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It’s Go Time In Resort For First Music Festival

September 29, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The Sea Bright Stage, which will feature the headline acts each night, is pictured Tuesday being set up amid windy, wet conditions.

Photo by Chris Parypa

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OCEAN CITY – As the remnants of Tropical Storm Ophelia move up the coast, officials this week resumed setup for the highly anticipated Oceans Calling Festival.

The Oceans Calling Festival, a threeday music festival featuring several nationally known acts, is set to begin this Friday off the Ocean City Boardwalk. With attendance expected to reach 50,000 each day, officials say the sell-out event will be the largest of its kind in Ocean City.

“The city has told us that it is the largest ‘ticketed’ event that they have had come through Ocean City,” said Tim Sweetwood of C3 Presents, the festival promoter. “We are proud to be working with them and delivering something new and great that will hopefully, again, last for many years.”

Last year, officials were forced to cancel the inaugural Oceans Calling Festival as the remnants of Hurricane Ian swept through the resort. But Sweetwood said the year delay gave the promoter and the city extra time to not only perfect safety and traffic plans but expand the festival footprint. This year, the Ocean City Boardwalk will be within the festival grounds, offering festival-goers access to food shops, clothing stores, arcades, amusement park rides and more.

“The additional year gave us more time to prepare and welcome guests to town and to the festival,” Sweetwood said. “We have spent a lot of extra time in areas of safety, traffic plans, site enhancements, etc.”

The extra year also built upon the anticipation of last year’s festival, Sweetwood said. He noted that 2023 Oceans Calling tickets were sold out after a few short months of promotion.

“We have ticket buyers coming from every state, as well as some international buyers,” he said.

Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said the festival is sure to be a boon for the resort.

He estimates the event will generate $60 million in economic impact throughout the weekend.

“This is a huge opportunity to showcase Ocean City as a great venue for any kind of event, and from an economic standpoint it checks all the boxes – heads in beds and people in restaurant seats …,” he said. “We are excited for the national attention and to welcome new visitors to Ocean City.”

Ocean City Marketing and Communications Director Jessica Waters agreed.

“We have been looking forward to Oceans Calling for nearly three years, as we have been planning for this festival since May of 2021,” she said. “While we have hosted thousands of phenomenal events over the years, we have yet to host something with such spectacular talent or a music festival with such superb quality as SEE PAGE 66

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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OC Council Grants Conditional Use For Mini Golf Project

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BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week approved a conditional use application that will allow the connections of Nick’s Mini Golf to construct an 18-hole course and playground structure on the west side of Philadelphia Avenue.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council voted 6-0, with Councilman Peter Buas abstaining, to approve a conditional use in the LC-1 zoning district and to adopt the findings of fact and conditions for an 18-hole miniature golf course and playground structure to the west of the Philadelphia Avenue and 21st Street intersection. The approval comes after the Ocean City Planning Commission made a favorable recommendation at a Sept. 6 public hearing.

“It has unanimous approval from the

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planning commission, the staff supports this, it does fit our comprehensive plan and encourages economic growth, and it is zoned appropriately,” said Councilman Will Savage. “So it only makes sense to me, and I do support it.”

For years, Nick’s Jurassic Mini Golf has operated from its location at 1801 Philadelphia Avenue. Last year, however, the town approved plans for a new office complex on the site, prompting Nick’s Golf LLC Principal Nicholas Geracimos to relocate his operation just one block north, to property known as 1901 and 1907 Philadelphia Avenue.

As part of that process, Geracimos received conditional use and site plan approval last year to construct an 18-hole course on that site. A disagreement between Geracimos and the neighboring Islander Motel, however, resulted in a lawsuit that halted Geracimos’ plans.

“The court decided not to allow him to build mini golf there,” Peter Gikurias, the motel’s owner, told the planning commission earlier this month.

Geracimos has since applied for another conditional use permit, which will allow him to build his mini golf course just half a block to the north of the previously approved location, on the other side of the Islander Motel. On Sept. 6, following a lengthy public hearing, the planning commission voted 7-0 to forward a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and Council with conditions that address lighting, noise and hours of operation, among other things.

“We’re pleased to present the recommendation of the planning commission with regard to this conditional use permit in the LC-1 zoning district to permit an 18hole miniature golf course and accessory playground …,” Planning and Community

September 29, 2023

Development Director Bill Neville told the Mayor and Council Tuesday. “There was a copy of the testimony the Islander Motel made at the hearing … The planning commission did consider all the points raised, and I think you’ll find in the draft findings of fact that they have addressed all or most of those points that were made.”

Bordered by the Islander Motel to the south and Mariner’s Watch to the north, the proposed mini golf course will feature an 18-hole course with landscaping and waterfalls, a golf office with retail space, and a playground structure. While the course will be constructed in a manner similar to previously approved site plans, officials say the layout has been reoriented to address the Islander Motel’s concerns.

During the public comments portion of Tuesday’s meeting, local business owner Adam Lockhart Showell Sr. said he had mediated a meeting between Geracimos and the Gikurias family in an attempt to resolve the dispute over the mini golf course.

“Not until $500,000 of miniature golf materials were purchased and site work had begun that the Gikurias family raised any concerns …,” he told the council. “In my attempt to mediate, I asked Peter and Matilda what they wanted. Nick had addressed all their concerns in a very satisfactory manner. The response was, in short, ‘sell us the property and for the price you paid for it.’”

Showell said he believed the issue would end up in court again but argued that a mini golf course would be an amenity for the Islander Motel.

“Mini golf would be good for Ocean City, good for Nick’s Mini Golf and his family, and good for the Islander Motel,” he said.

Businessman Leighton Moore also came before the council Tuesday in support of Nick’s Mini Golf. He argued more amusements were needed in Ocean City.

“I wholeheartedly agree this project should be allowed to proceed,” he said.

“Anytime we can have something to the bemusement and amusement of the people in town, whether they be old or young, or families or grandparents taking their grandkids, we have to preserve our family image.”

Moore said the Gikurias family took issue with the lighting and noise that could emanate from the golf course. He argued, however, that windows on the north side of their property had been boarded up.

“As far as the proximity to the building, I don’t think it really matters when you close your building pretty much up,” he said. “What this is, in my opinion, if I’m allowed to state an opinion, is that the three parcels together – both the parcel to the north, the Islander itself, and the parcel to the south – if each one was worth $1, the cumulative total, if you had control of the whole thing, would probably be worth $5.

I think that’s what this is, a land grab. And I think it’s deceitful and I think it’s despicable.”

Ocean City resident George Leukel, however, questioned why “millionaires” had shown up in support of a mini golf SEE NEXT PAGE

… Owner To Develop 18-Hole Course

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

course.

“We have a simple solution here,” he said. “We either vote and make our millionaire friends happy, or we vote for the little guy …”

While not at Tuesday’s council meeting, Gikurias and his attorney, Demetrios Kaouris, came before the planning commission earlier this month seeking the denial of Geracimos’ conditional use request.

For his part, Gikurias said he was not only concerned about mini golf patrons cutting through his property, but about the potential noise associated with attractions on the site.

“Imagine going to a hotel and 10 feet from your headboard or pillow you have mini golf, which is going to be noisy,” he said at the time. “That’s my main concern.”

Kaouris opined the conditional use request should be denied, as it failed to provide enough parking for the attractions proposed on the site. He also argued that the playground structure – identified as a ropes course – was an amusement and should not be permitted in the LC-1 zoning district.

When asked about the ropes course Tuesday, Neville told the council staff had looked into the matter and had determined the ropes course to be an accessory use.

“We felt this was consistent with the kinds of playgrounds that occur at a number of our restaurants,” he replied. “We did compare this to the location at 34th Street where Planet Maze used to be.

That was similarly located on the west

side of the highway, in the LC-1 zoning district. That included miniature golf – both indoor and outdoor – playgrounds and laser tag, which is not being proposed at this location. We felt, as a precedent, that represented what is reasonably associated as either secondary or accessory use with miniature golf.”

When asked about the property’s retail space, Geracimos said it would only be open to mini golf patrons.

“We’re serving the same thing out of this one as the previous location on Kingfish and all other locations I have in town,” he said. “It’s the pre-packaged ice creams, cookie sandwiches, we do the Polish ice pre-packaged, bottled water, canned soda, stuff like that.”

Savage said he had resided near Geracimos’ previous mini golf location for many years and acknowledged that Geracimos had been a good neighbor. In reference to the Islander Motel’s concerns about lighting and music, he said he believed Geracimos had made the necessary changes.

“That would mitigate any concern I could foresee a residential person having that may have been witnessed at other golf courses that had older technology,” he said.

With no further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Buas abstaining, to approve the conditional use application by adopting the findings of fact with five conditions.

“I’ll abstain based on a conflict,” Buas said.

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September 29, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN– Municipal officials discussed plans for the town’s casino revenue at a meeting this week.

On Monday, the Berlin Town Council reiterated a commitment to using the municipality’s annual share of casino revenue to help pay for LEOPS (Law Enforcement Officers Pension System).

The town has been asked by the Local Development Council, however, to submit a multi-year plan outlining future use of the funds.

“We’ve been advised to provide a new intent of future spending,” said Natalie Saleh, the town’s finance director.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said the town had submitted its annual casino revenue spending report but had been asked by the Local Development Council (LDC), the board that reviews jurisdictions’ use of casino revenue, for a new multi-year spending plan. The town’s previous plan showed that it was allocating annual funding to cover the cost of the new Berlin police station, which is now paid off.

“The intent of the multi-year spending plan is basically to allocate future funds for a specific purpose,” Saleh said.

While Berlin officials previously decied to use $366,000 of this year’s casino revenue for LEOPS, Saleh said the LDC wanted future use laid out in a multi-year plan.

“I think we should work with them,” Councilman Jack Orris said.

Councilman Steve Green said he understood the concerns the LDC chair previously shared regarding spending casino revenue on LEOPS. He said he’d like to see the town pursue a phased approach, funding LEOPS entirely with casino revenue the first year and gradually decreasing the amount.

“I think it would be consistent of us to realize that LEOPS is at some point going to become a general fund expense,” he said, adding that casino revenues also appeared to be declining.

Councilman Jay Knerr agreed and said he’d proposed other potential uses for casino revenue earlier this year.

Councilman Dean Burrell said the town could even potentially use casino revenue to support the fire company, as that was public safety as well.

Tyndall said the town couldn’t decrease the amount of casino revenue funding LEOPS until it found additional funding elsewhere.

“I think we’re looking at this a little backwards,” he said.

Tyndall said he’d present the council with a draft multi-year plan outlining the town’s intention of paying for LEOPS with casino revenue at the next meeting.

“The first meeting in October we can have something that looks like a multiyear plan that this group can say yes or no to,” Tyndall said.

September 29, 2023

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Berlin Town Council Approves New Position In 3-2 Vote

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BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – In a split vote, municipal officials approved a job description for a new special projects coordinator at town hall.

On Monday, the Berlin Town Council voted 3-2 to approve a new position in town hall. Those who voted against the job description wanted it to do more to support the town’s planning department, as that was why officials had agreed to include funding for it in the budget.

“The special projects administrator

title was packaged to us primarily to assist, one of their tasks—or the majority of their tasks—was planning,” Councilman Jack Orris said.

The council on Monday was presented with a job description for a special projects coordinator.

“The Special Projects Administrator reports directly to the Town Administrator and serves to perform all aspects of work to meet the objectives of the Town,” the job description reads. “The Special Projects Administrator is responsible for working on critical/special projects assigned by the Town Administrator and

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assists in the daily operations of the Administration Department. Work involves the application of professional knowledge and personal judgment to a variety of managerial and administrative needs.

The Special Projects Administrator will work with elected officials, the Town Administrator, Department Heads, employees, citizens, and third-party vendors.”

Orris was quick to express his concerns, as he said the position had been discussed during budget talks as a role that could support the two-person planning department currently made up of Dave Engelhart and Carolyn Duffy.

“I’m concerned that that’s not in here,” he said.

Councilman Dean Burrell agreed.

“This position went forward I think because of the need expressed by Dave… ,” Burrell said. “I would really like to see those items that are expected to be taken care of in Dave’s department expressed in the job duties. That would just make me feel better and would make me feel better because I really do believe this council agreed with going forward with this position because of the expectation of the assistance Dave’s department would receive from this individual.”

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the job description indicated the position would help other departments.

Orris maintained that assistance to the planning department, so existing staff there could focus on code enforcement

September 29, 2023

issues, was meant to be a key part of what the job entailed.

“You’re just asking to hire a deputy town administrator,” he said.

“Not at all,” Bohlen replied.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said adjusting the job description would impact who applied.

“The second we put a planning and zoning component in this that’s going to change or alter the applicant pool, maybe even diminish the applicant pool,” he said. “This defines it and doesn’t box in the position.”

Councilman Jay Knerr said the description was broad and the town wasn’t even sure how much time the individual would be needed in the planning department.

“This is a very broad job description,” he said. “It pretty much covers anything and everything.”

Councilman Steve Green said the points made by Orris were valid but he was ready to move forward.

“Your memory is correct but I think at some point we have to move forward with posting this job and getting the applications in and have faith in our administration that they’re going to fulfill our wishes that have been very clearly stated,” he said.

A motion to approve the job description tied with a 2-2 vote, Green and Knerr in favor with Burrell and Orris opposed.

As a result of the tie, Tyndall voted and the motion passed 3-2.

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Berlin Officials Discuss Fire Company Funding Challenges

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BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Continued fire and EMS funding challenges highlighted a work session among elected officials and Berlin Fire Company leadership.

The Berlin Town Council last week held a work session with fire company officials to kick off funding discussions well in advance of the town’s next budget process.

“Hopefully as we get along in the budget process we won’t have those hinderances like we have had in previous years,” Councilman Dean Burrell said.

During last week’s meeting, elected officials were presented with estimates from Berlin Fire Company (BFC) officials on what will be requested in the next budget.

For fire, the Berlin Fire Company will be asking for $200,000 for operating (up from

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

$116,961 included in the current budget) and $150,000 in capital to replace aging equipment.

For BFC EMS, the request from the town in the next fiscal year will be $450,000 (an increase from the current budgeted amount of $408,039) and $52,500 for capital.

BFC President David Fitzgerald offered suggestions for the town to come up with the new funding required to maintain fire and EMS services at an adequate level.

He said the town could increase impact fees on new construction and create a public safety tax within the municipal tax rate. He said the county in the 1970s carved out 3 cents of the countywide tax rate for public safety and he reported the county is considering an increase to that in its next budget to offset rising public safety expenses.

He reminded officials that the study the

town had done several years ago supported the level of funding the fire company was requesting.

“That study is old,” he said. “There will have to be adjustments done.”

Burrell said the fire company did excellent work but that the town needed the agency to provide more financial detail, as there was taxpayer funding involved.

“Studies are studies,” he said. “We need for you to come in here and say to us this is our assets, this is our operating and our capital and this is what we need from the town… I don’t think that is an unreasonable request. When we provide grants to any folks, that’s the information they bring to us.”

Fitzgerald said the town would be provided with everything it was requesting and would continue to answer any questions during the quarterly meetings with elected officials.

September 29, 2023

Councilman Jack Orris asked if the fire company would still need to charge a response fee if the agency received the amount of money it was requesting from the town.

“That would probably not be needed… ,” Fitzgerald said. “The reason we started the billing for service is because we were not getting enough operating funds from the town to balance our budget and provide the service. We brought that back to the membership and since the town is not providing capital at this time any money we get billing for service is going to our capital apparatus fund.”

He added that the fire company currently had no contingency fund in the event of an unbudgeted emergency.

According to Fitzgerald, the county committee tasked with studying fire and EMS funding is still working on identifying a long-term solution to the challenge of paying for the service. He said that while there was currently a funding formula, the county had also had to provide supplemental funding in recent years.

Burrell said he thought municipal officials still needed a better understanding of the fire company’s financial position before a formula could be developed.

“Before we get to a formula or a tax rate, we need to understand what the need is,” he said. “That seems to be lacking … If we can get the understanding of need, including Station 3, that will allow us to possibly work toward an equitable formula.”

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

$28M Bond Ordinance Moves To 1st Reading

September 29, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

EVERY DAY AT 4PM

OCEAN CITY – An ordinance authorizing the sale of $28 million in general obligation bonds will advance to a first reading following council approval this week.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council agreed to move forward with a list of fiscal year 2024 projects that will be funded through a bond sale tentatively set for Dec. 12. The council also voted to advance for first reading an ordinance authorizing the sale of general obligation bonds not to exceed $28.41 million.

“We have three water projects, two general fund projects – Montego Bay street paving and the OCPD mixed-used facility downtown – and also convention center improvements,” Finance Director Chuck Bireley told the council this week.

“What I’ve listed here are not to exceed cost estimates, meaning we can borrow up to this amount, but we can also borrow less if the final bids come in less.”

As proposed, the bond sale will finance a $2.2 million water main upgrade on 94th Street, an $11.25 million clarifier improvement project at Gorman Avenue Water Treatment Plant, and a $2 million chloride system addition at Gorman Avenue Water Treatment Plant, with the debt service of each project to be paid by user fees. Bireley, however, noted that the town has yet to receive final bids on two of the projects.

“They are expected to be received by the end of October,” he said. “But in an effort to keep this whole process moving along, we have a tentative bond sale date of December 12. And once the second ordinance is approved … the general public does have 45 days from the date of the second ordinance to voice any objections.”

The bond sale will also finance a $4.26 million downtown mixed-use facility for the Ocean City Police Department and a $2.5 million street paving project at Montego Bay. Officials noted that specific project was above and beyond what the town typically allocates for street paving.

“So it doesn’t affect the $2.5 million we are spending on our regular street paving projects,” Mayor Rick Meehan said.

City Manager Terry McGean added the bond sale will also finance $4 million in improvements to the convention center, the debt service of which will be paid for by food tax revenue. He noted that was nearly $1 million more than he initially requested.

“What it does is include replacing all the carpet on the second floor,” he said.

Bireley said cost estimates of $28.21 million and bond issuance costs of $200,000 brought the total not-to-exceed estimate to $28.41 million. He said that would result in an annual debt service of $2.07 million – $1.12 million for the water department, $292,447 for the convention center, and $655,079 for the general fund.

After further discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Council President Matt James opposed, to approve the list of FY24 projects and advance the bond ordinance to first reading.

Berlin Seeking Federal Funding

September 29, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The Berlin Town Council agreed this week to apply for federal funding that could be used for design of a pedestrian bridge over Route 113.

On Monday, elected officials authorized an application for funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods for Community Planning Project. The funding could help the town plan for a variety of connectivity projects, including a pedestrian bridge over Route 113.

“I would posit that this legislation is written very specifically for the conditions that we have in the Town of Berlin,” said Patti Stevens, a member of the state’s Commission on Transportation Revenue and Infrastructure Needs who’s been assisting the town with its application.

Stevens, who’s been working with town staff to complete the grant application, said the funding had been made available through a 2022 infrastructure bill.

“The purpose of it is to create solutions for communities where infrastructure barriers divide the community and create inequities in access,” she said.

When Stevens heard about the program she immediately thought of Berlin and the divide created by Route 113. She said the town could apply for the federal funding so that it would be

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

able to begin the community engagement and planning that would have to take place before a project like the pedestrian bridge that’s been talked about could take place. The town’s application will seek $1.2 million in grant funding, which would be awarded on a reimbursement basis.

“The intent of this project would be to look at a wide range of connectivities, sidewalks, trail connections, improved crossings, whether it’s at Old Ocean City Boulevard at Main Street, at 818 at the south end of town, the range of those would be clarified through the community engagement process, through the data analysis and through the preliminary planning,” she said.

Grant awards will likely be announced in the spring of 2024. While the town has support from the Maryland Department of Transportation, Stevens noted the agency is seeking funding for three projects of its own and is supporting other municipalities that are putting projects forward for grants. She stressed, however, that the funding program had been established to help jurisdictions like Berlin.

Mayor Zack Tyndall praised Stevens as well as town staff for their efforts on the application.

“It’s a federal level grant,” Tyndall said.

“It’s very, very complex. Patti and Sara (Gorfinkel) and Mary (Bohlen) and Dave (Engelhart) have done a phenomenal job navigating that process.”

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Page 15

Berlin resident Michael Wiley recently won the Worcester County Volunteer Service Award. A long-time volunteer at the welcome center, Wiley has served many years as chair of the town’s parks commission. Wiley, pictured with his wife Helen, was presented his county commendation at this week’s town meeting by Councilman Jack Orris, left, who nominated him, and Mayor Zack Tyndall.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Location Changed For New Hanukkah Event

September 29, 2023

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BERLIN – A new event highlighting Hanukkah will still be held in Berlin this December though not at the location originally planned.

Town officials said this week a menorah lighting event will be held in Berlin, likely at the welcome center, the second Thursday in December. While there was initially a plan to set up the 5-foot-tall menorah on the lawn of the Taylor House Museum, board members decided against featuring a religious display.

“For the last 40 years, the Taylor House Museum has endeavored to tell the diverse stories of Berlin through exhibits and events,” reads a statement from the museum. “Our lawn is considered a public space within the town, and as such the board of directors, following legal counsel, feels that the lawn is not the place for highlighting one particular religious symbol over any other religious symbol. We are proud of the various community partnerships we have formed over the years and look forward to continuing to tell inclusive stories of all Berlin history.”

Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, said she communicated with museum officials in July about the concept of setting up a menorah on the lawn of the museum, as the lawn has been home to “Kringle Cottage” the last few years.

“Some of my friends weren’t sure what Hanukkah was,” Wells said. “They didn’t know what it meant.”

When she worked in Sykesville prior to coming to Berlin, Wells helped start a menorah lighting ceremony there at town hall.

After entertaining questions about Hanukkah from people in Berlin, she thought a ceremony like the one in Sykesville would give area residents the chance to learn the significance of the menorah and the history of the holiday.

“There are dreidel games, potato latkes and presents for the kids,” she said.

“I thought it’d be good to have a menorah lighting to let people know what it’s about.”

She said the museum’s board approved the request and so she started collecting donations for the event and marketing it.

Last week, however, she received a call from the museum and was advised the board, which several years ago also voted against setting up a Christmas tree in the museum lawn, had had a second meeting about the proposal and voted against having the menorah set up at the museum.

“We were sad,” Wells said. “We didn’t even know it was being discussed again.

We’d have been happy to attend the meeting.”

The abrupt change in plans won’t cancel the event, however, as Wells said that as of this week the plan was to set up the menorah at the welcome center. Because the first night of Hanukkah is the same day as the Berlin Christmas Parade, she said the menorah lighting ceremony would be held on the last night of Hanukkah, Dec. 14. The event will include potato latkes provided by the Inn Berlin as well as dreidels for children.

September 29, 2023

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

School Board Adopts Exam Policy Change

September 29, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Board of Education approved with reluctance a policy increasing the weight of certain final exams for high school students.

The school board last week approved a change bringing local policy in line with a state requirement that biology and government final exams count for 20% of a student’s grade. Afterward, they voted unanimously to send the state board of education a letter highlighting their opposition to the policy.

“We passed it not because we agree with it but because the state forced our hand,” said school board member Katie Addis, who made the motion to send the letter. “I believe we should make that known to the state.”

Tom Hamill, the school system’s local accountability coordinator, told the school board last Wednesday that the state recently mandated that all students in high school take a state-developed final exam in biology and government. That exam must count for 20% of a student’s grade.

“As a result of this change we’ve had to suggest some changes to policy,” Hamill said, presenting the board with proposed changes.

The changes include adjusting language to say that final exams count for 10% of a student’s grade except for the classes of biology and government.

“We also added some language that these are the only final exams not developed locally,” Hamill said.

He said the tests would be required to be administered in four 40-minute sessions.

Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief safety and academic officer for grades 9-12, said the staff were seeking approval of the proposed changes because they had to be submitted to the state by Oct. 1.

School board member Elena McComas asked why the changes were being mandated by the state. Hamill said the impetus came from some of the larger school districts.

“Apparently graduation wasn’t enough skin in the game,” he said.

Wallace said staff had updated Worcester’s language as carefully as possible because they didn’t want to hinder participation in athletics.

“We needed to create something on this having the least amount of impact on a student,” she said. “We don’t want them to not be able to play their next sport.”

Several school board members voiced their frustration with the mandate.

“It’s absolutely absurd that the state is telling us how much a final exam counts for our students in Worcester County,” Andes said. “Our board of education should be making that decision not the state board of education.”

While the board voted unanimously to approve the policy changes, at the end of the meeting they also voted unanimously to send the state a letter expressing their concerns with the new mandate.

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

WHOLE HOUSE ELECTRICAL ASSESSMENT & SAFETY INSPECTION

• Check the electrical service panel and wiring • Tighten screws and lugs on circuit breakers to ensure proper functioning • Apply Noalox on branch circuits’ aluminum wires • Check all outlets with tester for loose connections, open grounds, neutral wires, proper polarity

• Test/inspect GFCI outlets and breakers • Check for double tapped breakers to eliminate overloading a circuit breaker • Survey for proper surge protection • Check smoke detectors and make recommendations for compliance with local electrical codes

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OCEAN CITY – A new app’s launching this week coincides with the largest music festival the resort area has ever hosted.

The OceanCity.com App for iPhone and Android devices makes accessing OceanCity.com easier and more convenient than ever before. OceanCity.com has been a trusted website for the latest and most relevant information on Ocean City, serving as the go-to destination for visitors and residents seeking the best places to stay, dine, and play. The OCfun page on Facebook offers engaging content, reaching over 13 million people in the last month.

Now, the OceanCity.com App is set to revolutionize the way you experience Ocean City when you get to town. It will offer all the news stories and fresh content available from OceanCity.com, coupled with an extensive directory of businesses in the Ocean City area. With newly refined search features, users can quickly pinpoint their ideal dining spots, such as seafood places on the water; discover exciting activities, like boat tours of Assateague; or locate essential services, such as nearby grocery stores.

Launching just in time for the highly anticipated Oceans Calling Festival, the OceanCity.com App will provide festivalgoers with an array of features designed to enhance their experience. The app has added an interactive map, helping app users easily navigate the festival grounds and locate all festival amenities. With the app, Oceans Calling concert-goers will have a searchable music lineup at their fingertips during the day’s events.

For the app launch during the Oceans Calling Festival, OceanCity.com is offering a two-night beercation on the Oct. 28 weekend to one lucky winner. Just download the OceanCity.com App by midnight on Oct. 1 and you will be entered to win the two-night stay in Ocean City and two VIP tickets to the Shore Craft Beer Fest at Sunset Park. The winner will be notified through the app on Oct. 2.

"We're thrilled to bring the OceanCity.com experience to the palm of your hand," said Adam Douglass at 5th Floor, the app developer. "Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, the OceanCity.com App will be your ultimate guide to making the most of Ocean City, Maryland. You can even win prizes, including an Ocean City getaway, just by using the App." One of the highlights of the OceanCity.com App is the spotlight it shines on Ocean City's "Best of Ocean City®" award winners. Users can find the best businesses in Ocean City and cast votes for their favorite Ocean City businesses, contributing to the vibrant local community.

The OceanCity.com App became available for download on both iPhone and Android devices on Sept. 26.

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 23

COPS & COURTS Fatal Accident SNOW HILL – Authorities responded last Friday to a vehicle crash that killed a Virginia man near Snow Hill.

Around midnight on Sept. 22, the Snow Hill Fire Department and Worcester County Sheriff’s Office were alerted to respond to a motor vehicle crash on Bayside Road in the Public Landing area of Snow Hill.

On arrival units located a Ford F-150 that had left the roadway and struck a tree.

The operator and sole occupant, Barry Lee Brooks, 59, of Greenbackville, Va., was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit assumed the investigation with assistance of the Office of The Chief Medical Examiner.

If you have any information about the crash, you may contact Lt. Christopher Larmore at the 410-632-1111 or clarmore@co.worcester.md.us.

Guns, Weapons Seized POCOMOKE – Weapons and large amounts of drugs were seized last week as part of a multi-agency investigation in Worcester County.

On Sept. 21, members of the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team successfully concluded a firearm and controlled dangerous substance (CDS) investigation involving Jael C. Ghent, 21, Maquis S. Moore, 21, and Naji Hassan El, 20, all of Pocomoke.

As a result of this investigation, a search and seizure warrant was authorized for a residence located in the 700

block of Short Street in Pocomoke, and a residence located in the 200 block of Bonneville Avenue, Pocomoke. Members of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement Team were assisted during the execution of these two search and seizure warrants by the Ocean City Police Department and the Pocomoke City Police Department.

As a result of these search and seizure warrants, investigators located a total of four handguns, one being converted to fully automatic along with one AR style rifle, that was reported stolen from a local residential burglary. Additional evidence was located to indicate the distribution of cocaine, which included the seizure of approximately 15 grams of cocaine and 3.5 grams of crack cocaine. All three individuals listed above were arrested and charged with various firearm and controlled dangerous substance offenses and were subsequently committed to the Worcester County Jail. Ghent and Moore were both committed with no bond. Hassan El was committed on a $7,500 bond.

“I want to commend the investigators in this investigation and thank those assisting agencies,” said Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli. “The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office will continue to root out those who do evil in our communities.”

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement Team was assisted by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Tactical Armed Response Team, Ocean City Police Department’s QRT, Worcester County SEE PAGE 24

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

... COPS & COURTS FROM PAGE 23 States Attorney’s Office, Eastern Shore Information Center, and Washington-Baltimore HIDTA.

Gun, Taser, Knives Located OCEAN CITY – A Delaware man was found with multiple weapons and unlawful possession of a prescription drug during a recent traffic stop.

On Sept. 24, around 11 p.m., an Ocean City police officer in a marked vehicle located a silver Infiniti sedan driving north on Coastal Highway with unregistered license plates. Since a computer check found no owner information associated with the license plate, the vehicle was pulled over.

Damian Fiorentino, 29, of Lewes, Del., told police his license was expired, and he purchased the vehicle on Facebook last month. Fiorentino could not provide a registration card or insurance card. While Fiorentino told police about the transaction, officers noticed he had a spring-assisted knife clipped to a pocket. After handing over the knife to police, Fiorentino acknowledged a butterfly knife was attached to the vehicle’s visor.

Also located inside the vehicle was a backpack containing 49 Adderall pills and four broken pills of the same Schedule II narcotic. Fiorentino was then placed under arrest.

A further search of the vehicle located a Taser, two more assisted opening knives, metal knuckles and a Umarex XCP gun capable of firing projectiles.

September 29, 2023 Along with the traffic offenses, Fiorentino has been charged with knowingly transporting a gun replica in a vehicle, possession of a controlled dangerous substance of Schedule II (Adderall), possession of metal knuckles, possession of an electronic weapon, possession of a butterfly knife and two counts of possession of an assisted opening knife.

Cop Assaulted, Threatened OCEAN CITY – A Maryland man faces assault charges after threatening a police officer and thrusting his shoulder into another cop this month.

On Sept. 19, around 1 a.m., Ocean City police responded to a Boardwalk bar for a disorderly male, later identified as Gary Talmadge, 46, of New Windsor, refusing to leave the establishment. Talmadge was standing on the Boardwalk shouting at bar staff, who informed police the man was trespassing and would not leave. Police instructed Talmadge to remain behind a certain line on the Boardwalk or he would be arrested for trespassing. Talmadge refused and was placed in handcuffs for arrest.

While police were driving Talmadge to police headquarters, the suspect told the police officer he wishes he was double jointed so he could strangle the cop from the back seat, steal the marked cruiser and flee the scene. Talmadge had already removed his seat belt and said his threat would be easy to bring to reality.

After arriving at police booking, Talmadge slammed his right shoulder into the custody officer intentionally.

Talmadge was charged with seconddegree assault and trespassing on private property.

Group Seeks Beautification Support

September 29, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Community donations and a $20,000 commitment from the Town of Fenwick Island will allow the first phase of a median improvement project to move forward.

Last Friday, Fenwick Island property owner Lisa Luby Ryan came before the Fenwick Island Town Council seeking money and support for a median improvement project along Coastal Highway. While community donations have funded the first phase of the improvement project, she told officials she was seeking $20,000 from the town to install sod, as well as assistance in gaining approval from the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT).

“In order to do what we want to do, we have to get this approved by DelDOT …,” she said. “We’re on a quick timeline and we have to get this in by October. I know the council is in talks with DelDOT right now on sidewalks and other issues. So if we get approval from you all today to proceed with this, we would love for you to take our presentation to DelDOT and get that moving.”

Earlier this year, Ryan launched an effort to garner community support for a beautification project along Coastal Highway. By fixing the entrance sign at the north end of town and improving the median strip along the roadway, she said she was hoping that motorists and visitors would distinguish Fenwick Island as a quiet resort community.

“I love our little town, and we want to maintain a quiet resort. So I’ve put together a beautification project, phase one,” she said.

Working with RSC Landscaping – a subsidiary of East Coast Garden Center – Ryan said new shrubs and flowers would be planted around the north entrance sign. New Sioux crape myrtles would also be planted along the median strip from the north entrance to Atlantic Street. She said the enhancements would not only improve the look of Coastal Highway but would provide a traffic calming measure.

“People see 50 signs to greet them as they come into town but nothing that defines us as a small town,” she said.

“And we want to improve the visitor impression and personality of our quiet resort.”

Ryan said the first phase of the project has been funded with community donations. Those participants, she added, would be recognized for their beautification efforts.

Ryan noted, however, that the plan calls for new sod along the median, which she said she was hoping the town could fund. She also sought the town’s support to maintain and water the plantings and gain DelDOT approval. With the agency’s approval, she said work would begin next month.

“We’re hoping to start this project in October,” she said. “It’s best when you do this sort of work in the fall.”

While he encouraged beautification

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

participants to work with the police department when plantings are installed, Police Chief Michael Morrissey applauded the project.

“Coming from the north, the town is an extension of the highway,” he said.

“So anything traffic calming I think is an outstanding idea.”

Mayor Natalie Magdeburger added that the project was supported by the town’s new comprehensive plan, which identifies Route 1 safety as a top priority.

“It makes me feel good this is a town coming together to do a project that’s clearly on our wishlist,” she said. “This is one of our goals … The fact that you’ve done it, taken it, run with it, come back with all the details, has saved months and months of time. And the fact there are community members, residents, businesses that are willing to put their money where their mouth is and do this, which is such an important goal, I’m so pleased.”

Magdeburger then made a motion to pursue the project and provide $20,000 for the purchase of Round Up and the installation of sod. The motion also called for seeking DelDOT approval.

Councilman Richard Benn, however, shared his concerns about the timing of the project. He questioned if Round Up would be effective in killing the existing grass during the fall months.

“I’m concerned we’re actually past the point of no return on the Bermuda grass,” he said.

Public Works Manager Mike Locke also expressed concerns the project would impact his department’s workload during the month of October. While the landscaping company and volunteer group would take on most of the work, he said public works would be tasked with maintenance.

“There’s other work we’ve been asked to take care of, watering being one of them,” he said. “And October, just for us, is a very tight month.”

Officials noted, however, that there could be fundraising opportunities to purchase water bags and volunteer efforts to maintain the new plantings.

“I want as many people that want to be involved in this to be involved in this,” Ryan said. “There’s a lot more we can do.”

When asked why fundraising had stopped and why the group was seeking town money, Ryan said she saw it as an opportunity to partner with the town. She noted, however, that the beautification group would continue to fundraise for the second and third phases of the project.

“My feeling is I like the fact the town has some skin in the game,” Magdeburger added. “This is now a project of all, and not just a group here and a group there.”

After further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Benn abstaining, to approve funding and support for the project.

“I just think we’re not ready,” Benn said.

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Snow Hill Issues RFP For Riverboat

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

Bid Document Highlights Deficiencies

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – The Town of Snow Hill is seeking proposals for the purchase of its riverboat.

Interested parties have until Oct. 3 to submit proposals for the purchase of the Black-Eyed Susan, the stern-wheeler paddleboat the town bought in 2020.

Though officials initially talked about selling the boat in early 2023, they realized recently they had to go through the RFP (request for proposals) process.

“Once we had a local attorney on board for routine legal advice, we discovered that some of what we’ve been doing over the years has not been strictly by the book,” Town Manager Rick Pollitt said. “On her advice, we have issued formal Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for purchase of the Black-Eyed Susan.

Sealed bids are due in my office by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3rd where they will be opened publicly and the bidder’s name read aloud. Staff will then take any proposals received and review them thoroughly before making a recommendation to the Mayor & Council for an Award of Bid.” In 2020, the town purchased the BlackEyed Susan, a 149-passenger riverboat,

The riverboat is pictured in Snow Hill in June of 2021.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

with the help of a $400,000 loan from Worcester County. The boat had a successful season running up and down the Pocomoke River in 2021 but a mandatory inspection in 2022, however, revealed that the vessel needed extensive repairs in order to resume cruises. The inspection revealed numerous repairs, estimated at $600,000, were needed. As a result, the Black-Eyed Susan has been docked ever since.

The town made it clear in this month’s request for proposals that the boat was being sold in as-is condition.

“With full transparency, the Town advises that the boat was purchased near the end of an active Coast Guard operating permit and that as part of the renewal process for that permit, serious deficiencies in the boat’s structure were discovered,” the RFP reads. “The BlackEyed Susan was constructed in 1989 as a working stern-wheeled paddleboat featuring two decks for public enjoyment in a Victorian-decorated interior. In 2003, the boat’s length was extended from 87 feet to 111 feet. It draws 4 feet of water and is equipped with galley, restrooms and wet bars.”

Attached to the RFP is the Coast Guard Inspection report as well as the estimate from Colonna’s Shipyard of Norfolk, Va., detailing the cost of restoring the boat to permitting capacity.

“Note that during the past year, those cost estimates have likely increased substantially,” the RFP reads. “Other specifications and material related to the boat is available upon request. The Mayor and Town Council have determined that the expense of repairing the boat, coupled with the estimated annual cost of maintenance and repair, have made continuing to own and operate the Black-Eyed Susan not in the best interests of the taxpayers and residents of Snow Hill.”

The town will accept bids until 4 p.m. on Oct. 3. Pollitt said staff would spend the days after that reviewing the proposals. He hopes to have a recommendation for town officials at the regularly scheduled Oct. 10 meeting.

Pollitt acknowledged the parties that were interested in purchasing the boat earlier this year.

“I did send RFPs directly to each party that had previously indicated interest in the boat, so I am hopeful that we will receive more than one bid,” he said.

Berlin Museum Plans History Month Events

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

Oasis Travel Night Featuring Collette World Travel Wednesday, October 4th, 2023 6:00 - 8:00pm

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

Waterman’s Seafood Company in West Ocean City, 2nd Floor

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – October once again marks the start of Worcester County History Month at local museums.

In Berlin, the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum will host a variety of events to celebrate local history. Museum volunteers are hoping to generate interest in Berlin’s heritage.

“The museum’s mission is to tell the stories of Berlin; what better time to get the word out on the museum exhibits, oral histories and our collective heritage than during Worcester County History Month,” said Jack Orris, a board member at the museum.

To celebrate History Month, the museum will host a trio of special exhibits.

The first, which runs from Oct. 2-11, will focus on the genealogies in family Bibles.

The second, from Oct. 13-21, will feature a journalistic history of Berlin. The third special exhibit, which runs from Oct. 2330, will highlight 100 years of entertainment.

For the younger Berlin residents, the museum will also continue its “Junior Historians” program with an Oct. 4 session that focuses on the history of stained glass.

A few days later, on Oct. 7, the Taylor House will celebrate the Rev. Dr. Charles Albert Tindley in cooperation with the Germantown School Community Heritage Center. The museum is encouraging visitors to check out its exhibit on Tindley, known as the father of gospel music, before they head over to the Germantown School from 1-4 p.m.

“The outdoor celebration will feature local choirs singing selected Tindley hymns,” said the center’s Karen Prengaman. “The day will also include historical presentations on Tindley’s life and the inspiration for his music. The event is free to the public. New Bethel United Methodist Church, the oldest African American church in Worcester County and Tindley’s original church will be selling barbeque meals while they last.”

The following week, the Taylor House will host Harvest Book Fest during the town’s Oktoberfest event. From 12-3 p.m., visitors and residents are encouraged to stop by and see local authors and hear their stories on writing their books about Berlin. The festival will feature fiction, nonfiction and children’s authors.

The following weekend, on Saturday, Oct. 21, the museum will hold its first ever cornhole tournament fundraiser. From 14 p.m., teams will vie for the bragging rights as the first “Taylor House Cornhole champions” and also win some cool prizes. Beer and wine will be available for purchase and entry into the best of three double elimination tournament is $50/team.

“I think this is a unique opportunity for folks to use the lawn in a new and fun way,” Orris said. “Finding ways to have interactive activities to bridge the past with the present is something we’re always looking to do.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Resort Park Project Enters New Phase

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Above, a rendering shows planned improvements at the Downtown Recreation Complex, located between 3rd and 4th streets.

Submitted image

OCEAN CITY – The next phase of construction will soon begin at the Ocean City Downtown Recreation Complex.

On Tuesday, the Town of Ocean City announced the next phase of demolition and construction would begin in the east block of the Downtown Recreation Complex on or around Oct. 1. To that end, starting Oct. 1, all park amenities – with the exception of the Ocean Bowl Skate Park – will be unavailable for public use.

“We cannot wait to open the revitalized Downtown Recreation Complex,” Recreation and Parks Director Susan Petito said in a statement. “We believe the new amenities will not only enhance the quality of life for our residents, but also attract visitors to enjoy our vibrant recreational facilities.”

Located between 3rd and 4th streets bayside and bounded by Philadelphia and Chicago avenues, the Downtown Recreation Complex is being redeveloped in phases to include various recreation opportunities and the expansion of the decades-old Ocean Bowl Skate Park.

For the east section of the complex, the plan includes an expanded skate park, relocating the existing basketball courts and an improved inclusive play-

September 29, 2023

ground area.

The section to the west would be less developed and more passive. It includes a vast flexible lawn in the center surrounded by trees for pickup sports and other events, a playground area, new restrooms and more.

The recreational fishing areas along the bulkhead would also be retained.

The project also calls for the portion of Chicago Avenue between 3rd and 4th streets to close, as that portion of the roadway has already been converted into a walkway.

Earlier this month, the Mayor and Council voted unanimously to a first reading authorizing the road’s closure.

“Anyone who has visited the site can see construction has already taken place,” City Engineer Paul Mauser said earlier this month. “Essentially, it’s a done deal. But I think we still need an official council vote to officially close that section of the Chicago Avenue corridor.”

Officials say the redevelopment of the Downtown Recreation Complex represents a significant step forward in the town’s commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities in the community.

After two years of planning, officials broke ground on the park project in April.

Currently, the Downtown Recreation Complex is expected to reopen during the summer of 2024.

Fenwick Sidewalk Design Advances

September 29, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Fenwick Island’s mayor said residents can expect to see engineers on town streets as plans move forward for a state sidewalk project.

During last week’s meeting of the Fenwick Island Town Council, Mayor Natalie Magdeburger detailed plans for a stateled sidewalk project along Coastal Highway. Following a meeting with the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) earlier this year, Magdeburger said the town was able to convince the state to accelerate its timeline.

“They are going to have engineers out in the next couple months looking at all the areas in town and coming up with a design,” she said. “If all goes well, they will move forward with a plan to build in the 2026 time period.”

This spring, the town began construction on a long-awaited sidewalk project.

Using $600,000 in allocated funding, crews spent weeks installing sidewalks along five bayside blocks, beginning in front of Warren’s Station restaurant at Indian Street and moving south toward Dagsboro Street.

With the project now complete, officials say they continue to work with DelDOT to install walkways along the remainder of Coastal Highway.

In last Friday’s town council meeting, Magdeburger noted that funding for sidewalk design was initially proposed in the 2028-2029 budget cycle. After meeting with DelDOT officials, however, the agency agreed to assign money for design in 2026.

“The issue is while they have money now for the design, we are still in the schedule box for actual earmarked money for build in the 29-30 budget cycle,” Magdeburger added. “So again, we are pushing DelDOT to move us forward.

They are going to make every attempt to do that. It’s going to depend on a lot of different factors. So if everything hits well, they would be expected to build in the fall of 2026.”

Magdeburger noted that DelDOT plans to build sidewalks along both sides of Coastal Highway, in both the incorporated and unincorporated sections of Fenwick Island. She said the town would work closely with Sussex County to coordinate efforts.

“In the unincorporated section of Fenwick, there may be some difficulties imposed there because there’s not a lot of room to put sidewalks. But they have the right-of-way,” she said. “So they allow businesses to use the state’s right-of-way until they want to use the state’s right-ofway. And they are going to want to put those sidewalks in.”

Magdeburger noted that while the sidewalks constructed this spring were a welcome addition to town, she was eager to see a continuous sidewalk on Coastal Highway.

“You can see we have bits and pieces on the east side and more bits than pieces on the west side,” she said. “Our goal is to have it contiguous throughout town so that our folks can walk and get to our businesses and get safely through our town.”

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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September 29, 2023

People in Society

Chesapeake Health Care was well represented at the Worcester County Fair.

by Charlene Sharpe Featuring ose Helping Causes In e Resort Area

Jasmine Mentzer and Kelly Riwniak represented the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office at the Worcester County Fair.

Michael Staab, Hailey Garrity and Crystal Garrity paused for a photo at the Worcester County Fair.

The Worcester County Republicans were among the groups that set up at Byrd Park during the fair.

Lower Shore Land Trust volunteers Caitlin Walton and Frank Deuter paused for a photo during the fair.

Felipe Munoz manned the Aetna tent at the Worcester County Fair.

Linda and Dominick Hilliard are pictured at Byrd Park during the Worcester County Fair.

Gerald Hinton and Rachelle Nigro represented Delmarva Power at the Worcester County Fair.

Karli Abbott shared agricultural information at the fair at Byrd Park.

Fair volunteers Susan Todd and Ash Clifton directed traffic into Byrd Park.

Fenwick Reports Strong FY24 Start

September 29, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – The Town of Fenwick Island reported a strong start to its fiscal year.

In a meeting of the Fenwick Island Town Council last Friday, Councilman Bill Rymer, treasurer, presented officials with the treasurer’s report of account balances. He noted the town reported a strong start to fiscal year 2024, which began on Aug. 1.

“As of August 31, the town’s overall cash balance was $5.08 million, which is approximately $360,000 higher than the balance as of a month ago,” he said. “Overall, we had a good first month of our new fiscal year.”

Rymer told the council last week the town typically starts its fiscal year strong, as property taxes and other annual billings occur in August, and money is collected in August and September. He said as of Aug. 31, revenues and expenses were in line with budget expectations.

The treasurer’s report highlights a beginning cash balance of $4.7 million on Aug. 1 and an ending cash balance of $5.08 million on Aug. 31. Rymer also noted that real estate transfer tax revenues continue to outpace revenue projections.

“It's been a very strong start to the year related to RTT, that’s the real estate transfer tax,” he said. “In August, the town reported revenues of $148,000 from RTT as compared to the annual budget of

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

$225,000. So the real estate market remains really strong. It’s stronger than what we were expecting back in April and May.” Rymer pointed out that 66% of projected RTT revenues had already been collected for the fiscal year.

“This start suggests that we will beat the RTT budget for the full year, since we’re two-thirds of the way there,” he said, “as long as there’s an inventory of houses to be sold.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to accept the treasurer’s report.

In June, the town council approved a $2 million-plus budget for fiscal year 2024.

The spending plan features $2.2 million in total revenues and $2.6 million in total expenses. Officials note the $495,000 operating loss would be funded through real estate transfer tax and general operating reserves. As of Aug. 31, RTT reserves totaled $1.68 million.

“Historically, our operating shortfalls have come from RTT funds …,” Rymer said in June. “The upcoming budget will be a combination of RTT and funds that are in the general reserve, which grew over the last couple of years because operations have done better than expected.”

Officials note that the town has operated at a loss for several years.

“We’ve been operating at an operating loss of greater than $250,000 for as long as I can remember …,” Councilman Richard Benn, budget and finance committee member, said at the time. “It’s always been a significant number.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Septemmber 29, 2023

Pa. Woman Wins Vacation:

Throughout the past summer, the Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill at the Castle in the Sand Hotel held a Tipsy Tuesday Contest.

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September 29, 2023

Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services held its annual celebration last Thursday at Sunset Grille. Honored during the event were two outstanding volunteers who have provided valuable community service to the organization while also bettering the lives of local residents. Above left, WYFCS Board President Gwen Lehman presents Cindy Ostrowski with her sun award. Ostrowski, a retired mental health nurse, served on the board for nine years and twice participated in the organization’s strategic planning process. Above right, Kayla Figueroa, director of Worcester Connects for WYFCS, celebrates Carol Frazier with her sun award presentation. Frazier, who retired in 2021 after 42 years with a local law firm, has been a valuable mentor to a local individual for the last two years.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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New Hires OCEAN VIEW – Carl M. Freeman Companies, a real estate company specializing in land acquisition, land planning, development, and redevelopment as well as management of various properties such as residential communities, neighborhood shopping centers, commercial properties and golf courses, is proud to announce Christi Davis as lifestyle manager and Jensen Haas as sales and marketing coordinator.

Davis will lead the planning and operations of The Institute, a Carl M. Freeman Companies award-winning life enrichment program that seeks to connect neighbors through wellness classes and experiences.

She has a background as CHRISTI DAVIS an instructor of The Institute at Bayside in Fenwick Island, Del., focusing on nutritional classes, and is a certified health coach.

Haas, a recent graduate of Salisbury University, was a former intern for Carl M. Freeman Companies. She will engage prospective residents and grow the marketing efforts of future projects to come.

“I am excited to ex- JENSEN HAAS pand this team with the recent additions of Christi and Jensen. Christi’s passion for health and wellness, along with her educational background, make her a perfect fit for the lifestyle position,” said Erika Cook, director of marketing. “I am excited to watch The Institute program flourish, as we continue to provide opportunities for connection and well-being not only for our communities and residents, but for our internal team as well.”

Firm Partnership SALISBURY – The principals of NAI Coastal (NAI) proudly announce the firm’s partnership with 9th Street Development Company (9SDC), a Wilmington-based developer known locally for their recent acquisition of Nylon Capital in Seaford, Del. After standing largely vacant for nearly a decade, the shopping center and surrounding acreage are slated for largescale redevelopment in the coming year.

Principal Chris Davis and Associate Advisor Shelby Gillis will exclusively offer for lease all commercial availability within the redeveloped site.

“We are excited to collaborate with NAI Coastal in our revitalization of Nylon Cap-

BUSINESS And Real Estate News

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Tide Room at the new Ashore Resort & Beach Club, formerly known as Horizons at the Clarion. Above, representatives with the chamber and the Tide Room are pictured cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

Submitted image

ital. Their team shares in our enthusiasm for the project and that is sure to be a driving force behind the success of our partnership,” said Rob Herrera, co-founder of 9SDC. “In its former life, this shopping center was a true community hub – a gathering place for the residents of Seaford and beyond. We feel very confident that our plans for the site will restore its value to the Sussex County community.”

The project is characterized by its commitment to versatility and inclusion; 9SDC aims to foster a sense of unity while satisfying a variety of community needs.

Upon completion, the development will span 218,000-plus square feet, covering roughly 23 acres along West Stein Highway. Current plans boast a mix of adaptive reuse and new construction, creating an ideal environment for a diverse range of tenants.

“The site has been strategically designed with both institutional and recreational users in mind,” said Davis. “We are thrilled to represent such an impactful project led by developers with a genuine interest in the betterment of our Delmarva community.”

First to secure space within Nylon Capital were anchor tenants, Delaware Technical Community College (DelTech), Bright Bloom, an early education Montessori school, and The Mill. In response to

community feedback, 9SDC and the NAI listing team are prioritizing the addition of a premier medical tenant and a highly requested bowling alley operator.

“Nylon Capital will not only be a place to work and learn, but also a space where fun is had and memories are made,” said Gillis. “It is the kind of project that can redefine a community with its economic and social impact, and I am honored to play a role in its establishment.”

Program Launch SALISBURY – Coastal Hospice, in collaboration with the American Heart Association (AHA) and the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI) today announces the Advanced Cardiac Care (ACC) Program to address one of the nation’s largest killers of Americans – heart disease.

Each year, more Americans die from heart disease than any other condition, including cancer. Heart disease is also a leading cause for hospitalization: patients with congestive heart failure alone account for more than one million inpatient admissions annually.

Our program will improve quality and access to hospice and palliative/advanced illness care for heart patients and keep them from dying alone in hospitals. The patient and caregiver handbook helps

September 29, 2023 avert multiple hospital and emergency room visits that are a huge source of stress for the patient, their family, and the medical facility.

Dr. Stacy Cottingham, special programs access liaison RN and head of the Coastal Hospice Cardiac Care Program commented, “Every family including yours is affected by heart disease and heart failure. Tragically, many heart failure patients spend days, weeks, or sometime months in hospital ICUs and eventually die alone.

Our in-home care is the answer and is our mission—allowing a far better quality of life for our patients and families.”

The Cardiac Care Program launched on Monday, Sept. 18.

Founded in 1980, Coastal Hospice is a nonprofit health care organization that cares for individuals facing life-limiting conditions but who want to remain as active and engaged as possible. Coastal Hospice cares for patients in their home, assisted living, nursing home, Coastal Hospice at the Lake or the Macky & Pam Stansell House. The organization serves Wicomico, Worcester, Dorchester, and Somerset counties.

Cottages Open OCEAN CITY – Blue Water Development, a leading real estate development company specializing in innovative coastal vacation resorts, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Shore Point Cottages.

Now open for reservations, Shore Point Cottages is in the heart of Ocean City, Md., near the iconic boardwalk and local attractions such as Frontier Town Water Park, Assateague National Seashore, and Sea Rocket excursions, letting guests indulge in an ideal coastal getaway. Boasting a collection of amenity-rich cottages with stunning oceanfront views, each thoughtfully designed cottage provides a haven of coastal charm.

Guests can choose from one-bedroom or two-bedroom cottages. Each cottage is equipped with a private porch, expansive living rooms, well-equipped kitchens, cozy bunk beds, and a queen-sized bed. The resort includes an exclusive private pool for guests.

"Shore Point Cottages embodies our commitment to creating exceptional vacation experiences that combine luxury with the captivating allure of the coast," says Todd Burbage, CEO of Blue Water Development. "We are excited for guests of Shore Point to experience unparalleled luxury and hospitality, where every moment is crafted to create unforgettable memories."

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Cancer Care Center Offering Wire Localization Service

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – Women and men preparing for a breast lumpectomy or excisional biopsy at Atlantic General Hospital will encounter a more comfortable presurgery experience, thanks to a generous donation from John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. The local businessman and philanthropist’s recent $100,000 gift to the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center funded the purchase of Merit Medical’s SCOUT wireless breast localization for Atlantic General’s breast patients, in addition to other technologies.

Like other healthcare facilities in the region, Atlantic General Hospital had relied on traditional wire localization – a procedure performed before breast surgery to mark the location of a tumor or suspicious lesion to guide the sur-

geon.

During wire localization, a hooked wire is inserted into the breast to mark the location of the lesion. Because the end of the wire protrudes from the breast, it is typically placed on the morning of surgery. Patients must restrict their movement so that the wire is not accidentally displaced. At the time of surgery (which can be several hours after wire placement), the surgeon follows the wire to find and remove the lesion.

With SCOUT wire-free localization, a tiny device smaller than a grain of rice is placed into the abnormal tissue. This “reflector” can be placed any time prior to surgery and later be detected by the surgeon using radar waves. This flexibility allows for easier coordination of the placement procedure and the

September 29, 2023

subsequent surgery, potentially resulting in fewer surgery delays.

During the placement, the radiologist: Confirms the location of the abnormal tissue using imaging (mammography or ultrasound) Uses a local anesthetic to numb the targeted area of the breast Introduces the reflector through a small needle under image guidance Confirms the placement of the reflector The reflector cannot be felt after placement and patients can resume normal activity until surgery. It is completely passive until activated in the operating room. During surgery, the surgeon uses radar with SCOUT’s 360-degree detection capabilities to locate the reflector’s exact position, with instant

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response readings to guide the dissection path.

This precision localization helps increase the likelihood of complete lesion removal, thereby reducing the need for a second surgery and expediting any subsequent treatment at the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center.

“A positive byproduct of the accuracy of this system is the improved conservation of healthy breast tissue,” said Atlantic General breast surgeon Alae Zarif.

“This can translate into better cosmetic outcomes and increased confidence for women undergoing surgery.”

“Breast cancer surgery can be physically and emotionally distressing. This solution improves surgical outcomes, which result in decreased post-operative complications, allowing us to quickly treat patients in the medical and radiation oncology setting,” said Virginia Wildman, CRNP, nurse practitioner at the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center.

SCOUT wireless localization is now available at Atlantic General Hospital’s Eunice Q. Sorin Women’s Diagnostic Center for women and men undergoing breast lumpectomy or biopsy. The Sorin center is the only facility on the lower Eastern Shore offering this service. For more information, call the center at 410641-9215 or visit www.agh.care/forwomen.

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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with Scott Lenox We had some miserable weather last weekend as Tropical Storm Ophelia moved by us to the south and west. She brought rain, high winds, rough seas and some coastal flooding to the area, and we’re still feeling the impacts as I write this on Monday morning. We had some good fishing before Ophelia tracked by and I’m sure we’ll have more good fishing after things settle down.

Offshore fishing was very good at the beginning of last week with plenty of white marlin and blue marlin being caught and released along with the occasional sailfish. Some more yellowfin tuna were caught by anglers trolling for billfish which is hopefully a sign of things to come over the next several weeks.

The main bite was down to our south in the Norfolk Canyon, but there was also word of some good fishing up in the Baltimore and Wilmington canyons. Billfish are currently migrating to the south so the fish in the Norfolk Canyon will be gone soon if not already, but we could still have a chance at the fish moving down from the northern canyons.

Inshore mahi fishing for charter and party boats is over now that Ophelia has pushed those fish out, but bottom fish-

ing for sea bass and flounder is still good. I had a chance to head out on the Angler with Captain Chris Mizurak last week and the bottom fishing bite was good. We saw plenty of keeper sized sea bass over 13” and there were a couple of flounder over 16” in coolers as well.

The sea bass were caught on squid and clam and the flounder fell for bucktails with teasers. I had pretty good fishing with our Deadly Tackle Squidly rig baited with an Otter Tail and clam. Back bay fishing is picking up all the time and just about every species that we catch inshore is available. Flounder are being caught on live bunker, spot and mullet, sheepshead and tog are being caught on sand fleas and crab, rockfish and bluefish are being caught on Roy Rigs and Thing A Ma Jigs and even red drum, black drum and some trout are being caught on an assortment of baits.

Next week is our Ocean City Inshore Classic Tournament. Registration is Friday, Oct. 6 from 5-7 p.m. at Sunset Marina and fishing takes place Oct. 7-8.

Lines go in at 7 a.m. on Saturday and anglers can fish any or all of 32 hours until Sunday at 3 p.m. Last year we had 54 boats and paid out over $23,000 in

Morgan Mericle and Austin Wagner fished during Tropical Storm Ophelia and caught a bunch of rockfish including a limit of slot fish from 28” to 31”.

Submitted Photos

prize money. We hope to see you there.

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 46-47

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

Above top left, JD and Mary Eddy had a nice day with a keeper red drum, a keeper black drum and six sheepshead. Above left, Kristen and I fished near Martha’s Landing last week where I caught this nice 22”, 4-pound flounder on a live bunker. Above top right, the crew of Fish ON with Captain Andrew Dotterweich had a day of trolling the Norfolk Canyon with five white marlin releases and a 70 pound yellowfin tuna. Above right, middle, Captain Brian Porter of the Boss Hogg put this group on two white marlin releases, a yellowfin tuna and a pile of mahi. Above right, bottom, Shaun Flaherty and Big Bird Cropper had an awesome day with a keeper rockfish, a limit of bluefish and three flounder up to 23”.

Opposite page, top left, Piper Blunt caught her first blue marlin and Tyler Hasenei caught his first white marlin on the Wrecker with Captain Jeremy Blunt. Opposite page, top right, “Nature Boy” and “Smiley” had a crazy good day with two keeper rockfish, three big bluefish and three sheepshead. Opposite page, middle left, John Curri and his guest crushed the south jetty landing with three nice sheepshead on sand fleas. Opposite page, middle right, Georgia Touloumes is over 90 years old, but she’s still catching fish like this black drum weighed at Fenwick Tackle. Opposite page, bottom left, Captain Jason Mumford of Lucky Break put these guys on 10 keeper sheepshead from the south jetty. Opposite page, bottom right, Donnie Post used blue crab to land this beauty of a 22” sheepshead.

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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September 29, 2023

COMMUNITY News In Photos

Attendees are pictured at a recent barbecue chicken lunch hosted by the St. Paul United Methodist Church Men’s Ministry. The next chicken sale at the Berlin Submitted Photos church is set for Oct. 21 at 11 a.m.

Worcester County officials are pictured at a ribbon cutting ceremony at Bishopville Park, where new playground equipment was recently installed.

Participants in the Worcester County Fair’s watermelon eating contest are pictured showing off their ribbons following the event. The contest, during which kids had to eat a slice of watermelon as fast as they could, was held at Byrd Park Sept. 16 during the Worcester County Fair.

The American Legion family of Ocean City Post 166 donated more than $307,000 in the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2023. The funds went to 70 different charitable organizations, veterans groups, and public service organizations. Also included in the total was $58,000 in scholarships. In the photo, charity committee member Ben Dawson, Post Commander Tom Wengert, and Treasurer George Barstis hold the ceremonial check.

Every month, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City recognizes a member who has done something extra during the year. Pictured from left to right are President Bob Wolfing and recipients John Hanberry, Jose Alavarez, and Ron Wildgust. Hanberry and Wildgust have set up equipment for many events and Alavarez has delivered food to Diakonia.

In recognition of the 236th anniversary of the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, the Worcester County Commissioners met with Pat Arata of the General Levin Winder Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia on Sept. 17, 1787. Commissioner Caryn Abbott is pictured presenting Arata with a proclamation.

September 29, 2023

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

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

HELP WANTED

RENTAL

COMMERCIAL

YEAR ROUND OUTBOARD MOTOR TECH/MECHANIC: NEEDED FOR BASIC OUTBOARD AND BOAT SERVICE,WINTERIZING OUTBOARDS AND SHRINK WRAPPING BOATS. EXCELLANT STARTING SALARY. CALL HARBOR MARINE W. OCEAN CITY, 410-213-1383 ––––––––––––––––––––––––

TIMESHARE FOR RENT: Gorgeous timeshare & resorts.

Several weeks avail. anywhere in US. Personal timeshare, can’t use all weeks. $1K per wk. 267-254-0111 –––––––––––––––––––––––– WINTER RENTAL: 3BR/2BA Fully furn. home. Swann Keys on canal w/ bulkhead. Avail. thru 5/31/24. $1300/mo + util’s.

443-278-3993 leave message ––––––––––––––––––––––––

WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 Office or Retail Space for Lease.

1,656. Sq. feet. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

Now Hiring For:

•FOOD RUNNERS •EXPO Stop in to fill out an application!

HELP WANTED Well established Concrete Co. looking for help. Own trans. required. Top Pay! Starting $20-$28/hr.

Training provided!

443-614-0234 GLENRIDDLE COMMUNITY Part Time

Downtown Berlin 119 N. Main Street

HYGIENIST Small boutique dental office looking for a

Dental Hygienist to join our friendly team.

Very competitive salary.

Please send resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

MAINTENANCE TECH 3 days per week Great Team Environment

DIRECTOR YOUTH MINISTRY

410.213.1554

Growing, active church Berlin, MD. Provide spiritual & program leadership for MS/HS students.

PT flex hours; Sundays rqrd.

410 641-0234 info@BuckinghamPCUSA.org

THE DISPATCH IS ON

FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM TWITTER

BOOKKEEPER Red Sun Custom Apparel located in Selbyville De. is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented bookkeeper to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting and be proficient in QuickBooks and EXCEL. If you are passionate about numbers, highly organized, and have excellent attention to detail, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please send your resume, salary requirements and questions to: bregan@redsuncustom.com

CUSTODIAL Summer Beach Condos is looking for a Part-time, Year Round Custodial Person, some maintenance experience a plus.

8am–12pm, 5 days/week, $13.50-$14.00 per hr **Must be able to move heavy objects** call 410-603-5627 for an interview.

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

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING! •OVERNIGHT NIGHTWATCH •MAINTENANCE •BOAT YARD ATTENDANT

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

ROOMMATE ROOM(S) FOR RENT: Seeking Roommate(s). YR or Seasonal. Indoor Hot Tub. Non smoking, pets welcome. Single Family Home, 94th St. area. Rent negotiable. Call/text for more info. 410-7265200.(Job inhibits phone calls, text if can’t reach by calls).

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LOOKING EVERYWHERE? Check Here First!

The Dispatch Classified Pages Can Point You In The Right Direction!

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YARD SALE GlenRiddle Community Yard Sale : Open to the Public 8AM – 1PM, Saturday, 9/30.

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Shoulders stiff and sore You would grab the other end Whenever I, when...

•HOSTESS •SERVER •LINE COOK Experience Preferred Please apply in person.

Greene Turtle West Rt. 611, West OC 410-213-1500 WEST OC’S MOST FUN PLACE TO WORK AND MAKE $$$$

The Dispatch welcomes you to OC! Be Safe, Use Crosswalks, Have Fun!

The Dispatch Legal Notices

•ALL POSITIONS

Third Insertion

OF FENWICK ISLAND

CAREGIVER IN YOUR HOME: Honest, dependable, trustworthy & compassionate care. Hospital & home health exp. Exc. Ref.’s Call Debbie Bell 302-339-7162.

NOW HIRING!

NOW HIRING! IN THE

CAREGIVER

PAYING TOP DOLLAR! YEAR ROUND/FULL TIME

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.

APPLY IN PERSON

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

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KEVIN J. CONNOR ESQ LAW OFFICES KEVIN J. CONNOR 9828 LOG HOUSE COURT GAITHERSBURG, MD 20882

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19890 To all persons interested in

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

the estate of JOEL JACOB RISHTY. Estate No. 19890.

Notice is given that KEVIN J. CONNOR , whose address is 9828 LOG HOUSE COURT, GAITHERSBURG, MD 20882 was on SEPTEMBER 7, 2023 appointed Personal Repre-

sentative of the estate of JOEL JACOB RISHTY, who died on AUGUST 13, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by con-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 50

September 29, 2023 Personal Representative True Test Copy

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. tacting 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 7th day of MARCH, 2024.

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 SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 KEVIN J. CONNOR 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 9-15, 9-22, 9-29

Third Insertion STEPHANIE SCALES SHERRIN, ESQ. SCALES LAW GROUP 11032 NICHOLAS LANE STE A202 BERLIN, MD 21811 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19878 To all persons interested in the estate of BONNIE L. STRAWBRIDGE, AKA” BONNIE LEE STRAWBRIDGE, Estate No. 19878. Notice is

given that ROBERT B. STRAWBRIDGE, whose address is 12507 SEA BOUY COURT, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of BONNIE L. STRAWBRIDGE, who died on MARCH 7, 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 8th day of MARCH, 2024.

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 SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 ROBERT B. STRAWBRIDGE 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 9-15, 9-22, 9-29

Second Insertion JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19899 To all persons interested in the estate of JOYCE G. ELDER Estate No. 19899.

Notice is given that THEODORE J. ELDER, whose address is 7823 WHALEYVILLE ROAD, WHALLEYVILLE, MD 21872, was on SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOYCE G. ELDER, who died on MAY 4, 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 (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 MARCH, 2024.

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 SEPTEMBER 22, 2023 THEODORE J. ELDER 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 9-22, 9-29, 10-6

Second Insertion RAYMOND D COATES,JR, ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19896 To all persons interested in the estate of JULE E. JOYCE, Estate No. 19896. that given is Notice PATRICK C. JOYCE III, whose address is 5413 STREET, ALBEMARIE BETHESDA, MD 20816, was on SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JULE E. JOYCE, who died on JANUARY 12, 2000, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of MARCH, 2024.

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 SEPTEMBER 22, 2023 PATRICK C. JOYCE, III

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 9-22, 9-29, 10-6

First Insertion JAMES P. YOKE 605 BALTIMORE ANNAPOLIS BLVD., #2 SERVERNA PARK, MD 21146 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 14118 Notice is given that the PROBATE DIVISION OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF SARASOTA, FLA, appointed JOYCE G. CMIEL, 1943 HARRIS ROAD, CHARLOTTE, NC 28211 and JAMES W. GRAY III, 171 VILLA NUEVA COURT, MOUNTAINVIEW, CA 94040 and SUSAN E. LOCKHOFF, 14781 CARRIAGE MILL DRIVE, WOODBINE, MD 21797 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES of the Estate of ELIZABETH B. GRAY, who died on 12/23/22, domiciled in SARASOTA COUNTY, FLA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is SUSAN E. LOCKHOFF, whose address is 14781 CARRIAGE MILL DRIVE, WOODBINE, MD 21797. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: QUEEN ANNES, WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for QUEEN ANNES 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 SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 JOYCE G. CMIEL JAMES W. GRAY, III SUSAN E. LOCKHOFF Personal Representative True Test Copy LAURA NAN COOK QUEEN ANNES COUNTY

REGISTER OF WILLS PO BOX 59 CENTREVILLE, MD 21617 3x 9-29, 10-06, 10-13

First Insertion REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON RD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIR ESTATE 19902 To all persons interested in the estate of THOMAS JOSEPH SMITH, Estate No. 19902. Notice is given that FRANCES S. SMITH whose address is 835 OCEAN PARKWAY, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811, was on SEPTEMBER 22, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of THOMAS JOSEPH SMITH, who died on FEBRUARY 21, 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 shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having an 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: Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 FRANCES S. SMITH 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 1x 9-29

September 29, 2023

Rusty Jimmie’s Seafood

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

STUDENTS In The News

Page 51

* Get Crabs To Go * 302-537-5555 * Dine Indoors/Outdoors * Carryout *

* AUCE Crabfeast * Chincoteague Oysters * BYOB Worcester Preparatory School senior Izzy Huber has been named a 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist. She is among 16,000 students selected as semifinalists out of 1.3 million juniors who entered the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program last year by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. Huber is pictured with, from left, Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner, Head of Upper School Carol Evans and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

Submitted Photos

Ocean City Elementary School celebrated its annual Back to School Spirit Day on September 20th. Students, faculty and staff wore OCES shirts, hats and sweatshirts and filled the hallways with spirit for their school. Above is Mendy Fiori's third grade class.

At Ocean City Elementary’s annual Stand Up, Speak Up assembly on Sept. 21, fourth grade students presented a skit to teach strategies for dealing with bullying situations. The skit was presented to the entire school and students had the opportunity to sing and dance. Pictured, front from left, are fourth graders Luke Laurenzano, Lily Norton, Jaidee Vitjathorn, Caris Godman, Kaylin Birckett and Alfredo Castro-Gutierrez;, and, back, Teo Conev, Sunny Negash, Callie Thomas and Kristi Gjidede.

* Fresh Fish * Soft Crabs * U12 Scallops

October is Customer Appreciation Month!

BIG BASH on Saturday, Oct. 21 • 3-7pm

Joanne’s 81st Birthday featuring:

Zion Train Reggae

Local Crabs Caught By Owner Daily

Crab Cakes, Soft Crabs or Your Choice of Stuffed Rockfish, Salmon or Flounder Dinners

300 Coastal Highway • Fenwick Island DE

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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

Every 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. 410289-4725.

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. 302-436-9577 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.

Sept. 29: Symphony Show From 5 to 7 p.m. the Mid Atlantic Symphony will hold an evening with Michael Repper, the Grammy Award winning Conductor of the Symphony. Michael will be joined by several members of the symphony to provide music for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are available on Eventbrite, under Lewes, Del.

Sept. 29-30, Oct. 1: Pickleball Tourney One of the biggest racquet sports events of the year returns with the third annual Oktoberfest pickleball tournament at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center. The event each year draws several hundred players and hundreds more spectators and is the only pickleball tournament with cash prizes held on the Delmarva Peninsula. For players, registration is $45. To register, visit https://app.pickleballden.com/external-tournament/3025225. Tournament organizers will post the full tournament schedule, including match start times, two weeks prior to the tournament. Organizers will break out age/skill brackets accordingly about three weeks prior to the tournament. For more information, contact Cathy Noble at cmznoble@gmail.com.

Sept. 30: Annual Food Drive Join the Bikers Without Borders Founda-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do tion from 9 a.m. to noon at the Food Lion in Ocean Pines (11007 Manklin Creek Road). Members will be collecting canned goods, nonperishable food items, toiletries, and monetary donations for local food banks. The needed items include ready-toeat and microwave-ready meals, singleserve cereals, shelf stable milk, breakfast and granola bars, fruit cups, juice boxes, individual snack packs, cases of bottled water, and microwave rice cups. Additionally, personal hygiene items, infant formula, and diapers. Monetary donations will be used to purchase additional food items to ensure well-rounded donations are provided to each organization, as well as provide gift cards for ongoing support through the holiday season. Visit www.facebook.com/bikerswithoutbordersfoundation or email us at bikerswithoutbordersfoundation@gmail.com.

Sept. 30: Drive Thru Luncheon From 10 am. until sold out at the Powellville UM Church featuring oyster fritter sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, homemade soups including peas and dumplings and vegetable beef. Bake sale items will be available. No pre-orders. Call 410-8358796 or 443-880-8804 for more details.

Sept. 30: AUCE Breakfast Buffet From 7-10 a.m. at the Whaleyville United Methodist Church. Cost is $8/adult and $4/child. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages.

Sept. 30-Oct. 1: Yard Sale To benefit Town Cats beginning at 8 a.m. at 28 Leigh Drive, Terns Landing, Ocean Pines.

Oct. 1: Crab Feast The Church of the Holy Spirit at 100th Street and Coastal Highway in Ocean City will be having a fund-raising crab feast from 2 to 5 p.m. Food will be served until 4:30 p.m. The dine-in menu will include crabs, fried chicken, corn on the cob, hush puppies, lemonade, iced tea, soda and desserts. Carry-out will also be available.

The carry-out meal will include six crabs, two pieces of chicken, corn on the cob, hush puppies, dessert and a drink. Crabs are medium large/large and will come from Rippon's Seafood. The chicken is being provided by Higgins Crab House. In addition to the food, there will be a chance auction and a 50/50 drawing. The cost for adults is $45; for children ages 6 to 10, it's $20; children under 6 eat free. Tickets are available now, by contacting the church office at 410-723-1973 or by calling Monica at 443-235-8942. There will be a very limited number of tickets at the door, so pre-sales are strongly encouraged.

Oct. 7: 5K Hero Run The Wor-Wic Community College Foundation is sponsoring a 5K Hero Run or two mile walk, along with the 2023 First Responder Team Cup Challenge, at 9 a.m., at the college campus on the corner of Route 50 and Walston Switch Road in Salisbury.

Check-in and registration begin at 8 a.m.

The entry fee is $25 per person, or $35 per person after Oct. 4. Proceeds will benefit the students of Wor-Wic. A Kids’ Hero Run and obstacle course for ages 9 and under will be held at 9:45 a.m.; the entry fee is $5. www.worwic.edu/5K.

Oct. 7: Fried Chicken Buffet From 11 a.m. until at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mt. Pleasant Road, Willards, Md. 21874. Vegetables, beverages and dessert included for dinein. Carry-out platters available. Additional baked goods available for purchase. No pre-orders. Adults $15, Children $7.50, kids under 6 are free.

Oct. 7: Car, Bike Show From 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 17th Annual Cruizers for Christ Car/Bike Show will be held at the Whaleyville United Methodist Church.

Entry fee is $15. Trophies will be given to the Top 20 and "Best in Show.”

Oct. 8: Blessing Of Animals St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin will be holding at 1 p.m. at the church, which is located at 3 Church Street in Berlin.

Bring your dog, cat, horse, donkey, bird, fish, reptile or other animal buddy to receive a blessing on this Sunday closest to the Feast Day of St. Francis, patron saint of all animals.

Oct. 9: Breast Cancer Event Benefiting Women Supporting Women at 5:30 p.m. at Pure Fitness West Ocean City. Free to the public but donations greatly appreciated. Local area fitness instructors, auction and goodie bags. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com Oct. 10-12: Basic Boating Course The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering the Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course virtually from 6-9 p.m. Cost is $20 for all three evenings. Register or get more information by calling Barry Cohen at 410935-4807, or Email: CGAUXOC@Gmail.com.

Oct. 10: Mini Golf Tourney The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce will host a Mini Golf Tournament at Nick’s Dino Golf Course on 125th Street in Ocean City at 2 p.m. Following the same rules and side bet contests as a real golf tournament, this event is for golfers and nongolfers alike. Prizes will be on hand for closest to the pin, hole in one, ball drop, and other fun contests. Mulligans available to gain an advantage. Beverages available along the course for sale. Happy Hour to follow at Grotto’s Pizza next door. Teams are twosomes, $50/team, shotgun start at 2 p.m. Sponsorships available. To register your team and snag a hole sponsorship, OceanPinesChamber.org.

Oct. 11: AARP Meeting The local AARP chapter will meet in the Ocean City 50 Plus Center located at 41st St. and Coastal Highway (behind the Dough Roller) at 10 a.m. Guest speaker will be from the Worcester County Commission on Aging. New members are welcome.

410-250-0980.

September 29, 2023

Oct. 12: Seafood Boil Join the Ocean City Chamber for a Seafood Boil from 5-8 p.m. at the Ocean Downs Casino and spend the night enjoying great food and music. Dinner is being provided

by Delmarva Boil Company and Monkee Paw will be playing music all night. Each ticket includes two free drinks, $10 in casino free play and food.

Oct. 13: Crab Cake Dinner Stevenson United Methodist Church in Berlin will host its monthly crab cake dinner from 4-6 p.m., eat in or carryout. Cost is $14, one crab cake sandwich with green beans, baked potato and cole slaw; $24 for two crab cake sandwiches with sides; and $10 for a crab cake sandwich. Bake sale table available.

Oct. 13: Memorial Trap Shoot The First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League is holding the first Annual Marty Kwesko Memorial Trap Shoot. Open to veterans, first responders and sport shooting enthusiasts at noon at the Synepuxent Rod & Gun Club. Milt Warren by phone or text at 443-497-0057 or email at milt.warren@comcast.net.

Oct. 14: Shopping Extravaganza Come fall into the holidays with Powellville Volunteer Fire Company’s Annual Shopping Extravaganza. Shop a diverse group of vendors and purchase some famous oyster sandwiches while shopping.

Oct. 14: Bingo Fundraiser The Willards Ladies Auxiliary’s 15th Annual Baskets, Bags & Bucks Bingo fundraiser will be held at the Willards Lions Club.

Chinese auction, door prizes. Refreshments on sale. Doors open at 4 p.m. and bingo starts at 6 p.m. Cost is $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Only 200 tickets will be sold. For tickets, call 410-7261583 or 410-835-2285.

Oct. 15: Empowering Children Enlightening Women will hold a free community event at Henry Park, offering activities for the whole family, free school supplies, free food and free winter coat giveaways, community vendors and health vendors. Event starts at noon and runs through 4 p.m. enlighteningwoman2022@gmail.com.

Oct. 15: Blessing Of Pets The Church of the Holy Spirit in Ocean City will hold a Blessing of the Pets ceremony from 11:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. in the church parking lot. Pets should be on leashes or otherwise under their owners’ control.

Oct. 20: Fried Flounder Dinner Bowen Fellowship Church in Newark will host at 4:30 p.m. a fried flouder dinner with sides. Carryout also available. $10.

October 21: Pancake Breakfast Worcester County Democrats will hold the Spirit of the Party Breakfast at WORCOA’s Ocean City 50+ Center located directly across from the north end of the Convention Center from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Join us for good times and to learn more about several of the upcoming Democratic candidates.

Cost is $15 per person if paid in advance and $20 at the door. Registration forms can be found at worcesterdems.org. Mail it with your check payable to DCCWC. PO Box 1582, Berlin, Md. 21811. Call or text Tish at 410-804-3971 for more information or questions.

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Who’s Where When BUXY’S/DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Sept. 29: David Tarlecki Saturday, Sept. 30: Uprizing

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Best Beats

COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, Sept. 29: Tear The Roof Off Saturday, Sept. 29: Lennon & The Leftovers Wednesdays: DJ Wax CORK BAR Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Saturday, Sept. 30: Dust N Bones

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

DAVID TARLECKI Buxy’s Salty Dog: Friday, Sept. 29

THE HARBOR BOYS Crawl St. Tavern: Friday, Sept. 29

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Sept. 29: DJ RobCee, The John Frase Project, The JJ Billings Project Saturday, Sept. 30: DJ Niknax, Making Waves, Crash The Limo Monday, Oct. 2: DJ RobCee

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

DJ MAGELLAN Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Sept. 30

TEAR THE ROOF OFF Coins Pub: Saturday, Sept. 30

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Friday & Saturday, Sept. 29 & 30

UPRIZING Buxy’s Salty Dog: Saturday, Sept. 30

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday, Sept. 29

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Sept. 29: Shortcut Sunny Wednesday, Oct. 4: Brian Bishop CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, Sept. 29: The Harbor Boys Saturday, Sept. 30: DJ Magellan

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Sept. 29 & Monday, Oct. 2

On The Beach

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, Sept. 29: Darin Engh, Aaron Howell Trio Saturday, Sept. 30: Dylan Canfield, Jada Lee Band Monday, Oct.1: Hurricane Kevin, Colossal Fossil Sauce Thursday, Oct. 5: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama

September 29, 2023

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays, Sundays & Wednesdays

HIGHER EDUCATION Pickles Pub: Saturday, Sept. 30

BRIAN BISHOP Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, Oct. 4

DARIN ENGH Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, Sept. 29

SHORTCUT SUNNY Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Sept. 29

MAKING WAVES Fager’s Island: Saturday, Sept. 30

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Who’s Where When GREENE TURTLE WEST 410-213-1500 Rt. 611, West O.C. Friday, Sept. 29: TBA

KEVIN POOLE & JOE MAMA Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, Oct. 5

SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, Sept. 29 & 30

CECILIA’S FALL Harborside: Saturday, Sept. 30

THE JJ BILLINGS BAND Fager’s Island: Friday, Sept. 29

COLOSSAL FOSSIL SAUCE Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, Oct. 1

LENNON & THE LEFTOVERS Coins Pub: Friday, Sept. 29

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West O.C. Friday, Sept. 29: DJ Bigler Saturday, Sept. 30: Cecilia’s Fall DJ Bigler Sunday, Oct. 1: Opposite Directions Thursday, Oct. 5: Dust N Bones Duo

CRASH THE LIMO Fager’s Island: Saturday, Sept. 30

PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beast By DeoGee Saturday, Sept. 30: Higher Education Sunday, Oct. 1: Beats By DeoGee Mondays: Karaoke w/Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Deogee Thursdays: Beats By Wax

DUST N BONES Cork Bar: Saturday, Sept. 30 Harborside: Thursdays

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Friday & Saturday, Sept. 29 & 30 DJ Festival Tuesdays: DJ Madame Dutchess Wednesdays: DJ Papi

AARON HOWELL TRIO Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, Sept. 29

SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Sept. 29: DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, Dear Zoe, Shake Shake Shake, Cherry Crush Band Saturday, Sept. 30: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Lights Out By 8, The Way Outs, Shake Shake Shake Thursday, Oct. 5: DJ Connair, Opposite Directions

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, Oct. 1 Seacrets: Thursday, Oct. 5

THE ORIGINAL GREENE TURTLE 410-723-2120 116th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Sept. 29: TBA

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

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, construction progress is pictured on the new mid-town station for the Ocean City Fire Department. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

NEW TO TOWN?

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Call us for a free 30 minute phone consultation.

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 70

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Although practical situations continue to dominate this week, there's time for the Lamb to indulge in the fun things in life, like maybe taking a special someone out for a great evening.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): This week favors relationships. Take time to renew old ones and make time to go where new friends can be found. On a more practical note, expect news about a business deal.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): You should be seeing some progress on that new workplace situation. Meanwhile, family matters might demand more attention, and you'll want to set aside time to deal with them.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A relationship might suddenly present some challenges you never expected.

After talking things out, you might want to consider taking some time to assess what you've learned.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): A disappointing response to a request might dampen the Lion's spirits, but you might want to ask the reasons behind it. What you learn can be of great importance in a future undertaking.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A once-volatile situation should be settled by now, giving you a chance to refocus on a project you've been planning for. Look for an interested party to rally for support.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): A business matter that unexpectedly turns into

a personal situation could create complications. Best to resolve the matter now before too much harm can be done.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Emotions can run high when they involve personal matters no one really wants to talk about. But this could be a good time to create the means to a workable outcome.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): A positive response to a workplace request could lead the way to other longsought changes. Congratulations. A personal situation also takes a welcome turn.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Patience pays off, as that once-overwhelming work situation continues to become easier to handle on a one-byone basis. Look for positive news from a colleague.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): It might be a good idea to take more time and reassess your next move in working out a complex situation. You could benefit from a new perspective on the matter.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): You might want to consider making time to discuss a change of plans with everyone concerned. Be prepared to explain your actions. Also be prepared to listen to alternatives.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a strong sense of what is right, and you try to work from that foundation. Friends see you as reliable. © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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vanishing

OCEAN CITY

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

September 29, 2023

WITH BUNK MANN

Drama-less days

Live music on the Taylor House lawn Learning about history

Feeding my teen’s photography interest Going to OC during a storm

A day of sunshine after many without

Students using a wall pencil sharpener

The early 1970s were a period of tremendous growth and change for Ocean City. The end of its era as a seasonal resort was fast approaching.

High-rise condos reminiscent of Miami Beach began in 1970 with the construction of the 15-story High Point South (pictured above). Within three years towering buildings would stretch from 94th Street to 118th Street along a previously mostly vacant stretch of beach.

The Ocean City Convention Center opened on April 18, 1970 and grew from an original 40,000 square feet to today’s state of art facility of over 214,000 square feet. It quickly became a venue for larger conventions, trade shows, and popular entertainment.

Finally, in April 1971 the Route 90 Bridge opened giving easy access to northern Ocean City. Within a few years a large part of the town’s year-round residents would live in neighborhoods such as Montego Bay, Little Salisbury and Caine Woods.

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

The weeks leading up to vacation

Avoiding small talk whenever possible Watching dogs on the beach Nutella on anything

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Photo courtesy of Donna Melson/Eastern Shore Memories

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September 29, 2023

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

SPORTS In The News

Stephen Decatur’s varsity football team improved to 4-0 last Friday night with a 39-0 victory over Snow Hill High School. Above, senior quarterback Brycen Coleman hurdles a player for a big gain on the ground in the first half. Above left, this week’s Hammond Tough Guy Award went to wideout Evan Copeland, who had four catches and a touchdown. Copeland is pictured with Bobby Hammond and Berlin Pop Warner standout Brock Coleman.

Photo by Kiara Taylor, above

Berlin Liquor Store Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

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

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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8th street & philadelphia ave.

410-289-4891 •picklesoc.com open year-round every day 8th st. liquors open every day

Girls soccer senior night: Five seniors on Stephen Decatur’s varsity girls soccer team were recognized

during Monday’s 9-0 win over Snow Hill High School at home. Pictured, from left, are senior game honorees Katelynn King, Morgan Sullivan, Kayla Rocco, Riley Wilson and Summer Knupp.

Submitted Photo

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

September 29, 2023

September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 65

MAC To Host Seniors Festival … Attendance Expected To Hit 50K

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Fun for all ages will be on the menu at MAC’s first Soles for Seniors Festival on Sunday, Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at WinterPlace Park in Salisbury.

Numerous activities are on tap at the inaugural event. Runners can enter a 5k run. The $35 day-of registration fee includes a long-sleeve event T-shirt. The run will begin at 9 a.m. There will also be a Soles for Seniors 1-mile walk, which can be completed as an individual or a team.

Registration is $25 the day of the event.

Everyone who registers will get an event

September 29, 2023

T-shirt while the first 50 registrants will also get a Soles for Seniors visitors. Prizes will be awarded. Check-in is 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. with walk starting at 9 a.m.

In the Soles for Seniors Cornhole Tournament, two-person teams will compete for cash prizes in the double elimination tournament. Check-in starts at 10:30 a.m. and play begins at 11 a.m. Registration is $50 a team.

Throughout Soles for Seniors attendees can also visit the event’s craft fair, to be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Festival proceeds will benefit MAC’s Life Bridges Dementia Day Program and Connections senior activity center.

Fall Into Our Local Antiques, Collectibles & Country Craft Stores For Unique Gifts & Decorations

1

Crews were spread out all week from the Inlet to N. Division Street creating the festival grounds, including an area for restrooms.

Photo by Chris Parypa

FROM PAGE 4 Oceans Calling. The festival allows us to showcase our beautiful beach and Boardwalk to international musicians, celebrity chefs, and visitors from every state in the U.S. For many of them, this will be their first visit to Maryland’s Coast, which allows us to make an unforgettable impression and a memory that will hopefully bring them back for future visits.”

In preparation for this weekend’s festival, Waters said C3 Presents and its partners have been working with the Town of Ocean City to develop parking, transporta-

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tion and safety plans. She said the biggest challenge heading into the weekend will be transportation.

“Above all, our residents should expect a busy weekend, with limited parking and traffic congestion in the downtown area,” she said. “The Ocean City Communications Team created an incredible tool kit highlighting frequently asked questions from residents and employees. It is an excellent guide for parking, transportation, and getting to and from the festival.”

Waters said festival-goers can expect SEE NEXT PAGE

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September 29, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

A staging area is shown Tuesday on the beach for unloading equipment to create the vast Oceans Calling Festival.

Photo by Chris Parypa

traffic delays, heavy pedestrian and bicycle volumes and limited parking. She said walking or biking to the festival is strongly encouraged. For those who are driving, parking options are available at the West Ocean City Park and Ride, the Ocean City convention center parking lot, and the 100th Street municipal parking lot.

“Our Transportation Department has worked closely with the festival promoter to ensure public transportation operates as efficiently as possible,” she said. “Ocean City’s Beach Bus will travel north and southbound along Coastal Highway and the West Ocean City Shuttle to and from the West Ocean City Park and Ride.

For the festival, residents and visitors need to know that the Beach Bus is running an express route during the festival weekend. There will be fewer stops to transport people quicker and more efficiently.”

Waters said those leaving the festival can walk to Baltimore Avenue and catch the northbound Beach Bus, staged between Worcester and Talbot streets. New traffic patterns in the downtown area will also begin at approximately 8 p.m. each night to allow for pedestrian access at the end of concerts.

“Finally, the festival grounds will include the south end of the Boardwalk and the Boardwalk businesses south of North Division Street,” she added. “This means it will only be accessible to concertgoers from Friday through Sunday during the festival. For non-festival goers, the Boardwalk (Atlantic Ave.) from 27th Street to North Division Street will be open to the public.”

Officials noted that additional information can be found on the Oceans Calling website, oceanscallingfestival.com. Festival-goers can also sign up to receive SMS messages, which provide updates in real time.

“We are certainly used to dealing with a large influx of visitors, it happens every summer,” said City Manager Terry McGean. “I am confident that we will be ready for the weekend and look forward to a great event and the opportunity to showcase Ocean City.”

Held Sept. 29-Oct. 1, the Oceans Calling Festival will feature more than 30 performances across three stages at the southern end of the Boardwalk. Artists set

to perform include Jack Johnson, Alanis Morissette, John Mayer, Sheryl Crow and The Lumineers. In addition, world-renowned chefs Robert Irvine and Amanda Frietag will be making appearances during cooking demos.

“Again, we expect an incredible weekend for the Oceans Calling Festival, as it is the first of its kind for our resort town,” Waters said. “Thousands of hours of planning from C3 Presents and the Town of Ocean City staff have been put into making this festival an extraordinary event for visitors and residents alike.”

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OBITUARIES John Harold Rogers BERLIN – John Harold Rogers, 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, at the Stansell House in Ocean Pines.

He was born in Spartanburg, S.C. on Sept. 23, 1940, to John Oliver Rogers and Lula Cox Rogers. He is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Patricia Rogers; daughters, Patricia Landry (Robert), Janet Rogers (Eric Bounds), John "Ted" Rogers and Lynn Musgrave; a sister Betty JOHN Williams; and 11 grandROGERS children, Melissa Tusing (Thomas Hummel), Justin Tusing (Julie), Matthew Tusing (Alexandra), Christopher Landry (Jennifer), Kelsie McDowell (Cody), Jenna Barkley (Elijah),

September 29, 2023

Letters To The Editor

Megan Lavie (Jacob), Benjamin Musgrave, Ocean Musgrave, Norah Rogers and Dawson Rogers. He also had two step grandchildren, Thomas and Cole Bounds and 18 great grandchildren, with two more on the way.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Joe Rogers, Earl Rogers and Doug Rogers, as well as two sisters, Dot Price and Ruby Rogers.

After graduating from high school in 1959, John enlisted in the United States Army where he worked as a Military Policeman. After his Honorable Discharge from the Army, he was employed as a Montgomery County Police Officer. During his employment as a police officer he went to University of Maryland as a full time student and received his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice in

Request For Help Editor: A few weeks ago, my friends I went out for drinks to the Caribbean, The Angler, MR Ducks and Shotti’s.

Somewhere along the line I lost my backpack.

It is a black Under Armour book bag with three pins and a Pit N Pub keychain on the outside. Inside was a daily planner, a spiral notebook and 1977. John was a loving husband, father grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, brother and friend to all that knew him.

He enjoyed spending time with his family on his boat, fishing and just cruising the bay. He loved to travel to the Caribbean just as much as he loved having all his children, grandchildren and great

a disposable camera. Nothing of value but quite personal.

This happened on Sept. 5 and a woman called a couple of days later saying she thought she had it but didn’t leave her name or phone number.

Any help in returning my bag would be wonderful by calling 410-2896983.

T. Lutz Ocean City grandchildren home for all the holidays.

A visitation was held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Md, on Thursday Sept. 28, 2023 from 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, at noon at St. Luke’s Catholic Church on 99th Street in Ocean City. Friends can call one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Garden of the Pines in Ocean Pines.

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

C. Jean Dulaney

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FENWICK ISLAND, – C. Jean Dulaney, age 88, passed away from natural causes on Sept. 3 at her home on the bay in Fenwick Island, Del. Born in Baltimore, she grew up in Hampden with her two older sisters, Alice Burns and Butch Crawford, who later in life called themselves “The Golden Girls.”

Known for her pleasant manner, ready smile and personal warmth, after graduating from Eastern High School she worked as a secretary until marrying Jack Dulaney and becoming a mother to two sons, Jay and Jamie. After a divorce, a marriage to Don Miller produced a daughter, Vicki. Jean later remarried her first love Jack, and lived in Phoenix, Md., Montreal, Canada, and Westminster, Md. before becoming a widow and settling in Fenwick Island. She was a successful business owner and cofounder of Premier Glass and Screen, working every day until her retirement.

Devoted to her sisters, she helped to care for both of them until their deaths.

She took care of a lot of people quietly and without fanfare, whether they needed a hug, some money, some listening time, or a token of appreciation. Jean enjoyed her family, traveling, music, dancing, and relaxing on the porch. The memory of her spirit will live on with everyone who met her.

She is survived by her three children, Jay Dulaney, Jamie Dulaney, and Vicki Burrs; three grandchildren, Joshua, Ashley, and Tyler; and three great-grandchildren.

Obituaries cost $50 to appear in The Dispatch and photos are no extra charge. Direct all inquiries to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com, fax to 410-641-0966 or mail to P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

September 29, 2023

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.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Music Festival Merits Optimism How We See It

Whenever a new event or endeavor is undertaken, like one of Oceans Calling Festival’s magnitude, there are bound to be concerns and issues. It's natural for people to be cautious and even skeptical about something new, especially when as public and influential as a concert festival with a major practical impact on the downtown area. However, having perspective and awareness can be instrumental in evaluating its success after the fact. In the meantime, it’s appropriate for excitement to surround this event.

Different people will have unique expectations and concerns regarding the festival. Some are excited about the prospect of new music and experiences, while others worry about logistical issues, safety and the impact on the community. It's essential to consider a variety of perspectives to make informed judgments.

Every event, especially a first-time one, is a learning opportunity. Mistakes and challenges may arise, but they can serve as valuable lessons for future improvements. It's important to acknowledge and address these issues constructively and understand an ocean of work has already gone into this event.

There will undoubtedly be positive aspects to the festival. It will introduce thousands of people to Ocean City. Reports are 70% of the 50,000 daily tickets purchased came from outside the area with every state represented. This event will positively contribute to the local economy, especially hotels and private property rentals. These positives should not be overshadowed by hypothetical concerns.

Establishing clear criteria for success is crucial. Having quantifiable metrics can help in determining its overall success. A major barometer to watch is how the local businesses inside the festival footprint fare over the weekend. When they compare sales from this weekend to the same weekend on previous calendars, it will be interesting to see if revenue is up.

After the festival, engaging with the community and seeking input will be valuable. Addressing concerns and actively involving them in future events can lead to future success. Being open to adjustments and improvements will be important. It's unlikely everything will go perfectly, but a willingness to adapt can mitigate issues and enhance the overall experience.

We should consider not only the immediate impact of the concert but also its potential long-term effects. Will it pave the way for future like events, as has been stated? Could it lead to new visitors who like what they see here? This could be the beginning of something special. Conversely, it could be something the area says is not worth it.

In the end, perspective will indeed play a significant role in determining whether the festival was a success. A major part of the post-event review will be weighing the positives and negatives, learning from the experience and considering the diverse viewpoints of those involved.

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Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green Every meeting between Worcester County and the Maryland Department of Transportation is like watching a television re-run. The state outlines current initiatives and one or more county officials express disappointment that Route 589 has been bumped by Route 90 as the local priority project.

During last week’s meeting, SHA Administrator Will Pines informed the County Commissioners $15 million has been allocated for the preliminary study and engineering of Route 90 between Route 50 and Coastal Highway. Pines said the evaluation part of the project is complete and options are being evaluated. Other topics were discussed during the meeting like the new traffic signals on Route 113 and Germantown Road and on Route 589 near the new AGH medical building. Before the meeting wrapped, however, Commission President Chip Bertino, who lives in the Pines and represents the community, reiterated disappointment that major Route 589 improvements are not being considered by the state at this time.

Bertino said he served on a stakeholder group 20 years created to consider future expansion of the roadway to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion throughout the year. He said, “We appreciate the fact that you put the light at AGH but that has not done anything more than compound a problem that has existed for quite a long time. To date nothing has been put in the budget to move that project forward. It’s very frustrating for the community of Ocean Pines and anybody who traverses that roadway.” Understanding no major improvements are in the near future, Bertino advocated for smaller projects to help with traffic congestion, saying, “You’d really come out as a rockstar if SHA actually did anything around there.”

While respect is shown to the concerns, as far as the state appears to be concerned, Route 90 is now the focus for major dollars with Route 113 dualization complete. Route 589 is on the back burner.

Another point worth mentioning out of last week’s meeting has been reported previously. Assateague Road and Route 611 will soon be receiving a traffic light. It may be in place by next summer. There’s no question this light is needed during the season with the massive volume of campers turning north on Route 611 mixing with typical summer traffic.

The embarrassing riverboat saga continues for Worcester County. The fallout of the poor buy has fallen to Snow Hill, however, to sort through.

It’s true Snow Hill bought the boat for $400,000 with the help of a loan from the county, but it was county officials who pushed to bring the boat to the south end in an attempt bring new economic life into Snow Hill.

Hindsight confirms it was a horrible decision and better scrutiny was needed before the boat was acquired.

Moving forward, the Town of Snow Hill is looking to cuts its losses with the boat through a Request for Proposal process. Early attempts to sell the boat privately or possibly through a surplus property website have been pushed aside as legal counsel advised the RFP process was more appropriate for the town. The RFP was an interesting read this week, and here are a few highlights.

“With full transparency, the Town advises that the boat was purchased near the end of an active Coast Guard operating permit and that as part of the renewal process for that permit, serious deficiencies in the boat’s structure were discovered,” the RFP reads. “The Black-Eyed Susan was constructed in 1989 as a working stern-wheeled paddleboat featuring two decks for public enjoyment in a Victorian-decorated interior. In 2003, the boat’s length was extended from 87 feet to 111 feet. It draws 4 feet of water and is equipped with galley, restrooms and wet bars. … Note that during the past year, those cost estimates have likely increased substantially.

Other specifications and material related to the boat is available upon request. The Mayor and Town Council have determined that the expense of repairing the boat, coupled with the estimated annual cost of maintenance and repair, have made continuing to own and operate the Black-Eyed Susan not in the best interests of the taxpayers and residents of Snow Hill.”

Scrolling through social media this week, it’s amazing to me how many people have personal Brooks Robinson stories to share. The affinity for Brooks seems rooted in his blue-collar approach, which was long a hallmark of Baltimore communities. Of course, he was an outstanding baseball player, and the impressive stats prove it. Every possible honor a field baseball player could receive he earned through his incredible career, including 16 straight Gold Gloves and 15 consecutive All-Star appearances.

Personally, I met Brooks in July of 1984 in Ocean City on 3rd Street. I never got to see him play, as he retired in 1977, but I did listen to hundreds of games he worked as a commentator for then-Home Team Sports. While he talked briefly about hitting at the Ocean City clinic, Brooks was most comfortable talking about fielding. He made playing the hot corner look easy and was the best fielding third baseman ever. My lasting memory from the few minutes I spent with him at the 3rd Street field was his humble, approachable way for being arguably the most popular and beloved Maryland sports figure of all time. He was 86 when he died Tuesday. There is a legacy of adults named Brooks in Maryland because of him.

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Puzzle Answers

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The Adventures

by Steve Green

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ess is more.

This is an approach I have taken of late with 15-year-old Beckett.

There was a time when our teenager didn’t share much with us. I would say now he shares a lot, but it’s more like a lecture or rant about a social topic, school matter or random observation.

For instance, I listened one night for about 15 minutes to him argue the negative impacts preparing for the PSAT and SAT have on teen minds. His premise revolved around whether success or lack thereof on these college admission exams will truly impact his life moving ahead and whether the mental health consequences of the associated pressures merit the anguish. I admire his combative nature but also found his position humorous.

There would have come a time when I would have inserted myself point by point into the conversation to correct statements made to prove his points. I have decided of late to let him vent and only interject if he uses an inappropriate word or disrespects unnecessarily. I enjoy a good rant as much as anyone, but I know on this particular topic the seed of his discontent is the fact he has lost study halls to practice for the looming PSAT. It's interesting, though, how much he likes to talk about a subject he disagrees with passionately compared to something personal involving friends or girlfriends. The teenager goes into lockbox mode, sharing no details.

Whenever a question is posed of a personal nature, it’s like he has “nothing,” “all good,” and “I don’t know” on repeat.

I have also learned to not wade into these waters unless necessary. He shares personal stuff on his timetable, but when it comes to sharing a position on a general topic he’s always willing to jump atop a soapbox.

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of Fatherhood hen a video or text comes in from Carson’s education team, I stop whatever I am doing. For one, I know a video is usually something to be excited about.

When a phone call comes in from Carson’s school, I also stop whatever I am doing, but there’s much less excitement. This is rarely good news and typically involves a report of some issues.

As enjoyable as the video texts are, the phone calls are the opposite extreme and cause anxiety.

The most recent video last week was of Carson running in the high school football stadium with his middle school academic team as part of a school pep rally.

On a hot day, Carson was running hard with his hooded intermediate school sweatshirt on because it seems to bring him peace. The first time I watched the video at work I did not have the volume turned up, but I could see him trying hard and participating in some sort of relay.

Later, when I got a chance to watch and listen to it, I could hear Carson’s teammates cheering him on. It was special.

About a week later, I was having a random conversation in the grocery store with a parent who introduced me to her daughter who was also in middle school.

She knew of Carson despite being in seventh grade. It’s a big school, but I think Carson stands out a bit. Everyone seems to know him.

It occurs to me Carson’s disabilities are becoming more obvious as he gets older. This reality doesn’t bother me.

Pam and I understand what we have in our Carson. There are limitations. There are different expectations. There are concerns. There are physical restraints.

He cannot talk.

However, there are also cognitive strengths. There are unique abilities.

There are daily sources of inspiration.

There are more positives than negatives. There is incredible potential. We just don’t know everything yet. We are wandering through this journey inspired

but uncertain. What I do know is Carson overcomes more in a single day than most do in our entire lives. His incredible social anxiety is crippling at times. I feel his concern in his hand each morning when we walk up to school and he grabs hard on to my hand. As we approach, he uses the other hand to grab at the inside of my elbow. He’s having a moment of doubt, a glimmer of terror at the thought of going into school. The feeling is fleeting it seems when we encounter a friendly face at the door. Despite this obvious consternation, so far this year every single day he has let go and walked in, a few times even with a smile and a wave but usually just with his head down and no further interaction. I walk back to my car each morning after dropping him off feeling relieved and proud.

All these emotions make last week’s video so special. The short video featured other kids who Carson most likely never associates with or even acknowledges in the most general sense cheering him on. This is empathy, support and positivity on full display in our youth. I can’t speak for all the fellow students he encounters on a daily basis, but I see great things in these kids. It could be due to his intense disabilities they pity him and want to help him. I am fine with that if that’s the case. Maybe they see potential and want to just get a smile from him. Maybe not.

This saying from the National Autism Association comes to mind. I hope my son’s classmates and teachers see and feel this way. It says, “If all you see is Autism, Autism, Autism, you will miss loving, smart, funny, sweet, insightful, unconditional, empathetic, uniquely observant, impeccably talented, ever so intelligent and capable of creating extraordinary change in the world.”

(The writer is the publisher and editor of The Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com.)

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