flounder in the Thorofare. Anthony Carrieri was fishing the south jetty on May 5 when he landed the first sheepshead of the 2023 season using a sand flea. Offshore, on the same day, the first tuna of the season was hauled in by the crew of the Full Service while they were trolling outside of the Baltimore Canyon.

Fishing in 2023 is off to a great start and fishing tournament season starts this weekend with the Ocean City Marlin Club’s Captain Franky Pettolina Memorial Day Tournament. After that it’s Blues for D.U. at Bahia Marina and then some awesome milestones for some local tournaments. The Big Fish Classic celebrates its 10th year this July and Aug. 711 we will see the 50th Anniversary of the White Marlin Open. Kristen and I have already been fishing quite a bit and I can’t wait to bring you info on what’s biting and who’s winning what in the local tourna-

ments.

You can check out my Daily Angle fishing report at www.FishinOC.com. Until next week, tight lines.

(The writer is the owner of Fish in OC

and host of Ocean City’s fishing television show Hooked on OC. He has worked in the fishing industry and been fishing the waters in and around Ocean City for over 25 years.)

SEE PAGES 66-67

Shaun Flaherty was fishing the south jetty with a Roy Rig when he caught and released this jumbo 37” striped bass. Submitted Photos

Above

6,

the Delaware State record for tautog when he landed this 22.9 pound stud fishing with Captain Jon Azato. Above top right, the 21-pound monkfish was caught on board the No Limit on the first day of sea bass season. At left, a huge 5 pound, 15 ounce sea bass was caught by Wayne Small while fishing on the Morning Star with Captain Monty Hawkins. Above middle right, Bryan Brannan caught the first grey trout (weakfish) of the season on May 11 using a pink Deadly Double in the Thorofare. Above right, the first keeper rockfish of the season fell to the rod of Morgan Mericle who was fishing near the Route 90 Bridge on Jan. 25.

Opposite page, top left, the first tuna of the Ocean City fishing season was this 95 pound bigeye caught by the crew of the Full Service. Opposite page, top right, the largest tautog of the winter season was caught by lady angler Jen Zuppe while fishing on board the Fish Bound with Captain Kane Bounds. The big tog weighed in at a whopping 23.4 pounds. Opposite page, middle left, Dillon Scopp caught the first speckled trout of the season on April 25. Opposite page, middle right, John McCarter from the Oceanic Pier used a Deadly Tackle bottom jig to muscle in this 14.5-pound tautog. Opposite page, bottom left, Dakota Bitner was fishing the Thorofare on March 26 when he caught the first keeper flounder of the Ocean City season at 16.75”. Opposite page, bottom right, the first sheepshead of the season was caught on the south jetty by Anthony Carrieri while fishing with Vince Cannuli.

top left, on May

James Milano broke

Family Grateful For support after march Fire

have been a huge help to the family during a difficult time.

“The money will be put to use for expenses, anything the insurance isn’t going to cover,” Jeff Martins said. “The main thing to us is not the amount of money but the fact that we have that many friends here on the shore.”

On March 29, fire companies responded to Croppers Island Road for a house fire. Crews spent more than four hours on the scene bringing the fire, which was determined to be accidental, under control. About 20 animals, dogs and cats the Martins family had rescued, died in the fire.

HAPPINESS

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A local family expressed gratitude for the community’s outpouring of support in the wake of a dev-

astating fire.

In March, Newark couple Jeff and Jacki Martins lost their home of 30 years in a house fire. Jeff Martins said this week the various fundraisers organized by friends, neighbors and coworkers

Within a day of the tragedy, neighbors had set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for the family. Fundraisers were also set up by coworkers and friends. In Berlin, Burley Oak Brewing Company’s Bryan Brushmiller wasted no time in setting up an event for the family. The Monday night event raised more than $3,000.

“Jeff Martins has been a customer since the day we opened and when I heard about his house fire we all immediately put together an event to help one of the nicest customers we’ve had the privilege to serve,” Brushmiller said.

He added that Burley Oak regularly hosted fundraisers for nonprofits and local causes.

“The charity events that Burley Oak has done for the last 12 years are extremely important to me, not only to raise money but to raise awareness for those in need in our community,” Brushmiller said.

For the Martins family, the money raised and donated in recent months has helped them deal with the loss of everything they owned. Though they’ve been staying with friends, they’re still looking for a place to rent while they rebuild. Jeff Martins said the response from the community has been uplifting.

“It’s overwhelming, the response we’ve gotten,” Martins said.

The residential fire off Croppers Island Road is pictured in March. Photo courtesy of Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office

Dates Announced For Annual Survey Of Terrapin Stock

BERLIN – The public is invited to join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) for the annual community science Terrapin Survey beginning May 30 and continuing through June 10. Surveys take place both on water and on land. From motorboats to kayaks and SUPs, all are encouraged to participate.

Terrapins are the only turtle occupying brackish water, but other turtles, such as snapping turtles, may venture into more brackish water, so it is important that you can identify the correct species.

There is a training guide on the MCBP website that provides details on how to tell the difference, as well as the tools you will need including land and sea protocol, survey data sheets, and instructions on filling out the data sheets.

The website also includes a registration form that indicates specific areas where surveys need to be conducted. You can find all this information and more under Events at mdcoastalbays.org.

MCBP has been collecting a variety of data relating to diamondback terrapin populations in the coastal bays. Organized terrapin headcount surveys began in 2012 in collaboration with Maryland DNR and other members of the diamondback terrapin work group.

These surveys are important to help understand the terrapin populations in the coastal bays. For more information contact Sandi Smith at sandis@mdcoastalbays.org or by calling 410-213-2297 ext. 106.

The Terrapin Survey occurs over the 12-day period after Memorial Day. This time period is when terrapins are highly active and are aggregating in clusters after emerging from hibernation.

One survey only takes a total of 15 minutes, and it’s fun, according to Sandi Smith of MCBP’s outreach and development. The process is available on MCBP’s website.

“Thank you for considering assisting in this important community science tool to document the status of our state reptile in the coastal bays,” said Smith.

Male and female turtles are pictured during a recent survey. File Photo

Every Sunday: Farmers Market Berlin will host along Main Street with 35plus vendors from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rain or shine. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com.

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting

5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Rose 443880-8444.

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus

All ladies who love to sing are invited to the Delmarva Woman’s Acapella Chorus, Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Contact Mary 410629-9383 or Carol 302-242-7062.

Every Monday: Bridge Games

Are you interested in joining others for a game of Bridge at the Ocean City 50+ Senior Center? If so, please call or text Tish at 410-804-3971.

Every Monday: Overeaters Anonymous

Meetings are from 7-8 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library branch. No dues or fees. Call 410-459-9100.

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Meetings are held at the Worcester County Berlin Health Department at 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin from 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Tuesday. 410-289-4725.

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup

Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m. yearround. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Elks Lodge 2645, corner of Sinepuxent Avenue and 138th Street in Ocean City. Has bingo all year. Doors open 4:30 p.m. with first game sharply at 6:30 p.m. Kitchen open for light fare. 410-250-2645.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

Join the club, 55 plus, at Harpoon Hanna’s in Fenwick Island, 4-6 p.m. 302-4369577 or BeachSingles.org.

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting

The Caregiver Support Group will continue to meet on the second and fourth Thursdays in the Ocean Pines Library. Meetings will run from 3-4:30 p.m. The meetings are private and confidential.

May 26-27: Multi-Family Yard Sale

From 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at 7406 Libertytown Road, Berlin. Setup beginning at 6:30 a.m. 443-523-0497.

May 26-27: Yard Sale Benefit

10 Essex Court, Ocean Pines to benefit Town Cats from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. both days.

May 27: Auto Wash Event

Berlin Auto Wash will donate $5 from every wash to the Worcester County Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics lower shore programs. Pulled pork sandwiches and refreshments will be offered. Torch Run merchandise will be available. Raffle for an Ultimate Wash Card will

Things To Do

be available. Open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Rain date will be June 3.

May 27: AUCE Breakfast Buffet

At the Whaleyville United Methodist Church, located at 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road in Whaleyville. $8/adult and $4/child from 7-10 a.m. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages.

May 29: Memorial Day Ceremony

The largest Memorial Day ceremony in the region returns to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines on Monday, May 29, starting at 11 a.m. The event each year draws thousands of people to the memorial grounds and features music, demonstrations, and public speakers honoring U.S. Military men and women who gave their lives in service.

The keynote speaker this year will be retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Al Soto. The ceremony will also honor local Gold Star families. During World War I, families would fly flags or banners with a blue star for every immediate family member serving in combat. If one of them died, a gold star replaced the blue star. Walter Webster, a member of the Maryland East Chapter of Ex-POWs, will place a wreath in honor of all current and former prisoners of war.

The program will also include patriotic music performed by Randy Lee Ashcraft, The Delmarva Chorus, and Glen Mohr with the St. Luke’s Contemporary Choir. The program is scheduled to run for one hour.

May 31: Bingo Night

From 6-9 p.m. at Sterling Tavern, Main Street. Proceeds to benefit Worcester County Fair. Bingo cards $2 each. Reservations needed for groups of eight or more. 410-641-3000.

June 3: Community Yard Sale

The Parke at Ocean Pines is holding its community sale (rain date is Sunday, June 4) from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the driveways of residents. The Parke is an active 55+ Adult community of 503 homes. Parke residents are selling their treasures for others to enjoy. There are clothes, lamps, artwork, household items, electronics, furniture and more. Maps will be available at the main entrance of the Parke located at Central Parke West, located off of Ocean Parkway at the south entrance of Ocean Pines.

June 3: Car Show

From 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines-Ocean City will host the third annual event at the Ocean Pines Veterans Memorial Park. Rain date for June 10. Judged classes, trophies and awards. Food concessions provided by the Kiwanis Cafe'. Registration 9-11 a.m. Pay online, avoid the line. Registration fee of $15 (bring receipt to show). Avoid standing in line at the registration desk. Download, print and complete the registration form on the website: kiwanisofopoc.org. Click ev-

ents and then car show for the form. Pay at the event for $20. Funds benefit the local children and community.

June 3: Church Rummage Sale

Ocean City Presbyterian Church will host at 1301 Philadelphia Avenue from 7 a.m.1 p.m.

June 4: Survivors Day Ceremony

National Cancer Survivors Day Ceremony will be held from 2-3 p.m. the Healthway Drive Community Garden (across from Atlantic General Hospital) All cancer survivors and their families are encouraged to attend as we join together in a supportive setting to celebrate life. We will be joined by special guest speaker, radiation oncologist Dr. Manoj Jain. Refreshments will be provided. For more information and to RSVP, please call Jill at 410-629-6313.

June 5: Author Panel

The Friends of the Ocean Pines Library (FOPL) will present its Delmarva Author Panel during the group’s semi-annual membership meeting. The Friends’ efforts to support the Ocean Pines Branch of the Worcester County Library will be discussed at the 10 a.m. membership meeting, and the Delmarva Author Panel begins at 11 a.m. The event is free and all are welcome. The five authors have all featured Delmarva as the setting or the historical backdrop for their books, which will be available for purchase. They will discuss their books, their inspirations, and the writing process. The author panelists will be Stephanie Fowler, Chasing Alice; Don Parks, Islander’s War; Susan Ayres Wimbrow, Death is My Life; Chip Bertino, It’s All About … Some of My Favorites; and B.B. Shamp, A Wife in Watercolor.

June 5: Storytime

Stop by the Ocean City Library at 10:30 a.m. for a fun storytime with the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. Enjoy stories, songs, and games as we learn all about how the fire department serves our community. OCVFC President Frederick Senger will be there to pass out goodie bags. Children will also be able to see a firetruck up close. “This partnership was planned for the children in the community to get a better understanding of all the important things our local firefighters do. We also want to help children and families continue learning about the importance of fire safety,” Ocean City Branch Manager Alec Staley said.

June 8: Meet & Greet

Republican Women of Worcester County invite you to come meet and socialize with other members and Republicans. Bring a friend. All are welcome. Cash bar from 57 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club.

June 10: Furnace Town Music

Get ready to groove this summer at Furnace Town, showcasing a lineup of talented musicians and artists from around the shore. Enjoy live performances in a stunning outdoor venue. Bring your friends, family and loved ones for an evening filled with music, food, drinks, and fun. Cost is

$10/adults, $5/kids 5-15. The schedule is:

June 10: 5-8 p.m., Vintage Blue Bluegrass Band

June 24: 5-8 p.m., Flatland Drive Bluegrass Band

July 8: 5-8 p.m., Bryan & The Barn OwlsAmericana

July 24: 5-8 p.m., The Folk Heroes & The Folk Villains

Aug. 5: 5-8 p.m., Hoedown with DJ Kay

Aug. 19: 5-8 p.m., Ampersand – Traditional American Music.

June 10: Just Walk Event

In celebration of Men’s Health Month, the Worcester County Health Department in collaboration with the City of Pocomoke will be hosting their first Just Walk for Men’s Health event at Cypress Park in Pocomoke City. It will include a walk, no-cost health screenings, health education, and more. This family and pet-friendly event is open to all county residents. Registration and check-in will start at 8:30 a.m. followed by opening remarks at 9:00 a.m. by special guests Pocomoke City Mayor Todd Nock and Al “Hondo” Handy. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a prewalk warm-up with Gary Press, owner of G Fit Boot Camp, followed by a walk through the park. After the walk, participants are encouraged to visit health vendors and participate in free health screenings, including blood pressure and a diabetes risk assessment. Pre-registration is encouraged and can be found at Eventbrite.com. The first 100 individuals to register will receive a commemorative T-shirt. For more information, please call 410-632-1100 extension 1108.

June 13: Kids Carnival

Fish Tales, located on 22nd Street bayside in Ocean City, will be hosting from noon-3 p.m. To celebrate the end of the school year, Fish Tales decided to have this fun family event for children. This day will be filled with carnival games, face painting, inflatables, children’s vendors, kids crafts, pony rides and food and drinks. A commemorative T-shirt will be available for purchase. All proceeds from the day will be donated to the Lower Shore Special Olympics. If anyone would like to be a vendor, contact India Bandorick at 410-289-0990 or email her at india@ocfishtales.com.

June 14: AARP Meeting

Ocean City AARP Chapter 1917 will meet at 10 a.m. in the Ocean City 50 Plus Center located on 41st St. and Coastal Highway. Please arrive early at 9:30 for a social half-hour and refreshments. Guest speaker will be from the Burbage Funeral Home. New members are welcome. 410250-0980.

June 17: Learn To Fish

Teach A Kid to Fish Day will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the South Gate Pond near the Sports Core Pool. The event includes a drawing for a free rod and reel. For more information, call John McFalls at 610-5051697.

June 24: Fashion Show

United Women in Faith and United Methodist Men of Christ will host a fashion show along with light fare from 4-6 p.m. at Calvary Pentecostal Church along Route 113 in Bishopville. Tickets are $15 per person. For tickets and information, contact Priscilla Postley at 443-366-2298 or Bruce Showell at 443-235-2907.

HELP WANTED

CLEANERS/VACATION

RENTALS: Needed for Ocean City and Ocean Pines. Experience preferred but not necessary. Text or call 443-397-1189.

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Small Engine mechanic, Year round, Competitive Wages. Call 443-754-1047.

OFFICE CLERICAL POSITION

Part Time, Small Local Established Company looking for person to assist our office staff. Flexible schedule and hours, no wknds. General Office skills required. Great for retirees. Call 410-641-4411.

OFFICE CLERICAL: position full time, small local established company seeking motivated person to assist our growing office. Salary with benefits, general office skills required. Call 410-641-4411

Cleaners Wanted for OC

Conscientious individual or team. Great pay & min. hrs. Summer Sat’s in OC. Experience preferred. Cell phone & vehicle req. (443) 880-0525

THUNDERBIRD BEACH MOTEL

NOW HIRING

PM FRONT DESK

NIGHT AUDITOR

MIDNIGHT-8AM

COMPETITIVE PAY, OVERTIME HOURS

AVAILABLE!

APPLY IN PERSON

Mon-Fri 10am-2pm

32nd St & Baltimore Ave Ocean City

Housekeeper Full Time

Eastern shore resident is seeking a mature, responsible and experienced person to perform various housekeeping duties at a Berlin, MD estate five days weekly. Full time position with benefits and 401K. Reliable transportation necessary.

Call 410-803-4135, fax resume to 410-272-2249 or e-mail: tgreaver@bscamerica.com

Cleaning services need not apply

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

Worcester County Health Department

FISCAL SERVICES CHIEF I Full Time, State Benefits. This position is responsible for the oversight of all fiscal services for the Worcester County Health Department. Duties include but are not limited to the preparation & management of the operating budget, management of accounting, financial & statistical data for presentation of budgets to Management and management & performance of all accounting functions in accordance with applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies & procedures. This position creates, monitors and manages internal controls for the department. Background check required. APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by May 30, 2023.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1221.

The Dispatch Classifieds

CONTACT

Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966

Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811

CLASS A OR B CDL DRIVER

SMI Services of Delaware, a Sediment and Erosion Control Company located in Selbyville, DE is looking for a Class A or B CDL driver. This position will be a working driver / loading / unloading position. You may not just be hauling / driving all day. MUST have a clean driving record and be able to pass a DOT Physical and drug screen. Applicant shall be reliable, able lift up to 50lbs, able to perform physical labor and have great work ethic.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus. Please apply in person at 20 E. Railroad Ave, Selbyville, DE 19975

www.smicompanies.net

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT ADVISOR

Nutrient management advisor needed for Worcester office of University of Maryland Extension. Individual will develop nutrient management plans for agricultural producers; BS in an agricultural, environmental or natural resource science or an equivalent combination of education & experience required along with knowledge of agricultural production practices and cropping systems. Other basic knowledge and skills required include the ability to use personal computers, ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, ability to use simple analytical equipment, ability to perform basic mathematical and algebraic calculations, and ability to complete reports and records correctly. Individual must pass nutrient management certification exam within one year of employment. Preference given to certified nutrient management consultants. Background check required. This is a contractual position which includes benefits.

Sales Associates

Carquest Auto Parts & Marine

Now has openings for FULL AND PART TIME ASSOCIATES

Exc. Pay and Benefits including Retirement Plan, Friends & Family Discounts and much More!! Located in Ocean Pines, MD Call : 302-344-9769

NOW HIRING! HOLIDAY INN POOL BAR •COOKS •SERVERS

Daytime hours, 10-4 Mon-Fri

Serious inquiries only

Please Apply in person, 6600 Coastal Highway, OC, MD

SEASONAL

Beautiful community in Ocean View is seeking parttime seasonal staff May through September to work in our clubhouse and pool areas.

Availability to include days, nights, weekends and holidays. Excellent people skills a must! Some computer skills preferred. Competitive salary and incentive bonus program offered.

Perfect position for individuals looking for extra income. Send resume to: susan.brewer@casinc.biz

For a detailed position announcement and to apply, go to https://ejobs.umd.edu, position number is 127964 Position is open until filled. Please apply ASAP for best consideration.

EEO/AA

NOW HIRING

Maintenance Technician Needed Immediately

Great Pay & Benefits based on experience

•Work with a well-established OC Hotel/Restaurant Group

•Perform preventative, routine, & emergency maintenance

•Repairs on restaurant equipment with emphasis on refrigeration

•Provided a company vehicle – with valid driver’s license

•Prior experience with diagnostic abilities, electrical, major plumbing & troubleshooting

Health Insurance, 401K, sick leave, and vacations included. Forward resume to : Restaurant Maintenance, PO Box 160, Ocean City, MD 21843 or email: jeb@harrisongp.com

COOKS, BARTENDERS AND CLEANING HELP WANTED

PROPERTY

Flexible schedule, clean kitchen, new equipment. Weekly pay checks. Friendly work environment. If interested apply in person. Open daily 12:00 p.m. American Legion Post #166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, MD.

NOW HIRING!

CERTIFIED LIFEGUARDS

Ocean Pines Aquatics Call 443-299-9949

Or apply in person at the Sports Core Pool on Cathell Road

HYGIENIST/ASSISTANT

Friendly boutique dental practice, with great patients, looking for a PART TIME HYGIENIST and a PART TIME ASSISTANT.

Please send resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

RENTALS

SEASONAL BAYSIDE CONDO: 2BR/2BA, W/D. Fully furn. Sleeps 4-6. $15,750./season, Cable & WiFi incl. Located near Jolly Roger. Call 410-603-6120 or mbjcproperties@gmail.com

WEEKLY RENTALS: Oceanfront Home 5BR/3BA, Private beach, huge decks, rent by the week. Bethany Bch. DE. Avail: 6/2-6/9, 9/1-9/8, 9/8-9/15 Starting at $5,000. Call Holly 586-242-8824

ROOM FOR RENT: Luxury home, Ocean Pines. $700/mo. Includes Utill.’s. $300 sec. dep. No pets, no smoking. Call 443-880-2317.

LARGE ROOM FOR RENT: J-1 Visa students welcome! Only $2,500 for season. 3 spots available. Ocean City. Call 443-880-2486.

SUMMER SEASONAL ROOMMATES: Looking for 2 college age females to share North OC Condo for the summer season. Call 443610-4665 or 443-610-4644.

COMMERCIAL

WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 Office or Retail Space for Lease. 1,656. Sq. feet. Plenty of Parking. 443-4974200.

INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE SPACE: 2,100 Sq. Ft., 1,500 Sq. Ft., and 1,867 Sq. Ft. Masonry construction. 18’ high ceilings, large garage door & bathroom. Rt. 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

1997 TOWN & COUNTRY LX: For Sale, Historic Value. Electric seats/electric windows. Great condition! 107,000 miles. $3,800. Call 443-754-7709 for more info.

ROOMMATE YARD SALE

MAIN STREET STORAGE, LLC: COMMUNITY YARD SALE. Sat. 5/27. 8am-1pm. 9842 Main Street, Berlin, MD 21811

ASSATEAGUE POINTE FLEA MARKET: Sat. 5/27 at 8 a.m. Rt. 611, Assateague Pointe. MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE: Sat. 5/27, 8am. 10831 Griffin Road, Berlin MD 21811.

The Dispatch Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES

Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

NOTICE TO MERCHANTS

Have you forgotten to renew your State of Maryland business license? In order to avoid paying the mandatory penalty, please renew your license by May 31, 2023 . Note: The office will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023, in observance of Memorial Day under State Law.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland 2x 5-19, 5-26

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND

NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION

NOTICE is hereby given that at the Town Hall meetings of the Mayor and Town Council, the following Ordinance was introduced and read into record at 7pm on May 9, 2023, with its second reading and adoption at 7pm on June 13, 2023:

Ordinance No. 2023-05 – FY’23-24

Water and Sewer Rates Increase.

A copy of the Ordinance is available at Town Hall, Snow Hill, Maryland by request.

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL 1x 5-26

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND

NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION

NOTICE is hereby given that at the Town Hall meeting of the Mayor and Town Council, the following Ordinance was introduced and read into record at 7pm on May 9, 2023, with its second reading and adoption at 7pm on June 13, 2023:

Ordinance No. 2023-04 – FY’23 10-MONTH BUDGET AMENDMENT.

A copy of the Ordinance is available at Town Hall, Snow Hill, Maryland by request.

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL 1x 5-26

Third Insertion

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ.

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19713

To all persons interested in the estate of SIMONE PAULETTE LOUISE SMITH, Estate No. 19713. Notice is given that HELEN ST. JOHN MALONE, 11733 GRAY'S CORNER ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on MAY 05, 2023, appointed Personal

fore the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 12, 2023

HELEN ST. JOHN MALONE Personal Representative

True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 5-12, 5-19, 5-26

Third Insertion

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19605

their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 12, 2023

CHARLES STELLA Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-12, 5-19, 5-26

NAPOLIS, MD 21401. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign 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. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 12, 2023

JOHN H. BROCKWELL, JR.

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 5-12, 5-19, 5-26

Third Insertion

ABANDONED VESSEL

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication May 12, 2023 4x 5-12, 5-19, 5-26, 6-02

Second Insertion

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19258

To all persons interested in the estate of ANNA REED, AKA: ANNA CASSANDRA REED, Estate No. 19258. Notice is given that VIRGINIA PAIGE WILDMANN, 10316 NORTH ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on MAY 11, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of ANNA REED, who died on APRIL 11, 2022, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

Representatives of the estate of SIMONE PAULETTE LOUISE SMITH, who died on MARCH 19, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of NOVEMBER 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or be-

To all persons interested in the estate of MARIA F JOHANSEN, Estate No. 19605. Notice is given that CHARLES STELLA, 31684 COOK ROAD, NORTH RIDGEVILLE, OH 44039, was on MAY 05, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of MARIA F JOHANSEN, who died on FEBRUARY 21, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19715

Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS COURT of MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA, appointed(state) JOHN H. BROCKWELL JR., C/O HOWLAND HESS BIRNBAUM, 2444 HUNTINGDON PIKE, HUNTINGDON VALLEY, PA 19006 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of LINDA J BOETTCHER, who died on OCTOBER 8, 2022, domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is BARRY JACKSON, whose address is 23 WEST STREET, 2ND FLOOR, AN-

Notice is hereby given that the following vessel has apparantly been abandoned for more than 180 days. The vessel is described as: 1976 CATALINA YACHTS, 27’, WHITE IN COLOR, HULLED FIBERGLASS SAILBOAT. MD Vessel #4985 DB. HULL IDENTIFICATION:#CTYL259M76G. Located at 110504 SUSSEX ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, TRUDY STOCK, 443880-7453.

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

(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

MAY 19, 2023

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.

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 5-19, 5-26, 6-02

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19721

To all persons interested in the estate of AUDREY ELAINE HALLETT, AKA: AUDREY LAMB HALLETT, Estate No. 19721. Notice is given that WINONA COLEMAN, 6068 SILVERADO TRAIL, MCKINNEY, TX 75070, was on MAY 12, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of AUDREY ELAINE HALLETT, who died on MARCH 30, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

Name of Newspaper:

Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 19, 2023

WINONA COLEMAN Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 5-19, 5-26, 6-02

Second Insertion

MELVIN J. CALDWELL, JR, ESQ.

CALDWELL & WHITEHEAD, PA

109 CAMDEN STREET PO BOX 4520 SALISBURY, MD 218034520

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19720

To all persons interested in the estate of MARIE MACHEN, Estate No. 19720. Notice is given that GARY M. CHASE, 3 EVERGREEN COURT, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811, was on MAY 11, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of MARIE MACHEN, who died on APRIL 10, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 19, 2023

GARY M. CHASE Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-19, 5-26, 6-02

fore the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 19, 2023

DENNIS EVANS

jection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

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 NOVEMBER, 2023.

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19717

To all persons interested in the estate of EDITH A. EVANS, Estate No. 19717. Notice is given that DENNIS EVANS, 10321 HAYES LANDING ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on MAY 10, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EDITH A. EVANS, who died on SEPTEMBER 28, 2022, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or be-

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 218631074

3x 5-19, 5-26, 6-02

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19718

To all persons interested in the estate of JACQUELYN EVANS COOK, Estate No. 19718. Notice is given that SCOTT NOYLE, 3001 G ATLANTIC AVE., APT 1, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on MAY 10, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JACQUELYN EVANS COOK, who died on FEBRUARY 02, 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 ob-

(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 MAY 19, 2023

SCOTT NOYLE Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-19, 5-26, 6-02

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

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

ELIZABETH A. PFENSON Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN

HEIRS ESTATE 19731

To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID WAYNE PFEFFER, Estate No. 19731. Notice is given that ELIZABETH A. PFENSON, 2928 CHESTNUT ROAD, EDGEWATER, MD 21037, was on MAY 19, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DAVID WAYNE PFEFFER, who died on OCTOBER 22, 2022, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19716

To all persons interested in the estate of EMILY GODWIN HART, Estate No. 19716. Notice is given that DAVID HART, 20482 SAXIS ROAD, PO BOX 51, SAXIS, VA 23427, was on MAY 18, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EMILY GODWIN HART, who died on MARCH 13, 2023, with a will.

Second Insertion

Second Insertion

Second Insertion

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.

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 NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

MAY 26, 2023

DAVID HART

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

JOEL J. TODD, ESQ.

PO BOX 188

BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19737

To all persons interested in the estate of SARAH SALLY L. SPRINGER, Estate No. 19737. Notice is given that EUGENE HABINOWSKI ,153 HUNTER STREET, GLEN

FALLS, NY 12801, was on MAY 23, 2023, appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of SARAH SALLY L. SPRINGER, who died on MAY 10, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23RD day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

EUGENE HABINOWSKI

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 218631074 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

DORSEY S. TRUITT, SR.

ESTATE NO. 19692

PUBLIC NOTICE TO CAVEAT

To all persons interested in the above estate: Notice is given that a petitiion to caveat has been filed by PATRICK E. TRUITT, 603 SEAGAZE DRIVE, #877, OCEANSIDE, CA 92054, challenging the will dated MARCH 01, 1996. You may obtain from the Register of Wills, the date and time of any hearing on this matter.

Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

TERRI WESTCOTT

Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 2x 5-26. 9-02

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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 MAY 26, 2023

VICTORIA B. ENGLEMAN

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or

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 NOVEMBER, 2023.

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 19673

To all persons interested in the estate of EVELYN BOLES. Notice is given that VICTORIA B. ENGLEMAN, 53 SOUND ROAD, JOPPA, MD 21085, was on MAY 18, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATEof: EVELYN BOLES, who died on MARCH 27, 2023 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment 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:

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 5-26

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 19723

To all persons interested in the estate of EUGENE MICHAEL LUCAS, JR. Notice is given that ERIKA LEE LUCAS, 14003 LOOP ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on MAY 15, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATEof: EUGENE MICHAEL LUCAS, JR., who died on FEBRUARY 15, 2010 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

(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 MAY 26, 2023

ERIKA LEE LUCAS 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 5-26

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

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ.

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19730

To all persons interested in the estate of ANITA L. HOFFMAN, Estate No. 19730. Notice is given that CHERYL FREED, 48 MOONRAKER ROAD, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811, was on MAY 19, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANITA L. HOFFMAN, who died on JANUARY 3, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be

PICKARD Estate No. 19729. Notice is given that LINDA SOKERKA, 608 DAREN LANE, MINE HILL, NJ 07803, was on MAY 19, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ELIZABETH PICKARD, who died on NOVEMBER 26, 2022, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

LINDA SOKERKA Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102

COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307

OCEAN CITY, MD 21843-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000162

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21843-3307

Plaintiff vs. DAVID F. FERRERA, et al. Defendants

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 23rd day of MAY, 2023, 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 26TH day of JUNE, 2023 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 19th day of JUNE, 2022.

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

TIMESHARES SOLD:

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

TRUE TEST COPY

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

YOLANDA J.W. CUSAAC Personal Representative True Test Copy

Register of Wills on or before the 17TH day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

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

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

OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21843-3307 Plaintiff vs. SANDRA J. SHINDEL, et al. Defendants

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19722

Notice is given that the ORPHANS COURT of PHILADELPHIA COUNTY, PA, appointed(state)

YOLANDA J. W. CUSAAC, 7 WESTBURY DRIVE, LUMBERTON, NJ 08048 as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of MILTON M. BRINKLEY, who died on NOVEMBER 23, 2020, domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is NATHANIEL DOVE, whose address is5202 DAVENPORT CT, GLENN DALE, MD 20769. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this

TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

(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.

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD ST SALISBURY, MD 218030910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19726

To all persons interested in the estate of PATRICIA E. MEEHAN, Estate No. 19726. Notice is given that TERESA A. HEWING, 32467 FISH SOUND WAY, SELBYVILLE, DE 19975, was on MAY 17, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PATRICIA E. MEEHAN, who died on APRIL 19, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

TERESA A. HEWING Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 23rd day of MAY, 2023, 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 26TH day of JUNE, 2023 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 19th day of JUNE, 2022. The Amended Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals:

TIMESHARES SOLD:

AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC. P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-22-000065

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S/DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Sunday, May 28:

Sunday’s Local’s Night w/DJ BK

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

410-289-6846

37th & 38th St. Oceanside at Castle In The Sand Hotel

Friday, May 26:

The Permilla Project, The Chest Pains

Saturday, May 27:

The Beach Bandits, Zion Reggae Band

Sunday, May 28:

Triggerfish, Old School Band

Monday, May 29:

Sean Loomis Duo, On The Edge Band

Tuesday, May 30:

Acoustic Campfire, Dave Hawkins & Joe Mama

Wednesday, May 31:

Keri Anthony, Colossal Fossil Sauce

Thursday, June 1:

Doug Kaetz, The Dunehounds

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 26:

Dust N Bones

Saturday, May 27:

Jim Long & Rockoholics

Sunday, May 28:

Jim Schwartz

Monday, May 29:

Teenage Rust

Tuesdays: Karaoke w/DJ Jeremy

CORK BAR

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Sunday, May 28:

Loop Of Boom Duo

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE

Friday, May 26:

Chris Button

Wednesday, May 31:

Carly Twigg

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, May 26:

The Caffeine Rush

Saturday, May 27:

Derek Woods Band

Thursdays: Dance Party w/ DJ Magellan & Tommy

On The Beach

Who’s Where When

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St. In The Bay

Friday, May 26: DJ RobCee, Crushing Day, Shake The Room

Saturday, May 27: DJ DNial, Crushing Day, Jumper

Sunday, May 28: DJ Groove, The 1974, Mallow Hill

Monday, May 29: DJ Hector, The 1974, No Go Romeo

Wednesday, May 31: Latin Night

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Rt. 611, West O.C.

Tuesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Thursdays & Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, May 27:

Cecilia’s Fall, DJ Billy T

Sunday, May 28:

Pickin’ Party, DJ Billy T

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By Deogee

Saturday, May 27: Higher Education

Sunday, May 28: Beats By Deogee

Mondays: Karaoke w/Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By Deogee

Thursdays: Beats By Wax

PIER 23

410-289-3323

12817 Harbor Rd. West O.C.

Friday, May 26: Rogue Citizens

Saturday, May 27: Reform School, RoastJohn

Sunday, May 28: The Bilenki Duo, Rymac & AJ

Monday, May 29: Chris Diller

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, May 26 & 27: Vertigo Red

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 26:DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, 9 Mile Roots, Turning The Tide

Saturday, May 27: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, DJ Connair, DJ Tuff, DJ Davie, Turning The Tide, 9 Mile Roots, Fish Out Of Water, The Malones

Sunday, May 28: DJ Davie, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, The Malones, Triple Rail Turn, 9 Mile Roots, Lost In Paris

Monday, May 29: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, Full Circle Duo, Party Fowl

Tuesday, May 30: DJ Davie, Opposite Directions, Tunnel’s End

Wednesday, May 31:DJ Davie, John McNutt Duo, Tunnel’s End

Thursday, June 1: DJ Bobby O, DJ Davie, John McNutt Band, Shot Of Southern

Seniors Celebrated:

Worcester Preparatory School’s Class of 2023 celebrated their last days at school with a variety of senior week activities, ending in a parade through campus. Students enjoyed a class BBQ, Field Day games, lunch with faculty and staff members and much more. Last Friday, seniors paraded through the hallways, while students and faculty members from Lower School to Upper School cheered them on and wished them luck in the future.

Submitted Photos

OBITUARIES

John Keane

OCEAN PINES - John "Jack" Keane, age 82, passed away on Tuesday morning May 16, 2023.

Jack was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. on Jan. 4, 1941. He served in the U.S. Navy with the helicopter utility squadron #2. He married Ellen A. (White) Keane on Oct. 5, 1963, and they lived in Flushing N.Y. where he worked for the Hertz Co. for 30 years. After retiring, they moved to Ocean Pines in 2001. They both enjoyed the change and joined many local groups. Jack loved dining out, singing, golfing, and spending time with old friends as well as new friends. Jack was preceded in death by his wife Ellen in 2006.

Many thanks to Gull Creek for all the care you gave him. Jack's services were held in Gardens of the Pines Cemetery on Thursday, May 25. He will be missed, but not forgotten.

Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Agnes Mae Quillen Collins

DELMAR – Agnes Mae Quillen Collins, age 102, passed away at her home in Delmar, Del. on May 19, 2023. She was the daughter of the late Calvin E.

“Ned” and Beulah L. Trader Quillen of Taylorville.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Everett Collins, and her three sisters, Pauline L. Clarke, Eunice Q. Sorin, and Rosalee Q. James, and her brother, Calvin E. Quillen, Jr.

She is survived by three nieces, Janice Sorin Wainwright (Harold), Deborah Anne Carper (Stephen), and Joyce Jeanette James, and a nephew, Jeffrey Jay James (Patti). Also surviving are four grandnieces, Kimberly Ann Phillips, Katherine E. Carper Ray (Matt), Leah Nicole James and Laura Michelle James; three grandnephews, James

“Jay” Richard Phillips IV (Christie), Ryan Cole Evans and Riley James Evans; two great-grandnieces Brooke A. Phillips and Moorea S. Phillips; and kind friend and caregiver of many years Allen and his wife Connie Reustle.

Mrs. Collins was a graduate of Buckingham High School in Berlin. She attended nursing school and received her RN from Memorial Hospital in Wilmington, Del. She was a United States Army nurse, First Lieutenant during WWII and spent one year in Europe caring for wounded soldiers at the 156th General Hospital, in Hereford, England. Mrs. Collins served many years as a career nurse, including in the areas of pediatric SEE PAGE 86

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS!

ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY: DJ Billy T • 3 pm

SATURDAY:

FRIDAY: ALL DAY: Oyster Frenzy

JOHN KEANE

AGNES COLLINS

FROM PAGE 85

and elder care. She worked at the formerly named Peninsula General Hospital, Salisbury, and Shangri-La Nursing Home, Delmar, DE, and as a private duty nurse.

Mrs. Collins was a member of St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church in Delmar and sang in the church choir for many years. She participated in several community organizations and was a member of the Red Hat Club and Past President of the New Century Club. She was a giving and generous person supporting various charities and philanthropic organizations. She was proficient at word search puzzles and enjoyed her garden and flowers and the many cats she had over the years.

“Aggie” will be remembered by her family for her sense of humor, her remarkable memory of family history, and

her many cards and notes of love that touched our lives.

The family wishes to thank Allen and Connie Reustle for their devoted care, and her caregivers of the last two years, including Ms. Sharon Maile, Valerie Mackenzie, Bonnie Phippen, Donna DeMent, Daisy Meyers, Destiny Cooper, Phyllis Adkins, and the Compassionate Care Hospice.

Visitation, open to friends and family will be held on Saturday, May 27, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, 101 E. State St., Delmar, Del. 19940 followed by a funeral service which begins at 11 a.m. Interment open to friends and family will follow at St. Stephen’s Cemetery in Delmar, Del. The family will receive friends at Camelot Hall at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church after the service for refreshments and fellowship.

A donation in her memory may be made to St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, 101 E. State St., Delmar, Del. 19940.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.

Stephanie Karat Amick

OCEAN CITY – Stephanie Karat

Amick was born in Baltimore on August 15, 1981, and passed away on Dec. 30, 2022 at the age of 41, while visiting San Diego, Calif.

Stephanie grew up in Millsboro, Del. where she attended school and excelled at art and math.

Later she lived in Frankford, Del., where she helped her mother, Nancy Karat May (who died in 2013) run a thrift store for the Presbyterian Church. Twenty years ago, Stephanie moved to Ocean City where she managed motels and the front desk and worked as a housekeeper including MR Ducks, A Clean Haven and Misty Harbor Motel. She loved cars and knew how to rebuild

a transmission and fix a brake line.

Her sudden passing was an accident and occurred while she was walking on a sidewalk in San Diego towards the beach. The driver of a Ford pickup truck had a seizure, lost control of his vehicle and veered off the roadway and knocked her down. She immediately went into a coma and did not regain consciousness. Her organs were donated to charity.

Stephanie’s remains were cremated and her ashes returned to the family. There will be a private service on May 28.

Miriam Victoria Trotter

OCEAN CITY – Suddenly on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, Miriam Victoria Trotter (nee Lopez DeArmas), age 86, of Parkville, Md., passed away in a tragic accident while vacationing on Anna Maria Island, Fla.

She was the beloved wife of the late Harry Bayard Trotter; devoted mother of Deborah Trotter and her wife Michele Trotter; dear sister of Charlie Lopez and his wife Donna, and the late John Lopez; loving sister-in-law of John Trotter and his wife Rose; devoted niece of Emma Tirador. Miriam is survived by a host of extended family, numerous friends and her beloved Oak Crest Community.

Miriam was born in Cuba and immigrated to her beloved United States with her parents and siblings in 1945. She attended college and later met Harry while living and working in Miami, Florida. They married in 1956 and soon relocated to Maryland to care for Harry’s younger brother, mother, and grandmother where Miriam resided until her death.

Miriam was a proud Civil Servant of 47 years with the Veteran’s Administration and the Department of Defense where she received many outstanding service awards. Upon her retirement, she enjoyed long cruising vacations, her second home on the beach in Ocean City, Maryland, social hours, and Ambassador Activities at Oak Crest Village. She deeply loved her family and chosen family of friends and was always the first person to help another in need. Her untimely and tragic death leaves many broken hearts.

Spacious 2 Bedroom 1 Bath home located in the much sought after Sundowner Park. Screened porch, 2 decks, Monthly Coop fee of $105/month includes water/sewer/lawn maintenance, and pool

Year round rental $2500/month+utilities 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath in the Bayside community in Selbyville. Enjoy the many shows offered at the Freeman Stage within the same community. Sports package paid separately. Available mid June.

A visitation will be held at the Schimunek Funeral Home, 9705 Belair Road, Nottingham, Md. 21236 on Friday, June 2 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 8420 Belair Road Nottingham, Md. 21236 on Saturday, June 3 at 10 a.m. Entombment Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens. If desired contributions may be made in Miriam’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, Tenn. 38105 or to Oak Crest Benevolent Care Fund c/o Office of Philanthropy, Oak Crest, 8800 Walther Boulevard, Parkville, Md. 21234.

A Celebration of Miriam’s Life will be held at Oak Crest Chapel at a later date. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.schimunekfuneralhomenottingham.com for the Trotter family.

STEPHANIE AMICK

MIRIAM TROTTER

SPORTS In The News

Decatur Teams Fall In State Semis

Seahawks Sweep Major Awards

BERLIN – Tremendous seasons for the Stephen Decatur boys baseball and girls softball teams came to a close in the semifinals of the state tournament this week.

Last Friday, Stephen Decatur boys baseball team advanced to the MPSSAA Class 3A baseball state tournament semifinals after defeating Marriotts Ridge, 93, last Friday at home. On Tuesday, the Seahawks’ outstanding season came to a close with a 5-3 loss to River Hill. The game was tied 3-3 until the top of the seventh when River Hill scored twice. In the loss, Ryder Swanson and Caden Shockley had two hits apiece. Decatur ended the season with a 20-3 record. Tuesday also saw Decatur’s girls softball fall in the state semifinals to Damascus, 5-2

For the girls softball team, the Seahawks slaughter ruled Manchester in the state tourney quarterfinals behind pitcher Madison McGinnis striking out eight over five innings. The offense was paced by sophomore Ryleigh Smith who had four hits on the day including a go-ahead threerun homer. On Tuesday, Decatur fell to Damascus, 5-2, in the state semi-finals of the 3A bracket to close out a 19-3 season.

Sophomore Madison McGinnis deals a strike to the plate during last Friday’s 15-2 win over Manchester in the 3A tournament quarterfinals.

Photos by the Delmarva Sports Network

The Stephen Decatur girls lacrosse team was well represented on the Bayside South All Conference teams, including senior Audrey Mumford winning player of the year and Coach Lindsay Owens earning coach of the year. Named to the first team Bayside South team were Mumford, pictured above left against Worcester Prep in March, Sadie Kauffman and Kayla Brady, above right, on attack; Seniors Mia Kemp, Shelby Rosemond and Alina Bernal-Clark at midfield; Abby Melito and Reagan Sterrs on defense; and Addison McDaniel in goal. Second team honors went to Lily Carson and Kora Ketner on attack; MariaBella Morse at midfield; and Sophia Krasner and Renee Fohner on defense. Tatum Vorsteg received an honorable mention vote. Submitted Photo

Senior Gus Croll delivers to the plate during last Friday’s playoff win over Marriotts Ridge.

Junior Ryder Swanson eyes a pitch during the state quarterfinal win over Marriotts Ridge.

Sophomore Ryleigh Smith is congratulated by her teammates after a threerun homer.

Junior Kiara Taylor awaits a pitch during last Friday’s home playoff game.

Boardwalk Parade: An event borne out of the pandemic has become an annual tradition for the community, as 300-plus Stephen Decatur High School seniors celebrated their upcoming graduation Wednesday with a parade along the Boardwalk in front of friends, family, former teachers and supporters. Click over to The Dispatch’s Facebook page online for more photos.

Photos by Chris Parypa

Berlin To Host Memorial Day Parade On Monday

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The Old-Fashioned Memorial Day Parade returns to Berlin on Monday, May 29.

The parade, a local favorite, is set for 11 a.m. on Monday, May 29. More than 40 entries are expected to parade from Stephen Decatur Middle School to Henry Park.

“We expect to have a nice crowd to enjoy the day and help us celebrate Memorial Day,” said Gregory Purnell, one of the event organizers. “We’re just thankful to be able to celebrate. Those that gave all, we want to commemorate them.”

After a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, the parade returned to Berlin last year. Purnell said the tradition began in 1996 but was based on the wildly popular Decoration Day festivities from the 1950s, when bands would travel from as far as Philadelphia and Baltimore to take part in the parade.

“It was a carnival atmosphere,” Purnell recalled. “When I was a child Decoration Day was the day you looked forward to in the summer.”

Community members created the OldFashioned Memorial Day Parade in the 1990s to revive that sense of community excitement.

“That’s why it was given the moniker of the Old-Fashioned Memorial Day Parade,” Purnell said.

While the pandemic paused the popular event, it returned with a bang in 2022 and Purnell is hopeful this year’s event will be even better. New for this year’s parade is a shuttle that will bring attendees from Berlin Intermediate School to the Dollar General area. In addition, the band On the Edge has been secured to perform after the parade, from 1 to 3 p.m.

The theme for this year’s parade is “Celebrating the Past and Embracing the Future” and the grand marshal of the event will be Wallace Purnell.

“He is a Korean War veteran and one of the eldest veterans in the community,” Purnell said.

Trophies will be awarded in various parade categories and the best float will receive a $100 prize. Following the parade, a girls dance contest will take place at Henry Park.

Purnell encourages community members to come out and show their support for veterans.

“The freedoms we enjoy were given by blood,” Purnell said. “It’s been the veterans who put their lives on the line to preserve the American experience.”

He added that before the parade, members of Duncan Showell Post 231 would be continuing their tradition of visiting local cemeteries where former members are buried.

“We encourage people to support the color guard as they perform taps,” he said.

Beginning at 8 a.m., they’ll be visiting Pullet United Methodist Church Cemetery, Curtis United Methodist Church Cemetery, Fooks Cemetery, New Bethel Cemetery and St. Paul’s Cemetery.

The Dispatch

Forever In Memory

Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005)

“Iron Man” Shawn Soper (July 24, 1963-February 15, 2023)

The Dispatch, Serving Greater Ocean City Since 1984, Is Published By Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. Weekly On Friday Mornings

MAILING ADDRESS:

P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811

PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd. Berlin, Md. 21811

PHONE: 410-641-4561

FAX: 410-641-0966

ONLINE WEBSITES: mdcoastdispatch.com facebook.com/thedispatchoc twitter.com/thedispatchocmd instagram.com/thedispatchocmd

J. STEVEN GREEN

Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com

NEWS DEPARTMENT

CHARLENE SHARPE

Associate Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com

BETHANY HOOPER

Associate Editor bhooper@mdcoastdispatch.com

CHRIS PARYPA

Photographer

SALES DEPARTMENT

TERRI FRENCH

Account Executive

Entertainment Editor terri@mdcoastdispatch.com

CHANTAL APPLE Account Executive capple@mdcoastdispatch.com

ART DEPARTMENT COLE GIBSON Art Director cole@mdcoastdispatch.com

DAVID HOOKS Graphic Artist dhooks@mdcoastdispatch.com

PAUL HALLAM Graphic Artist/Webmaster phallam@mdcoastdispatch.com

BUSINESS OFFICE

PAMELA GREEN

Bookkeeper/Classifieds Manager classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

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

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

How We See It

Boardwalk Parade About Community

This week’s Stephen Decatur High School seniors’ parade had a bit of everything – from tears to laughs – as the Class of 2023 made its way south along the Boardwalk.

What a joy it was to witness the sense of community on the Boardwalk as 350plus Stephen Decatur High School graduates-to-be participated in a parade with their families and friends. After observing the scene for a few hours and reflecting on it, what really hit home was the tremendous turnout of teachers and supporters who lined the Boardwalk to celebrate these students and their accomplishments. There’s a certain amount of pride that comes routinely with living in this community, but this event every year is one of those unique moments to cherish and remember. The scenes playing out confirming real connections among adults and young people are unforgettable.

As youngsters, many of these graduates spent a lot of time on the Boardwalk in arcades, riding amusements and eating the traditional fare. Many of the seniors have also worked on the Boardwalk or on the beach. To have the opportunity to cruise down the Boardwalk with family and friends and be celebrated in their hometown is especially wonderful.

Adding to the charm is the fact dozens of teachers – some of whom are even retired – come to the Boardwalk to watch and celebrate these seniors. In many cases, these are elementary, intermediate and middle school teachers who have not had these students in their classrooms for many years. This is especially what brings the emotions from students and parents who recognize how meaningful the evening has become.

One parent shared in a causal conversation she counted as many as 20 former and current teachers along the Boardwalk during her daughter’s cruise to the Inlet to meet with the principal and superintendent of schools for a photo. It’s a tremendous experience for these students to reflect on their memories of growing up here as well as recalling the journey through the various stages of their school life.

The Boardwalk parade was borne out of the pandemic as an opportunity to recognize the Class of 2020 that had their senior years ruined by mandatory school closures. The Boardwalk parade was a positive pivot in an emergency situation and has now become tradition. It's an event that should continue for years to come because it provides the lasting memory for these students and their families. It’s a true celebration rooted in smalltown, rural life and the relationships that exists within our true community.

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

Of the two Cruisin events – one in the spring and the other in October – the May edition typically brings larger crowds than its fall counterpart. In years past, the spring Cruisin has also been the event with more trouble from non-event participants who in the past have come to Ocean City with unfortunate intentions. In recent years, the good news is the events are much tamer than in years past. A review of statistics from the Ocean City Police Department confirms much progress has been made.

Officer calls for service decreased 22% last weekend from the same time period in 2022, from 973 to 755, and citizen calls for service decreased 6%, from 362 last year to 229 this year. Total calls for service dropped 18% last weekend, from 1,335 in 2022 (1,402 in 2021) to 1,094. Other decreases were seen in traffic citations (410 last year to 386), accidents (12 to seven), total arrests (53 to 35), drug arrests (four to one) and weapon arrests (eight to four). Increases were seen in exhibition driving offenses with 23 citations issued this year compared to 18 last year and 22 in 2021. Other increases seen were DUI arrests (eight compared to five last year), traffic warnings (254 compared to 121) and total traffic enforcement (640 from 531).

Ocean City Police Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller issued a statement this week on the weekend recognizing the values in partnerships with the Cruisin organizer as well as law enforcement. “The Ocean City Police Department is thankful for our continued support and partnership with our local allied law enforcement agencies. This past week, the Maryland State Police, Natural Resource Police, and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office provided additional support to ensure our roadways and sidewalks remained safe,” she said. “We would like to thank our partners with the Motor Vehicle Administration Investigation Division for being on hand to address MVA violations. Each year the success of these events is a joint effort between the Cruisin’ staff, law enforcement partners, the Ocean City community, and our Mayor & City Council.”

There was some new news this week involving the ongoing squabble between the Worcester County Commissioners and the Worcester County Board of Education. The commissioners have submitted a Public Information Act to secure budget documents they have been seeking for weeks from the school board. In fairness, the school system has provided the county with more information as requested, but it’s far from what the commissioners are seeking. In fact, Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said last week the school system provided documentation on about 4% of its budget.

The ongoing debate between the school system and the commissioners seems to be on the minds of many these days. Many teachers are expressing themselves clearly on social media and with more traditional outreach like letters to the editor. Some educators are too worried to put their names on their opinions, but one elementary school teacher did provide some interesting reflections on current matters that I thought were worthy of sharing.

The teacher shared, “1. It’s unfortunate to hear that we will not be getting the raise we thought. It is also extremely concerning considering there is a state law coming down (the blueprint model) saying that new teachers must have a starting salary of 60k by 2025-2026 school year. With that being said I have taught for 8 years now and I do not even make $60k. The thought behind the raise was that they were going to close the gap in salaries. It’s also concerning for the teachers who have been teaching for more years than myself and to know that they may never be compensated for their time in the county based off of the new teacher salary. … I am not upset with the commissioners at all. They have a responsibility to ensure that the money they are given is necessary and needed and will be utilized correctly and appropriately. Without the board providing them with the proof and documentation they have asked for, I do not blame the commissioners for not giving the money. I do blame the Board of Ed for not being prepared for this. This can’t be the first time we have asked for more money from the commissioners and this can’t be the first time they had to provide proof of a budget. This should be something that is kept on top of and organized and presented without even being asked. This is a public school system, not a private business. Records should be made public and provided upon request. The fact that information is being withheld has caused a ton of uncertainty in teachers. We feel like when you do not provide what you are asked to, in order to benefit your teachers, it is because something shady has occurred that you do not want us to know about.

4. Additional take on all of this is the level of frustration we feel. There are so many more issues occurring within the school system that the public probably isn’t aware about. Educational assistants are no longer being used to support our general education teachers. They are now being used as babysitters to support students who have behavior needs. These are not just students with disabilities either. If the county could provide the budget and we could ensure money is being used properly, then maybe schools could hire more mental health support and behavioral support staff to help with these students, this way the education assistants can do just that, assist with education.”

Puzzle Answers

by Steve Green

ey, can I have a BBQ sandwich for dinner?”

It was a text from my son Beckett, 15, at 6:50 p.m. last Thursday. This is a normal text to get at night in our house. Family dinners together these days are unusual with busy schedules. At least a few times a week our family eats together but most often on the weekends because the weeknights are jammed.

What did make this food request different was we were not home, and he knew it (or forgot it). In fact, an hour before I was dressed before him in a suit in his room, I answered the question as to why I was dressed up. I reminded him we were heading to a hospital celebration that night and his grandmom was coming over. His mom told him the same thing an hour or so ago.

I texted him back saying we were out of the house but his grandmom could take care of it for him. He replied, “oh I didn’t know, you never told me.”

Later when we got home and checked on him in his room, I immediately regretted it. I was looking to make light of his earlier text when I got, “you are home late.” It was 9:52 p.m.

I have come to expect a bit of attitude and moods from my 15-year-old pride and joy. There are times when he flirts with disrespect, but most of the time he’s just in a bit of a way about this or that.

For example, I don’t see a day in the near future when he will not fight us on cleaning his room. I also do not see a day when his mother or I will be okay with his room featuring piles of clean and dirty clothes, used cups and empty water bottles. I suspect it will continue to be a source of dissension.

One thing I try hard not to do is take anything from him too personal. Beckett is at the age he doesn’t really want to talk about everything. Some days he doesn’t want to talk about anything at all. However, there are times when he

unloads and it’s a good thing. One such instance was a bit ill-timed this week, but it was alright.

During the Decatur graduation parade on the Boardwalk, Beckett took me down a winding road about a range of topics including sports, school, girls, Messi, LeBron, Caitlin Clark and summer work. He was not asking about anything. It was just a random conversation of things on his mind. A few minutes later, he questioned whether I was listening and cared what he had to say. A little dispute ensued over that comment and suddenly I felt like I was walking through a teenage minefield.

A recent essay on the website grownandflown.com (a guilty pleasure of mine of late) hit home on the subject of teen moods. It was written from a woman’s perspective by Alisa Schindler and titled, “When a Grumpty Teen Meets A Middle Age Mom.”

These days, I’m just hoping to catch that sweet smile or be on the other side of a hug. For those moments where he answers with more than just “Fine,” “Nothing” or “Wait” and that he’ll notice I’m asking him a question before I’ve ripped the phone from his hands and am standing there pissed and hurt.

This dance isn’t easy. I’m nowhere near learning the steps of mixing the middle-aged hormones with the teenaged ones. It’s like two left feet trying to do salsa and head banging punk while in an attempt to Tango. So I try very hard to not be too nagging or over sensitive, but I don’t want to be a victim either.

My boy needs to know when he’s crossed the line, but it seems we are walking so many lines that the right and wrong get a little blurry. Or more accurately, I choose my battles. You can’t fight them all. That’s why I accept things I never thought I would to stay on his good side, and work extra hard to please him. Yet sometimes it seems, the more I try to get along, the more I feel the distance between us.

… I have a 13 year-old who is on the verge of joining his brother in the teenage void. Although, my middle son is very different from my oldest, and remains warm and open, I’m not holding my breath. He is naturally a passionate and hot-tempered boy and that just may not translate well in Teen Land. But of course, you never know. My youngest is 11 and I’ve decided that he’s just not allowed to become a teen until at least the older one ages out. I can’t handle more than two blank stares at a time.

“Mom! What’s taking so long?” my 16-year-old asks, a little too arrogant like he’s talking down to someone. Which since I’ve woken him, made him breakfast, packed his lunch and am now preparing to drive him to school is kind of what I am.

“I just wanted to show you this new zip-up I bought you.” I smile, holding out my offering. Please like it, I hope. I went to two stores to find one in his favorite color. “The one you’re wearing is ripped.” I say flatly, like I’m not vested in his approval. His eyes lift from his phone, just briefly enough to glance at it. “Sure, whatever.” He shrugs, and I am filled with relief. Like I just accomplished a major coup, getting him to agree to wear designer outerwear. He puts it on and before we’re out the door, he casually says, “Thanks.” and rewards me with that sweet smile, the exact same as when I’d hand him a cookie when he was a toddler. My heart contracts. I want to touch him, maybe just brush the hair away from his eyes, the way I used to be allowed to when boundaries were clearer as to who was in charge.

But now he’s growing up and I need to respect the natural order of things which dictates that to some extent a teenager must pull away from their parent and find his own way. It’s biology…”

(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.)

PUZZLE ON PAGE 59