1/6/2023 Ocean City Today

JANUARY 6, 2023

SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY FREE

DIPPING FOR DOLLARS

Property values soaring, new assessment shows

Hartman, Carrozza prepare for legislature to convene

Reassessed

go up by over 30% in some areas of Worcester County

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) Worcester County could end up raking in roughly $6 million more in tax revenues this year following a record more than 30 percent increase in property assessments.

The Maryland Department of Taxation recently released the annual assessment results for residential and commercial properties in Area 2, which in Worcester encompasses the entire southern region of Pocomoke City, Snow Hill and Newark, and a sliver of West Ocean City near Route 611.

The numbers shot up over the last

and jumps of 22.2 percent for residential and 15.8 percent for commercial properties.

A news release from the state department said the numbers reflect the largest property increase “in several years” and a rise in values.

“All 23 counties and Baltimore City experienced an increase in residential property values for the fifth consecutive year, while commercial

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) The 2023 session of the Maryland General Assembly kicks off on Wednesday and the Worcester County delegation of Del. Wayne Hartman and Sen. Mary Beth Carrozza has its sights set on legislation they believe will improve the county’s economy, safety and accessibility.

It’s also a session of change. Incoming governor Wes Moore (D) will surely differ from his republican predecessor, Gov. Larry Hogan (R), requiring Republicans Hartman and Carozza to begin game-planning now for what’s to come.

“It’s going to be interesting. We’ll

have many new members,” Hartman said. “The new governor is still picking his cabinet so we don’t know for sure what committee assignments we’ll have. There are still many unknowns because of the election year. It takes time to figure out how we’ll be working with other folks, the challenges we’re going to have, getting to know a lot of new people.”

Carozza said she envisions having to work “even harder” for the interests of the Eastern Shore with Moore in office.

She also praised the job Hogan did over his eight years as governor.

“Gov. Hogan and his administration have been very supportive of our (Eastern Shore) priorities, and I plan to use my position in the senate to educate, advocate and fight for local priorities,” she said.

Resort bike committee members seeking grants to continue pedestrian safety campaign

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

On a cloudless, mildly windy 60-degree New Year’s Day 2023, more than 950 penguins took a dip in the 46-degree ocean during the 29th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim on 91st Street. Several hundred more were on the beach to watch the event. About $107,000 was raised for the Berlin hospital. See story on page 15. More photos on page 14.

New governor, members will make for interesting session, delegate says

Religious, charity events on OC winter, spring calendars

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) A religious celebration and two charity events have been added to the resort’s winter and early spring calendars

In a unanimous vote, council members approved the following event details at a work session Tuesday:

Blessing of the Waters

St. George Greek Orthodox Church will host its annual Blessing of the Waters from noon to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Jan. 7, on the beach at 91st Street.

According to the approved staff report, church members will congregate at St. George’s Church at 8805 Coastal Hwy., and proceed to the beach at 91st Street, using the street crossing at the light. Attendees will then assemble at the water’s edge for the official Blessing of the Waters celebration and tossing and retrieval of a cross into the ocean.

Members of the resort’s Beach Patrol will determine the safest place for the exact toss and will ensure event organizers have a plan to get participants to a heated location after going into the cold ocean.

While the organizer did not request police service, on-duty patrol officers have agreed to monitor the highway crossing.

The organizer will pay the town $62.50 in private event fees.

St. Paddy’s Day 5K

With OC Tri-Running Sports hosting, and Shenanigan’s Irish Pub sponsoring, the OCMD St. Paddy’s Day 5K is set from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 11 on the Boardwalk.

A staff report said the event will

commence on the concrete pad east of the Boardwalk and Fourth Street, between the boards and Washington Avenue.

Participants can begin registering for the event from 5:30 to 8 p.m. the day before the race on March 10 under a tent on the east end of Fourth Street. Registration will continue 7:30 to 8:40 a.m. March 11.

The race route will begin on the Boardwalk in front of Shenanigan’s, between Third and Fourth streets, with runners heading south on the concrete pad. They will continue around the pier, travel under the south tram station, turn north onto the Boardwalk to 16th Street before turning south on the Boardwalk to finish back at Shenanigan’s. The staff report said that some course modifications may be needed because of the Boardwalk re-decking project, which will be underway during the event. A decision on the final route will be made March 1.

The organizer asked the city for eight pieces of metal event fencing, 15 traffic cones, vehicular access to the Boardwalk, reserved parking for the event staff along Fourth Street between Baltimore and Washington avenues, permission to place a tent on Fourth Street between Washington Avenue and the Boardwalk, and two city bicycle police.

The staff report said public works staff will post parking signs on Fourth Street and provide the other requested items. Police officers will also be assigned to the event.

The organizer is required to obtain a tent permit from the fire marshal for anything larger than 200 feet, and any tent that is erected must be secured

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show huge increase in value

property values also increased in all 23 counties and Baltimore City,” Department Director Michael Higgs said in the release. “This is a good indicator that the market remains strong and growth is steady here in Maryland.”

The numbers further show that this is the highest increase for properties in any group statewide since 2014. Before that, from 2010 to 2014, the rates were going down.

In Worcester County, the data showed a 30.8 percent total increase in assessments this year, and rises of 35.3 percent for residential and 14.2 percent for commercial properties compared to the last assessment in 2020.

According to the numbers, Worcester saw the fourth highest increase in assessed value behind Garrett, Somerset and Washington counties.

Local real estate numbers showed a hot seller’s market mixed with a decline in inventory over the pandemic years, a trend that is just now starting to level off.

Worcester’s Supervisor of Assessments, Amy Smith, said the jumps in assessments could result in higher tax bills for property owners in Area 2 this year. However, the size of the

bill will not be determined until the commissioners and municipal officials set the rate at which they will tax the assessed values during budget talks.

Jessica Wilson, the deputy finance director for Worcester County, said in an email this week that a report released in November showed that county revenues are expected to increase by roughly $6 million based on the new assessments. She said the number accounts for the homestead tax credit, which limits the increase in assessments for primary resident owned homes to 3 percent over the taxable assessment of the prior year.

Smith said a total of 15,000 properties in the group were reassessed for this year.

Snow Hill Town Manager Rick Pollitt said in an email that town officials had not yet been informed of the new assessments and that speculation on the tax rate is “premature” right now. He said the elected officials will begin discussing the rates in late winter when Mayor Jennifer Jewell presents the proposed fiscal 2024 budget.

“Obviously, if the assessable base increases as a result of the state’s annual review, there is an associated

connection to the tax rate the town will consider,” Pollitt said. “However, all of those considerations are very premature at this point.”

Next year, state officials will assess

OC bike committee focused on

safety campaign

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) With 24 pedestrian collisions recorded across the resort last summer, members of the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee are intent on delivering messages of walker safety to the masses for the 2023 season.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who sits on the committee, told fellow council members at a work session Tuesday that pedestrian safety is a high priority for both his committee and State Highway

Association officials.

To promote the message, city officials worked with SHA to create a “Walk Smart” campaign that consisted of ads placed on billboards, buses and trams and featured a smiling cartoon crab and tips for staying safe when crossing roadways and walking around town.

At a committee meeting on Dec. 7, DeLuca said members learned that SHA would not be funding the campaign this year but a representative suggested that

properties in Area 3, which encompasses all of Ocean City, while properties in Area 1, made up of Ocean Pines, Berlin, Bishopville and Whaleyville, are up for review in 2025.

MAP INFO COURTESY MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT AND TAXATION A map from the Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation shows the boundaries of Worcester County’s three assessment areas. The most recent assessments performed for Area 2 were recently released.

A pedestrian sign and crosswalk is shown on Baltimore Avenue at the Ninth Street intersection downtown. MALLORY PANUSKA/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

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Hartman, Carrozza prepping for next legislative session

Continued from Page 1

Some of the goals on Hartman’s to-do list include helping Diakonia fund its new campus off Stephen Decatur Highway in Berlin and the Salisbury School fund a new amphitheater.

Atlantic General Hospital is also looking for money since inflation has raised construction costs for its new campus on Route 589 beyond what it budgeted.

And American Legion Synepuxent Post 166 on 23rd Street wants to improve its facility, too.

“We’ll look at all their needs and see how we can help,” Hartman said.

Carozza said in an email that she won’t stray from the approach that she’s employed in previous sessions — advocating for the counties (Worcester, Somerset and Wicomic0) she represents above all.

“To prepare for session, I have been meeting with local elected officials in all three counties, major employers like Atlantic General Hospital, all three higher education institutions — Wor-Wic Community College, Salisbury University, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore — small businesses including several members of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, public safety including law enforcement, fire, and EMS, and those involved with our farming, fishing and forestry industries,” Carozza said.

Her priorities list includes addressing the workforce shortage “across the board,” working with Hartman to write legislation to give Ocean City promoters alcohol licenses for the duration of their events and continuing the push for a bill to raise the room tax cap from 5 percent to 6 percent.

“Once Worcester County has secured the support of the other code counties, Del. Hartman and I would cross-file the bill,” Carozza said. “In addition, we will be monitoring any special event zone vehicle bills to ensure that any new bills do not jeopardize our local prohibition on exhibition driving and special events zone enforcement.”

Speaking of the temporary liquor licenses, Hartman said the legislation will clean up the process of handing out these liquor licenses for both the town and the promoters.

On exhibition driving, Hartman added that legislation meant to curb it was vetoed last year because it af-

fected legislation passed a few years prior that offsets reckless behavior from Ocean City events.

“I’m working with sponsors of the legislation to make it effective for them but not undermine what we accomplished here,” he said.

In addressing the workforce shortage, Carozza said she’s advocating for more apprenticeship programs and that she keeps in touch with the Maryland State Firemen’s Association and the Maryland Association of Counties and each’s recommendations to retain and recruit volunteers.

Carozza said she is also working with local hospitals and medical leaders to attract more healthcare personnel. She plans to introduce a bill that would increase collaboration between physician assistants and physicians to help increase medical services.

Hartman will also be taking up again a bill that is somewhat of a passion project for him — making playgrounds in the state more accessible to nonverbal children.

The idea came from his daughter, a local schoolteacher.

“It’s an idea based out of need,” Hartman said. “My son when he was younger had a hard time communicating. We do all these things for access to playgrounds, but to have someone there who can’t communicate, this board allows them to point to a picture (that reflects) their needs. It doesn’t need to be expensive or elaborate. Just to help that child express what it is that they want. Not a big ask.”

The 2023 session of the Maryland General Assembly runs from Jan. 11 to April 10.

Pedestrian safety priority in 2023

Continued from Page 4

the city could apply for grants to keep it going. DeLuca said he made a list of possible funding sources and forwarded it to the city’s grant coordinator.

DeLuca contended that the continuation of the program is crucial, with 24 pedestrian collisions reported last summer and 22 the year before. While only eight were reported in 2020, likely because fewer people were in town due to the pandemic, data shows that from 2015 to 2019 the number of pedestrian involved in run-ins with vehicles ranged from 23 to 32 per year.

DeLuca’s plan for the “Walk Smart” campaign includes about 12 signs on the backs of buses, billboards on Route 50, and a banner plane. He expects costs to come to about $25,000 and hopes that grants can be obtained.

Wayne Hartman

Mary Beth Carrozza

March, April

with weights, water barrels or concrete blocks.

The organizer is also required to provide medical technicians.

The staff report said the organizer will pay the town $768 in private event and asset and support fees.

Motorcycle charity event

On April 15, members of the Bikers without Borders Foundation will host the second annual Chariots for CharityRiding for Autism event on Wicomico Street between Baltimore Avenue and

the Boardwalk.

A staff report said the motorcycle ride and block party, which raises funds for Worcester County Autism, is set from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with bike registration 9 to 11 a.m., an escorted ride from 11 a.m. to noon, and block party from noon to 5 p.m.

The organizer requested prohibition of public parking on Wicomico Street between Baltimore Avenue and the Boardwalk for motorcycle parking and the party.

Public Works staff agreed to post “No Parking” signs along Wicomico

Street from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. the day of the event upon official approval of the regulations.

Recreation and parks staff members said in the staff report that the event is held for a great cause, but expressed concerns about the mention of some local bars in the application. The organizer assured that the bars were only mentioned to show they are partners, and will not be hosting any drink specials, as everyone involved in putting on the event is sensitive to and aware of the implications for anyone who operates a vehicle or motorcycle while impaired.

The staff report said police officers will assist with traffic control leaving the starting point and ensuring all appropriate intersections are controlled for the escorted ride getting them through Ocean City traffic, and over the Route 50 bridge. The ride typically takes about an hour, the staff report said, and the same intersections will need to be controlled upon the riders’ return to the event location, which on-duty officers will perform.

The organizer is set to pay the town $135.50 in private event fees and asset and support fees.

Resort approves rec complex bid from Delaware company

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) While the price tag is still higher than officials had hoped, renovations to Ocean City’s Downtown Recreation Complex are ready to begin after approval of a construction bid this week.

City Council members on Tuesday unanimously approved a proposal from David A. Bramble Inc. of Chesterstown for just under $2.7 million to complete site work for the project set to begin this spring.

The work is the first phase of a multi-step effort to overhaul the recreation complex on St. Louis Avenue between Third and Fourth streets. The overall project includes the revitalization of the skate park, playground, and recreation building.

The site work portion was bid twice, once in June and once last month, after the first pair of submitted proposals far exceeded the $2.2 million budget.

On the second try, four bids were submitted and opened, and David A. Bramble came out on top with the lowest proposal.

City Manager Terry McGean said the company did not bid the project during the first round and that the city has worked with Bramble before. He said he spoke with a representative from the company and was assured that the bid, while lower than the others received, was legitimate.

“What they pointed out is that they came at this fresh. They were not coming at it, ‘well, here’s my price the first time,’ and working off that original price,” McGean said. “They started from scratch … And they feel comfortable they are able to do the work.”

The next lowest bid was from Newark, Delaware-based A-Del Construction, which also submitted a bid

last time, for $3.89 million. The first bid from the company was similar, at $3.865 million.

Oak Contracting LLC from Towson submitted a bid for a little more than $3.92 million, and JJID Inc. from Bear, Delaware, proposed to do the work for $4.745 million.

The original bids, which respectively came in $1.6 million and $2.75 million over budget, were promptly rejected for being too high. Officials attributed the significant overages primarily to a short timeline for the work and high construction costs.

In an effort to curtail those hindrances, McGean suggested waiting until December to re-bid the project to take advantage of a $1 million grant that was on the way, as construction could not have begun in the winter anyway.

He said Tuesday that the grant will presumably cover the shortfall in the bid for the site work, but he pointed out that the money may not stretch very far.

Just as the site work costs came in higher than expected, McGean said he expects the proceeding phases, specifically the skate park renovations and electrical work, to be over budget as well. Staff members revised the plans to combine the skate park offices and restrooms into one building to save money, but they will not know exact costs until the projects are bid.

“I’m certainly not … telling you all we got a million dollars to play with because I don’t think we do,” McGean said of the grant. “We need to be careful on how we build this.”

Bids will be opened next week for completion of the electrical work for the project and if all goes as expected, McGean said the entire project should be finished by March 2024.

An aerial shot shows the existing Downtown Recreation Complex on St. Louis Avenue between Third and Fourth streets. A bid was awarded this week to a Delaware company to complete the site work portion of a multi-phased renovation.

The former Phillips Beach Plaza Hotel sign stands at the corner of 13th Street and Baltimore Avenue downtown. The 21foot-wide section of right-of-way spanning the block is supposed to be abandoned to the developers of a planned Margaritaville resort but a petition approved this week will send that decision to a referendum for approval.

MALLORY PANUSKA/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

Abandonment of Balt. Ave. right-of-way going to voters

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) The city’s abandonment of a right-of-way on Baltimore Avenue for a planned Margaritaville resort is officially on hold as the matter awaits placement on an upcoming election ballot.

City Council members on Tuesday voted to approve the results of a grassroots petition to bring an ordinance to abandon rights to a portion of land between 13th and 14th streets on Baltimore Avenue to a referendum.

The ordinance originally passed 61 on Sept. 19 with Council President Matt James opposed.

The 21-foot-wide section of rightof-way was the first of several along

Baltimore Avenue set to be remanded back to owners of adjoining properties for the long-planned burying of utility lines from 15th to North Division streets.

The Margaritaville developers asked for the abandonment early, and paid for the site work and fees to advance the process, in an effort to meet the contiguous square footage needed to advance their plans for a 13-story, 265-room resort at the former Phillips Beach Plaza property.

Shortly after the vote, though, Margaret Pillas, a former councilwoman and longtime downtown resident, crusaded to overturn it. She said at the time that she is not in favor of abandoning any property along Baltimore Avenue, as downtown is already lacking in space for parking and other public use.

Pillas and a group of volunteers collected 825 signatures and turned them in to the Board of Supervisors of Elections for verification to put the matter on an upcoming election ballot. They needed a total of 612 — or 40 percent of the number of voters in the 2020 election.

At Tuesday’s meeting, City Clerk Diana Chavis read a letter from the chair of the election board that said members verified 639 of the names to spearhead the referendum.

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said council members have the option to set a special election or put the matter on the next general municipal election ballot in two years.

Councilman Tony DeLuca suggested discussing the options at the council’s next work session set for Jan. 10.

James also asked City Manager Terry McGean to determine how much it would cost to hold a special election for the vote.

McGean said after the meeting that approvals needed to advance the Margaritaville project through creation of a planned overlay district, or POD, will be on hold until the election is held and the results are counted.

He also said that identification of the other rights-of-way along Baltimore Avenue set to be abandoned for the utility burying project is underway. He expects that the ordinances to give them up will likely come in a bundle or bundles, not individually the way the Margaritaville one did. As the land is identified, though, the

Council slated to get update on Baltimore Avenue project

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) Ocean City Council members will learn next week where things stand with long-planned updates to Baltimore Avenue.

In late August, City Manager Terry McGean dropped the bomb that both the cost and timeline for moving the power, cable and phone lines between North Division and 15th streets underground had far exceeded projections.

Council members voted at the time to allow staff members to complete the project design and identify necessary rights-of-way to prepare for the work as more funding sources are scouted.

McGean said Tuesday, in response to a question from Councilman Peter

Buas about the project status, that staff members are focused on trying to obtain grants to pay for the project, which is estimated at this point to cost $39.5 million, a far greater number than the original $20 million projection.

McGean said that staff are also working on getting all of the rightsof-way needed for the project, which includes a 21-foot-wide block between 13th and 14th streets that hangs in the balance with a referendum. He said they have nearly finished platting the first five blocks and he plans to give a detailed update of everything, including the timeline that was extended from two years to four, at the next council work session on Jan. 10.

Introduced several years ago, the

Margaritaville stands in limbo

Continued from Page 10

other property owners will have the same opportunity to expedite the process if they choose.

Local attorney Hugh Cropper, who represents the Margaritaville developers, attended Tuesday’s meeting

but did not speak publicly.

The developers released a news release after the petition was filed that endorsed the project’s benefits, which they said range from workforce creation to expansion of the downtown tax base.

project aims to bolster the grid against powerful storms that take down utility poles and power lines, and create a more attractive downtown.

During McGean’s last update in August, the design phase was about 60 percent complete and the project

was set for completion — if funding is secured and everything else goes as planned — in April 2027.

Construction was supposed to begin this off-season, but ran into some snags with design work taking more time than expected, and the extension of the special event calendar.

Directors agree in principle to settlement with Janasek

(Jan. 6, 2023) Former Ocean Pines Association director Tom Janasek and the OPA’s current board of directors ended their months-long legal dispute last week, as the board agreed in principle to settle the case against it.

The case stemmed from an incident at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club in May, when Janasek accosted then-board member Josette Wheatley and loudly berated her in highly offensive terms.

The board, which was under different leadership at the time, responded by voting 52 in June to ban Janasek from all amenities for 90 days, a punishment he asserted in court that same month that the board had no authority to impose.

Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Beau Oglesby seemed skeptical of the board’s defense and urged the litigants to seek a settlement, while also leaving the proposed ban on hold in the interim.

The three-sentence statement issued by the directors last week said only that “The Ocean Pines Association has agreed in principle to a settlement in the Thomas Janasek vs. Ocean Pines Association, Inc., et al. case. Specific terms and conditions of a proposed settlement were reviewed by counsel for both parties. The

amount of the financial payout to the plaintiff was proposed and agreed to by the insurance carrier for OPA. The final details and related paperwork are in progress and will be finalized over the next several weeks.”

According to a social media post by board member Rick Farr, the agreement cost the association $67,750 and included $18,750 for Janasek’s legal fees. Farr and current board President Doug Parks opposed the ban in the board’s June vote.

Janasek had been at odds with the previous board since the summer of 2021 when the board declared that then-candidate Rick Farr was not eligible to run because his residence was not owned by him personally but by a family trust of which he was a member.

Farr sued and eventually won, but Janasek’s animosity toward thenboard President Larry Perrone and Director Collette Horn continued.

That culminated in a move by the board majority to expel Janasek from the board in October 2021 after he sent an accusatory email to Horn that Janasek later admitted was “inappropriate.” But rather than wait for the board to act, Janasek resigned.

He accurately predicted at the time that the open seat his departure created and one other vacancy would be filled by Amy Peck and Wheatley, both of whom lost their reelection bids this past summer.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY Baltimore Avenue is shown at the intersection of Ninth Street on a non-busy winter morning. City Manager Terry McGean is set to provide an update on plans to bury the utility lines from North Division to 15th streets at a work session Jan. 10.

Tom Janasek

PENGUIN SWIM 2023

PENGUIN SWIM

On a cloudless, mildly windy 60-degree New Year’s Day 2023, more than 950 penguins took a dip in the 46-degree ocean during the 29th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim, held between 91st and 94th streets. Several hundred more were on the beach to watch the spectacle. About $107,000 was raised for the Berlin hospital.

Rick Moore, Pasadena, Maryland

Member of the Bull on the Beach team make their way to the beach.

OC Beach Patrol Sgt. Colby Phillips – joined by Delmarva Shorebirds’ mascot Sherman –pumps up penguins before the swim. Frosty Friends team members pose for a photo.

Team Frosty Paws as “Spongebob Squarepants & Friends,” from left, Morgan Brozena, Monika Virag, Kira Bunker, Kelli and Matt Brozena, Marissa Bologna and Justin Dunbar.

Sandy Sanders, Aberdeen, Maryland

Jeff and 10-year-old Maxon Hashagen, Macungie, Pennsylvania

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Penguin Swim grows little more on mild, sunny Jan. 1

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) Maybe the “RedThroated Loon Swim” or the “Great Cormorant Swim” isn’t as marketable as the “Penguin Swim,” but those species would surely be more indicative of the water temperatures the last few years for Atlantic General Hospital’s annual New Year’s Day dip in the ocean.

But as it was, nearly a thousand participants once again took to the cool waves off 91st Street to wash off 2022 at the onset of 2023.

The event grossed about $87,000 on its own and with the fundraising Bull on the Beach contributes every year, the total hovers around $107,000.

“That money goes right back into the community in the form of free and reduced healthcare opportunities such as flu shots, youth education for healthy eating, hospitals

providing additional services, updated facilities, and just really creating and embracing a healthy community,” Penguin Swim co-chair Michael Cylc said.

Both attendance and revenue were slightly up from the 28th annual Penguin Swim last year’s Jan. 1 event.

“It was a huge success in my opinion,” said Cylc. “We had a very large turnout along with the beautiful weather.”

Jokes aside about the use of the word “penguin,” the weather that Cylc touched on is certainly no deterrent for participants. The water still isn’t warm or safe for extended periods — it hovered around 46 degrees on Sunday — but the 60-degree weather with which it paired was much kinder than some of the frigid Penguin Swims in the past.

“Some feet dipped in, some went full-body in, but we did not encour-

See

PENGUINS

Page 16

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Participating in the New Year’s Day Penguin Swim representing Ocean City Organics, from left, are Bonnie Bodolus, Kristie Williams, Heather Layton, Skylar Crowley and Branwen Berger.

Penguins take to ocean waves for annual tradition

Continued from Page 15

age any type of diving. In fact, we told people not to,” Cylc said. “But we did see some people taking advantage of (the non-freezing water) to just get in and rinse off 2022.”

The festivities, as usual, included a variety of awards presented to the top individual, youth, community, group, business and family teams for fundraising.

Special recognition was also once again given to the oldest and youngest penguins and the participant that traveled the furthest.

Cylc estimated there were one or two spectators present for every penguin.

“It felt bigger than last year,” he said. “Big factor in that was the weather and, hopefully, we’re on the other side of the pandemic.”

Cylc thanked the community for the support it gives every year to make the Penguin Swim a success.

“We couldn’t have raised such an amazing amount of money for the not-for-profit community hospital without everyone’s attendance and stepping up,” he said. “It was appreciated. It was a great day for the hospital and community.”

TOP FUNDRAISERS:

Individual Youth 18 & Under:

• Ty Barnes, age 17 - $330Berlin

• Maxon Hashagen, age 10$255 - Macungie, Pennsylvania

• Leila Attia, age 14 - $230 - Fallston, Maryland

Individual Adult:

• Michael Nelson - $1,335Rosedale, Maryland

• Matthew Lynch - $1,075 - Frankford, Delaware

• James King - $800 - Selbyville, Delaware

Youth/Family Team:

• Team Believe - $3,765 - Denver, Pennsylvania

• Ice Ice Kirbys - $2,716 - Berlin

• Zoo Crew - $1,705Breinigsville, Pennsylvania

Community Group Team:

• OC Ravens Roost #44*$9,412 - Ocean City

• The Atlantic Club Beach Warriors - $915 - Ocean City

• OPST Hammerheads - $865Ocean Pines

*The Ravens Roost team has contributed more than $162,000 to the AGH Penguin Swim over the last 14 years.

Business Team:

• Bull on the Beach* - $20,000Ocean City

• OC Wasabi - $2,100 - Ocean City

• Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 486 - $1,555 - Baltimore

*The Bull on the Beach team has contributed more than $682,000 to the AGH Penguin Swim since it started in 1995.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION:

• Oldest Penguin: June Barnes92 years, 4 months, 5 days young - Fallston, Maryland

• Youngest Penguin: Dezzy Wegrzyn - 10 months, 19 days oldOcean City

• Traveled the Furthest: Matias Aiskovitch - Buenos Aires, Argentina

COSTUME CONTEST:

• Best Youth Costume: Rowan Aguilion as “New Year Cutie”Ocean Pines

• Best Adult Costume: Butch Lorditch as “Avatar* - Denver, Pennsylvania

• Best Couple Costume: Melissa and Olivia Page as “Pirates”York, Pennsylvania

• Best Group Costume: Team Frosty Paws as “Spongebob Squarepants & Friends”Telford, Pennsylvania

• “Blingiest” Costume (sponsored by Park Place Jewelers): Jennifer Wills as “Jewels”Berlin

Verrazano Bridge undergoing maintenance work Jan. 4-11

(Jan. 6, 2023) The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will perform preventative maintenance work on the Verrazano Bridge over Sinepuxent Bay and the parallel pedestrian bridge in Worcester County from Wednesday, Jan. 4, to Wednesday, Jan. 11, weather permitting.

Work is expected to take place 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. MDOT SHA will close one lane on the bridge to ensure safety for motorists and workers, and a flagging operation will be in place to guide motorists safely through the work zone.

The work includes divers placing grout and securing concrete bags underwater at the base of the bridge to create a protection mat to stabilize sand around the piers.

The Verrazano Bridge provides access to Assateague State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore. Sinepuxent Bay is a navigable inland waterway connecting Chincoteague Bay with Ocean City Inlet.

More than 5,000 vehicles use the bridge each year, with the greatest volumes during peak summer weekends.

Maryland’s Move Over Law requires motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing or parked vehicle displaying hazard warning lights, road flares or other caution signals.

The expanded law is in place to protect emergency responders and motorists who encounter a roadside emergency.

beach equipment rental stand sits on the sand at a midtown location over the summer. Several south end beach franchise contracts, and a midtown one spanning 57th to 59th streets, were recently bid for three years and approved to bring the city nearly $90,000 in added revenue.

Newly bid beach franchises slated to bring in extra $90K

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) Fourteen south end beach equipment rental franchises, and one midtown one, are set to add nearly $90,000 to the city’s coffers this season.

On Tuesday, City Council members voted to approve bids from Patrick McLaughlin and Adrian Nemet, Drew Haugh, William Edmunds, Todd Burbage, Steve Pittler and Spiro Buas to sell chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards, surf mats and beach-based back rests at locations from the inlet to 24th Street for the next three years. Pittler also won a bid to take over a defaulted contract to sell beach equipment on 57th, 58th and 59th streets for one year.

The measure passed 5-0 with Councilman Will Savage absent and Councilman Peter Buas abstaining.

The parcels up for grabs saw a total 24 percent increase in revenue — from $337,581 to $418,500 — compared to the last time they were bid.

According to a staff report, nine of the 14 southern parcels were auctioned off for more money, while two remained the same, and three were bid out for less. City Clerk Diana Chavis reported at Tuesday’s meeting that the auction last month had 11 participants, with contracts awarded to six of them. She said the total came out to a little more than $1 million for the entire area, which is made up of a total 34 parcels, 20 of which were

Rain no damper on Ocean City’s New Year celebrations

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) With a quick scheduling pivot to avoid a rainout, both of Ocean City’s New Year fireworks shows went off with a positive bang last weekend, creating what could be a precedence for future celebrations.

Resort officials initially planned to blast off fireworks simultaneously at midnight on New Year’s Eve at both Northside Park and downtown near the inlet. The park show was added early last month in response to pleas from north end residents. The Winterfest of Lights hours were set to be extended to 11:30 p.m. that night as well, and the downtown show was supposed to include outdoor movies and other outdoor activities.

But when Saturday’s weather forecast showed heavy rain, some of the plans changed. The downtown fireworks were moved to Jan. 1 and the movies were relocated indoors to the Performing Arts Center at the convention center, which Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, deemed the right call.

“The fireworks on … January 1st

were outstanding with a good crowd watching,” Perlozzo said in an email this week. “The last-minute move for the drive-in movies to the Performing Arts Center was lightly attended but very well received. The weather is always an ‘X’ factor and provisions by the staff, etc. were handled to allow a pivot and continued celebration.”

Up north, the schedule remained unchanged, which also worked out.

“The weather at Northside Park cleared up and things went without a problem,” Perlozzo said. “The DJ, Winterfest activities, and fireworks were all great. We received lots of comments expressing gratitude for the effort to accommodate things on NYE.”

Last weekend was not the first time outdoor activity plans were changed for weather. Throughout the last year, city officials and event promoters were forced to cancel the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the city’s Christmas parade, most of Springfest, a day of Sunfest and, possibly most notably, the inaugural three-day Oceans Calling Festival a few months ago.

This time, though, officials were

A

able to make the downtown New Year’s fireworks show happen with some effort and collaboration.

“Typically, we start with the fireworks company to see their ability to move to the date,” Perlozzo said of the process to reschedule the downtown show. “Once that occurs, we reach out to the state fire marshal for approval, our fire marshal, public works, etc. If all the approvals are in place, we reschedule all the events around all the staff available.”

The city manager and council members get the final say, he continued, and despite the challenge of the holiday weekend, everything fell into place. Perlozzo also called the move to the PAC for the movies a “blessing” that allowed families to enjoy New Year’s Eve the way they planned, but in a different location.

Perlozzo and his staff are set to discuss hosting a fireworks show at 6 p.m. on New Year’s Day downtown next year given how well it was received, and as of now they are planning to offer the Northside Park show on New Year’s Eve with weather dates in 2023.

And as the winter trudges on, tourism staff members are also fo-

cused on promoting the resort as a year-round destination.

“Our department has renewed its commitment to bring improvements, additions and modifications to things in 2023,” Perlozzo said. “Since June of 2021, our team has accepted the challenge to move the resort into a new era attracting different market segments, different media consumptions, etc. Similar to Sunfest, we believe that our Big 3 events (Winterfest, Springfest and Sunfest) will evolve more and more over time.”

Staff members are also in what Perlozzo called “recruitment mode” for new events, meetings, conventions and sporting events, along with hosting a packed schedule at the PAC throughout the winter and spring.

As of now, the major events on the off-season schedule are as follows:

• Jan. 13 – BB King Experience featuring Claudette King

• Jan. 14 – Thomas McClary’s (original founder with Lionel Richie) Commodores Experience

• Jan. 15 – The Spinners

• March 10 – Marc Roberge of OAR

• March 19 – Blippi

• April 1 – Lewis Black (Comedian)

• May 4 — Springfest

Six bidders given 15 contracts

Continued from Page 18

first-term contracts renewed for second terms.

McLaughlin will operate a total of eight stands, one with Nemet at the inlet, and the others at First, Ninth, 11th, 12th, 19th, 20th and 24th streets.

Pittler is set to operate stands at 22nd and 23rd streets along with taking over the midtown contract, which was released because of a payment default this summer. The contract saw a 70 percent increase from $10,000 per year to $17,000 with Pittler’s awarded bid.

The other owners will operate just

CROSSWORD

one stand each at their respective south end locations.

Ocean City has 70 beach franchise agreements spanning the length of the resort from the inlet to 146th Street. The owners who hold the franchises have autonomy to sell beach equipment in their respective areas and earn the contracts through a competitive bid process. The franchises are divided into three sections — south end, midtown and north end — and the contracts are staggered and bid out for three years each. Altogether, the franchises annually bring in a total more than $1.4 million.

HOROSCOPE ‘Shared Visions’ exhibit debuts Fri.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Sometimes you have to hold some things in to safeguard others from sticky situations. It can be tricky keeping secrets, but this week it is for the best.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, there are a lot of people in your corner right now who are willing to pitch in when you need help. If you encounter an obstacle, just ask for assistance.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, change your schedule or your scenery, especially if you feel like you are in a rut. All it may take is one modification to bring on an entirely new perspective.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

If a person comes to you needing a friend in the next few days, resist the urge to offer advice. Simply listen and provide companionship. This is all the person needs at the moment.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Prioritize getting your finances in order, Leo. Make this one New Year’s resolution that you maintain; otherwise, you may have financial troubles in the months to come.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

A few opportunities are coming your way in regard to your career, Virgo. Sort through all of the offers and figure out what works best for your situation.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, there is a lot of momentum around you, but for some reason you cannot find your footing. Sooner than later you’ll find your path and will be moving along.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Take charge of your priorities, Scorpio. It can be easy to get swept away in other people’s drama. Make a list of all the things you want to accomplish and start working.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, people are expecting much of you this week, especially higher-ups at work. You may need to find the motivation to keep going. The end result will be worth it.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Family time is a hot commodity for you right now, Capricorn. Even after the holidays, you have a few other events on the calendar that will bring relatives together.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

It can be difficult to let things go and trust other people. However, the free time that you’ll get will enable you to tackle other items on your to-do list, Aquarius.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

If you are thinking about going back to school or learning a new skill, this is the time to do it, Pisces. Start shopping around for programs.

(Jan. 6, 2023) First Friday celebrates a collaboration between visual artists and writers during the 10th annual “Shared Visions” exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on Jan. 6.

All are welcome to the free event that runs from 5-7 p.m.

“Shared Visions” is the annual partnership between the artists of the Art League of Ocean City and the writers who meet monthly at the Arts Center for the Writers Group headed by Ruth Wanberg-Alcorn.

The artists submitted artwork — paintings, photographs, fiber art, mosaics and mixed media — they hoped would inspire the writers, and the writers selected their inspirations and created accompanying literary works. Both sides will be on exhibit in the Thaler Gallery until Jan. 29.

“This is the 10th year for the collaboration,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It is an inspired coming-together of words and images and demonstrates the different forms of self-expression.”

On Tuesday, Jan. 17 from 6-8 p.m., the writers will read their work and discuss what inspired them about the art during a free event at the Arts Center, and the public is invited.

In January, the Galleria will feature an exhibit entitled “Force of Na-

ture,” an all-media group show that explores the power and beauty of weather.

With the rise in extreme weather events, this exhibit seeks to highlight the effects of climate change. The show judge is Raymond Ewing of Lewes, Delaware, noted plein air artist and instructor.

Sarah Hancock exhibits in Studio E in January.

Born and raised in Ocean City, she is a former Art League scholarship winner and is completing her BFA degree at Salisbury University with a focus in painting, new media, and ceramics.

“My limited exploration of art history, and philosophical beliefs of artists through the centuries, has sparked an aspiration to depict the presumably intangible,” Hancock said. “By bridging the influence and aesthetics of the past into today’s reality, I want the beholder to walk away from my work with a new sense that the physicality and materiality of the imagination is attainable, and hopefully view everyday reality with a new perception of whimsy, individuality, and curiosity.”

Cindy Strouse of Frankford, Delaware, is the Spotlight Gallery artist for January.

Originally from New Jersey, she graduated Cum Laude from Rutgers

College of Pharmacy and worked in retail pharmacy where she designed artistic store windows.

“I strive to capture emotion and serenity in my paintings and drawings of landscape, people and wildlife,” Strouse said. “Living by the ocean and on a lake, I focus my art on the subjects around where I live now.”

Her recent interest is writing and illustrating children’s books.

The staff of the Art League of Ocean City occupies the Artisan Showcase in January.

The “Staff Selections” include handmade pottery, locally-made miniature paintings, handcrafted jewelry and photography.

Featured artists include Elaine Bean, Katie Brown, Kerry Doran, Katrin Huber, Robert Johnson, Megan Burak Lowe, Kacie Neeb, Aubrey Sizemore and Thaler.

The Art League’s satellite galleries also open new shows on First Friday, with the artists present to greet guests and talk about their work.

Dale Ashera-Davis of Berlin opens at the Coffee Beanery on 94th Street and Coastal Highway for a threemonth show.

A fiber artist who uses unusual materials in her work, she incorporates commercial cottons, silks, dryer See ARTISTS Page 22

Artists, writers collaborate for ‘Shared Visions’ exhibit

lint, copper roofing sheets, and found items such as acorns and shells.

“My studio is named Red Crow Studio,” Ashera-Davis said. “What would you do if you saw a red crow? You’d want to take a second look because that is not something usually seen in nature. Just like a red crow, my work is intended to invite the viewer to step closer and take a second look.”

Don Hartman of Ocean Pines opens a three-month show in the Princess Royale lobby, 9100 Coastal Hwy.

Born in Baltimore, Don studied fine arts and photography at The Maryland Institute College of Art, and a construction job led to a career developing affordable housing.

His show at the Princess Royale is entitled “On Vacation with the Boys and Girls.”

“My inspiration for this series was a simple thought: In today’s photo sharing world through social

media and cell phones, I wondered what would happen if I transposed other worldly critters doing vacation ‘stuff’ and then sharing their own vacation snapshots … Wherever the inspiration comes from, I always paint to delight the eye and tease the mind.”

The Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th Street, is open daily until 4 p.m., and admission is always free. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-5249433.

The Art League of Ocean City is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects.

Funding for this event is in part provided by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.

Diabetes self-management education classes available

(Jan. 6, 2023) The Diabetes Outpatient Education Program at Atlantic General Hospital will be offering diabetes self-management education classes in January.

Classes will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 17 and 24, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center, 9717 Healthway Drive, in Berlin.

The series of three, three-hour sessions will address blood glucose monitoring, foot care, nutrition, exercise and other self-management skills to help individuals better manage their diabetes. A family member is invited to attend.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

President’s List

Grace Watson, a sophomore Biblical Counseling major from Berlin, was among approximately 720 Bob Jones University students named to the fall

Dining Guide

Closed Mondays. Open Tues.,-Fri. at 2 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, Carry out. Ordering online www.coinspuboc.com.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

Oceanfront and 17th St. in Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, www.coralreefrestaurant.com

parking across the street. Daily food and drink specials. Live entertainment 6 nights a week. Lots of pool tables. Liquor store attached. Game room. 30+ drafts on tap. Dine in or carry out.

The program is recognized by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) for quality education, and program staff includes a registered nurse and a registered dietitian, both of whom are certified diabetes care and education specialists.

Advance registration and a referral from your primary care provider (which the program can obtain) are required.

Diabetes Self-Management is a Medicare benefit and the cost of the classes is also covered by many insurances.

Call 410-208-9761 for more information and to register.

2022 President’s List.

The President’s List recognizes students who earn a 3.75 or higher grade point average for the semester at the school, located in Greenville, South Carolina.

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Serving daily small plates, soups, salads, sandwiches, fried rice, entrees and desserts. Also, Nori’s premium rolls, nigiri and sashimi, hand-roll combos. Full bar with wine, beer and cocktails. Inside dining and take out, 7 days a week, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Delivery via Door Dash Online.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside

The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-289-7192, www.captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Visit Captain’s Table for seafood, steaks, lobster specials and martinis. Open for breakfast and dinner every day; Happy hour, seven days a week 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Breakfast, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Dinner, Sunday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

■ COASTAL SALT

16th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-973-7258, www.coastalsaltoc.com

$$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

New American restaurant. Local seafood. Friday Dec. 23 through Sunday Dec. 25.; Closed. Monday Dec. 26 through Thursday Dec. 29; Open at 11 a.m., No breakfast. During these dates we will be doing customer appreciation. It is 25% off your entire check, includes everything. Friday Dec. 30 through Jan. 1; Open at 8 a.m., w/breakfast. NYE reservation time slots: 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m., 8:30 p.m.

■

COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Closed and will reopen Friday Jan. 13th. American style local restaraunt serving seafood, steaks, and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; Tues. through Sat, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Happy Hour; Tues through Sat, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials.

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore with a Caribbean flare; Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring specialty rums; Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Happy hour drink specials and $10 eats, Everyday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

Caroline St, Wicomico St. & South Division St. on the boardwalk, Ocean City www.dumsersdairyland.com

Ice cream made daily. Stop by any Dumser’s location for homemade ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, floats and much more.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

15th Street @ Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-861, PapisTacoJoint.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Try the new Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Mon. to Fri.; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sat. & Sun.; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. With a family atmosphere you can enjoy build your own street taco’s with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsas. Serving foods such as little cravings, Papi’s trio guacamole, Queso Fundido and choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus.

Happy Hour: Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in, or order online for your carryout and delivery by Door Dash. Catering is available.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-289-4891, www.picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open daily. Serving food until 1 a.m. Free

■ 32 PALM

Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

All day dining featuring breakfast, brunch, and dinner; Serving shareables, lighter fare, a wide selection of bourbons; Weekend brunch, Saturday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Happy hour, every day, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFE

6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-6445639, www.longboardcafe.net Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surfthemed setting with weekly specials. Featuring burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more. Open 11 a.m to 9 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. Dine-in and curbside pick-up.

■ MARLIN MOON

Located in the Double Tree Hotel, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-1201, www.marlinmoonocmd.com |$$

Open daily for breakfast, lite fare, and dinner; Happy hour, Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters; Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Lite fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Monday-Wednesday, 4 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets

■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL

Inside the Gold Coast Mall, 11403 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-880-6258

■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT PIZZERIA

Inside the Gold Coast Mall, 11405 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 410-723-5188

$$ | Kids’ menu

Appetizers, salads, subs, soup of the day. Specialty pizzas, calzones and low-carb alternatives, Italian entrées. A la carte fresh vegetables, homemade desserts. Open daily, 11:30 a.m. Call for take-out or delivery by Door Dash and Uber Eats.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ COASTAL SMOKEHOUSE

12513 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 410-390-5998, coastalsmokehouse.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar with 18 TVs

Steak and barbecue experts. Menu reflects nation's hottest barbecue destinations. Top-notch bourbon list. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro

12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

Authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. Dine-in and carry out. Lunch specials, dinner and light fare. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m-9:30 p.m. and FridaySaturday, 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

■ OC EATERIES

12849 Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50), West Ocean City 443-252-3700, oceateriesmaryland.com

$-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Market-style food destination with table service. Seven restaurants offering brick oven pizza, wings, street tacos, cheesy mac, loaded potatoes. Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. with food and drink specials. Live entertainment, Thursday through Saturday evenings. Indoor and outdoor seating.

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

MIDTOWN 29th to 90th streets

Amy Mike of Ocean Pines wins cancer society raffle

(Jan. 6, 2023) For 23 years, MileOne Autogroup has donated a vehicle to the American Cancer Society (ACS) to raffle off to raise funds to fight cancer.

This year’s raffle was for a 2022 BMW X1, or the winner could choose $20,000 in cash.

Amy Mike of Ocean Pines won and chose the $20,000 cash option. She purchased her raffle ticket at the Holiday Wrappings Luncheon and Fashion Show earlier this month at the convention center in Ocean City, which she has attended for several years. She is also an ACS supporter.

Raffle tickets were available at $10 each. The 2022 winning ticket was drawn on Dec. 7 at Hall | MileOne Autogroup in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

A total of 12,801 raffle tickets were sold in the region that included Maryland, Greater Washington, DC, and Virginia.

More than 600 tickets were sold in the Ocean City area, including at the annual Holiday Wrappings Luncheon and Fashion Show fundraiser for the American Cancer Society that took place on Dec. 6. The event raised $100,000 for pediatric cancer research.

Over more than two decades, MileOne Autogroup has raised more than $4.5 million for ACS, providing free rides to cancer treatment for patients and supporting American Cancer Society-funded cancer research.

MileOne’s commitment to the nonprofit community extends beyond the partnership with ACS as it now includes its new philanthropic program, MileOneCares.

This program is committed to creating meaningful partnerships with those who are making lives better, with a focus on access to safe transportation and strengthening local communities.

MileOne Autogroup and MileOneCares have:

Funded 10,200 free rides to treatment for local cancer patients through the ACS Road to Recovery program.

In addition, endowed one of the ACS Hope Lodge Baltimore guest rooms and donated two transportation vans to Hope Lodge that provide free transportation to and from treatment for Hope Lodge guests who have traveled to Baltimore for the best possible cancer treatment and stay for free.

These vans have driven more than 100,000 miles transporting cancer patients. One van is specially equipped with wheelchair access.

Many Hope Lodge Baltimore guests come from the Eastern Shore of Maryland to Baltimore for cancer treatment. MileOne also pledged $260,000 for a guest services welcome suite at the future, reimagined 30 percent larger Hope Lodge Baltimore for which plans are underway.

The car raffle was established by former MileOne Automotive CEO Jerry Fader, who lost his battle with cancer in 2011.

His legacy has been preserved by his family and three sons, Steve, Scott and Brian Fader. Through their efforts and with the help of MileOne Autogroup and its employees, they continue to support the American Cancer Society.

NOW PLAYING

PICKLE’S PUB

FULL CIRCLE DUO

Seacrets: Thur., Jan. 12, 5 to 9 p.m.

706 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, 410-289-4891 / picklesoc.com

Jan. 6: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 7: Crush, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 8: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 9: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 10: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 11: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 12: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

SEACRETS

49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com

Jan. 6: High Five Swan Dive, 6 to 10 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 7 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Jan. 7: Jimi Milligan Duo, 5 to 9 p.m.; Dj Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Shake, Shake, Shake, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 8: Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Jan. 12: Full Circle Duo, 5 to 9 p.m.

CHESS/TAFL

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9:30 a.m. Come to the library and bring your boards. Also learn the exciting game of Hnefatafl, and old strategy game. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME: ALL ABOUT ME!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Come by for a time for you and your teeny tiny. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 2 years and younger. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Join the group for a short structured activity and then socialize and play with other homeschool families. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OPENING RECEPTION FOR 10TH ANNUAL ‘SHARED VISIONS’ EXHIBIT

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 57 p.m. Featuring a collaboration between artists and writers. On display until Jan. 29. Satellite receptions held at the Coffee Beanery, 94th Street and Princess Royale lobby, 91st Street. 410-524-9433

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS #9053 ‘BINGO FOR BABIES’

Knights of Columbus - Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Doors open at 5 p.m., games begin at 6:30 p.m. Cash prizes. Play every game for $25. Refreshments offered for sale. Proceeds benefit the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health. 410-524-7994

ANNUAL CASH BINGO

Bishopville Volunteer Fire, 10709 Bishopville Road. Doors open at 5 p.m., early birds begin at 5:45 p.m. Four early bird games, 20 reg. cash games, 2 specials, jackpot, 50/50. Cost is $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Reservations: 619-922-9950.

THE OCEAN PINES CHILDREN’S THEATER PRODUCTION OF ‘DISNEY’S MOANA, JR.THE MUSICAL’

Performing Arts Center at Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7 p.m. Featuring the beloved songs of Disney’s animated film. Tickets cost $15 at https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com/upcoming-events or Convention Welcome Center. www.facebook.com/opchildrenstheater.

Sat., Jan. 7

FREE FAMILY ART DAY

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 10 a.m.-noon. Create a bird house painting. For children and their adults. Register: https://reg131.imperisoft.com/ArtLeague

OfOceanCity/ProgramDetail/363237373 4/Registration.aspx. 410-524-9433

GENEALOGY HELP

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10 a.m.noon. The local history librarian will be on hand to help participants with finding their roots. By appointment only: 410632-3495. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRST SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIENDS OF JOE SMOOTH PRESENT ‘SMOOTHFEST’

Bourbon St. on the Beach Restaurant, 12601 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, noon. Live music and happy hour prices all day, 50/50 raffles and silent and Chinese auctions. Donations of $25 collected at the door. All proceeds go to Joe’s unexpected medical bills.

FAVORITE DISNEY SONGS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Enjoy memorable Disney songs with Notes on the Beach. For both children and adults to listen and sing along. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

THE OCEAN PINES CHILDREN’S THEATER PRODUCTION OF ‘DISNEY’S MOANA, JR.THE MUSICAL’

Performing Arts Center at Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 3 p.m. Featuring the beloved songs of Disney’s animated film. Tickets cost $15 at https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com/upcoming-events or Convention Welcome Center. www.facebook.com/opchildrenstheater.

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays until Feb. 25 - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., Jan. 8

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org

Mon., Jan. 9

STORY TIME ‘SNOWFLAKES’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Stories, a symmetry activity, songs and crafts all about snowflakes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcester-

library.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEGINNERS ON BROADWAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Join Mr. Jake for some fun, interactive workshops to help participants make their way to the stage. Recommended for ages 7 years and older. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under “Events.” 410-208-4014

MONDAY MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Missed it in theaters? Catch a recent movie you might have intended to see. Free event. Movie details: www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014.

WINTER SEA GLASS ART

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3 p.m. Learn how to make winter-themed sea glass art. All supplies included. Limit 15. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 56:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157

SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring songs you are working on to the open collaborative. Talk through competitive issue with other songwriters. All genres welcome. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DUSTIN PARI: THE MAGICAL MYSTERY BOX

Held virtually, 7 p.m. Driven by audience participation and seemingly random items and stories from Dustin’s experiences, this lecture is a proven crowd favorite. Registration required: 443-783-6164.

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.

Tues., Jan. 10

STORY TIME ‘COLD WEATHER STORIES’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. Take-home activity included. For ages 2-5 years. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Join the group for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHAIR YOGA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Join yoga instructor Nicole Long as she stretches and de-stresses using a safe and gentle method. Limit 20. Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Group provides discussions and education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Kay Kinnikin, 410-6414765, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org

BEACH HEROES-OC

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

DELMARVA DANCING

Tuesdays - Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173, 13324 Worcester Highway, Bishopville, 5:30-9 p.m. Dance to the sounds of the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and more. A $5 donation benefits Veterans and local charities. All are welcome. Charlie, 410-465-0445

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight

Curriculum Coordinator

The Curriculum Coordinator will be responsible for organizing, implementing, and supervising curricula and educational programs. The Curriculum Coordinator will examine the current course offerings and work closely with department chairs to ensure the Worcester Preparatory School is maintaining the highest quality curriculum in order to meet its college preparatory mission.

The applicant must have a master's degree or higher, preferably in administration, supervision, or curriculum and instruction. A minimum of 5 years teaching experience, ideally in an independent school, is required. Employee must be legally qualified to work in the United States. Employees must pass a background check.

Worcester Preparatory School is a Pre-K-12 independent school located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, just miles from the resort town of Ocean City. Founded in 1970, Worcester Prep has a proud history of providing a rigorous and high-quality college preparatory education to students from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.

Apply to Linda Watson at lwatson@worcesterprep.org or mail applications to Linda Watson, 508 S. Main St., Berlin, MD 21811

Small Engine Mechanic. Year-round. Competitive wages. 443-754-1047

Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

ROOMMATES

Seeking RoommateBayview Estates, Selbyville. 5.7 miles to beach. Includes utilities & internet. Shared kitchen, W/D, living room, outdoor space, POOL. VERY CLEAN. $850/month. 302-448-5516

50+. No smoking/no vaping. 3 Bdrm Townhouse in OP. Walking distance to Yacht Club. 1 bdrm, w/balcony, $600/mo. 1 bdrm no balcony, $550/mo. Renter pays 1/3 utilities. Must have Renters’ insurance. Owner has 1 cat and 1 dog. 410-600-5069

ROOMMATE NEEDED 1BR. 94th St. Bayside. Nonsmoker. Must love dogs. $200/week plus utilities. Year round or Winter rental negotiable. Hot tub access. Text 410-726-5200, difficult to answer calls.

COMMERCIAL

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Each are approximately 1600 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065. MOVING

SALE

Moving/Garage Sale. Indoors. Friday, January 6 & Saturday, January 7. 57 Wood Duck Dr., Ocean Pines. 8am-2pm.

FOR SALE

Prepare for

SERVICES

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258

HOME

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 877-738-0991.

MISC. FOR SALE

DISH Network. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-855407-6870

REAL ESTATE WANTED

Wanted to Lease +/- 25 acres for solar farm, $75,000+ /yr. Call to qualify (443) 926-9069.

VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

WANTED TO BUY

TOP CA$H PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. 888-491-4534

PAYING TOP CA$H FOR MEN'S SPORT WATCHES! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 844-5063622. Deadline is

CALENDAR

loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

Wed., Jan. 11

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Held via Zoom, on the first and second Wednesdays of each month, for non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatrics Center, 410-641-9568.

THE GRACE PARKER BREAKFAST

First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7 a.m.-noon. Join old friends, new friends, neighbors and colleagues for a hearty breakfast and fellowship. Dine-in cost is $12 and includes one re-order. Take-out cost is $10.

CREATIVE KIDS CORNER

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.6 p.m. Come create a winter craft at the library or take it to go. Most supplies included. For ages 4 years and older. 410-

524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN CITY AARP CHAPTER 1917 MEETING

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Refreshments served at 9:30 a.m. The guest speaker will discuss diabetes. New members welcome. Bob McCluskey, 410-250-0980

JUNK JOURNALING WITH VICTORIA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Learn how to create “vintage” pages from copier paper, embellish junk-mail envelopes, sew signatures into book covers and more. Registration required: 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

MINDFULNESS THROUGH DRAWING

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Find mindfulness through bilateral drawing. Finger-paints and pastels will be used, dress accordingly. Registration required: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

ADDICTION/RECOVERY BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘HEROIN: THE RIPPLE EFFECT’ BY TIM WEBER

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Wendy Nargiz from the Maryland Coalition of Families will facilitate this discussion. Copies available at the Berlin branch front desk. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE KNITTING/CROCHET GROUP

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 10 a.m.-noon. Free knitting/crochet group. Make items to support Coastal Hospice including twiddle muffs and blankets. Donated yarn will be used. Led by Maggie Miller. 410-524-9433

STEM THURSDAYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.6 p.m. Use your creativity and build using one of the library’s STEM building kits. For ages 4 years and older. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Featuring a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

will be new Worcester County Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori. Reservations: gopwomenofwc@gmail.com.

ZUMBA FOR ALL

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join certified Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH SINGLES-55 PLUS

Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. Info: 302-436-9577 or BeachSingles.org

ONGOING EVENTS

TOWN OF BERLIN RESTAURANT WEEK

MUSIC

& MOVEMENT: WALKING IN A WINTER

WONDERLAND

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Time to get warm and share those sillies out. Music and movement program for children ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

REPUBLICAN WOMEN OF WORCESTER COUNTY LUNCHEON MEETING

Ocean City Golf Club, 11401 Country Club Drive, Berlin. Doors open at 10:30 a.m, meeting begins at 11 a.m. Guest speakers

Held Jan. 9-15. Dine 3 times at participating restaurants for a chance to win restaurant gift cards and $100. Pick up an entry card at The Berlin Welcome Center, get it stamped each time you dine (at least 3 times), then drop it in the Entry Box. Random drawing for the winner.

https://www.facebook.com/events/348 0149592206136/?acontext=%7B%22eve nt_action_history%22%3A%5B%7B%22 mechanism%22%3A%22calendar_tab_e vent%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bo okmark_calendar%22%7D%5D%2C%22 ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

44 NOTTINGHAM LN.

OCEAN

PINES A/R/T/A BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated November 28, 2007, recorded in Liber 5040, Folio 53 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $280,500.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

JANUARY 24, 2023 AT 4:05 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $13,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining

physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest.

BIDDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO FOLLOW CDC GUIDANCE AND WEAR A COVER OVER BOTH NOSE AND MOUTH AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AT THE AUCTION. (Matter No. 356697-1)

PLEASE CONSULT WWW.ALEXCOOPER.COM FOR STATUS OF UPCOMING SALES

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees OCD-1/5/3t

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

415-A 146TH ST

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Shana E. Meyers, dated April 10, 2019 and recorded in Liber 7406, folio 114 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

The property, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, encumbrances and agreements of record affecting the subject property, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $19,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within fifteen (15) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within fifteen days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit to the purchaser. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #21-600671).

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees

ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1099 WINTERSON ROAD SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

12386 BACK CREEK ROAD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Martin A. Furst, and Jennifer Furst, dated May 22, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4712, Folio 695 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $156,394.64, and an original interest rate of 4.500%, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

January 10, 2023, AT 4:00 PM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $14,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash will be accepted) is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the note rate from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees. In the event settlement is delayed for any reason, there shall be no abatement of interest. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, or front foot benefit payments, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction, unless the purchaser is the foreclosing lender or its designee. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Pur-

chaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated, or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of his deposit without interest. Richard E. Solomon, Richard J. Rogers, Michael McKeefery, Christianna Kersey, Kevin Hildebeidel, Kyle Blackstone, and Kathleen Young, Substitute Trustees E.T. Newell & Co, Inc. 912 E. 25th Street, Baltimore MD 21218 410-366-5555 www.melnicknewell.com OCD-12/22/3t _________________________________

BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS

THEREON

216 CARSONS CT. POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated October 30, 2006, recorded in Liber 4815, Folio 499 among the Land

Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $171,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

JANUARY 10, 2023 AT 4:05 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $8,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus

proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. BIDDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO FOLLOW CDC GUIDANCE AND WEAR A COVER OVER BOTH NOSE AND MOUTH AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AT THE AUCTION. (Matter No. 175988-4)

PLEASE CONSULT WWW.ALEXCOOPER.COM FOR STATUS OF UPCOMING SALES

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees OCD-12/22/3t

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE J GALKUS AKA: GEORGE J GALKAS Estate No. 19492 Notice is given that CULLEN M BURKE whose address is 6500 COASTAL HWY #E OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on DECEMBER 14, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE J GALKUS who died on JANUARY 9, 1981 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 14th day of JUNE, 2023

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

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

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

unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/22/3t

THORNTON MELLON LLC Plaintiff, v. CAROL ANN DRYDEN ROSS & WILLIAM R ROSS JR ESTATE OF WILLIAM ROBERT ROSS JR Worcester County, Maryland Occupant Unknown Owners

ALL OTHER PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY 2033 WILDWOOD TRL, POCOMOKE, MD 21851, Parcel No. 07-004354

ANY UNKNOWN OWNER OF THE PROPERTY 2033 WILDWOOD TRL, POCOMOKE, MD 21851, Parcel No. 07-004354, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest Defendants.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR Worcester County CASE NO.: C-23-CV-22-000266

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property Parcel Identification Number 07004354 in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the plaintiff in this proceeding: LOT 1 1.191 ACS WILDWOODS

TRAIL PL WILDWOODS

The complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is thereupon this 16th of December, 2022, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for 3 successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 17th day of February, 2023, and redeem the property with Parcel Identification Number 07-004354 and answer the complaint or thereafler a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Worcester County Ciruit Court

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court

Worcester County MD

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19473

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KAREN HUDES SPERGEL

AKA: KAREN ALEXANDRA HUDES

Notice is given that Barry Alexander Spergel, 5203 Falmouth Road, Bethesda, MD 20816, was on December 15, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Karen Hudes Spergel who died on October 27, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of June, 2023.

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

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

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

died on July 5, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of June, 2023.

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

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

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

Carole Jeanne Spurrier 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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: December 22, 2022

OCD-12/22/3t _________________________________

Trust, requesting a special exception to allow a minor subdivision in the RP Resource Protection District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-215(c)(3) & ZS 1-311, located on the west side of Whitesburg road about 400 feet south of Old Beech Road, Tax Map 61, Parcel 4, Tax District 7, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 23-5, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, on the lands of Chateau 84 LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback off of a minor collector highway from 50 feet to 34 feet (to encroach 16 feet) for a proposed dwelling in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) & ZS 1-305, Located on the north side of Old Bridge Road about 100 feet east of Martha’s Landing Drive, Tax Map 27, Parcel 241, Lot 9, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

Administrative Matters OCD-12/29/2t

CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC 100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MELVIN VICTOR ROSS AKA: MELVIN VICTOR ROSS JR Estate No. 19500 Notice is given that BARBARA ANN ROSS whose address is 11645 MANKLIN CREEK ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 was on DECEMBER 20, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MELVIN VICTOR ROSS who died on NOVEMBER 10, 2022 with a will.

MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/29/3t

NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 23-02 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 23-02 (Electrical Standards) was introduced by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on December 20, 2022.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

Building Regulations Article, Title 2 – Construction Regulations, Subtitle II. (Repeals and reenacts this Subtitle for consistency with the Maryland Electricians Act as revised and adopted by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions.)

A Public Hearing

will be held on Bill 23-02 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-12/29/2t _________________________________

Barry

Alexander Spergel 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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: December 22, 2022 OCD-12/22/3t

CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ

MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC

100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19495

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GREGORY RONALD SPURRIER

Notice is given that Carole Jeanne Spurrier, 10315 Quarter Deck Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, was on December 15, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gregory Ronald Spurrier who

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY JANUARY 12, 2023

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 p.m. Case No. 23-3, on the lands of Mark Solito, requesting a variance to the left side yard setback from 10 feet to 8 feet (to encroach 2 feet) & a rear yard variance from 25 feet to 19.5 feet (to encroach 5.5 feet) for a proposed 2nd story deck in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-205(b)(2) & ZS 1-305 located at 11464 Maid at Arms Lane, Tax Map 26, Parcel 1, Lot 48, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 23-4, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, on the lands of Jane R. Corcoran Revocable

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of JUNE, 2023

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

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

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

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

NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 23-01 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 23-01 (Emergency Services – General Provisions) was introduced by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on December 20, 2022.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

§ PS 6-101(e). (Amends the PublicSafety Article to include a provision for the naming of a private lane and installation of signage when it is to be served by three or more buildable lots, and clarifying the responsible party for any costs associated with the provisions of this section.)

A Public Hearing

will be held on Bill 23-01 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County

Government Center outside Room 1103, and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-12/29/2t

being located at 315 136TH ST Parcel # 9843A-14 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Richard Greger

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 23-007 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 40’ channelward of existing bulkhead; channelward distance not to exceed existing mooring piles. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 417 14TH ST UNIT 62 Parcel # 3486 -62 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Robert T. Osborne

NOTICE OF

PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106, ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, January 12, 2023

At 2:00 p.m.

PW 22-139 A request has been submitted to install one 4’ x 24’ pier and one boat lift with four associated poles a maximum channelward extension of 24’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 779 94TH ST Parcel # 9626 -779 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Adam Ramos

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 23-004 A request has been submitted to remove existing boat lift and reinstall 14’ south of existing placement of parallel pier not to exceed 17’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 10614

POINT LOOKOUT RD Parcel # 1727A-38 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Amandio Morais

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 23-005 A request has been submitted to install seven temporary mooring buoys (Sub -Moor T3C buoys, 18” in diameter, 100 lb. buoyancy in white w/reflective taping) a maximum channelward extension of 50’ at seven specific sites in Assawoman Bay. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 4501 COASTAL HWY Parcel # 7011 -4-0 -0113768957 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Aloft Hotel t/a Hotel at 45 LLC

APPLICANT: Kristina L. Watkowski

PW 23-006 A request has been submitted to install a 3’ x 40’ platform and one boat lift with associated poles, maximum channelward extension of 15’. The site of the proposed construction is described as

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 23-008 A request has been submitted install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 35’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 415 14TH ST UNIT 53 – Slip 50 - Parcel # 3486 -53 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Douglas & Lisa Colonell

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 23-009 A request has been submitted to install one double PWC lift with associated pilings a maximum of 40’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 3603 N CANAL ST SLIP 203 Parcel # 4326 -203 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Patrick & Melissa John

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 23-010 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with six associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 28’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2001 HERRING WAY UNIT B Parcel # 3269 -125 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ryan Daubert

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC OCD-12/29/2t

tion 110-93(3) and 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to allow existing egress stairs and landing to remain with a 0’ setback in the required 5’ side yard; and requesting a special yard exception to turn the configuration of the steps that now encroach onto Lots 19 and 20, with an easement, to be oriented in the same manner as the existing stairs and landing, providing a 0’ setback. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 1, Block 12, Section 1B of the Caine Woods Plat; further described as located on the south side of S. Surf Road, and known locally as 503 S. Surf Road, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, ATTORNEY FOR ALEKSEJS BUINOVSKIS & DENISS KLIMINS – (BZA 2639 #22-09500013) at 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3) and (2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the following provisions: In accordance with Section 11095(1)(a), requesting (1) a variance to the 10’ separation between structures to provide a minimum of 5.8’ between the subject dwelling and the dwelling to the south; and (2) a variance to allow the front yard setback to be 2.8’ instead of 5’ as required by Code. Also, the applicant requests special exceptions: (1) in accordance with Section 110-94(2)(b) to waive one (1) parking space and provide one parking space; and (2) in accordance with Section 110-94(3)(a) to allow the existing .9’ side yard setback to be extended to allow the new home to be built with the same encroachment. The site of the appeal is described as Lot AA-8 and S59-60, Bay Front Lane, of the Isle of Wight Trailer Park Plat; further described as located on the west side of Bay Front Lane, and locally known as 2415 Bay Front Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: KAREN ROWLEY FOR KATHY KONJUSKY – (BZA 2640 #22-09500014)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-12/29/2t

ter County Courthouse, One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 02/07/2023 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 01/05/2023

OCD-1/5/2t

JAMES E. CLUBB JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH ST. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19423

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WANDA JEAN COHEN

Notice is given that Corey Rimel, 9927 Stephen Decatur Highway, #G13, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on December 30, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wanda Jean Cohen who died on October 9, 2021, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of June, 2023.

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

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Sec-

IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: MARY AGNES FINCH ESTATE NO. 19505

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Thomas J. Kokolis, 110 North Washington Street, Suite 500, Rockville, MD 20850 for the appointment of a personal representative.

A hearing will be held at Worces-

(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.

Corey Rimel 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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication:

BID NOTICE

Vehicle Vending Franchise

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Chapter 39, Article VII, entitled Vehicle Vending, Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, the Mayor and City Council will accept sealed bids for a vehicle vending franchise operator. This franchise allows vending prepared, pre-packaged food from a motorized vehicle to operate on certain public ways of Ocean City. Bidders are subject to all conditions, terms and provisions set forth in Chapter 39 of the City Code, copies of which may be obtained at the City Clerk’s Office. Bids shall be submitted in accordance with the conditions and provisions herein.

1. The franchise will be for a term of four (4) years. The 4-year term includes the summer of 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 with a contract expiration date of December 31, 2026.

2. There shall be only one franchise and franchise operator. Such franchise and operator are limited to a maximum of six (6) trucks or vehi-

cles, which must be motorized and must meet all standards of the State Health Department.

3. Bids must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office n no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, February 13. Bids shall be opened at the 1:00 p.m. Work Session on Tuesday, February 14. Bids must be submitted on a bid form provided in the bid packet, placed in a sealed envelope, and marked “Vehicle Vending Franchise Bid.” Bid packets are available on the Procurement and City Clerk webpage at oceancitymd.gov or upon request by emailing the City Clerk at dchavis@oceancitymd.gov.

4. The bid shall be accompanied by a cashier’s or certified check in the amount of eighty percent (80%) of the first year’s bid amount.

5. The bid shall be awarded to the highest bidder, except that, should the Council determine there are irregularities in such bidding, the Council may reject such bids as it deems appropriate and postpone the awarding of bids if it so desires. In the event of tie bids, the first in time received shall be deemed the successful bid. Credit, bank and personal references will be verified. Industry experience may also be taken into consideration.

6. For the protection of the public and the Mayor and City Council, the successful bidder must obtain, at the operator’s own expense, comprehensive automobile liability insurance coverage in at least the amount of

$1,000,000.00 per person and $2,000,000.00 per occurrence for bodily injury and $200,000.00 for property damage and comprehensive general liability insurance, with a combined single limit of $2,000,000.00 for both bodily injury and property damage, which shall include product liability insurance in the amount of at least $1,000,000.00. Such insurance coverage shall name the Mayor and City Council as additional insured, and a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage shall be furnished to the Mayor and City Council by the operator and be approved by the City Clerk before the operator engages in the selling of food items from any public way.

Submit bid to:

VEHICLE VENDING FRANCHISE BID

Town of Ocean City City Hall

Attn: City Clerk

301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Questions can be directed to City Clerk Diana Chavis at 410-2898842.

OCD-1/5/2t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of D DEBORAH S. WILSON Estate No. 1 19507 Notice is given that

KIMBERLY WILSON whose address is. 2 FEDERAL HILL, BELRIN, MD 21811 was on D DECEMBER 29, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of D DEBORAH S. WILSON who died on N NOVEMBER 25, 2022 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2 29th day of J JUNE, 2023.

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

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

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

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

OCD-1/5/3t

TOWN OF BERLIN NOTICE

OF A PUBLIC HEARING FOR ORDINANCE 2023-01 AMENDING CHAPTER 22, PARKS AND RECREATION

Article III, Section 22-48, Hours, and Section 22-49, Rules and Regulations to permit the Henry Park Basketball Courts to remain open past sunset and to a time to be determined.

The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berlin will hold a first reading on Monday, January 9, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. and hold a public hearing on Monday, January 23, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Berlin Town Hall Council Chambers, 10 William Street, regarding Ordinance 2023-01. A copy of the proposed Ordinance will be available in the Mayor and Council Packet on the Town website, www.berlinmd.gov or can be emailed or mailed to you upon request, please call 410-641-2770 or email info@berlinmd.gov to request a copy for inspection. OCD-1/5/2t

Winterfest attendance strong in ’22

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) Another year of Winterfest is complete and the majority opinion still seems to indicate that the new walking path layout is an improvement over the tram rides of yore, though it came at a small price this year.

Over the event’s six weeks, 104,543 people showed up, but gross revenue came in at 3 percent under last year’s $614,747, according to Ocean City Special Events Director Frank Miller.

“I attribute that to a couple of things,” Miller explained. “One, we’re getting a lot more kids (and patrons under 12 get in free). We’re getting younger families in. Two, I think some of my older patrons (are staying home) because of the walking path. I think that’s played a role.”

He pointed out, though, that attendance did not take a hit from 2021 to 2022, and online ticket sales accounted for a little more than 45 percent of the overall sales.

“(That’s) a big positive,” Miller said, “seeing an increase of people buying in advance versus waiting until they get there.”

Like most years past, Black Friday weekend was the busiest three-day period, followed by the days before New Year’s Eve — perhaps due to the enjoyable weather before the rain on Dec. 31, Miller speculated — and the Dec. 9 to Dec. 11 came in third.

The busiest day overall was Saturday,

Nov. 26.

At times, inclement weather posed a challenge this year.

“Of course, we had frigid cold affect us as well as windy days,” Miller said. “Three days we had to shut down because of the weather. Out of every negative, there’s a positive though. We learned things we’ll apply moving forward into next year, specifically the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. We’ll evaluate if we should be open seven days a week.

“But there are a lot of variables we

must look at before we can do anything like that.”

Though the worst of covid is in the rear-view mirror, Miller said his team is still trying to restore Winterfest to its preCovid success. He envisions more space to work with in the future, citing the much-larger Winterfest Pavilion this year and enlarging it even more in the future.

“We’re looking to make some modifications to the event and continue discussions with other entities in and around

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LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Winterfest drew nearly 105,000 attendees in 2022, a slight uptick from 2021. Ocean City Special Events Director Frank Miller said the new changes continue to receive positive reviews and his team is still thinking up ways to continue improving the town’s holiday offerings, possibly including more Winterfest growth.

Real Estate report: sales in ’22 give insight into market’s trend directions

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) The year 2022 was a year in which we saw a shift in the real estate market: increasing mortgage rates, reduction in the volume of sales, but no increase in inventory resulting in prices remaining strong.

Here’s an “at-a-glance” recap of some of the various market stats.

• The average sales prices varied monthly throughout the year, but May had the highest sales price average increase year over year for Worcester County at a 22.8 percent increase and a $463,563 sales price average. November was the second highest at 17.6 percent higher than 2021 figures, and a sales price average at $495,145.

• The months of inventory reported figure for January 2022 showed Worcester County was at a record low of 1.1 months, compared to the same time in 2021 where the months of inventory average was 1.8.

Current statistics show we are sitting at 3.2 months in 2023.

• For the month of November, in 2021 there were 339 active listings and in 2022 there were 324 active listings. Despite those figures being close, there were 265 units sold in 2021 and only 128 units sold in 2022 in the month of November- representing a 51.8 percent decrease.

• For the month of November, inventory remained limited at 135 new listings in 2022, whereas November 2021 saw 205 new listings.

The average sold price in November 2022 was up 17.6 percent over 2021.

• As of the first week in 2023, there are only 21 total units actively listed for sale in the MLS that are direct oceanfront.

* The luxury market saw 73 homes sell in 2022, an increase from 2021 where 34 sales were over the $1 million mark.

• The majority of the luxury homes sold in 2022 had mailing addresses in the 21842 zip code of Ocean City, which saw 49 of the 73 sales, and Berlin came in second with 12 sales over the $1 million mark.

• The highest priced sale in Worcester County was for $4,050,000, and this home was a waterfront property located in Snow Hill with 345 acres and a mile of shoreline.

• As of the first week in 2023, there were only eight active homes listed under $400,000 in Ocean Pines.

In the first week of 2023, there are just 20 active homes in Ocean Pines listed for sale in the MLS.

• In 2021 Worcester County saw 82 new construction units sold and in 2022, Worcester County had an increase to 123 new construction units sold for an average price of $587,588.

– Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

Commissioners look to challenges in ’23

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) There’s plenty of work ahead for the Worcester County Commissioners in 2023 that’s sure to feature plenty of change.

Big price tags are on the horizon, including the Kirwan Commission’s imminent and unfunded Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education plan.

There are also calls to figure out “economic drivers,” as Commissioner Joe Mitrecic put it, in lieu of the now-defunct athletic complex project.

All the while, Democrat Wes Moore is set to assume the governorship in Annapolis this month.

“We’re going to have to keep an eye on that,” said Commissioner President Chip Bertino. “We have a change in administration at the governor level and so the county, we don’t know what the new governor’s objectives and priorities

are going to be as they relate to Worcester County. It’s certainly an unknown.”

Bertino stressed that he is nonetheless optimistic about dealing with all the change, pointing to the two “new, energetic and engaged” commissioners, Eric Fiori and Caryn Abbott.

“We have, I think, really good leadership with our Chief Administrative Officer Weston (Young) and Candace (Savage) as deputy. I think we have a good team in place to face these issues in a succinct and cogent way.”

But Bertino also said the county will have to keep an eye on other new members of the General Assembly.

“As I think, we’re always concerned about mandates, decisions promulgated by state legislature,” he said. “This coming term, there are additional progressive legislators who

Revenue slightly down for 2022 Winterfest

Ocean City to continue to bill Ocean City as a holiday attraction,” Miller said.

Another Christmas presentation, the first year of the large model train display at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, was also a hit, Miller said.

The display, the majority of which be-

longed to Ocean City Beach Patrol First Lt. Skip Lee’s collection — acted as a fundraiser for the OCBP.

“It did very well and it showed in my mind that those small fairly inexpensive offerings are really great attractions for showcasing the family-friendly side of Ocean City during the holiday season,”

Miller said. “Doesn’t always have to be about big and expensive. It can be about small, immersive and fun, something for the whole family.”

Miller also remarked on the teamwork that brings all of the resort’s holiday offerings together.

“The one thing about Winterfest is it

takes many town departments to come together and work as a team,” he said. “Meaning, the town has a lot of pride in what we present to our patrons. Hopefully, our guests will continue to see that for years to come because Winterfest is something that I think is truly valued as a family tradition.”

Education, project funds sought

will be coming to the state legislature. Who knows … what legislation would come down here that will negatively impact our county? We always seem to be at the bottom of the hill as things roll down. We’re having to find ways to fund some of the more, what I would consider, unnecessary mandates and decisions foisted upon us. We continue to be concerned about that.”

Speaking of the Kirwan Commission, Fiori said the mandate will be a “huge ask” for the county.

“The expose and the bearing it’ll have on our budget (is a concern),” Fiori said. “We don’t have a number yet, but it’ll be a substantial burden on the budget … As a more rural county that funds our schools significantly on the backs of our local taxpayers and state dollars, it’s a large concern and a onesize-fits-all package (for all counties and) is a large concern (for a smaller one).”

Mitrecic said that the county school system will need a “tremendous amount of money” to meet the mandate.

“That’s my main focus, the budget this year, being able to give raises and keep employees,” he said. “We have a tremendous turnover of employees. Seems every (commissioners) meeting we have employees leaving and we’re trying to hire employees in other areas. It’s a revolving door almost with the employees due to the fact that everything is so good out in the public sector. The money is flowing so much more freely out there.”

Mitrecic noted that inflation has

negated much of the raises employees were given last year, thus it’s on the commissioners to figure out a way to once again provide financial relief for the people who keep the county’s lights on.

“Hopefully we can bring them up closer to where we are as far as inflation goes and at last they’re on a level playing field,” he said.

The commissioners are also focusing on the continued pursuit of other projects, including broadband connectivity and funding solution for EMS and Fire services.

“These are priorities we established and continue to move on those fronts,” Bertino said. “Those are strong issues that are top of mind for the commissioners looking forward. We’re looking to continue ensuring that the services we provide our residents are the best they can be and that they’re consumerfriendly. We have to continue moving along those lines. We certainly have the budget process beginning in the next six weeks or so. That’ll occupy a lot of our time for the first part of the year.”

Mitrecic said that he continues to work with a committee that includes Fire and EMS officials from around the county to brainstorm new ideas.

One of the challenges they’ve identified is the diminishing incentive to pursue volunteer positions.

“The cost of emergency services throughout the county continues to rise as our volunteer groups start to diminish,” Mitrecic said. “There’s less interest in being a volunteer now. People are busy with life and they don’t have the time. The training is so much more (involved) now and there are a lot of things working against us there. So we need to find a funding source for the EMS emergency medical response throughout the county.”

An effective solution could free up a considerable amount of the budget, Mitrecic added.

Commissioner Jim Bunting said that he’s looking forward to determining where revenues will stand.

“Last year’s budget we had an increase of revenues of quite a bit, (around) $5 million or $6 million. We

See ROOM Page 36

Joe Mitrecic

Chip Bertino

Jim Bunting

Eric Fiori

placed. There is also the proposed site plan for the approved dock and walkway, w/approvals to clear some tress to allow for the walkway (permits in hand). Property is currently under Agricultural Use Assessment status w/Worcester County tax and assessment office. Property is also enrolled in the MD Department of Natural Resources Forest Stewardship Plan which allows for the low woodland tax assessment rate on the forested land (program not transferrable, but buyers may re-apply if they don't plan to build right away).

Room tax cap legislation significant priority

wound up spending that on top of the previous budget plus taking another Xamount of millions out of the general fund and funding a pretty big budget. I’m hoping we can all work together with whatever increase of revenue we have and limit our spending to that.”

One possible economic driver is the continued pursuit of a room tax cap increase legislation at the state level.

Last year, the bill stalled when it became clear that the Worcester County delegation needed the approval of its fellow code counties, or counties with commissioners, on the Eastern Shore — Kent, Caroline and Queen Anne’s — and thus would require more time.

“We never stopped doing that,” Mitrecic said. “Weston has been working with (the other counties) to get them to sign on with us so we can go

ahead and get the ability to raise the room tax a penny. That’s just what Ocean City has requested. This is what I support and if OC decides to raise the room tax a penny in the future, I would support that also, as long as they ask for it.”

Would he have the support of his fellow commissioners?

“That’s up for discussion,” said Fiori.

A lot of the legwork on room tax legislation, while in the purview of the county, must be handled by Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C) and State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) in Annapolis.

Hartman pointed out that the decision from the county commissioners will need to be unanimous to advance legislation.

“Bertino expressed some interest in talking more about it with his colleagues because of needs we’re seeing in

our county for different things,” Hartman said.

“This is not a tax increase for my constituents at all. This allows the county and city to increase room tax so our tourists are paying for the expenses — public safety, law enforcement, public works, keeping things clean, maintaining government property. This is a way to allow our tourists to pay for the expenses related to tourism. I think it’s a win for our constituents if we get this done.”

Both Hartman and Mitrecic stressed that legislation would not mandate the code counties to raise their room tax thresholds, but allow them the possibility to raise it a penny in the future if inclined.

It all comes back to the budget, Bunting said.

“The budget is the biggest thing, making sure we treat our employees, the (Worcester County) Board of Education right,” he said. “That is a big one and it’s going to be a difficult one to do possibly if the economy takes any worse dives.”

Looking at the county’s economic growth, Bunting said he’s satisfied with the northern end’s output, but he’d like to see more in the southern half.

“Ocean City can’t really stand any more people. You can’t get in there now with areas around it tied up so badly. Ocean City and the northern end are doing well and I would hope we could have some type of good business growth in the southern end (to offset it).”

So many challenges lay ahead, but Bunting said it’s not time to sound the alarm.

“I think it’s going to be a difficult year balancing everything out,” he said. “I think we will do well — we’ll work together well. I don’t think it’s doom and gloom for us. We’re going to have to be a little more fiscally responsible with our money, make sure we spend our taxpayers’ money right.”

Commissioners Ted Elder, Diana Purnell and Caryn Abbott did not return requests for comment on this story.

Pines police chief on leave amid local burglary probe

(Jan. 6, 2023) Ocean Pines Police Chief Leo Ehrisman was placed on paid administrative leave Sunday as county law enforcement authorities and the state’s attorney’s office began an investigation of a possible burglary at a department storage shed last month.

A statement from the association issued Tuesday said OPA General Manager John Viola learned on Dec. 31 of a burglary reported at the shed on Dec. 17. He, in turn, consulted with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and Office of the State’s Attorney to set up an independent investigation. According to the association’s

statement, the effort resulted in putting Ehrisman on leave as of Jan. 1 and bringing in a commander from the sheriff’s office to oversee the department and “a complete audit and inventory of the contents of the storage shed and the property room.”

The statement added that “OPA has been working with the Sheriff’s Office to implement these changes since last Friday and has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation.”

Association officials said there would be no additional comment at this time because of the ongoing criminal investigation, but did ask that anyone possessing information about the reported burglary to contact the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office at 410-632-1112.

Leo Ehrisman

Plans for replacing MSP barracks approved

Berlin location will undergo $26.8 million replacement project after state says yes

(Jan. 6, 2023) The first steps in replacing the State Police barrack in Berlin with a $26.8 million facility were approved on Dec. 21 by the state’s Board of Public Works, the Maryland Department of General Services announced last week.

The board, which consists of the

governor, comptroller and state treasurer, approved the contract for construction services to Keller Brothers Inc. in Mount Airy.

“As the lead agency for state building construction, we know the importance of delivering a quality project to our client agencies, and ultimately to the people of Maryland,” said DGS Secretary Ellington E. Churchill Jr. “By investing in the construction of a new and modern police barracks, Marylanders can be reassured that

Snow Hill man receives 16 years for child pornography

(Jan. 6, 2023) Timothy Patrick Newsome, 32, of Snow Hill, was sentenced on Dec. 9 to 16 years in prison for his conviction on four counts of distribution of child pornography, which he pled guilty to on Sept. 2.

this account back to Newsome. Days later, another cybertip was received about a Skype account that had uploaded child pornography, and this account was also traced back to Newsome.

the State Police will continue to meet their high standards for public safety and security.”

The construction, which is expected to take 550 days and consists of two phases, will work around the current barrack to prevent an interruption of services, the department’s announcement said.

Phase one will consist of site work including utilities, the demolition of the existing barrack addition, and the construction of the new portions of the barracks building.

Phase two will consist of the demolition of the existing barracks to make room for the new laboratory.

The barracks and laboratory structure will be 24,000 square feet. The garage and a radio tower will be torn down and a new 4,400 square foot service garage erected.

“This is a proud moment in Maryland State Police history and for all the current and retired, sworn and civilian members who have provided exceptional public safety services to the citizens of our state,” said Col. Woodrow W. Jones III, superintendent. “The new state-of-the-art facility will replace an aging Berlin Barrack which has served Worcester County since 1976.”

The new facility will consist of a barrack, a forensic laboratory and service garage.

New and upgraded site utilities will be constructed along with additional site improvements consisting of parking, drive aisles, pedestrian walks, security fencing and enclosures, landscaping, and an entry plaza and other work as indicated within the contract documents.

As a result, detectives executed a search warrant at Newsome’s home in Snow Hill and seized multiple electronic devices for forensic examination.

T. Newsome

The Judge Beau H. Oglesby of the Worcester County Circuit Court handed down a sentence of 40 years with 24 suspended.

Upon his release, Newsome will be on supervised probation for five years, with requirements that he register as a tier II sex offender, have no unsupervised contact with children and submit a DNA sample.

The charges originated when the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation received a referral in May 2021 from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) Cyber Tipline.

The cybertip identified a WhatsApp account having uploaded a video containing child pornography.

Investigators eventually traced

The forensic examination of those devices revealed that Newsome had distributed multiple files containing child pornography over the internet.

He was charged in July 2021 with 38 counts of distributing child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography.

Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser praised the collaborative efforts of the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Taskforce, and NCMEC, and thanked Cpl. Herrman and Det. Martin who were the primary investigators on the case.

Heiser also commended ASA Pamela Correa who prosecuted the case.

Snow Hill man arrested on robbery charges in Virginia

(Jan. 6, 2023) Maryland authorities have arrested a Snow Hill man accused in two Dec. 23 armed robberies in Accomack County, Virginia.

Charlie Oliver Ayres, 33, is being held at the Worcester County Detention Center pending extradition to Accomack County, said Accomack Sheriff Todd Wessells. An additional suspect is being sought in the incident, he said.

The armed robberies were reported at 1:57 a.m. at the Royal Farms store on Route 13 in Nelsonia, and at 9:23 p.m. at the Family Dollar

in Oak Hall, also on Route 13, Wessells said.

Officers from the Pocomoke City Police Department and Worcester County Sheriff’s Office saw the suspect vehicle, which allegedly attempted to evade and flee.

Ultimately, a K-9 unit was deployed in the suspect’s capture and Ayres was arrested, police said.

Anyone with information on this incident or any other incident is asked to contact the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office at 757-7871131 or 757-824-5666. www.oceancitytoday.com

Prominent names build foundation

By James L. Jester

Contributing Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) The Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company will, over the next year, be featuring members in a weekly column entitled “Volunteer Spotlight.” This effort, with the cooperation of Ocean City Today, will introduce your volunteer firefighters to the community they serve.

However, before we can make forward strides, it is imperative that we take a look at the past, and pay homage to the individuals who built the very foundation upon which we build today.

Just as the mighty oak grows from the lowly acorn, so too has your volunteer fire company grown from humble beginnings.

Prior to 1905, internal squabbles prevented an organized firefighting force; a devastating fire at The Oriental Hotel changed all that.

The first president was Capt. William B.S. Powell. Capt. Powell would go on to serve as the mayor of Ocean City from 1912 through 1916.

A number of mayors have filled the rolls of your volunteer fire company,

including Clifford P. Cropper, Hugh T. Cropper, Granville D. Trimper, Roland E. “Fish” Powell, and James N. “Jim” Mathias. Harry W. Kelley was an Honorary Member of the company as is the current mayor, Richard W. “Rick” Meehan.

Prominent businessmen have always held membership within the company. Al Berger (Syl-Mar Shoppe), George Conner (Hotelier, Santa Maria), Charles Elliott (Esso Service Station, real-estate development), Everett and Donald Fisher (Fisher’s Popcorn), Lloyd Jester Sr. (Jester’s Fun House), JD Quillen III (Hotelier, Surf & Sands), Angelo, Anthony, and Sam Villani (Villani Furniture Store), and Gordon Wilkins (Cork Bar) were all members who served their community through the volunteer fire company while building the town through their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Irvin C. Banium (Hotelier), Hale Harrison (Hotelier, Harrison Group Properties), and Curtis Jacobs (Minit Market) all served the volunteer fire company as Honorary Members.

Many of the family names that for generations became synonymous with Ocean City show in our history.

Family names with multi-genera-

tional members such as Bunting, Cropper, Davis, Elliott, Gibbs, Hastings, Hurley, Jarvis, Phillips, Purnell, Savage, Shaffer, Steger, and Talbot, just to name a few, all served.

Many of their posterity continue to serve to this day.

This article would not be complete without mentioning the three most important names of all — those that gave the last full measure of devotion — our Line of Duty Deaths. Ralph R. Dennis (24 July 1937), Jeffrey L. Dieter, Sr. (16 July 1983), and Leroy J. Cropper, Jr. (28 April 1995). May these brave souls continue to Rest In Peace.

We firmly believe that a healthy respect for those who came before is essential for those of us serving today. To fully understand where we came from will serve us well as we guide your volunteer fire company into the future.

I hope you enjoyed this trip down Memory Lane and invite you to watch out over the upcoming weeks and months for our new column where you will meet your Ocean City volunteer firefighters.

For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, please visit www.ocvfc.com.

Black-eyed pea hummus perfect way to start 2023

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) The holidays are over and 2023 is officially here.

Last-minute shopping and gift wrapping is finally over. Getting up at 4 a.m. sure beats 2 a.m., and my gorgeous Christmas tree has headed to its final resting place.

My gas stove is no longer rocking throughout the night.

There are no more last-minute trips to the grocery store. You would think that when one has two refrigerators, two freezers and two pantries you would have everything you need.

And I no longer have to turn down New Year’s Eve invites. I am not indulging in the ways of a recluse or sequestering myself from society, I just prefer to spend New Year’s Eve in the comforts of my home.

While we are on the subject of New Year’s, there is a particular legume that graces the menu during the holidays. Black-eyed peas are a tradition

James Jester

and it is believed they will bring good luck and prosperity.

The infamous “pea” is either adored for its unique flavor or shunned for its earthy, bitter taste. One reason black-eyed peas get a bad rap is most Americans opt for canned black-eyed peas.

Dried black-eyed peas are decadent and far superior to the canned version.

In order to achieve tasty results, we must turn to the pages of science.

There is a misconception that brining is just for meats; dried beans will also benefit from this process.

Dried beans that have not been brined have a tendency to lose their skins when subjected to heat for a significant period of time. This is not very attractive and affects the texture of the overall dish.

In addition, dried beans that have not been brined have a tendency to cook unevenly and take longer to achieve the desired state of tenderness.

According to Cook’s Illustrated, “as the beans soak, the sodium ions replace some of the calcium and magnesium ions in the skins. Because sodium ions are more weakly charged than calcium and magnesium ions, they allow more water to penetrate into the skins leading to a sifter texture.”

The other key component to brining beans is baking soda. Adding baking soda will raise the pH of the water which will help the cells in the beans to soften.

The brining formula for dried beans is 3 tablespoons of table salt and 2 teaspoons of baking soda to 2 quarts of cold water for every pound of dried beans.

When cooking dried beans, stocks or broth must be added to the water along with aromatics. If one cooks dried beans in plain water, you will end up with bland, boring beans.

Chicken stock is preferred. If one is a vegetarian, use vegetable broth.

Hummus is a popular year-round appetizer that is made from chickpeas. Chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, garlic and lemon are the basic ingredients.

Black-eyed pea hummus is made with the same ingredients. Simply replace the chickpeas with black-eyed peas. Smoked paprika and hot sauce gives the dish depth of flavor and compliments the black-eyed peas.

The new trend when making hummus is to think out of the box. Avocado, beet, pea, sweet potato, pumpkin and even chocolate hummus are the latest trends.

Homemade hummus provides one the opportunity to personalize the yummy starter to coincide with the main course. It also allows one the op-

portunity to present more interesting choices, which ultimately makes for a more memorable occasion.

The art of entertaining is predicated by your personal style and creativity. If you are a fan of hummus, you must give black-eyed pea hummus a try. It’s a scrumptious starter for the chilly months of winter. Enjoy!

Brine

3 tablespoons table salt

2 teaspoons baking soda

1-pound dried black-eyed peas

2 quarts of cold water

1. Combine ingredients in a large bowl. Brine overnight or for 12 hours. Remove any skins from the beans that have become detached. Rinse well.

Hummus

1 pound brined beans

1 stalk celery, halved 1 carrot, halved 1 small yellow onion, halved 4 large cloves garlic 8 cups chicken broth 4 cups water

3 tablespoons minced garlic in a jar 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for garnishing 2 tablespoons tahini

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon zest, plus extra for garnishing ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnishing 3 teaspoons favorite hot sauce fresh parsley for garnishing kosher salt to taste freshly ground black pepper as a garnish

1. Combine brined beans, celery, carrot, onion, garlic, chicken stock and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

It will not take long for the beans to become tender, no longer than 30 minutes. Reserve some of the cooking liquid.

2. Remove celery, carrot and onion.

3. Place beans in a medium bowl. Using a hand-held immersion blender, puree beans until fully pureed.

You may have to use a little of the cooking liquid to thin it out. This step should be done while the beans are hot for a smoother consistency.

4. Add the garlic in a jar, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, hot sauce and salt and continue to mix until smooth.

5. Place mixture in a metal sieve over a medium bowl.

Using a large spoon, press the hummus against the sieve with backand-forth strokes. This last step produces a velvety, smooth consistency.

6. Refrigerate hummus for 2 hours.

7. Garnish with olive oil, lemon zest, parsley, paprika and pepper.

8. Serve with favorite crackers, slices of toasted baguettes, or vegetables.

* Black-eyed pea hummus is a tasty addition to charcuterie and cheese boards.

Secret Ingredient – Uniqueness. “Embrace your uniqueness. Time is much too short to be living someone else’s life.”

– Kobi Yamada

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

DONATION

NEW MEMBERS

VOLUNTEER HONORS

The Art League of Ocean City held its annual Holiday Luncheon and Meeting on Jan. 8 at Fager's Island to install board of directors for 2023 and to honor volunteers. The dedicated volunteers of the Art League of Ocean city were honored at the Art League's annual luncheon at Fager's Island on Jan. 8.

COMMENDATIONS

SHOW TIME

SUPPORT

Andrea Adams and Brad Van de Meulebroecke were recently installed into the Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club. Pictured, from left, are Arlan Kinney, who sponsored Van de Meulebroecke; Van de Meulebroecke, District 7630 Governor Cliff Berg; Adams and her sponsor, Margaret Mudron. The club meets every other Wednesday at The Sterling Tavern on Main Street, Berlin. For meeting dates and time, email ocberlinrotary@gmail.com.

The First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League celebrated the 247th birthday of the United States Marine Corps on Nov. 10 at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. A highlight of the day was a $5,000 check presentation to Brian Morrison, founder of “Believe in Tomorrow,” Children’s Foundation, third from left.

The Worcester County Commissioners present commendations to members of the Worcester County 4-H Robotics Intermediate Team for taking first place in the Maryland 4-H State Robotics Challenge at the 2022 Maryland State Fair. Pictured, in front, from left, are Elianna Fiori, Riya Patel, Scott Wainwright and Nidhish Gupta; second row, team coach Mendy Fiori, Barbara Barga of the Extension Office, and team coaches Gira Patel, Amanda Wainwright and Shriya Gupta; and in back, Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Joe Mitrecic, Ted Elder, Diana Purnell and Eric Fiori.

Families and students of the Worcester Preparatory School Lower School, Pre-K through fifth grade, kicked off the holiday season with the annual holiday performance on Dec. 8. Lower School Music Director Joanie Brittingham debuted “The Star,” filled with holiday songs and dance. Playing policemen are Luca DiFebo, left, and Samuel Baker, right, and the mailman Colton Duffie.

The Ocean City Recreation and Parks receive $1,000 from the Ocean City Lions Club. Pictured, from left, are Lion J D Quillin, Director of Recreation Kate Gaddis and OC Lions President Norm Cathell. The Ocean City Lions Club was instrumental in the creation of the recreation department and both Quillin and Cathell assisted with early recreation programs.

KIWANIS BREAKFAST

Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks had a very well attended "Breakfast with the Grinch" on Dec. 3. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City always makes the pancakes and sausages. Pictured, from left, are former Kiwanian Barbara Peletier, Dave Landis, The Grinch and Mike Castoro.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

RECOGNITION

GIFT GIVING

HOLIDAY LUNCH

The Art League of Ocean City held its annual Holiday Luncheon and Meeting on Jan. 8 at Fager's Island to install board of directors for 2023 and to honor volunteers. Board members Amy and Bob Rothermel attended the event.

SPIRIT AWARD

The Ocean City Museum Society presents an annual Spirit Award, and the 2022 recipient was Joanne Guilfoil. She was presented the recognition by 2019 Spirit Award recipient, Hunter "Bunk" Mann. The Spirit Award recognizes a person or organization that has made strides in preserving Ocean City’s cultural or natural history. Preservation can be in the form of written documents, structural preservation, artistic renderings, educational material, or interpretation.

KIWANIANS HONORED

During the Dec. 14 meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City, President Bob Wolfing, center, presented awards to the November and December "Kiwanian of the Month,” Jim Spicknall, right, the club's liaison to Worcester GOLD, and John Hulit, respectively.

Winter Train Garden display at library in OC until Jan. 15

(Jan. 6, 2023) The Ocean City Branch of the Worcester County Library will host a magical Winter Train Garden through Jan. 15.

The Winter Train Garden is provided from the personal collection of train enthusiast Dennis Moore, a local resident.

Visitors of all ages will delight in interacting with buttons that activate accessories and sounds.

A scavenger hunt for young patrons will also be available.

The Winter Train Garden is open during the library’s normal operating

hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, contact the Ocean City Branch at 410-524-1818, or visit 10003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Facebook: Worcester County Maryland Library

Instagram: worcesterlibrarymd

The mission of the Worcester County Library is to promote reading, thinking, learning, and the enjoyment of the arts.

Navy veteran Chuck Schaub, second from right, was chosen as Associate of the Year by the First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League, and presented with his award at the organization’s ball, held annually to mark the birthday of the founding Marine Corps. Pictured with Schaub, from left, are Commandant Bob Broderick, and former Commandants Jim Wright Frank Del Piano.

Each Worcester Preparatory Lower School student (Pre-K through grade 5) arrived in the dining hall on Dec. 14 with a wrapped gift and handed it to Santa to distribute at Diakonia. Hundreds of gifts were donated to Diakonia’s homeless shelter in West Ocean City, which provides emergency and transitional housing, food services and counseling for their guests. Pictured is the first grade class with art teacher Rebecca Tittermary and teacher Angie Bunting.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

The Ocean Pines Children’s Theater will present “Disney’s Moana, Jr., The Musical” in the Performing Arts Center, inside the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street, Friday, Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 7 at 3 p.m.

OP youth presenting ‘Moana’ this weekend

(Jan. 6, 2023) The Ocean Pines Children’s Theater will present “Disney’s Moana, Jr., The Musical” in the Performing Arts Center, located inside the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street, Friday, Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 7 at 3 p.m. This musical adaptation of the

2016 Disney animated film is a coming-of-age story following Moana as she sets sail to save her village.

It features the beloved songs, “How Far I’ll Go,” “Shiny,” and “You’re Welcome,” composed by LinManuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina.

Tickets cost $15 and can be purchased online at https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com/upcoming-ev ents or at the Ocean City Convention Center Welcome Center, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Children’s Theater acknowledges and is grateful for the special

funding awarded by the Maryland State Arts Council and the Worcester County Arts Council.

“Disney’s Moana, Jr.” is presented through special arrangements with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.

Berlin Restaurant Week returns next week

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) Berlin’s Restaurant Week will be back for its seventh year starting on Monday as 13 area restaurants team up to show diners what the small town has to offer from the kitchen.

The event will run through the following Sunday and is expected to feature old favorites and new takes.

“Berlin Restaurant Week gives everyone the chance to taste all the best Berlin has to offer,” said town community and economic development director Ivy

Wells.

During the week, participants are encouraged to go to at least three restaurants, where they can also pick up a card to be stamped after patronizing one. Cards with three stamps can be entered into a raffle with the prize of $20 gift cards from each restaurant plus $100 donated by local Realtor and Berlin Restaurant Week founder Cam Bunting.

“I try to encourage everybody to try different things, see if they can get people to enjoy something different that they didn’t know they’d be interested in,” she said. “Others, smaller restaurants, usually try to do what (worked) the previous year.”

Bunting said she got the idea for the annual culinary event while she and her daughter were in Bethesda, where they saw that city holding its own restaurant week.

“I thought that would be a great thing for Berlin to do because we have some great restaurants,” she said. “It’s a slower time of the year and people are looking for things to do so people can come here, try the restaurants we have.”

Over its seven years of life, Restaurant Week has gained popularity. Burning said that it’s not uncommon for people to ask her about the next one.

“I get a lot of encouragement from people who want to come to the restaurants. Of course, it’s nice with the $20 gift card.”

Bunting added that she throws in the $100 because, with tips and varying party sizes, $20 might not go as far as the patrons would like. This way, they can splurge on one meal too, if they’re so inclined.

“(Restaurant Week) shows people good food, at good prices during good off-season weather,” Bunting said.

The raffle will be drawn on Jan. 16, a day after Restaurant Week ends. For more information visit https://berlinmainstreet.com/restaurant-week/.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS:

410 Social

Atlantic Hotel Bistro Bar

Baked Dessert Café

Blacksmith Restaurant

Boxcar on Main

Burn Brick Oven Pizza

Gilbert’s Provisions

Jun & Juice

On What Grounds?

Pop’s Kitchen

Rayne’s Reef

The Globe Gastro Theatre

The Sterling Tavern

Budget balancing will get awkward

Following the Worcester County Commissioners’ budget process this year should prove interesting, as a new majority on the board wrestles with rising expenses, a tax rate they would like to cut and the availability of additional revenue that depends on not cutting the rate too much.

As reported elsewhere in the paper this week, the state’s reassessment of properties in tax district two — southern and middle Worcester along with West Ocean City — could result in $6 million or so in new money to the county treasury.

But that’s only if the commissioners maintain the current tax rate of .845 cents per $100 dollars of assessed value, a scenario that isn’t likely to happen, given the commissioners’ anti-tax sentiments.

If they did let that rate ride, so to speak, property owners in that district would see a considerable jump in their tax bills, which would be contrary to the commissioners’ oft-stated positions on taxes.

At the same time, however, lowering the tax rate so the owner of a house whose value rose by 35 percent would pay the same as last year would leave the commissioners scrambling to cover the increasing demand on the treasury.

Given the conservative fiscal approach the previous board of commissioners followed, there isn’t much fluff to eliminate, with the state locking the county in on school spending, fire departments countywide needing big help and the never-retreating nature of personnel expense.

No matter what the new majority does, it’s going to be a politically awkward exercise that will probably entail blaming upper tiers of government for unfunded mandates, bad school funding formulas and other budgetary constraints beyond their control.

While much of that may be true, it’s not a big enough umbrella to prevent the commissioners from getting rained on by unhappy voters if they don’t find an acceptable balance.

In the meantime, the public should follow the process, give the commissioners room to work and accept that change is inevitable.

Ocean City Today

PUBLIC

EYE

Me for House Speaker

First, a flock of bluebirds unexpectedly showed up in my backyard on New Year’s Day.

On the second day of the year, the dog quickly tidied up after herself before I had to address an unfortunate incident in the foyer (Yeah, I know. They’re like that), and on the third day I heard a January frog croaking behind the office.

Talk about your good omens!

seem to be important for someone with the title of “Speaker.”

If nothing else, I would protect real House members from the media, as reporters would lose consciousness just as I offered my third, “You know, this reminds me of the time that I ...”

By Stewart Dobson

I’ll agree that the second episode was kind of a twoparter in the good luck department, but it did end well, at least in my view, if not the rest of the household.

But still, New Year’s Day bluebirds and January frogs? What else would the average shaman require to declare that, yes, 2023 is going to be a great year.

So great, in fact, that when I learned this week that the Speaker of the House doesn’t have to be a member of Congress, I threw my name in the mix.

And why not? The pay is pretty good at $223,500 (plus cheap soup in the dining room), it’s a heartbeat from my dream job of vice-president, and according to my recently revised and updated resume, I’m highly qualified.

Foremost among my qualifications is the fact that I disagree with everyone about everything, which ought to earn me the support of Rep. Andy Harris, who’s done some of that from time to time.

And then, I could talk the ears off an acre of corn if left unimpeded, a trait that would

Oh, and did I mention that I was a bombardier in World War II? Yep, it says so right on my resume, which also notes that I graduated from MIT, Columbia and NYU — on the same day! — and worked on Wall Street and was the actual inventor of the Popiel Pocket Fisherman.

It says so right under the “Current Occupation” line that begins with “Captain of Industry.”

Okay, fine. I made all that up, but a little resume embellishment here and there doesn’t seem to be a big deal these days. Besides, I really want the job.

Why? As I say, it’s one heartbeat away from being vice-president, which I’ve aspired to ever since I was old enough to realize that not only are the pay and benefits good, but you’re also issued a cloak of invisibility so no matter what you do, no one will notice.

As John Nance Garner said after serving as second-in-command under Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the “Vice-president: A spare tire on the automobile of government.”

That’s for me. Nice job, no heavy lifting and it will look good on my resume. But I have to become Speaker of the House first, which, if New Year’s Day bluebirds mean anything, I could become any day now.

In the meantime, as I wait, I’ll return to writing my memoirs once I remember where I left off ... “So there I was, fighting with the French Resistance ...

Soviets dismantle Second Hungarian Army 80 years ago

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) This week, 80 years ago, the Red Army methodically began the destruction of the Second Hungarian Army, commanded by Col.-Gen. Vitez (Count) Gusztav Jany.

Unlike Slovakia, Hungary did not join Germany in the invasion of the Soviet Union from the beginning. Rather, five days after the invasion, Hungary declared war on the Soviet Union and began supplying troops to the Axis invasion.

It did so because the city of Kassa was bombed. Kassa had, until November of 1938, been a part of Slovakia, under the Slovakian name Kosice. As a result of the First Vienna Diktat, the city was transferred to Hungary.

The identity of the planes that bombed Kassa was never conclusively determined. If they were Soviet, were they following outdated maps which did not reflect the transfer of the city from Slovakia to neutral Hungary? In any event, Hungary threw its lot with Germany, since Germany had been instrumental in helping it recover some of the territory, including Kassa/Kosice, that it had lost in the WWI Treaty of Trianon, which emasculated Hungary.

Initially, Hungary sent the Carpathian Army Group, commanded by Maj.-Gen. Vitez Bela Miklos, which was attached to the German Seventeenth Army, commanded until Oct. 4, 1941, by Carl-Heinrich von Stulpnagel, and then Hermann Hoth.

As winter approached, Adm. Miklos Horthy, the Hungarian dictator, wanted to withdraw the unit. Hitler consented, on the condition that the Hungarians increase their rear-area security commitment and agree to send a full army to the front for the 1942 campaign.

This resulted in the deployment of the poorly trained and equipped 209,000-man Hungarian Second

Army, commanded by Col.-Gen. Vitez (Count) Gusztav Jany, beginning in April 1942. At first, it was a part of Armeegruppe South, and then when Armeegruppe South was split into Armeegruppes A and B, it became a part of Armeegruppe B, commanded by Baron Maximilian von Weichs, in June 1942.

The Hungarians were tasked with holding a section of the Axis line on the Don River. On the Hungarians’ left was the German Second Army, commanded by Baron Hans von Salmuth, while the Italian Eighth Army, commanded by Italo Garibaldi, held the line to their right.

On Nov. 19, 1942, the Red Army came crashing through the Romanian Third and Fourth Armies, in the process surrounding Axis forces in Stalingrad.

The Soviet Fortieth Combined Arms Army, commanded by Kirill Moscalenko, attacked the Hungarian 7th Division on Jan. 12, 1943. The Hungarian soldiers were prepared for a dawn attack and when it didn’t come they relaxed, leaving them somewhat unprepared for the Soviet onslaught that came at 10:30 a.m. after a 45minute artillery bombardment.

Gen. Moscalenko was Ukrainian from the now disputed Ukrainian territory of Donetsk. On Jan. 28, 1943, he was awarded the Order of Suvorov, First Class, “ ... for exceptional leadership of combat operations,” during this offensive. Gen. Moscalenko was named a Marshal of the Soviet Union

in 1955, for his part in the arrest, prosecution and execution of Lavrentiy Beria.

By the end of the day on Jan. 14, 1943, Gen. Moscalenko’s Army had penetrated six miles into the Hungarian lines on a 10-mile front. On the next day, Count Jany’s headquarters was threatened. A feeble counterattack was launched by the German 26th Infantry Division and the Hungarian 1st Armored Division on Jan. 16, which accomplished little.

By the next day, Gen. Moscalenko’s Army was 45 miles west of its start line on the Don River. Finally, on Jan. 20, 1943, Count Jany’s Second Army was able to, briefly, establish a new line 75 miles west of the Don. After a week, the Hungarians began retreating again. By Feb. 24, it had reached safety and was out of action. By this time, a mere 85,000 soldiers remained, out of an initial complement of 200,000. All of its armor and most of its heavy weapons were lost. Its remnants returned to Hungary in May.

On March 31, 1943, Count Jany was awarded the Knight’s Cross, while Gen. Moscalenko was awarded a second Order of Suvorov, First Class, on May 23, 1943. He was also named a Hero of the Soviet Union and awarded his second Order of Lenin on Oct. 23, 1943.

Adm. Horthy dismissed Count Jany on Aug. 5, 1943. He had commanded Second Army for 3.5 years. As the Red Army closed in on Hungary, Count Jany escaped to Germany with his sick wife in November. However, he surrendered to the Americans, on May 1, 1945, and was held as a POW until 1946.

He stayed in Bavaria until his wife died. Count Jany voluntarily returned to Budapest because he wanted to take

THOMAS EDWARD YARKO

Ocean City

Thomas Edward Yarko, age 91, passed away at his home in Ocean City, Maryland, on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022.

Born in Bakerton, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late John Yarko and Mary Kutchman and one of 16 siblings.

Tom served in the Korean War and had worked as a project manager and master plumber for Federline and Masters in the DC metro area.

He was involved with the planning and builds for commercial buildings such as TOR and Hammond High in Columbia, Maryland and numerous housing projects.

He loved the challenge and complexity the job offered, but was happy to leave it all behind to move to Ocean City with his late wife of 57 years, Dorothy Yarko.

Tom enjoyed many years of fishing in his retirement.

He is survived by his sons, Thomas Yarko (Mary) of Ellicott City, Maryland, and Timothy Yarko (Christine) of Delta, Pennsylvania; his daughters, Amy Majors (Charles) of Pickens, South Carolina, and Sharon Stamer of Reisterstown, Maryland; his brother, Bobby Yarko; two sisters, Roselyn Sabella and Veronica McGinty; six grandchildren, Chris Lapole, Kimberly Holloway, Victoria Yarko, Jonathan Yarko, Corey Yarko and Katherine Stamer; and a great-grandchild, Robert Lee Paul Holloway.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2022 at 1 p.m. at the Burbage Funeral Home, 108 William Street, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

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

WILLIAM DAVID CARPER

Ocean Pines

William “Bill” David Carper, age 89, passed away peacefully at his home in Ocean Pines, Maryland, surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022.

Born in Washington, DC, he was the son of the late Wilbur Smith Carper and Marie Wagner Utz Carper.

Bill attended Eastern High School in Washington, DC, and was a veteran

Thomas E. Yarko

Gusztav Jany on trial

OBITUARIES

of the United States Army where he served as a wheel and track mechanic during the Korean War.

In the Army, he developed training aids as company artist, was an instructor for automotive mechanics classes, and entertained the troops with his mental telepathy skills.

Bill raised his family in Lanham, Maryland, and was a member of the Elks Lodge in Riverdale, Maryland.

He worked for 42 years with Amecom, Litton Systems, Inc. (acquired by Northrop Grumman Corp.) in College Park, Maryland.

Bill was a trained commercial artist through the Corcoran School of Art and worked as an illustrator and industrial artist, progressing to computer aided design specialist as technology evolved, and was also a photographic/lithographic services specialist.

He was known for his “Creative Genius” at Litton and created caricatures to celebrate staff milestone anniversaries and retirements.

After retiring from Litton in 2002, Bill and his wife, Mary Lou, moved to Ocean Pines, Maryland, where Bill was one of the founding members of the Corvettes of Ocean Pines.

Bill and Mary Lou were also members of the Delmarva Hand Dancing Club and were previous “Jarvis Jewels” ballroom dancers.

Bill was a supportive and positive person who made a friend in everyone he met. He had an amazing memory and would entertain all with engaging and humorous stories.

Bill made an impact on the many communities he was involved in, including the Taylorville Christian Church in Berlin, Maryland.

Always a creative force, Bill dabbled as an inventor designing and creating marketing packages and developing prototypes for toys, games and patent drawings. All the neighborhood children enjoyed testing out the newest inventions.

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 44

full responsibility for the destruction of Second Army. Soon after his arrival in Budapest he was arrested. He was tried by The Hungarian People’s Court, found guilty, stripped of his rank, and sentenced to die in September 1947. After declining to petition for clemency, he was executed by firing squad on Nov. 26, 1947. He was 64. He is now buried in the Farkasareti Cemetery in Budapest. His conviction was overturned in October 1993. On Jan. 16, 2002, Justice Minister lbolya David laid a wreath at a memorial for Count Jany

Creating continued to be a focal point in Bill’s life as he was the designated event photographer and was always working on projects for friends and family in his garage.

One of his last projects was a custom designed wooden snowman to watch over Mary Lou and him in the Taylorville Christian Church cemetery.

Bill will be greatly missed, but all can find comfort in knowing that he is once again joined with the love of his life, Mary Lou, for all eternity.

He is survived by his son, Christopher “Chris” F. Carper (Kim) of Colorado Springs, Colorado; daughter, Laura “Lori” M. Magoon (John) of Ellicott City, Maryland; and three grandchildren who he adored, Emily Magoon, Dawson Carper and Toby Carper.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Mary Lou Carper; his brother, Phillip Carper; and sister, Crystal Lynn.

A memorial service will be held in March 2023. Information will be available at a later date.

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

BLAINE A. BUNTING

Bishopville

Blaine A. Bunting, age 85, of Bishopville, Maryland, died Friday, Dec. 16, 2022.

He was born and raised in Selbyville, Delaware, and was the son of the late William and Delia Bunting.

Blaine graduated from Goldey-Beacom College, where he met his wife, Joanna, and later moved to Bishopville, Maryland, to start a family.

He is survived by his wife, Joanna Bunting; son, Blaine Bunting of Ocean City; son, Garet Bunting and wife, Lisa, of Bishopville; daughter, Allison Seth and husband, Scot, of Bishopville; brother, William Bunting and wife, Jane, of Berlin; grandsons, Dal-

ton Bunting, Hayden Bunting, Holden Bunting, Wyatt Seth and Trevor Seth.

Blaine was a nurseryman for the former Buntings’ Nurseries and founder of Buntings’ Landscaping.

He was a member of Showell United Methodist Church; Maryland Nursery, Landscape and Greenhouse Association; Plant Propagators Society, and AMSA.

Blaine A. Bunting was a man who loved his faith, family and friends.

He enjoyed the beach and the Eastern Shore way of life. He will be greatly missed, but his memories will live on forever.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: Showell United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 55, Showell, Maryland 21862.

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

ERIKA HILDEGARD WALSH

Ocean Pines

Erika Hildegard Walsh, age 88, passed away at home on Friday, Dec. 23, 2022 in Ocean Pines, Maryland.

She is survived by husband, William; daughters, Diana, Karin, Michele and Nicole; spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

As a trained photographer and successful painter in Europe, Erika practiced her art in Maryland for the last

Continued on Page 46

on the grounds of the Military History Museum, Budapest.

Marshal Moscalenko was awarded a second Hero of the Soviet Union star in 1978 and is buried in Novodevichy Cemetery, Moscow.

Next week: Casablanca Conference

Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at: wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.

William Carper

Blaine A. Bunting

30 years.

She taught and exhibited at Maryland Hall, in Annapolis. She also

EILEEN ROTHSCHILD

Berlin

On Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, Eileen Rothschild, loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away at the age of 80.

Eileen was born in New York City to Jack and Jean (Fox).

She married Vernon Rothschild and they raised five children.

Early in her career she worked with her husband in starting what became the family business.

In 1992, she received her early childhood education degree from Chesapeake College and worked for and started Head Start programs in Maryland and Delaware.

Eileen loved to travel, home design/decorate and could easily be persuaded to join her sons and family on a fishing excursion offshore.

Maryland 21811 on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. A service will follow at St John Neumann Catholic Church on

Salisbury State College, where he earned a Master’s Degree.

He was an Assateague Park ranger for the National Parks as well as a teacher at Snow Hill Middle School.

He also served in the United States Navy from 1961-1966 and was stationed in San Diego, California.

held a solo show at the German Embassy in Washington, D.C. as well as several shows at McBride Gallery in Annapolis, Maryland.

She won numerous awards, including juried shows at St. Johns College, and at the Baltimore Watercolor Society.

Erika was full of life, loved her family and friends and will be deeply missed.

No formal services are planned. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via The Burbage Funeral Home www.burbagefuneralhome.co m.

Eileen was preceded in death by her mother, Jean, and father, Jack; and her brothers, Eugene, Kevin, John and Joseph.

She is survived by her husband Vernon; her brother, Timothy; and her five children, Russell (Martha), Elizabeth, Jennifer (Tony Wilson), Kelly Ann and Phillip (Whitney).

She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Jack Henry Tucker, and Charlie Clarissa Rothschild, as well as many nephews and nieces, including Michael and Mathew Fox.

A visitation was held at the Burbage Funeral Home, 108 William Street Berlin,

Friday, Jan. 6, 2023 at 11:30 a.m.

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

ROBERT ANTHONY FISHER Snow Hill

Robert Anthony Fisher, age 82, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023.

Born in Salisbury, Maryland, he was the son of the late Robert Harold Fisher and Violet Watson Fisher.

He graduated from Wicomico High School in 1958 and attended

He was a member of the Rotary Club in Snow Hill, where he served as a past president.

He was also the treasurer of the Worcester County Historical Society.

He was a very active member of the community, participating in many local organizations such as the Worcester County Economic Development Committee for over 30 years, Furnace Town, captain of Tillie-The Tug, booth holder at Antique Collectibles, and was an Eastern Shore local post card collector.

He had formerly owned and operated along with his wife and in-laws, Scotty’s Market in Ocean City, and was co-owner with his wife of the Store Next Door in Ocean City for 10 years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen Katherine Fisher “Kathy,” as well as his son, Robert Thomas Fisher and his girlfriend, Michelle Townsend, of Berlin, Maryland.

Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Patricia Ann Parker of Salisbury, Maryland, and his beautiful granddaughters, Cassidy Katherine Fisher (Gina), Ashlea Elizabeth Fisher, and beloved Madyson Townsend.

A memorial service will be held at All Hallows Episcopal Church in Snow Hill, Maryland, on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023, at 2 p.m.

Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Furnace Town at 3816 Old Furnace Rd, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863; the Worcester County Historical Society at P.O. Box 111, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863; or to All Hallows Episcopal Church at 109 W. Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Letters of condolences can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Snow Hill, Maryland.

Erika Hildegard Walsh

Eileen Rothschild

Robert Anthony Fisher

Sports & Recreation

Decatur wrestling squad tops North Caroline, 58-11

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 6, 2023) The Stephen Decatur wrestling team hosted the North Caroline Bulldogs on Wednesday in Berlin, and the Seahawks won the meet, 58-11.

Decatur Coach Josh August was pleased with the Seahawks’ performance.

“We wrestled well. We went out there and wrestled through every position,” he said. “Wrestling tough, that’s what we’re trying to do. North Caroline has been a good team for a long time, so I knew they were going to come out and wrestle hard. We wanted to match that and just score points and get pins.”

Freshman Elijah Collick started things off for Decatur with a 17-1 technical-fall victory with 56 seconds left in the second period of the 106pound weight class match.

Sophomore Juan Hinojosa pinned his 113-pound opponent in 1:53.

North Caroline forfeited the 120pound match, then sophomore Aaron August pinned his 126-pound opponent in 1:09.

Junior Reid Caimi took down his 132-pound competition in 4:33.

Senior captain Logan Intrieri boosted Decatur’s lead to 35-0 with a

pin in 2:46 in his 138-pound match.

North Caroline earned a decision at 144 pounds, then Decatur senior Ethan Haworth outscored his 150pound opponent, 7-2.

Junior captain Gavin Solito got a pin in 3:03 at 157 pounds, then junior Parker Intrieri took down his 165pound opponent in 41 seconds.

Sophomore Nate McDaniel earned a 15-1 major decision at 175 pounds to improve Decatur’s advantage to 54-3.

Junior Kole Kohut then scored a 10-2 major decision at 190 pounds.

Decatur forfeited the 215-pound match, then North Caroline logged a decision at 285 pounds.

North Caroline was deducted one team point for unsportsmanlike conduct.

“[We did well with] physicality [and] really working on the things we’ve been practicing,” August said. “We say, ‘perfect practice makes perfect.’ When you work hard and you go out there good things happen. You get some positions that you might not have gotten otherwise, so they wrestled tough. There wasn’t really easy matches tonight.”

August also said he is proud of his team.

After wrestlers battled a flu bug going around from Thanksgiving through the Christmas break, he said, “there are guys that have stepped up and filled spots that they might not have thought they were wrestling,

guys that bumped up in weight and guys that made a weight they might not have wanted to.”

“It’s a team effort,” he added.

Decatur will compete in the Iron Horse Duals Wrestling Tournament today and Saturday, at C. Milton Wright High School in Bel Air, Maryland.

There are 16 teams participating divided into two pools.

Each team will have seven matches in their respective pools. The first-place teams in each bracket with then go head-to-head, as will the second, third, fourth, and so on.

“We’re in the pool with South Car-

roll and they’re probably the best team in the state right now,” August said. “We’re looking forward to going against them and representing the school and working back toward being in the state championship.”

To be successful, August said the Seahawks need to “make weight, stay healthy, keep our nutrition good [and] whatever team it is, we’ve just got to go out there and wrestle.”

“Whether it’s a team that might have some forfeits or it’s the number one team in the state, you got to go out there and wrestle the same matches every time, same mentality,” he added.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Decatur wrestlers battled North Caroline on the mat in Berlin on Wednesday. The Seahawks won, 58-11. (Left) Junior Kole Kohut scored a 10-2 major decision at 190 pounds over Caden Lopez. (Right) Junior Reid Caimi took down his 132-pound opponent Shelton Nichols in 4:33.

Josh August

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Decatur senior captain Logan Intrieri matches up with North Caroline’s Fard Muhammad for the 138-pound match. He earned a pin in 2:46.

Decatur girls’ basketball earns 71-37 win over Wi-Hi

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 6, 2023) After an extremely competitive Governor’s Challenge tournament last week in Salisbury, the Stephen Decatur girls’ basketball team bounced back with a 71-37 victory over the Wicomico Lady Indians on Monday in Berlin.

“The Governor’s Challenge was very difficult for us as a team. We had a difficult time creating offense and both teams were very skilled and the scoreboard reflected that … Baltimore Poly is a good team, but we didn’t put our best foot forward … Sanford was a tough game; overwhelming. We haven’t faced that level of competition,” said Decatur Coach Scott Kurtz. “Moving forward, we had to be honest with our players about what we need for them to do/change for us to succeed and meet our goals … We spent some time repairing … [and] Monday against Wi-Hi we took the first step toward improving as a team.”

The Lady Seahawks came out strong and built a 22-5 lead by the end of the first quarter.

“We played good defense and the offense was clicking,” Kurtz said. “Everyone was clicking.”

Wicomico outscored Decatur 18-17

in the second quarter and at halftime, the home team held a 39-23 advantage.

The Seahawks turned it on again in the third quarter, putting 22 points on the board, while limiting the Indians to seven. After three quarters, the Berlin squad was on top, 61-30.

“We played three really strong quarters defensively, but the lapses in the second quarter showed us where we need to improve,” Kurtz said. “Early in the game we used our fullcourt press to create havoc and get steals, which converted to transition points. We were dealing with a few minor injuries and had to rely on a lot of players, but our reserves came in and helped us on both ends of the floor.”

Senior captain Mayah Garner was Decatur’s top producer with 29 points. She also had 14 rebounds, two assists and two steals.

“Mayah had her best game of the season when we needed her to really take steps toward getting us back on track,” Kurtz said. “That is great for her and our team. Moving forward, we need to get through our next few games healthy and find ways to improve as a team.”

Sophomore Sam Boger chipped in with 21 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals and a block.

Sophomore Allison Swift contributed 14 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.

“It’s a pretty big game for us anytime

Dalkiewicz: Time to pull out more serious wetsuit gear

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Jan. 6, 2023) We seemed to have turned a corner in our winter surfing campaign.

A few bouts with air dipping into the teens and water temperatures dropping into the mid-40s explain a very telling tale.

The good news is that those not so dedicated will take a break and pass until things warm up a bit, making one’s favorite break a bit less crowded.

The bad news is that it’s really time to pull out the more serious wetsuit gear.

Now maybe this isn’t so bad if this heavier wetsuit gear fits well and especially if the surfer has a particular consistency to their go-outs.

It’s kind of like any other activity. The more it’s done the more conditioned the practitioner should be and,

at least in theory, the more used to being in a more “foreign” environment, as in the water, the individual will become.

Also in the mix, the shear betterment of one’s surfing would hopefully come along.

Now we can’t forget the vagaries of the ocean.

Generally, the winter time will produce more swell with typically heavier weather. Thus, there is more possibility for ridable surf.

Other needed ingredients will hopefully be available such as favorable bottom contours and favorable winds.

As we know, the “playing” field for surfing in the ocean isn’t always available and as was said, isn’t always what we’d like it to be.

Seemingly, the vigil has to almost be constant. Plus, things can change rather quickly.

That nicely angled swell with light offshore winds that was seen in the

we play Wi-Hi. Seventyone to 37 is a good win,” Kurtz said. “We have some tough competition coming our way. We’ve got to keep embracing challenges and see what we can do. We’ve got to keep getting better.”

Decatur will host the Crisfield Crabbers today, Friday, at 5 p.m. in Berlin. The Mardela Warriors will come to Berlin on Tuesday for a 4:30 p.m. match against the Seahawks.

DECATUR WRESTLING

Scott Kurtz

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY Decatur sophomore Allison Swift takes the ball to the basket. She contributed 14 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in the 71-37 victory over Wicomico in Berlin.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Senior captain Mayah Garner was Decatur’s top producer on Monday with 29 points. She also had 14 rebounds, two assists and two steals.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY

Freshman Elijah Collick started things off for Decatur on Wednesday in Berlin with a 17-1 technical-fall victory in his 106-pound match against North Caroline’s Jacob Carpenter.

WCRP offering numerous activities

(Jan. 6, 2023) Worcester County Recreation and Parks will offer a variety of activities this winter.

The Active Start Youth Sport Development Programs are for children of all skill levels.

These sport-specific programs prepare children for organized sports in a fun, non-threatening environment by teaching the fundamentals of play, while encouraging an appreciation for being physically fit and healthy.

Active Start Bowling will take place at Eastern Shore Lanes in Pocomoke City on Thursdays, Jan. 12 to Feb. 16, from 3:30-5:30 p.m.

The program is open to grades fourth to eighth. Participants will receive two games of bowling, shoe rental, and pizza, drink, and ice cream each day.

For more information, contact Tyler Keiser at 410-632-2144 x2505 or tkeiser@marylandscoast.org.

Active Start Track will take place at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill on Thursdays, Jan. 12 to March 2, from 3:30-5 p.m.

The program is open to grades third through eighth. Students will learn to sprint, hurdle, long jump, and more through drills and games.

For more information, contact Myro Small at 410-632-2144 x2512 or msmall@marylandscoast.org.

Active Start Volleyball will take place at Pocomoke Middle School on Fridays, Jan. 13 to Feb. 24, from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

The program, which is open to grades fourth through eighth, will help elevate each child’s volleyball skills to the next level and inspire a love for the game.

Active Start Volleyball is sponsored by the Worcester County Recreation Boosters and available at the discounted price of $10 per child.

For more information, contact Trudy Gebhardt at 410-632-2144 x2514 or tgebhardt@marylandscoast.org.

Transportation for all active start programs will be available from the school to the designated facility.

The price per child is $35, and $30 for each additional child for either bowling or track. Financial aid is available to those who show a demonstrated need. Proof of eligibility is required.

To register online for any youth programs and view a full calendar of events, visit www.playmarylandscoast.org.

Worcester County Recreation Parks is also offering co-ed and women’s volleyball leagues at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill this January.

Co-ed volleyball will take place Sundays from 1-3 p.m. beginning Jan. 8. The registration deadline is Jan. 5.

The coaches meeting will take place Jan. 5 at the WCRC at 7 p.m.

This league will be made up of teams with two women playing at all times.

Women’s volleyball will take place Tuesdays from 7-9 p.m. beginning Jan. 10. The registration deadline is Jan. 5. The coaches meeting will take place Jan. 5 at the WCRC at 6:30 p.m.

All women 14 years and older are welcome in this competitive volleyball league.

The team cost per league is $220.

Form teams and register online at www.playmarylandscoast.org.

For more information, contact Gebhardt.

Registration is open for Worcester County Recreation & Parks’ youth sports leagues at the Worcester County Recreation Center, providing participants with plenty of opportunities to get active and have fun this winter season.

The Youth Basketball League will take place on Saturday mornings, Jan. 7 to March 11.

The program schedule is as follows: grades 6-8 from 9-10 a.m., grades 4-5 from 10:15-11:15 a.m., and grades 1-3 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The registration deadline is Jan. 6. An additional $5 will be applied to those who register after the deadline.

For more info, contact Small.

The Indoor Archery Tag League will meet on Thursdays, Jan. 5 to Feb. 23, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

This program combines archery and laser tag.

Participants will learn to shoot the specialized bow and arrows, and there will be a variety of tactical game play in a league format.

There is no registration deadline. For more info, contact Hunter Nelson at 410-632-2144 x2506 or hnelson@marylandscoast.org.

The cost for each program is $35 per player ($30 for each additional child). Financial aid is available for those who have demonstrated need. Proof of eligibility is required.

Learn more about other youth programs and winter happenings at www.playmarylandscoast.org.

Options: adapt to cold ocean or take break until warmer

Continued from Page 48

early morning could change to onshore or side-shore winds by late morning totally, disrupting the classic conditions that existed just a short time ago.

“You should have been here an hour ago” is a phrase that is sometimes used.

This phrase was actually the title to a book by Phil Edwards who was a highly regarded surfer back in the day and who is hopefully still at it.

Winter surfing is what it is and there’s no getting around it.

The options are to either quit for a few months or adapt to the conditions.

Traveling to warmer spots, for any length of time, is an option, but in lieu of that one becomes forced to plug in.

Some seem to be able to use lighter gear and wait for a sunny, warmer day where at least the air temperatures will be easier to deal with.

For example, the recent Christmas weekend featured air temperatures that didn’t get above freezing with wind chill factors bringing the “feel like” temperatures down into the single digits.

By the New Year’s weekend, air temperatures rose into the high 50s. Quite a difference by any standards!

The water doesn’t change as rapidly as the air and has recently dipped into the mid-40s, as was mentioned, which is a bit premature for the time of year.

At any rate, it’s rather obvious that we have to change sort of like the ocean changes. It tends to create new and different experiences for those with the gumption.

A grand new year to all and hopefully 2023 will be your best year yet. Keep an eye on the ocean and keep surfing!

— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.

TOP ANGLERS

PHOTO COURTESY JACK BARNES

The Ocean Pines Anglers Club presented awards for top angler in 13 fish categories for the 2022 Walt Boge Memorial Fishing Tournament during its December meeting. Pictured, from left, are John Jewer (fresh water trout, 16 inches), John Dilworth (black drum, 27 inches), Bob Woodward (sea trout, 13.5 inches), Ted Glick (croaker, 9.5 inches), Ken Thompson (red drum, 26 inches), Budd Heim (bluefish, 22.5 inches; tautog, 19 inches). Not pictured: Adam Thompson (flounder, 24 inches), Steve Gaylor (tuna, 40 inches), Jim McWhinney (black sea bass, 16 inches), Walter Klein (large mouth bass, 17 inches), Greg Donahue (spot, 8.5 inches) and Kevin Welkner (sheepshead, 14 inches).