1/13/2023 Ocean City Today

JANUARY 13, 2023 SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY FREE

Brakes applied to scooter-type rentals?

Council appears on verge of ban on renting e-bikes, other speciality vehicles

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The City Council’s attempts to come to a compromise on renting electric bicycles in Ocean City shifted into a whole new gear this week when the discussion turned to

the possibility of banning the rental of all personal mobility devices across the resort.

“We constantly look for ways to improve safety on Coastal Highway; it’s an eight-lane highway dividing our town,” Councilman Will Savage said at a work session Tuesday before introducing a motion that would in part cease issuing new business licenses for the rental of all small motor-powered devices.

“We add streetlights, fences, demand people use crosswalks, walk smart,” he continued. “At the same time, we condone thrill rides being rented on Coastal Highway that consistently spill over into our residential communities and now we’re considering expanding that mayhem. That doesn’t make sense to me.”

Savage, who was not on council yet when discussions on regulating electric bicycles began in the fall, has con-

Council voids right-of-way referendum

Balt. Ave. properties will now be lumped together

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) Ocean City voters will no longer be heading to the polls to determine whether the developers of a planned Margaritaville resort can officially take ownership and use a portion of a right-of-way along Baltimore Avenue for their project.

But the matter is not dead, as dozens of other city-owned properties will soon be brought in as part of the overall revitalization of the downtown corridor from North Division to 15th streets.

ON REFLECTION

There’s nothing like the new year to pause for a moment of reflection, which is what local

on her early morning walk on the beach when the calendar flipped over to 2023.

Dinky revenue leads to county ice rink’s end

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) Barely three years later, the Worcester County portable ice rink will melt into history.

In a 4-3 vote on Tuesday, the county commissioners decided to instruct Recreation and Parks Department staff to determine how the county could either sell or donate the

ice rink. The staff will also see if another county department could have a use for the cargo trailer used to transport the synthetic ice rink.

Council members voted unanimously at a work session Tuesday to rescind an ordinance allowing the city to abandon a 21-foot-wide rightof-way spanning the oceanside block between 13th and 14th streets on Baltimore Avenue. The measure was instituted at the request of the Margaritaville developers, who would want to use a portion of it for their project.

The vote to withdraw the ordi-

PHOTO COURTESY CONNIE ALDERFER

photographer Connie Alderfer did

sistently argued against renting all three classes of the vehicles, along with eall other types of specialized mobility devices — two-wheeled and three-wheeled scooters included.

In his motion, he named mopeds, ScootCoupes, electric and gas-powered scooters, one wheels, hoverboards, and the like. The motion also gives businesses that are licensed to rent those types of vehicles until April to prepare to discontinue the services. It passed six to one with Councilman John Gehrig opposed Staff members will develop an ordinance and bring it to council members to review and approve.

Savage adamantly contended that these types of vehicles pose a safety risk, referencing police scanner traffic as proof, and harm the quality of life in neighborhoods. He said emergency personnel are challenged with

tending to calls for service involving the vehicles on Costal Highway, and residents complain about them wreaking havoc on the streets where they live.

Councilwoman Carol Proctor added that she also does not support rental of the vehicles for similar reasons.

“They just maneuver and handle differently,” she said. “I don’t agree with the rental of them.”

Both Savage and Proctor agreed that they do not wish to prohibit the sale of the vehicles, as state law still allows them, but they contend rentals are a different animal.

The original legislation regarding e-bikes was introduced to fill a gap left when council members voted to allow Class 1s — the lowest class most similar to regular bikes — but prohibit class 2s and 3s on the Board-

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anywhere within city limits.

County decides skating rink no frozen asset

Commissioners Jim Bunting, Chip Bertino, Eric Fiori and Caryn Abbott supported the measure while Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Diana Purnell and Ted Elder opposed it.

The ice rink was purchased back in 2019 — just months before covid shutdowns began. To purchase it, the Worcester County Commissioners agreed to allow the Recreation and Parks Department to reallocate funds from special event savings.

The purchase cost was $69,000, but with donations, the amount was brought down to $49,000, then recreation and parks Tom Perlozzo told the commissioners at the time (he is now Ocean City’s director of marketing and business development). With advertisements and sponsors, that cost could be even lower, he said before the purchase.

The lack of advertisements and sponsors, however, is why four Commissioners, two of whom are new to the board, are willing to dash to the ice rink altogether.

“If you go back and look at the minutes and video from when this rink was voted on — which I didn’t vote for to be purchased — it was presented to us that you were going to sell ads on the fencing and it was going to make money,” Bunting said.

“So far over the last four years you’ve sold one.”

Recreation and Parks Director Kelly Rados was on hand to report on how the rink has performed since its purchase.

She pointed out that the rink has had some “good” uses — including an annual Christmas event in Snow Hill and another similar event — but in the past year it’s only been used twice, a fact that commissioners supporting its sale identified as a reason.

“If we don’t sell it, we do have to look at what the revenue sharing is and instill some type of rental fees,”

Rados said. “That is something we’ve discussed internally that we need to look at for the next fiscal year.”

The consensus among the minority opposition on the board was that it is a mistake to look at the ice rink as something that should generate money. Rather, it’s a public service to the people of Worcester County.

“This (is) like many of our other recreational facilities and equipment that weren’t really designed to make money,” Mitrecic said. “They were designed to give the youth of our county or anybody in this case the chance to skate, the opportunity to do so where in fact they might not have it again. The cost of this as opposed to some of the other programs that we run with the Recreation Department is probably in line if not a little better. I think … to get rid of this is a disservice to the people, the citizenry of Worcester County.”

Elder said that he wanted his colleagues to remember there are times when the business-first perspective doesn’t work for government and that

some entities, such as Recreation and Parks, should not be viewed as a moneymaker.

“It’s not there to make money,” he said. “I would like to see some fees increased and some other things done to keep it from costing so much to the county but as Commissioner Mitrecic said, it is in line with many of the events and things going in in the Recreation Department.

“I just believe that it’s been a positive outreach to the community and it’s something that we certainly get a lot of people with exercise and enjoinment out of it.”

Elder also suggested that the county keep the ice rink and figure out ways to increase income from it.

Purnell said the ice rink shows the commissioners’ appreciation for the county.

“Is it making money or is it aiding the people of my community and making sure they’re taken care of and giving the kids something? We always put our emphasis on taking care

County Commissioners say no more mooring for Alyosha

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The new conservative majority among the Worcester County Commissioners continued to make its intentions known on Tuesday when, minutes after voting to dump the county’s ice rink, it voted 5-2 to terminated the lease for the Alyosha sailboat’s slip at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor.

The county had just completed the first year of a five-year agreement with the operator of the 50-foot catamaran that states that they can dock the sailboat for $8,500 per year. The county also advertises on the sailboat, which cancels out all but $3,000 of the lease price for the operator.

The lease will expire 90 days after the decision.

The boat has been in operation from the Memorial Day Weekend to the Labor Day Weekend and on Saturday and Sundays through September.

“As everybody’s aware, I didn’t vote for this when it happened. I think the dock was better used for people … unloading their coolers (and not being) tied up while they’re awaiting the opportunity to reload their boat. I think that’s what the use of that dock area is for and putting this use there was wrong,” said Commissioners Jim Bunting

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said he hasn’t heard any complaints about the Alyosha and suggested that the county doesn’t need to be advertising on the catamaran at all. He also pointed out that taking the full $8,500 would help

The Worcester County Commissioners voted 4-3 to instruct county staff to figure out how to sell or donate its portable, synthetic ice rink, citing that it has not performed the way they were told could be expected.

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Alyosha cast adrift by county

Continued from Page 4

with the ice rink deficit.

Mitrecic minced no words in telling his colleagues what he thought of their recent decisions.

“I think it’s wrong to do this and, to be honest with you, if we’re going to spend the next months or whatever undoing what the previous board of commissioners did and what Mr. Perlozzo bought to us, I’m out. Call me when we want to do some real business,” Mitrecic said.

When contacted, Steve Butz, the owner and operator of the Alyosha, also said he’s received no complaints from boaters about the presence of the catamaran.

“I’m completely blindsided by this,” he said. “I was here 100 straight days over the summer, and never once was it an issue because my boat is typically out sailing.”

Butz added that he’s hosted 18 weddings on the catamaran in the area and last year sailed more than 220 times, taking around 2,300 people with him. He’s been told by community members he’s a “true asset” to Worcester County.

“I feel like Alyosha is a really unique amenity that brings people to West Ocean City and I’m completely clueless about why they wouldn’t want that kind of amenity in the county,” Butz said.

Though he ultimately voted in favor of terminating the lease, Commissioner Ted Elder said it was wrong to “pull the rug out from under some-

body” after the county had made a deal with them.

“(Doing that) has always been wrong,” Elder said. “I’ve lived up to my agreements and we should live up to ours.”

Commissioner Eric Fiori, whose district the catamaran is docked in, also referred to the apparent nuisance the Alyosha is for recreational boaters.

“I use that boat ramp on a regular basis and what I will say is that it has really affected the flow of the boat ramp and the delay that it’s taking time for folks to unload and load their boats because there’s nowhere for them to stage their boat.”

“A boat of this size, if you were to rent this slip commercially … you’re talking about a pennies-on-the-dollar lease for the amount of real estate that this particular boat takes up. I don’t think it was a fair deal to start with and I don’t think it’s a fair deal for us to continue. I think the detriment that we’re having to our recreational boaters is far greater than the $8,500.”

While Butz sees the decision as final, he hopes that the people of Worcester County will make their voices heard in support of the Alyosha.

“I don’t know if I have any recourse,” he said. “I am very hopeful that the business community and the residents of Worcester County will let the commissioners — especially the newly elected commissioners — know how they feel about this sudden decision.”

The Worcester County Commissioners voted 5-2 to terminate the county’s contract with the owner and operator of the Alyosha sailboat. The 50-foot catamaran has been docked at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor and some of the commissioners claim that it’s become a nuisance for recreational boaters.

E-bikes, scooters face rental ban in resort

walk, in city parks and on the beach.

Another ordinance that failed would have permitted the rental, sale or repair of Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and allowed for the sale or repair of Class 3s, but prohibited rental of them across the resort. Council members argued against the inconsistency of allowing the rental of Class 1s and 2s, but prohibiting them for Class 3s, thus killing the ordinance. The denial effectively shot down the ability to license the rental or sale of any types of e-bikes, though, as the parameters

were included in the language.

To fill the hole, staff introduced another ordinance — which has gone back to the drawing board with Savage’s motion Tuesday — that would have established licensing parameters for all classes of e-bikes, with Class 2s and 3s allowed by conditional use.

Class 1 and 2 electric bikes can reach a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and Class 3s top out at 28.

Councilman Tony DeLuca has spoken against the rental of higher class e-bikes since the beginning. He said

Tuesday that he recently took a straw vote among members of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, which he chairs, and determined that the majority of them were not in favor of that ordinance.

James, who has pushed for consistency in the regulations since the beginning, said he favored Savage’s change during Tuesday’s meeting.

Buas voted in favor of it as well, but said that he would like to know how many current business owners would be affected by the change.

Gehrig, who has argued against

prohibiting the sale or rental of ebikes from the beginning because of a lack of hard evidence that they pose any problems, argued that council should not ban things based on their own annoyances. He said he believes that was the main catalyst for Savage introducing the rental ban.

“Just because it irritates us I don’t think it’s a reason to pass an ordinance,” he said.

Gehrig also said he wants to ensure the council members get public comment before making any final decisions.

Council votes 5-2 to divide funding for Balt. Ave. work

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) Long-awaited plans to update and revitalize one of downtown Ocean City’s most prominent corridors are still on with a consensus for a new funding plan among the majority of City Council members.

The project, which will bury utility lines, widen sidewalks and implement other improvements from North Division to 15th streets along Baltimore Avenue, has been in the works for years. But as city officials worked on identifying rights-of-way along the route, securing utility agreements, and seeking funding avenues, the cost and timeline shot up significantly, leaving staff to research

ways to make it work.

On Tuesday, City Manager Terry McGean provided council members with an update on the progress — his first since informing them in September that the total cost had shot up from $20 million to $40 million and that the completion timeline had jumped from two years to four.

McGean presented five options to pay for the project, ranging from fully funding it as planned in a fiscal 2024 bond issue, to delaying the start of the project at least a year until grants are available to cover the full cost.

Staff members recommended funding the project with two bond issues, one in fiscal 2024 and another in fiscal 2028, and beginning con-

Right-of-way referendum voided

nance makes moot a successful petition drive to force a referendum on the right-of-way’s abandonment. Specifically, the vote would have been on the enabling ordinance, which no longer exists.

In a second five to two vote, with Councilman Will Savage and Councilwoman Carol Proctor opposed, council members approved a request to abandon identified rights-of-way along the entire corridor to the adjoining property owners as part of the city’s plans to bury the utility lines and perform other upgrades.

The Margaritaville developers needed the property to meet the contiguous square footage to advance their plans for a 13-story, 265-room resort at the former Phillips Beach Plaza property. And while the city was set to give the land to them anyway, along with giving other rightsof-way along the strip to adjoining owners, the developers wanted the land early and met all of the requirements to advance the abandonment process.

In response, Margaret Pillas, a former councilwoman and longtime downtown resident, led a crusade to overturn the abandonment. She has said 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 bring the matter to a vote. They needed a total of 612 — or 40 percent of the number of voters in the 2020 election — and 639 were verified.

The council’s second vote forwards the abandonment of all of the rightsof-way between North Division and 15th streets to a public hearing, which City Manager Terry McGean said will likely will not be held until sometime this summer. He said staff will take another 90 days to finish platting the rights-of-way and need time to develop the ordinance after that.

If the new ordinance ultimately

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Baltimore Avenue is shown facing north from Ninth Street. The burying of utility lines and overall upgrades to the street from Ninth to 15th is set to be completed as part of a bond issue in fiscal 2024. The south section from Ninth to North Division is now set for completion as part of a bond issue in fiscal 2028.

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Right-of-way ordinance rescinded

passes, it is possible that another petition could be filed to send the matter to a referendum again. That possibility is why Savage voted against the ordinance.

“I think it’s absurd to do this,” he said during discussions. “We have enough taxpayers and voters that have put together a petition, they’re just going to do it again. We’re going to be right back to where we started.”

Councilman Peter Buas pointed out in response that the first petition was for one specific block, while the new ordinance covers the entire area.

“Doing it around the whole corridor the next time substantially changes it,” he said. “If it ends up in referendum after then, we’ll do that, but at least it would be on the whole corridor.”

Council President Matt James also

pointed out that some people who signed the original petition likely did so because of Margaritaville, while he believes there may be others who did not even know what they were signing.

McGean added that the Baltimore Avenue project does not need to abandon the rights-of-way to advance.

He and Public Works Director Hal Adkins said officials made initial commitments to property owners to give rights-of-way to them when they begin the project, as many of them have been using the land as their own for years. If the ordinance to abandon them gets hung up or dies, the city will just keep the land and begin the Baltimore Avenue project as planned.

Rink will be sold or given away

of kids. That’s just the way it is,” she said.

“Like Ted, I think maybe we can look at another way to generate funds from this but I do not want to get rid of it.”

The other commissioners were not swayed as they pointed to the true cost of the ice rink.

Fiori said he wants this investment to be used for the residents’ pleasure but thought there was a better way to utilize that money.

“I do echo some of the comments from the other commissioners,” he said. “I agree that this is a public service for the community and not a business decision. But in that same sentence, I just believe we can reallocate the resources in a better way to affect more than 150 of our residents on a once-a-year basis, per se. I think we can find a way to spread those funds and have a much greater impact on a bigger number of people if we were to move our resources to something different.”

Bertino reminded his colleagues and Rados about what the commissioners were told back in 2019.

“This rink was promoted as a moneymaker for the county. Further, it was stated from that podium (where Rados was standing) that the cost to purchase the rink would be $50,000. By my calculations after what you’ve put together, the actual cost has been over $79,000.”

“It was also stated from that podium that revenue in the form of sponsorships and advertising would generate about $60,000 per year. That doesn’t seem to have been borne out by the history over these past several years. I took my grandchildren to Snow Hill to skate on (the ice rink) … It was a very nice experience, I agree with you, but this hasn’t lived up to the expectations that were presented to the commissioners at that time.”

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A right-of-way is shown along Baltimore Avenue between 13th and 14th streets downtown. The land was set to remanded to the developers of a planned Margaritaville resort to build a large hotel and amenities on the adjoining proper ty but City Council members voted this week to rescind the abandonment decision due to the filing of a petition that would have sent it to a referendum

struction from 9th Street north to 15th in the fall this year and from 9th Street south to North Division in 2027.

“The hit, especially initially, that we would have to absorb is reduced by spreading it out,” McGean said of the recommendation.

He added that staff members will continue looking for grants to help subsidize the cost and will have more time for those efforts with the twophased approach.

After discussions, council members voted five to two, with Council President Matt James and Councilman John Gehrig opposed, to approve the recommended plan.

“Now’s the time to do it,” Councilman Peter Buas said before the vote. “We invested heavily in the plan. Do it now, do it right. And this is the right plan. I think it’s time to invest in the infrastructure down there, and I think we’ll be pleasantly surprised with the benefits in five years.”

Buas, who lives on Baltimore Avenue, has been a solid advocate for the project since he was elected to council in 2020. Other long-time advocates include Mayor Rick Meehan, Councilman Tony DeLuca, former councilman and city manager Dennis Dare, and Ocean City Development Corporation Executive Director Glenn Irwin, all of whom spoke in favor of the project Tuesday.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Dare compared the project to large endeavors such as Northside Park, the convention center, the golf course and the first leg of the revitalization of Baltimore Avenue south of North Division. He called them all “bold moves” by past councils, that he said have increased tax revenues and encouraged more development.

“One of the things that all of these improvements, these infrastructure projects, have in common is they cost money,” Dare said. “At the time they were done they cost a lot of money, and they’d cost even more today. I don’t think any of them would be any cheaper today than when we did it.”

DeLuca said he does not believe — despite Gehrig and James suggesting that the cost could go down by waiting — that the work will be any cheaper later on and contended that they need to do the project now.

“We’re talking about it so much and I just think some people do and some people review, and I just really think that now’s the time to ‘do,’” he said.

Gehrig said he supports the project overall but is leery of the timing and high cost. He said that he would prefer gauging the interest of the nearby property owners to determine if they would be willing to help pay the extra costs through a special taxing area of some sort. Within McGean’s presentation, he provided information about creating a tax increment financing district, or TIF, as an option to help pay for the project as it gets closer to fruition.

Gehrig said he also wants more information on how much undergrounding the utilities will cost in the long run in terms of maintenance, and how much the property values might increase in the area.

James also said he supported the project at $20 million but pulled back when the cost went up.

“I think everybody wants the project. I think everybody wants to turn onto Baltimore Avenue and have unobstructed road and sidewalk and blue sky, as it’s been mentioned today,” he said. “But we have plenty of other areas where we could spend 40 million dollars. We continue to improve streets, we continue to improve canals. I think there are plenty of other needs around town and this is a big want right now.”

McGean also presented an update on identification of rights-of-way along the corridor that city officials promised to remand to adjacent property owners as they advance the project.

He said the overall design of the project is 90 percent complete and that plats have been prepared for 15th to 10th streets, with the remainder due within 90 days.

Online applications available for Wor. Co. nonprofit grants

(Jan. 13, 2023) Worcester County Government is accepting grant applications from area nonprofit agencies through Monday, Feb. 6.

Applications are available to download as a PDF at www.co.worcester.md.us. Once there, the link to the Non-Profit Grant Application can be found under “Important Links” on the right hand side of the web page.

Completed grant applications should be mailed to the following

address: Worcester County Government, One West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill Maryland, 21863, Attention: Budget Officer Kim Reynolds.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, and applying for a nonprofit grant is not a guarantee of funding approval from WCG.

Grant awards will be announced by mail following the adoption of the FY24 WCG Operating Budget in June.

Rights-of-way to be abandoned

Continued from Page 12

After discussion over a pending referendum regarding one of the properties, council members voted in a different five to two majority — with Councilman Will Savage and Councilwoman Carol Proctor opposed — to create an ordinance to abandon all of

the rights-of-way when once they are identified.

McGean said the ordinance will likely come back up in the summer, as it will take another 90 days to finish identifying the rights-of-way and time after that to develop the ordinace.

OC preparing official brand review

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) As the world awaits the official unveiling of Ocean City’s new brand, snippets of the teased logo and tagline have been showing up for months on local and national platforms.

Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of

tourism and business development, told members of the Tourism Commission on Monday that resort officials are in full “Somewhere to Smile About” mode, referring to the tagline marketing firm BVK began using in ads and promotional materials over the summer.

From a ribbon around M&T Bank

Stadium during a Baltimore Ravens Monday Night Football game to a billboard in Times Square seen during a recent New Year’s Eve celebration, the resort’s new winky yellow and blue OC smiley face logo has been teased in various locations for all to see. And unlike the last brand, this one includes

PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF OCEAN CITY VIA FACEBOOK

The town’s new logo is shown within the header of the tourism department’s Facebook page. Staff members are preparing to officially unveil the city’s new brand in the spring, but have been teasing the logo and tagline across various local and national platforms for months.

Ocean City could raise bus, tram rates for 2023 season

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The rising costs of doing business nationwide may have Ocean City bus and Boardwalk tram riders digging deeper into their pockets this season to catch rides.

“So I’ve always been hesitant [to raise fares] but if I look at … what we’re supplying, and the increased costs, and public awareness today of those increased costs, and how things are more expensive than they used to be, if there was a time to consider, every 10 years, raising the bus fare, this may be the time to do it,” Mayor Rick Meehan told members of the city’s Transportation Committee this week while discussing the possibility of raising city bus fares by $1.

Today, riders can pay $3 to ride the bus all day, regardless of the season, a rate that Public Works Director Hal Adkins said has remained steady for nearly 12 years.

“The last time we changed the bus fare was 2011. It’s 2023 now,” he told committee members.

Meehan, who chairs the committee, was the first to perk up at the idea of bumping up the fare to $4, as the department has struggled financially since covid.

“I just think we need to be realistic this year,” he said in reference to reports that bus deployments were still noticeably down in 2022 compared to 2019.

“Particularly when we look at the increased cost of operating the system, the increased cost of personnel. Fuel has what, doubled in cost?,” Meehan continued. “And look at our budget and what we’re trying to do. I just think we have to be realistic.”

Transit Manager Rob Shearman presented data that showed deployments and ridership were pretty much on par with pre-covid numbers

Logo, tagline teased for months

a plug for booking on ococean.com, which Perlozzo said now allows visitors to schedule stays without having to go to a third-party site.

The entire online platform is changing, and is set to be officially revealed April 1, around the same time the finished brand will be publicized, Perlozzo said.

Tourism officials hired Milwaukee-based agency BVK a little more than a year ago to create a series of ads and other materials to market and promote the resort on a national level. Perlozzo showed some of the fruits of their labor during a soft reveal of the brand in early November and said Monday that his staff have also been helping with development.

Perlozzo added that plans are in

the works to promote jobs, events and other announcements on the live web cam on the city’s website. He said it is the highest viewed element on the site and mostly an untapped resource.

Return on investment for Springfest, Sunfest and Winterfest as determined by an economic impact calculator have also been determined as part of staff’s efforts to extend the season and bring more targeted visits to the resort, Perlozzo said.

“The numbers are really good,” he said.

Perlozzo gave an example that the food tax alone for the month of November was up $100,000, showing positive return on efforts to promote events and attractions during the off and shoulder seasons.

An Ocean City bus sits parked at the downtown terminal on South Division Street. Members of the city’s Transportation Committee voted this week to look into raising fares by $1 for both buses and trams to offset rising costs.

Rising costs may lead to $1 fare bumps for both divisions

for the late fall and winter but dropped during the peak season.

“Once we got into the summer, we had trouble matching even what we put on the road last year in terms of bus deployments,” he said.

Staff members attributed the summer drop to several factors, including the popularity of Uber and Lyft services and an unrecovered drop-off after people got used to not taking the bus during covid.

“I don’t think we’ll ever get back to pre-covid deployments,” Transit Manager George Peake said. “And they won’t be needed.”

With that, the estimated revenue boost from raising the fares is not expected to severely affect ridership.

“When you look at who is riding the bus today, it’s the people who really want to ride the bus, they’re back in transportation,” Meehan said. “I’m not sure we’ll see that same type of drop-off. [And] the additional revenue will far exceed that drop-off.”

Statistically, Adkins said the federal standard for communities that are transit dependent – meaning the majority of residents use public transportation to get to and from work — historically saw an average 4 percent drop in ridership for every 10 percent increase in fares. After covid, the number was revised to 3 percent. Adkins said Ocean City has never fallen into the transit dependent category, though, instead losing between 10 and 12 percent of riders when they raise fares. Shearman said that when the rates were changed in 2011, the number of riders dropped about 12 percent.

City Manager Terry McGean pointed out that the $3 a day fare is comparatively a bargain, as public transit systems across the country charge much more for services as costs have increased across the board.

“I think we’re a really good deal,” he said. “I think if we were to increase from three to four dollars, ride all day, I think that’s still a tremendous deal.”

McGean added that employee costs have put a strain on the department’s budget, as officials opted the

last two summers to raise seasonal rates for bus drivers to attract and retain employees, yet still came up short on desired numbers. This year, officials are being proactive and agreed to raise the pay to $20.50 an hour for new drivers and $21 for those returning, along with adding opportunities for monetary bonuses.

And while Meehan pointed out that the bus division will never be a money-making venture by nature, committee members agreed to recommend that staff look into raising the fares to provide some relief, and possibly reduce the subsidy needed from the general fund for operations.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who sits on the committee, also suggested looking into a seasonal fare increase, which he said could be just as effective and have less of an impact on regular riders.

The committee also learned that they will have to move on any changes quickly if they want them implemented before the upcoming summer.

Shearman explained that federal and state regulations require a mandatory 30-day advertising period for any suggested fare changes to give members of the public chance to request a hearing and submit comments.

“I would say, rough figure, it’s a two-month turnaround for when we can pull the trigger,” he said of the rate change.

McGean said he will also need time to work any new numbers into the fiscal 2024 budget, which he is developing now.

Similarly, the tram division may also see an increase in fares next season, as committee members voted to discuss raising the fares from $4 to $5.

Meehan pointed out that the trams make money and have helped subsidize the bus division over the years.

DeLuca added that the tram drivers and conductors are some of the lowest paid seasonal employees, which he said warrants the need for raises that could be made possible by higher fares.

Both matters will be discussed at the committee’s next meeting set Feb. 14.

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) A new Harrison Group office building set for construction at the former Nick’s Jurassic Golf on 18th Street is ready for groundbreaking with more square footage than originally planned.

On Jan. 4, members of the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission approved a request from the company to redesign the new office at 1801 Philadelphia Ave. to add more

than 2,200 square feet of office space and complete the work in one phase instead of two.

The new site plan, which planning commissioners unanimously approved, calls for a two-story, 9,826 square-foot building that will serve as the new headquarters. Company employees currently work in a much smaller space inside the Plim Plaza on Baltimore Avenue.

A representative from the Harrison Group said the main reason for

the new design was to increase the square footage to allow for eight new private offices and flex space. Samples of the lighting set to be used, and a privacy fence slated to be put up on the north side of the property between the new office and the existing neighborhood, were also shared with planning commissioners.

Bill Neville, the city’s director of planning and development, told the commissioners that the plans also include a slight change to the parking layout and three new parking spaces.

The original site plan received accolades from planning commissioners in July when it was originally approved, and garnered similar reaction during last week’s meeting.

OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) A bid finally came in under budget, seasonal employees are getting raises and council members approved a city employee telework policy at the City Council work session on Jan. 10.

Rec complex electric work

Bids to complete electric work as part of the renovation of the Downtown Recreation Complex on St. Louis Avenue between Third and Fourth streets uncharacteristically came in under budget this week.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who serves as council secretary, and City Manager Terry McGean opened proposals from three companies vying for the contract, which was estimated to cost $478,000.

The lowest bid came from Teider Electric of Cambridge for $402,370, the second lowest came from Tomey Electric, also from Cambridge, and the third, which was over budget, was from BNR Electric for $690,961.

Council members voted unani-

The family-run Harrison Group is one of the resort’s most prominent property owners, with multiple hotels, restaurants and event spaces in its portfolio.

The family entered the hotel business with the opening of the Harrison Hall Hotel downtown in the 1950s and has grown to include dozens of other properties across the resort, including the Hilton.

According to the Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation, the company already owns the land, which for years housed the dino-themed Nick’s Jurassic Golf mini golf course. Owners are in the process of rebuilding the course a block up the road at 1901 Philadelphia Ave.

mously to remand the bids to staff for review and recommendation.

Bids for the site work phase of the project, which consists of the revitalization of the skate park, playground, and recreation building at the downtown site, came in over budget, even after council voted to send it back to the drawing board following the first opening.

McGean said last week that the city also obtained a $1 million grant to help with the cost of the whole project.

Seasonal pay rates

To keep up with rising expenses and recruit and retain quality employees, city officials have made efforts post-covid to provide raises for both seasonal and part-time employees.

On Tuesday, McGean gave an update on the rates set for implementation for the coming season.

The pay tables went up overall by an average 3 percent, with 2 percent step increases worked in for returning part-timers.

RENDERING COURTESY FISHER ARCHITECTURE

Harrison Group office headquarters building on 18th Street at the former Nick’s Jurassic Golf site.

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Worcester County Planning Commission discussed the following during its Jan. 5 meeting:

Sea Oaks Village

The commission approved a preliminary plat review of phase two of the construction of Sea Oaks Village, a 76-townhome community with active recreation courts located along Stephen Decatur Highway in Berlin.

Attorney Hugh Cropper told the commission that the site has already met and exceeded the standards it set for the site.

“There are some minor wetlands permits for crossings and that sort of thing but 95 percent of the non-tidal wetlands are protected,” Cropper said. “Every permit pretty much is in place.”

Cropper added that the Worcester County Commissioners have allocated all 135 EDUs requested for the property, both water and sewer. Amenities are also in good standing.

“There is a commercial component that’s encouraged by the RPC that has mixed-use development that’s encouraged by the comp plan,” Cropper said.

“Much of (the commercial component is) built and some of it is occupied, and again the project is far along

and this exact site plan was approved originally when we were going to do all 135 at once. Then we dropped back and did 59. Now we’re doing the rest.”

Refuge at Windmill Creek

The commission postponed step one of a concept plan review for the Refuge at Windmill Creek after no representative for the developers appeared.

“The site is under construction,” said an associate of the developers. “They’re installing the utilities — sewer and stormwater — and of course, they’ve been fighting the weather.”

The associate added that they’re about two weeks behind.

“I think what happened was this project … somehow they let the approval lapse,” he continued. “They’ve been to the board, everything before it (the board) today is almost (the same) but not quite.”

Without a representative present, commission chair Jerry Barbierri suggested it might not be appropriate to proceed, with other commission members agreeing.

“And this is no disrespect to you,” commission member Ken Church told the associate. “You know what you’re talking about. But you didn’t even know you would be put in the hot seat and that’s not fair to either you or us

or anybody else involved.”

Beech Tree Place

The commission approved preliminary plans for Beech Tree Place, a major subdivision to consist of nine single-family homes at the intersection of Stephen Decatur Highway and Snug Harbor Road.

“My family is working on this subdivision and we’ve presented the plans to you,” said developer Mitchell Parker. “It’s a pretty straightforward piece of property”

Parker said that the original plan called for the project to be called Magnolia Court but since then, they’ve been busy saving specimens of beech trees and decided to switch names.

OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

Continued from Page 18

According to the numbers, bus and solid waste drivers with commercial licenses will be given higher seasonal pay from April 1 through Oct. 31, with opportunities for bonuses. The move is a proactive approach, as officials raised rates in-season for bus drivers the past two summers to curtail turnover and attract enough employees to get them through.

Pay rates for Beach Patrol employees are also going up, with sign-on, referral and loyalty bonuses worked in, while emergency personnel, public safety officers, police, and tram drivers and conductors will see bumps as well. McGean said staff are still finalizing the rates for part-time and seasonal maintenance employees.

Councilman Tony DeLuca suggested during a Transportation Committee meeting Tuesday morning that officials look into raising the pay rates for tram drivers and conductors higher than the table amounts. He pointed out that the division is a money maker and said the employees are some of the lowest paid, with drivers making $15.45 an hour and conductors getting $15.76.

DeLuca also asked during Tuesday’s council work session whether any discussions have been conducted about raising the rates of seasonal police and public safety officers. McGean said he does not know of any and that the conversations would need to begin with the police chief.

Telework policy

Along with some updates to the resort’s employee handbook, council members voted five to two — with Councilman John Gehrig and Council-

The original name, after the magnolia tree, was intended to honor Parker’s late cousin.

“We’re still thinking of how to honor him,” he said.

When asked who the customer for these properties would be, Parker said he envisioned it would attract buyers looking for “middle-of-the-roadtype pricing.”

The approval is contingent on the developers meeting eight items as outlined by Department of Development, Review and Permitting specialist Cathy Zirkle, which include identifying rights-of-way and easements, cooperating if sidewalks or other pathways are eventually required and approval of the cul-de-sac design by the Planning Commission.

woman Carol Proctor opposed — on Tuesday to approve an official telework policy for city workers.

Human Resources Director Katie Callan presented details of the changes, which included some updated language and other details within the handbook, as well as the formal policy to allow employees to work remotely.

Telework was introduced in city departments in 2020 with covid and has evolved since to include not only those who need it for medical purposes, but other employees, in an effort to increase productivity and attract and retain workers.

Callan said telework is not widely used among city workers, with some employees unable to do it at all because of the nature of their jobs. She also said departments heads make the final decision on whether it can be done.

The policy requires a formal written request and approval process, no change in conditions of employment, eligibility requirements, and expectations related to use of town equipment for business purposes only.

During discussions, Gehrig said that he did not favor having a blanket policy because it could not be evenly applied to all workers. He pointed out that the lack of consistency could open up problems, among other concerns. Questions about accountability and the need for the policy were also fielded.

Callan said that officials have struggled in some departments to fill positions because of the lack of a telework policy, as many workers today want to eliminate commute times and take advantage of other perks that come with working remotely.

OPA’s struggles in recruiting lifeguards continue into ’23

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Ocean Pines Aquatics Department is starting early in its effort to recruit lifeguards for the 2023 season. The national lifeguard shortage is still an issue and the competition to fill the many lifeguard stands at the beaches and pools pits northern Worcester County against many other areas.

“A lot of people let their certification expire when COVID hit, and we lost a year of training,” said Aquatics Director Kathleen Cook. “I don’t see it being a one-year recovery.”

Ocean Pines is advertising and reaching out to local high schools, colleges, swim clubs, and coaches to recruit lifeguards.

“We are putting money in the budget to chase lifeguards,” said General Manager John Viola. “Who knows what is going to happen. It’s going to turn around. We just don’t know when. But we have certainly budgeted to try to solve the problem.”

There is also an effort to recruit residents who love to swim and may have some time on their hands to become lifeguards and help keep the pools open.

“We can do more with veteran lifeguards,” Cook said. Fortunately, two senior lifeguards answered the call. Both sixty-plus years old, Dave Blazer and Mike Castoro are guarding the Sports Core Pool.

“I work two days a week, I open the pool up, and then I’m done at 1 o’clock and I get the rest of the after-

noon to do other things,” Blazer said.

Castoro encouraged others to take the plunge and join the team at Ocean Pines Aquatics.

Ocean Pines has four outdoor pools and one indoor pool that is open all year. “We have a large investment in our pools. We want to use them,” Cook said.

But last year, Cook could fill only 20 of the more than 40 lifeguard positions needed to be fully operational. It’s especially difficult during the first three weeks of June and the last two weeks of summer, when many of the younger guard must return to school.

Even though the pools produce little revenue during this time, “we still need to be in compliance.” Her goal is to staff the pools through the whole season. Last year, Cook says, “We were fully operational from the beginning of July until the middle of August.”

“We are required by law to have one lifeguard per 50 people. But sometimes that does not address the safety issue,” Cook said. “One lifeguard with 50 kids and 39 of them can’t swim: it’s not a safe situation.

We must always err on the side of safety.”

Spring lifeguard certification classes are scheduled April 21-23 in Ocean Pines. The association will waive the class fee for anyone hired as an Ocean Pines lifeguard.

The association is also offering free recertification training for former lifeguards. The association is offering competitive higher wages and providing uniforms for the lifeguards.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Ocean Pines continues to struggle to hire lifeguards due to national shortage.

OP skatepark temporarily closed due to vandalism

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Ocean Pines skatepark was locked up last Thursday with signs posted: “No Trespassing Skate Park Closed Indefinitely.”

The closure was the result of vandalism that took place at the park earlier in the week, according to Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks officials, who were notified of the vandalism on Wednesday, Jan. 4. Two days later, the skatepark reopened.

“The damage included a bench removed from the ground and broken, exposed screws and broken slats from the bench, profanity graffitied on the rules sign, a security camera broken and taken off the pole with exposed wires left, and the fence bent and clips holding the fence broken,” Josh Davis, Marketing and Public Relations manager for Ocean Pines said Monday.

While the park was closed, Ocean Pines removed the damaged property, cleaned the area, and replaced the damaged security cameras. During the cleanup, Ocean Pines replaced the rules sign and sponsor sign, and added a sign announcing the hours and “no trespassing” during off hours. Repairs cost about

$2,000.

Recreation and Parks Director Debbie Donahue said the skate park is monitored by the Ocean Pines Police Department. She said if the vandalism continues, the Police Department will remove the parties involved and potentially ban them from the skatepark permanently. Police will also monitor the park for trespassers during the posted hours when the park is closed.

“Rec and Parks wants to be able to have a nice facility for Ocean Pines members. However, with the continued behavior it does not make sense to upgrade the facility or spend the money needed to continue to replace damaged property,” she said.

“Closing the park is not something we want to do,” Donahue continued. “Let’s work together to continue to have a nice facility, and to be able to add more items to the park and do any necessary upgrades.”

General Manager John Viola said there is a cost involved in continued upkeep of the skatepark, and that must be passed on to all association members.

“It’s unfortunate, and you never want to see something like this,” he said. “We also want to remind people

that we have posted rules at the park, and those are for the safety of those using the park and the safety of those around them. We hope everyone will

respect the rules of this facility, so we can continue to operate it for the benefit of our homeowners and residents.”

OPA and OPVFD hire experts for new capital campaign

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Ocean Pines Association and Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department have contracted with a fundraising expert and hired a grant writer to work on the capital campaign for a new south fire station.

Stacey Weisner, who led successful fundraising campaigns for the Salisbury Zoo and Delmarva Discovery

Museum, will lead the capital campaign for OPA and OPVFD.

Additionally, Valerie Mann, who has more than 40 years of experience in the grant writing field, will assist OPA and OPVFD in grant research and writing. She will also explore the possibility of other grant opportunities related to infrastructure and public safety.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Vandalism caused Ocean Pines to close the skatepark for repairs the first week of the year.

Pines honors 11 employees during annual ceremony

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Ocean Pines Association on Dec. 16 honored 11 employees for their combined 150 years of service.

The brief recognition ceremony occurred during the annual staff holiday party at the Ocean Pines Clubhouse Bar & Grille.

General Manager John Viola said such recognition is important because many workers fly under the radar.

“These nine gentlemen and two ladies represent the backbone of this Association,” Viola said. “It’s thanks to their hard work that we’re able to continue to move forward on so many of our initiatives, and we wanted them all to know how much their work is appreciated. Thank you all for a job well done.”

Those honored for five years of service were Travis Brittingham, Kyle Dalton, Anthony Howard, Clarence Rounds, Billie Tragle and Matthew Wallace.

Honored for longer periods of service were Josh Vickers, 10 years; Eddie Wells, 20 years; Ruth Ann Meyer, 25 years; Clint Parks, 25 years; Lt. Greg Schoepf, 40 years.

The Ocean Pines Association on Dec. 16 honored 11 employees for their combined 150 years of service.

Snow Hill adopts new logo designed by local resident

(Jan. 13, 2023) After a rigorous design process, the Town of Snow Hill has adopted a new logo.

With a goal to represent the multifaceted aspects of Snow Hill’s character to its residents and visitors, an extended amount of time was spent weighing options from design companies as well as local artist submissions. The Mayor and Council endorsed a design by Snow Hill resident Julia Allinder which speaks to the rich history and natural assets of Snow Hill.

Allinder is a Salisbury University graduate, with a degree in graphic design, who loves the small-town feel of Snow Hill and the beauty and tranquility of the nearby waters.

She entered the logo contest because it is a rare opportunity to be able to design a town’s logo.

“I thought it would be pretty neat to design something that could potentially be around for a lifetime, especially the mark of the town that I live in,” she said. “I think that’s pretty special.”

The logo depicts the Pocomoke River and iconic cypress trees, while paying homage to its history and status as the Worcester County seat with a prominent display of the Worcester County Circuit Court cupola in the

center.

After researching other town logos, she sketched many iterations highlighting the most iconic features of Snow Hill until the right design was formulated.

Allinder describes the opportunity as being “humbling and a blessing to be a small part of the history of Snow Hill - the town that seems to be coming more and more alive each day.”

Snow Hill resident Julia Allinder designed the town’s new logo.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

HOROSCOPE Celebrations, concerts in OC, Berlin set for MLK weekend

Aries, you are willing to take risks and never afraid to try new things. This benefits you as you seek new solutions regarding how to get things done.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, figure out a new goal to pursue and start to make a list of how to get to the finish line. You may need to recruit a few volunteers to help along the way.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, when a project at work lands on your desk, you may be ambivalent about it. You appreciate the challenge, but already have a long list of things to do.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Could this be the right time to think about making a career move, Cancer? The new year marks a fresh start, and perhaps you have had your eyes on a new work opportunity.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

There’s more than meets the eye this week when someone from your past suddenly pops up on your radar again, Leo. Learn all of the facts before you make assumptions.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, try to stay in the loop around the office. Doing so might pay professional dividends that could open the door to new possibilities.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You’ve been keeping quite busy, Libra, but don’t forget to make time to touch base with friends and loved ones from time to time. Keep those lines of communication open.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Patience is a virtue of which you are in short supply recently, Scorpio. You have no control over the timeline on certain things and that can be frustrating. Wait it out.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

It’s time to tackle all of those tasks you have been putting since the end of last year, Sagittarius. If you need help getting organized, reach out to someone you trust.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Think about all the possibilities you have before you, Capricorn. When you consider all of the positives in your life, the negatives just may fade away.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Your name is on the lips of so many people. That is likely because you are affecting change wherever you go. Keep forging ahead because you are helping others.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Now that spending has ceased, take a closer look at how you can budget for the new year. Make your money work for you, Pisces.

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) When resort tourism officials began scheduling events to beef up the off-season, Martin Luther King Day and the preceding weekend seemed a logical choice for a live music celebration dedicated to the civil rights leader’s life and legacy.

After some planning, Dreamfest, a three-day music event featuring performances by well-known soul and R&B artists from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, was set for Jan. 13-15 at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center.

The Art League of Ocean City is also hosting a party on Jan. 14 dedicated to the life and legacy of civil rights leader Rev. Charles Tindley for a packed weekend of celebration and remembrance.

Dreamfest, made up performances by The B.B. King Experience featuring Claudette King, Thomas McClary’s the Commodores, and The Spinners, was made possible with a state tourism grant.

“Essentially it is a free event for Ocean City,” said Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, to members of the Tourism Commission this week.

The event will kick off Friday with The B.B. King Experience featuring his

daughter, Claudette King. King tours with her father’s blues band and takes listeners back to the ‘50s while adding her own enthusiasm and flare.

On Saturday, Thomas McClary’s The Commodores will take the stage. As an original member of the Grammywinning R&B funk group, McClary has been known to push the boundaries of genre and offer unique live performances.

On Sunday, The Spinners will perform with Henry Farmbrough headlining. The audience can expect to hear popular classic hits such as “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love” and “Working My Way Back to You.”

All shows start at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m.

Tickets for Dreamfest are on sale now at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street or online at ococean.com/events/dreamfest.

The art league’s free party honoring the life and accomplishments of Tindley, a Berlin native and freeborn son of a slave who became a well-known civil rights crusader, is set from 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St. The event will feature live music, original artwork, films, videos and refreshments, and attendees will receive twofor-one coupons good for ticket

discounts to Dreamfest.

According to a news release from the Art League, Tindley not only embodied the spirit of what drove Dr. King and others through the civil rights struggle but also wrote many of the songs still sung today.

Clifton Henry Dennis Jr., who hosts the show “The Gospel Train” on Delmarva Public Media’s WESM 91.3 on Sunday mornings, will emcee music for the event. Musician Bryan Russo will also perform songs with the Tindley Family Choir, who are made up of his descendants

Russo will also present the video for “Mr. Tindley,” the song he wrote that

Claudette King

Salisbury woman with ties to MLK, wife coming to OC

(Jan. 13, 2023) A 92-year-old Salisbury woman who in the 1950s dated a young Martin Luther King, Jr. and studied voice with Coretta Scott King — before the couple ever met — will be a featured guest at this Saturday’s MLK festivities at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

Their relationship is the subject of a new film, “The Boston Photograph,” to be shown Saturday at the Arts Center at 3:30 p.m.

“I look forward to sharing what I remember about them before they were a couple, entered the world stage, and became household names,” La Verne Weston Briddell Eagleson said.

Directed by Clennon L. King, this film screening is part of a free open house reception on Jan. 14, 3-5 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th Street, bayside, and the public is invited.

The open house, hosted by the Art League of Ocean City, honors the birthday of the civil rights leader and also Berlin native Rev. Dr. Charles Tindley.

In addition to “The Boston Photograph,” three other films related to civil rights will be shown, including one that pays tribute to Tindley, the musical composer largely responsible for the anthem, “We Shall Overcome,” which became the soundtrack of the movement Dr. King led.

Eagleson was a music student in Boston when she became friendly with and dated MLK. She also attended classes at the New England Conservatory with Coretta Scott, who would later marry King.

The film was inspired by a photograph of King and Scott taken with Eagleson and her first husband, Rev. David Briddell, that had been packed away until her granddaughter, Syeeda, heard about it and asked to take it to show-and-tell at school.

Rev. David Bridell passed away in February 2022 in Berlin. Eagleson still has her health at 92.

Following the screening of “The Boston Photograph,” Eagleson and her daughter, Dr. Jocelyn D. Briddell of Berlin, will comment and field questions from the audience about the relationship to King and Scott.

“The Boston Photograph” film is eight minutes in length and produced and directed by Clennon L. King.

A native of Albany, Georgia, King hails from a prominent civil rights family, where his grandfather for whom he is named was a buggy driver for Booker T. Washington at Tuskegee, while his father was a lawyer for scores of civil rights demonstrators during the historic Albany Movement, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The film has been accepted into the

seventh annual 2023 Ocean City Film Festival, to be held in the resort March 2-5.

Clennon King filmed the story at the Berlin home of Jocelyn Briddell in January 2021.

The film is “a time capsule of a story that is nothing short of amazing,” Clennon King said.

The director had previously interviewed Eagleson for an article for Boston Magazine, but said, “I wanted to make this journey to this lane and this house owned by her daughter [in Berlin] to hear her story again directly from her lips.”

The film will be shown along with three other films curated from the Black History showcase of the upcoming Ocean City Film Festival to be held in the resort in March.

The Saturday event will include a live musical performance by Bryan Russo and the Tindley Family Gospel Choir, an “I Have a Dream” art show by students of Most Blessed Sacrament School in Ocean Pines, and complimentary refreshments.

The Town of Ocean City is celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during Dreamfest weekend, Jan. 13-15, with a three-day music event held at the convention center’s Performing Arts Center.

Guests who attend the free open house at the Art League’s Arts Center will receive a 2-for-1 coupon good for ticket discounts to the R&B concerts at the Performing Arts Center.

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 410-524-9433.

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.

Berlin civil rights leader to be honored at party on Sat.

from Page 25

kickstarted the grassroots effort in Berlin for a mural honoring the composer. Film previews curated from the upcoming Ocean City Film Festival in March will also be screened, and artwork with the theme “I Have a Dream” created by the students of Most Blessed Sacrament School in Ocean Pines will be on display.

Tindley was born in Berlin in 1851 and overcame many challenges to get an education and become a well-

CROSSWORD

known preacher and activist. By the time of his death in 1933, Tindley had become known as the “Prince of Preachers” and was considered one of the founding fathers of gospel music. His hymn, “I’ll Overcome Someday,” was the direct inspiration for the civil rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome.”

La Verne Weston Briddell Eagleson of Salisbury, in the 1950s dated a young Martin Luther King, Jr. and studied voice with Coretta Scott King — before the couple ever met — will be a featured guest at this Saturday’s MLK festivities at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street.

Continued

Charles Tindley

Berlin Restaurant Week going well during first couple days

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) Berlin Restaurant Week is underway and with a few days left to descend on its participating restaurants to taste the best of the food the town offers, managers and staff are pleased with how the week is going.

“It’s going fantastic,” said Pop’s Kitchen’s Bob Beck, who owns the restaurant with his wife, Kelli.

The Becks had been running two restaurants, the other being Denovo’s Trattoria in Ocean Pines, but now the focus is solely on Pop’s Kitchen.

“It’s been a really pleasant surprise (becoming a part of the Berlin restaurant community). We love the town. We’re really happy to end up in a place like this, just a pleasant surprise the whole way around.”

Over at Rayne’s Beef, manager and head waitress Amanda Pagett said they’re keeping it simple and pushing their marquee special — a cheeseburger with fries, a drink and a complimentary ice cream.

“It’s been pretty decent (over the first two days),” Pagett said. “We’ve had a few (restaurant week goers) today.”

It’s not uncommon for some restaurants to be closed early in the week, which is the case over at Boxcar on Main, whose staff on Tuesday was ramping up to start its week on Wednesday.

“We usually do very well,” said owner and head chef Paul Suplee. “We’re serving three courses for $27. The chef is Chris Samsone.”

“We’re known for having great from-scratch food, amazing cocktails, chili. It’s always fun to sit in front of the (Pompeii) oven.”

During Berlin Restaurant Week, participants are encouraged to go to

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

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 last week. “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.”

Berlin Restaurant Week will end on Sunday. The raffle will be drawn on Monday.

NOW PLAYING

COINS

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

Jan. 13: Ricky Laricci and the Leftovers, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14: First Class, 7 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Jan. 13: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 14: Dunehounds, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 15: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 16: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 17: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 18: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 19: 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. 13: Party Fowl, 6 to 10 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 7 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Jan. 14: John McNutt Band, 5 to 9 p.m.; Dj BobbyO, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; KinSoul, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Jan. 15: Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.

Jan. 19: Opposite Directions, 5 to 9 p.m.

JOHN MCNUTT BAND

Seacrets: Sat., Jan. 14, 5 to 9 p.m.

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Seacrets: Thur., Jan. 19, 5 to 9 p.m.

JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Pop’s Kitchen is one of 13 establishments in Berlin participating in Restaurant Week, which runs until Sunday.

Recipe features fresh strings beans prepared Italian style

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) Dusk has taken the upper hand and stillness relishes my soul.

Mother Nature is in command and has graciously allowed serenity to settle upon us. Little ones are tucked in and time to be with myself has finally come to pass.

Silence is full of life when one is willing to listen. A glass of Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio warms my heart and guides my daily pen.

The diary of a chef is personal and up close, and it is these treasured moments that allows individuality to come to the forefront.

Passion is not a given, especially when it comes to glorious gastronomy. There are those who do not understand this love affair, but eternal devotion to truth is a blissful union that lasts a lifetime.

I must confess there is not a day that goes by where I do not touch, taste and explore the delectable morsels before me.

Fate is an ingredient that must be fulfilled by commitment; it is in this timely fashion that I must proclaim the reasons for my obsession.

This relationship started by chance; but somehow curiosity emulsified into fascination.

It is important to embrace all cultures for the sake of progression and prosperity. With that thought in mind, let us cross the Atlantic Ocean and take a closer look at Italy.

Italian food is a surprisingly di-

verse cuisine. Each of the 20 Italian regions has a distinctive set of flavors, recipes and ingredients.

In fact, the Italian regions were not officially united as a nation until the mid-19th century, therefore, each region has retained much of its exclusive identity.

A quick tour follows for those who dream of traveling to Italy.

Abruzzo is known for its red chilis, minestrone and mortadella.

The most characteristic ingredient of the Aosta Valley is fontina cheese.

If you adore asparagus, you must visit Bassano.

Cherries from Marostica are a must, wild mushrooms are synonymous with Trentino, and prosciutto is the star in Parma.

While this is just a sampling, it is enough to throw my taste buds into a state of culinary bliss.

I cannot pinpoint which celestial offering pivots me past the point of no return. All I know is the anticipation of sensorial consecration makes me beg for more.

On a humbler note, fresh string beans cooked in tomatoes, chicken bouillon, onions, garlic and basil turn an ordinary dish into a spectacular side.

The secret to this Italian twist is to cook the tomatoes in their broth until the liquid has evaporated. By doing so, all of the flavors not only come together but are intensified in their natural state.

This delectable dish can be served year-round and is simple to make.

If one love string beans and are looking for a tasty twist, you must give this recipe a try. Enjoy!

(Jan. 13, 2023) The election of officers of the Stephen Decatur Middle School Kiwanis Builders Club took place on Dec. 20.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City’s president and advisor to the Builders Club installed the newly-elected officers: president, Julia Park; secretary, TJ Jacobs; treasurer, Brycen Pendleton; and vice president, Lily Sperry.

The SDMS Builders Club has been very active under the guidance of Mindy Ouelltt.

The students do projects, such as collecting toiletries with two other school student organizations – the National Junior Honor Society and the Student Government Association – to be sorted and wrapped in towels for Diakonia through Delta Kappa Gamma’s “Helping Hands,” an organization for educators both current and retired, and through the Beyond Your Walls Project.

The election of officers for the Stephen Decatur Middle School Kiwanis Builders Club took place on Dec. 20. Pictured receiving a $500 check from the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City to support their projects and efforts, from left, are SDMS Advisor Mindy Ouellet, SDMS Principal Lynne Barton, Builders Club President Julia Park, Kiwanis Club President Bob Wolfing, Secretary TJ Jacobs, SDMS Kiwanis Club Advisor to the Builders Club Sarah Walker, Treasurer Brycen Pendleton, Vice President Lily Sperry, and CoAdvisor Kathy McDaniel.

There is a competition between homerooms to see who collects the most items. Just an example of how these students learn to do community projects and give back to the community.

Stephen Decatur High School Kiwanis Key Club has a student member liaison to the SDMS Builders Club, Kirby Bounds, who attends meetings to share her experiences as a past member of the SDMS Builders Club and her SDHS Key Club.

Students can begin with elementary school Kiwanis K-Kids Clubs in Buckingham and Showell and progress through Berlin Intermediate School and SDMS Builders Clubs to SDHS Key Club.

Fresh string beans Italian style

Continued from Page 28

Fresh String Beans, Italian Style

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh string beans

2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes

2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 small yellow onion, chopped 2 teaspoons dried basil kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1. Cook string beans according to personal preference. Once they are to

your desired doneness, place the beans in a strainer to remove excess cooking liquid. Set aside.

2. Remove seeds and hard ends of canned tomatoes. Reserve the tomato liquid. Chop the tomatoes.

3. In a medium, heavy bottom pan, simmer tomatoes, tomato liquid, chicken bouillon, garlic, onions, dried basil and salt.

4. Occasionally, stir tomato mixture. Once the tomato liquid has reduced substantially, you will have to constantly stir.

It is important to make sure all of the tomato liquid has reduced, and all you are left with is the flesh of the tomatoes. This allows the flavors to come together for a more flavorful dish.

5. In a medium bowl, combine string beans and tomato mixture. Taste the string bean mixture and add a touch more salt if necessary.

Garnish with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

* This recipe must be made with fresh string beans. French green beans, also called haricots verts, are another option. Canned or frozen string beans will not yield desirable results.

Secret Ingredient – Individuality. “What is genius but the power of expressing a new individuality?”

– Elizabeth Barrett Browning

■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL

Dining Guide

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

■ 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 is seven days a week, 4 to 6 p.m. Breakfast; Monday through Friday, 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., Saturday through Sunday, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Dinner; Sunday through Thursday, 4 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4 to 10 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaraunt serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; Daily, 2 to 5:30 p.m. Happy Hour; Daily, 2 to 5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 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

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 to 6 p.m.

■ 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. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 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 to 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 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.

■ 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 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 to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m. featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters; Breakfast, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Lite fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4 to 10 p.m.

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

to 146th streets

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

$$ | 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.

■

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, 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 to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

PHOTO COURTESTY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

Fri., Jan. 13

HOBBIES CLUB: BEHIND THE SCENES DETECTIVES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Join Mr. Jake and some special guests to get the inside scoop. Recommended for ages 7 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1:30 p.m. Stories, rhymes, finger plays and more. For agers up to 2 years and their caregivers. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘LIGHT YEARS FROM HOME’ BY MIKE CHEN

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Books are available at the Ocean Pines circulation desk. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410208-4014

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. Cost is $14 for a one-crab cake platter, $24 for a twocrab cake platter or $10 for a crab cake sandwich. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Bake Table and carryout available.

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.

MLK WEEKEND DREAMFEST 2023 - THE B.B. KING EXPERIENCE

Ocean City Performing Arts CenterOcean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 8 p.m. Featuring Claudette King. The daughter of the blues legend will take the audience back to the ’50s while bringing her enthusiasm inspired by her father. Tickets: https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com.

Sat., Jan. 14

OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9:30 a.m.

Featuring a photo review of the kids programs sponsored by the club, including Teach A Kid To Fish, Youth Fishing Contest and Believe in Tomorrow. Also updates on winter charter trips. All welcome. 401-641-7662

DELMARVA ART EXPO

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10

a.m.-5 p.m. Juried vendor show for all mediums. Admission cost is $3. www.delmarvaartexpo.com, 443-235-2926

PROJECT T(W)EEN: TABLE TOP TOURNAMENT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12 p.m. Join the group for some classic board games and some new ones. Bring some of your own to add to the tournament. For ages 11 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014

ALOC TO HOST TINDLEY CELEBRATION

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 35 p.m. Free party honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rev. Dr. Charles Tindley. The Arts Center party will include live music, original artwork, films, videos and refreshments. Bryan Russo will perform with the Tindley Family Choir, made up of Tindley's actual descendants. Artwork with the theme "I Have a Dream" created by the students of Most Blessed Sacrament School will be on display. A Salisbury women, who in the 1950’s dated a young MLK and studied voice with Coretta Scott King, will be on hand to comment and field questions after the screening of a film based on their relationship, "The Boston Photograph," at 3:30 p.m. Attendees will receive a 2-for-1 coupon for tickets to the R&B concerts at the convention center. OCart.org, 410524-9433

MLK WEEKEND DREAMFEST 2023THOMAS MCCLARY’S COMMODORES EXPERIENCE

Ocean City Performing Arts CenterOcean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 8 p.m. Groove with the R&B funk of Thomas McClary’s The Commodores. McClary has been known to provide a performance that is unparalleled with anything else today. Tickets: ocmdperformingartscenter.com.

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. 15

DELMARVA ART EXPO

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Juried vendor show for all mediums. Admission cost is $3. www.delmarvaartexpo.com, 443-2352926

MLK WEEKEND DREAMFEST 2023THE SPINNERS

Ocean City Performing Arts CenterOcean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 8 p.m. Decades later, this multi-Grammy Win-

ning soul group will have audience members singing and dancing all night long. Tickets: ocmdperformingartscenter.com.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Jan. 16

DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF WORCESTER COUNTY GENERAL MEETING Ocean Pines Community Center - Assateague Room, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m.-noon. Guest speaker will be Reverend J. Jones, African-American Leaders of the Eastern Shore. All are welcome.

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, 410-6410157

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. 17

WINTER SEA GLASS ART

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Learn how to make a winter-themed sea glass art. All supplies included. Limit 15. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014

STORY TIME ‘MARCHING PENGUINS’

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

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Join the group for silly songs, rhythm instruments and dancing. 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.worcesterli-

brary.org

BLOCK PARTY

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers play with blocks and other toys while socializing with other families. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. The discussion will focus on the play “Six Characters in Search of an Author” by Luigi Pirandello. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014

SHARED VISIONS READING

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 68 p.m. Meet the artists and writers of this year’s “Shared Visions” collaboration. Hear readings of the poetry and prose inspired by the artwork on display. Free and open to the public. 410-524-9433

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Held virtually, 6:30 p.m. Heather Poultry studies sustainable living and how it affects our world and future. Registration required: 443-783-6164, www.worcesterlibrary.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 HeroesOC” 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 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.

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

Worcester County Health Department

ACCOUNTANT SUPERVISOR I - Full Time, State Benefits. This position is responsible for preparing and managing the operating budget for the Worcester County Health Department. Duties include, but are not limited to managing the accounting, financial and statistical data for the presentation of budgets to upper management, as well as managing and performing all accounting functions in accordance with applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures. This position creates, monitors and manages internal controls for the department. Background check required.

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by January 18, 2023.

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

PART-TIME Personal Injury/WCC Legal Assistant 8 hours per week, occasionally more. Computer and phone skills a must. Legal experience necessary. Send resume to lawfirm@ robertmorrowlaw.com.

3BR, 1.5BA Home in Ocean Pines. Year round. Screened-in porch. Large lot. $1350/mo. plus utilities. Pet OK. Available Feb. 1. 410-206-3696

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

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. 302-386-7818

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.

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

DONATIONS

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.

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-855993-0969

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 IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

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.

Deadline is Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

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.

Wed., Jan. 18

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

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

EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Join the group as they promote the needle arts through sewing education, activities and textile crafts. For artisans of all skill levels. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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.

PAGE TO SCREEN BOOK CLUB (MOVIE SHOWING)

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Time to wrap up the book. Come watch the movie and have some snacks. For children of all ages. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 3-4 p.m. For stroke survivors, family and friends. 410-641-4766, bglime@atlanticgeneral.org

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional

Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 1-2 p.m. For survivors and current patients battling breast cancer. Women Supporting Women, 410-5487880

ACRYLIC PAINT POUR

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. This introductory class will use two different methods to create brilliant canvases. Supplies included, but bring your apron if you so choose. Limit 10. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CD COASTERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Use felt, scrap materials and CDs to make coasters. For ages 8 years and older. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHEMISTRY: ATOMS AND MOLECULES

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Learn about the basic building blocks of chemistry and participate in a few science experiments. For ages 8-12 years. Registration required: 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

Thurs., Jan. 19

CPAP MASK FITTING

Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. A free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointment required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.

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

STORY TIME ‘BUILD IT’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30

a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN CITY BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THE MARTIAN’ BY ANDY WEIR

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join the group for coffee as they discuss the book of the month. Stop by the library to check out a copy of the book. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

INTERACTIVE STORY TIME: ‘WHAT COLOR IS THE WIND’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Join the group for a beautiful story to help celebrate National Braille Literacy Month. Stick around for a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GENEALOGY WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Begins with a 20-minute lesson on genealogy research by Tom Dempsey, followed by a Q&A session. Bring laptops, tablets or papers containing family information. Registration requested: 410-208-4014.

COFFEE AND CANVAS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Joint the group for some acrylic basics and create a new canvas for your home. Limit 15. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WINTER SEA GLASS ART

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Learn how to make winter-themed sea glass art. Materials provided. Limit 15. Register: 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Join the group to help celebrate the Year of the Rabbit as they make some special crafts for Chinese New Year. For ages 8 years and older. 410-208-4014,

www.worcesterlibrary.org

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.

FREE HEART & SOUL CLASS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free Heart & Soul Class. Register: https://reg131.imperisoft.com/ArtLeague OfOceanCity/ProgramDetail/3632373731 /Registration.aspx. 410-524-9433

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

‘FORCE OF NATURE’ EXHIBIT

Ocean City Center for the Arts, Ocean City convention center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Jan. 6-28. The “Force of Nature” exhibit seeks to highlight the effect of climate change through weather. Featuring artwork from more than 50 artists. Admission is free and open until 4 p.m. daily. OCart.org, 410-524-9433

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

WALKER

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.

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 ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/29/3t

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

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 Worcester 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

Mission Hill MD, LLC C/O Eskin Law, LLC 1700 Reisterstown Road, Suite 212 Baltimore, MD 21208

Plaintiff v. Stephen W. Dlubala, Jr. 6810 Collinsdale Road Baltimore, MD 21234 and

The Estate of Stephen W. Dlubala, Jr.

S/O Personal Representative 6810 Collinsdale Road Baltimore, MD 21234 and Sharon E. Dlubala 6810 Collinsdale Road Baltimore, MD 21234 and

The Estate of Sharon E. Dlubala S/O Personal Representative 6810 Collinsdale Road Baltimore, MD 21234 and

State of Maryland Office of the Attorney General S/O Brian Frosh, Attorney General 200 St. Paul Place Baltimore, MD 21202 and Worcester County Treasurer's Office

S/O Phillip G. Thompson, Collector l W. Market St. Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863 410-632-0686 and

All unknown owners of the property described Below; all heirs, devisees. personal representatives, and executors, administrators, grantees, assigns or successors in right, title, interest, and any and all persons having or claiming to have any interest in the property and premises situate in the Worcester County, known as 3 lvy Lane and described as Legal Description LOT B-03-035 11146 SQ FT IVY LANE PL OCEAN PINES SEC 3 Being known as District 03 Account Number 083101 on the Tax Roll of the Collector of Taxes.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO.: C-23-CV-22-000281

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as 3 lvy Lane in Worcester County, State of Maryland, sold by the Director of Treasury for Worcester County, State of Maryland to Mission Hill MD, LLC,

the Plaintiff.

A DESCRIPTION of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: Legal Description LOT B-03-035 11146 SQ FT IVY LANE PL OCEAN PINES SEC 3, District 03 Account Number 083101 Known as 3 Ivy Lane.

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

It is thereupon this 3rd of January, 2023 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Ordered, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 6th day of March, 2023, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title to said property in Fee Simple, free of all liens and encumbrances.

True Copy

Brian D. Shockley Judge

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-1/12/3t _________________________________

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not pre-

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

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: January 05, 2023

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received shall be deemed the successful bid. Credit, bank and personal references will be verified. Industry experience may also be taken into consideration.

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 vehicles, 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 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

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.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DEBORAH S. WILSON Estate No. 19507 Notice is given that KIMBERLY WILSON whose address is 2 FEDERAL HILL, BELRIN, MD 21811 was on DECEMBER 29, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DEBORAH S. WILSON who died on 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 29th 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 pre-

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

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

JANE FRANKEL SIMS, ESQ. SIMS & CAMPBELL, LLC

500 YORK ROAD TOWNSON, MD 21204

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19493

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES A. PAYNE JR.

Notice is given that Veronica C. Payne, 10460 Golf Course Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on January 04, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James A. Payne Jr. who died on July 5, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of July, 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.

Veronica C. Payne 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: January 12, 2023

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM EUGENE PEACOCK III Estate No. 19451 Notice is given that TERESA BAUMANN whose address is PO BOX 178 GIRDLETREE, MD 21829 was on NOVEMBER 14, 2022 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of WILLIAM EUGENE PEACOCK III who died on OCTOBER 21, 2022 without a will

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-1/12/1t

CHRISTOPHER T WOODLEY ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE,

to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections withthe Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of JULY, 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-1/12/3t _________________________________

CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19520 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MITCHELL BRYAN HORINE

Notice is given that Karen C. Hanna, 201 Manor Drive, Riverdale, IA 52722, was on January 06, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Mitchell Bryan Horine who died on December 17, 2022, without a will.

claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Karen C. Hanna Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

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: January 12, 2023

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19519 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THOMAS EDWARD YARKO

Notice is given that Sharon Stamer, 830 Berrymans Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136, was on January 06, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Thomas Edward Yarko who died on December 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 6th day of July, 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

SHOCKLEY

& HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

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.

OCD-1/12/3t

To all persons interested in the estate of VERA W MANGUM Estate No. 19518 Notice is given that VANESSA B LEMLEY whose address is 10125 HAMMOND ROAD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 was on JANUARY 06, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VERA W MANGUM who died on SEPTEMBER 7, 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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

(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.

Sharon Stamer 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: January 12, 2023

OCD-1/12/3t

First-time home buyers lowest ever

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) The National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers report shows that first-time home buyers have dropped to their lowest numbers on record.

NAR further reported that the age of the typical first-time buyer increased to a record high of 36. These changes are amid higher home prices, bidding wars and fierce competition for limited inventory.

“It’s not surprising that the share of first-time buyers shrank to the lowest level ever recorded given the housing market’s combination of historically low inventory, persistently high home prices and rapidly escalating interest rates,” said Jessica Lautz, NAR’s vice president of demographics and behavioral insights. “Those who have housing equity hold the cards, and they’ve fared very well in the current real estate market. Firsttime buyers are older as a result of saving for down payments for longer periods of time or relying on a generational transfer of wealth to propel

them into homeownership.”

First-time buyers comprised just 26 percent of all buyers in 2022, down from 34 percent the year before.

But this should not be surprising since buyers are facing tight inventory, rising home prices, rising rents and many first-time buyers have high student debt loads.

The NAR report showed that saving for a down payment is the biggest

obstacle to homeownership cited by first-time buyers.

Twenty-two percent of first-time buyers have used a gift or loan from friends and family to come up with a down payment, according to the NAR study. The typical down payment for first-time buyers was 6 percent in 2022.

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

Money from Md. casino table games, slots down $7.7 mil.

(Jan. 13, 2023) Maryland’s six casinos combined to generate $165,175,099 in revenue from slot machines and table games during December.

The total represents a decrease of $7,726,403 compared to December 2021.

Casino gaming contributions to the state in December totaled almost $69.7 million, a decrease of $1.4 million compared to December 2021.

Contributions to the Education

Trust Fund (ETF) in December 2022 were $50.6 million, a decrease of about $1 million compared to December 2021.

Casino gaming revenues also support the communities and jurisdictions where the casinos are located, Maryland’s horse racing industry, and small, minority- and womenowned businesses.

The gaming revenue totals for December 2022 are as follows:

• MGM National Harbor (2,130

See NUMBERS Page 38

on one of

widest

in

this oversized lot features 63' of vinyl bulkhead (instead of the standard 40'), a dock, pier, and electric boatlift. Sold fully furnished; features 3BR/2.5 BA, sunroom, screened porch, crown moldings throughout, cathedral ceilings, new laminate flooring in living area, and a wide-open floor plan. Walking distance to beach, shopping, dining, bus stop, and Ocean City's beautiful 58-acre Northside Park. Community amenities include 2-inground swimming pools, pickleball courts, and a bayfront boardwalk w/3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $360/year!! $799,900

New signal at Rt. 113 and 818

(Jan. 13, 2023) The State Highway Administration will activate a new traffic signal at the intersection of Route 113 and Route 818 in Berlin on Saturday, the SHA announced this week.

The traffic signal will be in flash-only mode for 72 hours beginning Saturday to give motorists a chance to get used to its operation. Portable changeable message signs will also be in place to alert motorists of the new signal.

By Tuesday, Jan. 17, the signal will be fully operating.

Construction on the $100,000 signal began in October as a result of discussions between SHA, local elected offi-

BUSINESS BRIEFS

John W. Breda, president and CEO of The Bank of Delmarva, recently announced that Stephanie Krause was promoted to senior vice president –senior relationship manager/group manager.

S. Krause

Krause joined The Bank of Delmarva in 2017, and has become an integral part of its success.

She is a graduate of Wilmington University where she earned her MBA

cials, the Town of Berlin and citizens.

The SHA’s traffic analysis determined a traffic signal would increase safety of motorists as well as pedestrians at this location.

Nearly 20,000 vehicles use this section of Route 113 at this intersection each day.

“Safety is our top priority, and we are grateful for the discussions we’ve had with citizens and the Town of Berlin to move this project forward,” SHA Administrator Tim Smith said. “This will improve the safety of this intersection for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.”

‘Best Wings on the Shore’ set Feb. 5 at Lewes brewery

(Jan. 13, 2023) Ocean 98.1 WOCMFM with presenting sponsors Mountaire Farms and Crooked Hammock Brewery will hold the ninth annual “Best Wings on the Shore” Contest on Sunday, Feb. 5, from noon to 3 p.m. at Crooked Hammock Brewery in Lewes.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Ocean 98 “Cash for College” Fund.

The $20 entry fee will provide each attendee a judge’s ballot, allowing for unlimited tastings of the wings prepared for the event by local restaurants.

The categories that will be judged are “Best Overall,” “Most Creative” and “Hottest.”

Mountaire Farms has returned as a major sponsor, and will be donating fresh wings to each competing restaurant to be used for their entry.

Crooked Hammock Brewery, part of the LaVida Hospitality Group, will

once again be a major sponsor, providing its venue for the competition. It will also be pairing a special, inhouse craft beer for the event.

The competition field is limited to 20 area restaurants: 45th Street Taphouse, Bethany Blues, Big Chill Beach Club, Bourbon Street on the Beach, Bull on the Beach, Chaps Pit Beef, Crooked Hammock Brewery, Fast Eddie’s, Grain on the Rocks, House of Sauce, Kick ‘N Chicken, Mad Hatter Cafe, Ocean 13, Papi’s Tacos, Taco Reho, The Station on Kings, The Sterling Tavern, Thompson Island Brewery, Woody’s Dewey Beach

This is a family friendly event with children under 10 being admitted at no charge.

The Ocean 98 “Cash for College” fund provides a $2,500 scholarship each year for an outstanding high school student in Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex counties.

Numbers for Dec. show drop from same time period in ’21

with a concentration in Finance.

Krause started in the industry as an underwriter, which gave her an exceptional foundation to become the skilled commercial lender and relationship manager she is today.

Krause has over 22 years of experience, including 18 years in the commercial sector.

The Bank of Delmarva has 11 locations in the Eastern Shore of Maryland/Delaware metro market, offering a full range of deposit and lending products and services.

For more information, visit www.bankofdelmarva.com.

slot machines, 209 table games) $69,371,972, down $5,141,369 from December 2021.

• Live! Casino & Hotel (3,855 slot machines, 179 table games) $59,665,153 a decrease of $2,752,833 from December 2021.

• Horseshoe Casino (1,466 slot machines, 130 table games) $16,809,892 a decrease of $244,903 from December 2021.

• Hollywood Casino (699 slot machines, 19 table games) $7,301,853, an increase of $106,419 over December 2021

• Ocean Downs Casino (842 slot machines, 19 table games) $7,202,656, an increase of $489,811 (7.3 percent) from December 2021.

• Rocky Gap Casino (614 slot machines, 16 table games) $4,823,573, a decrease of $183,529 (-3.7 percent) from December 2021.

PHOTO COURTESY SHA

Cars drive through the intersection of Routes 113 and 818 and Berlin. State Highway Adminstration officials will activate a traffic signal at the site on Saturday.

Atlantic General reimbursed for broadband costs

(Jan. 13, 2023) Atlantic General Hospital recently secured $193,050 from a federal program that allows not-forprofit healthcare organizations serving rural areas to apply for a 65 percent discount on eligible broadband services.

The reimbursement, which comes from a Federal Communications Commission fund via the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), is made possible by telecommunications service providers — like those who are members of the Maryland Broadband Cooperative — that pay into the fund to support rural healthcare facilities in bringing worldclass healthcare to their patients and families through increased connectivity.

The cooperative has provided both fiber internet and dark fiber (fiber-optic infrastructure not yet in use) to Atlantic General, which allows for the expansion of existing services and telehealth opportunities.

The cooperative began the process to construct fiber-optic backbones in strategic locations across the Eastern Shore in 2007 through the support of the TriCouncil of the Lower Eastern Shore in conjunction with the Mid-Shore Regional Council. The first to be completed was on Route 113, from Pocomoke to Berlin and continuing to the Delaware border.

“If not for the vision and effort of the

Tri-County Councils, it would not have been possible for us to reach Atlantic General Hospital and to have fostered this great service partnership we’ve had for most of the last decade,” said Drew Van Dopp, president & CEO of the cooperative.

Installing broadband fiber in Worcester County allowed Atlantic General to implement its first electronic medical records system in the provider practices in 2008 and execute subsequent upgrades connecting all of its facilities, which requires the secure exchange of large amounts of data at high speeds to function properly.

“We cannot stress enough the incredible impact the efforts of the Tri-County

Councils and the Maryland Broadband Cooperative have had on clinical practice and patient care,” said Jonathan Bauer, vice president of information services at Atlantic General. “This reimbursement from USAC helps make broadband internet service more affordable for our organization, thereby reducing the cost of patient care.”

Atlantic General Hospital worked with Network Better, a network and telecommunications professional management company, through 2022 to identify and successfully apply for the USAC dollars.

Atlantic General Hospital has been providing quality health care to the resi-

dents of Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties in Maryland, and Sussex County, Delaware, since May 1993.

Built by the commitment and generosity of a dedicated community, the hospital’s state-of-the-art facility in Berlin combines compassion and expertise with the latest in technology and services.

Atlantic General Health System, its network of more than 25 primary care provider and specialist offices, cares for residents and visitors throughout the region.

For more information about Atlantic General Hospital, visit www.atlanticgeneral.org.

Maryland Broadband Cooperative presents a USAC reimbursement check for $193,050 to Atlantic General Hospital as part of a federal program to offset high speed internet expenses for rural not-for-profit hospitals. Pictured, from left, are Jonathan Bauer, AGH vice president of information services; Don Owrey, president and CEO of Atlantic General Hospital; Charlotte Cathell, chair of the AGH Board of Trustees; Chip Bertino, president of the Worcester County Commissioners; Jeremey Sweeney, IT manager at Atlantic General Hospital; Drew Van Dopp, president and CEO of the Maryland Broadband Cooperative; and Tim Hayes, Maryland Broadband Cooperative’s vice president of finance.

Blood supply low, donate at OC Blood Drive, Jan. 23-25

(Jan. 13, 2023) Amid ongoing blood shortages, Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) remains committed in its mission to help save lives.

This month, BBD will honor donors, both old and new, during National Blood Donor Month.

The last few years have been challenging, as BBD faced multiple blood emergencies. This is part of a national trend, as blood donations have not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Yet, demand for these lifesaving products is up.

This month, the blood center is facing a new concern as the “tripledemic” of RSV, flu and covid-19 is threatening an already unstable blood supply.

There has been an uptick in cancellations and missed appointments due to donors who are or are concerned about getting sick.

“During these challenging times, it’s important that new, current and lapsed donors consider making an appointment to donate,” said Nicole Pineault, director of donor resources for Blood Bank of Delmarva. “Every two seconds, someone is in need of blood. Patients rely on volunteer donors to help in their lifesaving treatments.”

Twenty-five percent of the blood supply is used by patients battling cancer and roughly 1,800 units of blood are used by pediatric patients across the country daily.

In the weeks following the holiday season, maintaining a stable blood supply and building inventory is critical. One donation can save up to

three lives in the community.

In celebration of National Blood Donor Month, all presenting donors from Jan. 5-31 will be entered into weekly drawings for a chance to win an Apple or Google Watch.

Sixty-two percent of the U.S population is eligible to donate, but just 3 percent of the population does so. It takes less than an hour of someone’s time to save up to three lives. BBD especially needs O positive, O negative and B negative donors going into the New Year.

To make an appointment call 8888-BLOOD-8 or visit delmarvablood.org. The annual Ocean City Blood Drive is scheduled for Jan. 23-25 at the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street.

To register for the Ocean City event, go to https://donate.bbd.org/donor/sched ules/city.

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

OP Kiwanis Club collects toys and coats during drive

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City ran its annual coat and toy drives in November.

Donations were collected from club members and the community.

More than 350 coats were donated and distributed by co-chairs Kitty Wrench and Sue Wineke to local organizations. Coats were also delivered to Village of Hope, Joseph House, Diakonia, Samaritan in Selbyville and St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Ocean City.

Three SUV loads of toys were collected and delivered to Worcester GOLD for distribution in conjunction with the Department of Social Services, which vets the recipients to be sure that as many children as possible get toys for the holidays.

The Toy Drive was chaired by Dave Landis who delivered them to

Firefighter Mike Hastings featured

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) In the coming weeks and months, we plan to introduce the members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company to the community they serve.

Currently our longest serving active member is Mike Hastings.

Mike joined the Fire Company on Oct. 4, 1966, and has 56 active years of service in the company.

He is a life-long resident of Ocean City and has been self-employed in the boat repair business (Hastings

Boat Repair) for over 40 years.

Mike joined the fire company “to help his friends and neighbors in the community and protect the property in the town.”

Mike currently serves as firefighter but has served in many leadership roles over the years, including seven years as an assistant chief; 28 years as a captain; 20 years as a cadet instructor and also served four years administratively on the board of directors.

Hastings’ most memorable event was the tragic Saute’ Café restaurant fire in July 1983.

He cites as his greatest accomplishment in the fire service the opportunity to serve as a cadet instructor and witness members from the program have successful careers in the fire service.

We thank Mike Hastings and all our volunteers for their commitment

and service to our community.

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

Worcester GOLD’s facility in Snow Hill.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID LANDIS SR. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City ran its annual coat and toy drives in November. Pictured are Worcester County GOLD's Program Coordinator Taylor Carly and Executive Director Nicholas Cranford holding some of the toys.

Mike Hastings

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

LUNCHEON

FOOD DONATION

CHURCH DECORATION

GUEST SPEAKER

ANGEL TREE

The Community Church at Ocean Pines teamed up with Showell Elementary School to provide help for those in need at Christmas. The "Angel Tree” at the church was hung with 198 individual angel name tags with suggested gifts for congregation members to select, purchase and return the week prior to Christmas. Every name on the "Angel Tree" was selected. Project CoChair Patty Pino is pictured with the tree.

NEW OFFICERS

The Worcester County Garden Club held a luncheon and workshop on Dec. 12 at Stevenson United Methodist Church Hall during which members brought assorted greenery and flowers to make holiday decorations.

Members of the Worcester County Garden Club recently decorated the historic St. Martin’s Church in Showell for the holidays. Historic Preservation Chair Jan Owens coordinates this annual event. Unfortunately, the cancellation of the Christmas Eve service due to weather resulted in their hard work and inside decorations going unseen. Pictured are Rebecca Galyon, left, and Ginny Outten.

Marine Corps League First State Detachment members joined 150 other volunteers at the Mountaire Farms facility in Selbyville, Delaware, on Dec. 21 to pack 3,000 boxes for the company’s Food for Christmas program. Each box of a Mountaire roaster chicken, canned corn, green beans, yams, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and brownie mix for desert was enough to feed a family of four. Pictured, from left, are Tom Redding, Bob Broderick, Milt Warren, Rick Schumann, Gene Dankewicz, Don Coffin and Delaware State Representative Jeff Hilovsky (Ret. Col. USAFR).

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City welcomed member Jackie Dubin as the guest speaker on Dec. 7. She is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Bob Wolfing.

The South Point Association, Inc. near Assateague Island, held its annual membership luncheon meeting and election of new officers for 2023, at the Ocean City Golf Club on Dec. 10. Elected by the community association's membership, seated from left, are directors Jan Adamchak and Rick Martelo; and Diane Stelzner, secretary; and in back, Brian Julian, treasurer; Michael LeCompte, president; and R. J. Troitter, vice president.

PHOTO COURTESY JACK BARNES

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

WISH LIST

LUNCHEON

NEW MEMBER

GIFT GIVING

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

RECOGNITION

Students in Jennifer Fohner’s PreK-4 classroom at Ocean City Elementary finished an activity where they had to write two things they wanted their elves to share with Santa. Pictured are Naisa Kc, Tucker Coates and Chloe Ask.

The annual Worcester Prep Holiday Bazaar took place at the Berlin school on Dec. 3. Students and their moms volunteering at the Duckin’ coffee and cocoa, in front, from the left, are Sophia and Seva Nistazos, Georgia Duffie and Isabella Rice, and in back, Alena Nistazos, Lauren Hanna and Kourtney Duffie.

The board of the Republican Women of Worcester County enjoyed their holiday luncheon on Dec. 15 at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin.

A room honoring veterans was made possible through contributions from the OC Lions Club and other local organizations. Lions Steve McMillan, left, and Chuck Becker display the Coastal Hospice “We Honor Veterans” plaque recognizing the contributions.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City welcomed new member John Hulit on Dec. 14. Membership Chair Lynne McAllorum inducted him. He was sponsored by Lyle Dillon.

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 are Kindergarten students with Santa and teacher Heather Dennis and assistant Ingrid Poffenberger.

Damiana Colley’s Ashes Of Midsummer will be on display as part of the “Force of Nature” show at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street.

PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OC

‘Force of Nature’ highlights weather, climate impacts

(Jan. 13, 2023) A new art show that explores the power and beauty of weather is on exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts from Jan. 628.

Admission to the Arts Center and the “Force of Nature” show is free and open until 4 p.m. daily.

With the rise in extreme weather events, the exhibit seeks to highlight the effects of climate change through weather.

Artists worked in all media and submitted scenes of stormy skies, heavy snow, heat waves and other weather conditions as a reminder of the impact of weather on everyday lives and the world around us.

Artwork from more than 50 artists who explored this theme is on exhibit at the Arts Center in January.

“We who live on Delmarva are especially conscious of the weather, be it the threat of hurricanes, flooding and nor’easters,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League of Ocean City. “The weather affects our watermen, our farmers, our tourism industry – everything we do every day here on our fragile peninsula.

This exhibit hopes to shine a spotlight on how the weather and ultimately climate change impacts us. We encourage everyone to come and see this show.”

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.

“For those who have never visited the Arts Center, there is so much to see and do here,” Thaler said. “Admission is free, and we are open every day. Bring the family.”

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.

Casablanca Conference hosted in Jan. 80 years ago

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) This week, 80 years ago, the Casablanca Conference opened in Casablanca, Morocco.

In attendance were American President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Great Britain’s wartime Prime Minster, Sir Winston S. Churchill, as well as the military brass of both countries.

The president traveled to Casablanca in a Boeing 314 Clipper Flying Boat named The Dixie Clipper. It was the first time a sitting U.S. president had made an international flight.

Accompanying the president was Chief of Staff General George C. Marshall, and FDR’s confidant, Harry Hopkins.

The Dixie Clipper departed the United States from Miami, Florida, with stops in Trinidad, Brazil and then to Gambia in Africa and arriving at Casablanca on Jan. 14, 1943.

The route would be repeated in reverse for the return trip, but stopping in Liberia on Jan. 27, 1943. The entire trip covered 17,000 miles.

The following Americans were also present at the conference: Adm.

Ernest J. King, Chief of Naval Operations; Lt. Gen. Henry (“Hap”) Arnold, commander Army Air Force; Lt. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander Allied Expeditionary Force of the North African Theater of Operations; Lt. Gen. Brehon B. Somervell, commander Services of Supply; Lt. Gen. Mark W. Clark, commander, U.S. Fifth Army; Brig. Gen. Albert C. Wedemeyer, advisor to Gen. Marshall; Brig. Gen. John E. Hull, Chief of Theater Group, Operations Division, General Staff; Rear Adm. Charles M. Cooke Jr., Chief of Naval Plans; Mr. Robert Murphy, minister to French North Africa; W. Averell Harriman, who would shortly be named U.S. ambassador to the Soviet Union, and would later marry Churchill’s daughter-in-law, Pamela.

The prime minister traveled from England in a Liberator Mk. II Bomber named Commando.

Accompanying the PM were Gen. Sir Hastings (“Pug”) Ismay, Churchill’s military advisor; Gen. Sir Alan Brooke, Chief of the Imperial General Staff; Sir Dudley Pound, First Lord of the Admiralty; Air Chief Marshal Sir Charles Portal, Chief of

Continued on Page 47

Saccas remembered

Editor, Growing up in Ocean City at South First and Baltimore Avenue, the big white house at the inlet, I knew many of those men whose names were mentioned by Mr. Jester.

I enjoyed reading the article, however, I’m more than somewhat dismayed that three names were not included: namely, Frank, John and Michael Sacca.

Frank and John served the early Ocean City community with as much fervor as the other gentlemen. The Adelphia Restaurant, owned by Frank and Lena Sacca, was right next to the Dorchester station.

Frank was the leader of the Fireman’s Band, which lead the fireman’s parade every year.

In addition, during Hugh Cropper’s leadership in 1946, Mr. Sacca was the secretary. In fact, at the

Jan. 8, 1946 meeting, my grandfather’s notes show that John Sacca and Charles Elliot were reinstated in the fire company after the war.

John and Nancy Sacca owned 218 Dining Room (the old Adelphia) in the ’60s. Many a time when that alarm went off, my dad was out the door answering a community’s call.

Most importantly, John instilled the love the fire service to my brother, F. Michael.

Michael knew all those old Ocean City gentleman as well, calling them Mr. Sam or Mr. Albert, whomever he was addressing.

As he became more involved, he held many offices in the company including president. Mike was a deputy fire marshal until his passing in 1991.

Frank, John and Michael were not honorary members but part of the framework that makes OCVFC as vital as it is today.

Elizabeth Sacca Kuczinski Berlin

GOT MAIL?

Mail your letter to editor@oceancitytoday.net

All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material

Scooter rental ban will be welcomed

The possible ban in Ocean City on the rental of non-typical vehicles such as e-bikes, scooters and their multi-wheeled companions is almost guaranteed to cause outrage in some quarters of the resort business community.

Based on the City Council’s preliminary discussions this week, the loudest cries of foul would come from owners and staff of established businesses that would have until April to plan for their operation’s demise.

These protests, however loud they might be, will almost certainly be drowned out by the cries of joy from residents and other businesspeople who see scooters, slingshots and the like as a danger and a source of great annoyance.

No one, outside of the rental operators, will miss the incessant horn-blowing that frequently heralds the approach of a string of these two- and three-wheelers being driven by the look-at-me set, or the whine of 50 cc motors going ‘round and ‘round the block of an otherwise quiet neighborhood.

Considering the size of these vehicles as compared to the cars, trucks and buses on Coastal Highway during the season, one would think all rental customers would be intimidated into exercising more caution, but no, that is not always the case. And that’s why the proposal by Councilman Will Savage makes sense from the standpoint of highway safety.

As Savage noted, if Ocean City is truly serious about road safety, it must do everything it can to remove these low visibility, under-protected, motorized rides from the street.

Obviously, local government can’t dictate who has access to Coastal Highway, a state highway, and it cannot and should not prevent people who own e-bikes and scooters from riding on any street. But it can reduce the number of irresponsible recreational motorists by putting an end to the rentals.

The council’s 6-1 vote in favor of imposing a ban was surprising and the hope here is that the follow-through is complete. Council members should know that they have the backing of a great majority of resort residents in their pursuit of safer and quieter streets.

Ocean City Today

PUBLIC EYE

Elective intelligence

It’s amazing how much smarter people get after they’re elected. It’s a law of nature — you get 1,000 votes more than the other guy and suddenly you’re splicing genes in the garden shed on your days off.

You win the vote, are sworn into office and things you never knew unexpectedly surface.

medicine. Good thing, too, because it found that stress is not reduced — repeat, not reduced — by harp music.

This was especially good news to many people, who suddenly had plenty of room to store their Xanax pills after removing the harps from their medicine cabinets.

By Stewart Dobson

“Oh, now I get it!” and off you go to Harbor Freight to buy some tiny little hammers so you can bang away on the chromosomes you found lying around the house.

Okay, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but it does seem that elected officials become experts on everything once they take the oath of office.

Consider, for instance, Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, a former wrestling coach, who has been put in charge of an investigations subcommittee that can pretty much do whatever it wants.

Putting a wrestling coach in charge of investigations is like hiring a truck driver to take out your tonsils. This isn’t to say that wrestling coaches and truck drivers aren’t experts in other ways — I mean I’m not splitting atoms in my spare time either — but expertise in one field doesn’t automatically transfer to another just because you have your hand up.

Unless you’re elected, of course, in which case your IQ rachets up exponentially, which, for people like me who’ve never held office, means a lot, real fast.

Here’s an example: a one-time chairman of a congressional subcommittee on health had an agency created to investigate alternative

On the other end of that spectrum was a member of a House committee who told followers that “Jesus hates science,” which apparently qualified him as a member of a subcommittee on space, technology and, of course, science.

Then there was the congresswoman who mused about a possible connection between outbreaks of swine flu and the election of a Democratic president, not to say that the American people have anything against electing swine from either party to office now and then.

But the real disconnect between skill and force of will was Ocean City’s own Mayor Harry Kelley, who was beloved throughout the state, but ran the town like his own business ... unfortunately.

Let’s just say his personal control of the city checkbook reached a point where it looked like drawings of nesting material. Council members no longer with us eventually staged a palace coup and brought in a city manager to handle the resort’s business affairs.

It could be that I’m just jealous that I don’t know more than I do. As I was asked some years ago by a neighbor who was trying to explain to me how to make a minor home repair, “Let me get this straight,” he said. “All you know how to do is newspaper? That’s it?”

“Well, yeah,” I replied. “I’ve never been elected to anything.”

the Air Staff; Field Marshal Sir John Dill, Chief of the British Joint Staff Mission in Washington; Lord Frederick Leathers, minister of War Transport; Vice Adm. Lord Louis Mountbatten, Chief of Combined Operations Headquarters.

Other British officials attending the Conference included Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Tedder, Air Officer Commanding in Chief, RAF Middle East Command and Gen. Sir Harold Alexander, commander 18th Army Group.

The responsibility for the providing of the Conference participants’ comfort and security fell to Gen. George S. Patton Jr. The conference was held at the Anfa Hotel in Casablanca.

Also in attendance at the conference, but not as participants, were French Generals Charles de Gaulle and Henri Honoré Giraud.

Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin had been invited, but had declined, saying; he was busy with the Battle of Stalingrad, which by the first of February was over.

Journalists were excluded from the Casablanca Conference until the end, when approximately 50 were invited. They were housed at the Excelsior, an upscale hotel on Casablanca’s main thoroughfare.

The Casablanca Conference was one of the most important of the wartime conferences, because of the many momentous decisions that were made, beginning with the next move for the Allies after North Africa was cleared of Axis forces.

The Americans wanted to follow with a cross-Channel invasion of Europe, for which their Soviet Ally had been clamoring.

Churchill and the British did not believe that the Allies, especially the Americans, were ready for that. Instead, the Prime Minister advocated an invasion of Italy — “the soft underbelly of the Axis,” as he described it.

The Americans ultimately relented and agreed to an invasion of Italy, beginning with Sicily. Too late they realized that the PM’s analysis was incorrect.

The Allies also agreed to the president’s proposal to announce that they would only accept the Axis’ “Unconditional Surrender,” a term that the president had borrowed from Ulysses S. Grant.

The Allies adopted that position, in part, to reassure their Soviet Ally that there would be no separate peace. They also thought that it would help Allied morale.

The United States Army Air Force was just beginning to have an impact on the air war over Europe.

The two countries agreed that the Axis would be bombing round-theclock, with the Royal Air Force taking the night shift, while the U.S.A.A.F. took the day shift.

This policy resulted in the second highest percentage of fatalities, behind only the German submarine service.

On Jan. 21, 1943, the Combined Chiefs of Staff (CCOS) of the Western Allies established priorities for the aerial assault on Europe.

Churchill and Roosevelt disagreed on the future of the British Empire, with the President advocating independence for its various colonies, and the Prime Minister stubbornly refusing to even consider the possibility.

On Nov. 9, 1942, the PM had said, “I have not become the King’s First Minister in order to preside over the liquidation of the British Empire!”

The president’s brief stopover in Bathurst (now Banjul), capital of the British colony of The Gambia, where he witnessed the poor conditions, strengthened his resolve to push the British to grant their colonies independence.

The two Allied leaders also met privately with Mohammed V, Sultan of Morocco, and his 14-year-old son, and successor, Hassan II. Morocco, at the time, was a French protectorate.

The president reportedly told the Moroccans that the country would be independent within 10 years.

Missed it by two.

Then, there was the question of French leadership. Gens. de Gaulle and Giraud had been summoned to Casablanca. FDR didn’t like de Gaulle.

In addition to the French general’s haughty attitude, the president thought him a stooge of the British. But in an effort to unify French leadership, both men were brought to Casablanca and sat for photos with the president and the PM. They were also ordered to stand and shake hands.

The handshake was so cursory that the photographers missed it and it had to be repeated, much to the chagrin of Gen. de Gaulle.

On, Jan. 22, 1943, FDR, assisted by Gen. Patton, awarded the Medal of Honor to Gen. William H. Wilbur, as Gen. Marshall watched.

Next week: Casablanca 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

OC Fire Department mourns passing of Chief Fisher lll

(Jan. 13, 2023) On behalf of the Officers and Members of the Ocean City Fire Department, Fire Chief Richie Bowers has announced the passing of Past Deputy Fire Chief John E. Fisher III.

Deputy Chief Fisher answered his last alarm on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, after a long and dedicated career in the fire service.

Chief Fisher joined the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company in May 1993 and served the citizens and visitors of Ocean City and Worcester County for many years.

During his tenure with the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Chief Fisher held the ranks of lieutenant (1994 to 1996) and captain (1996 to 2023).

He served as captain of ‘A’ Platoon and was respected for his leadership, community involvement, and his desire to mentor new members.

“The passing of Deputy Chief Fisher is a great loss to our department. He devoted his life to serving and protecting others, and his legacy will be known as a chief who touched the lives of many, including the members he mentored,” Bowers said.

Prior to joining the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Chief Fisher had an extensive career in the

fire service, volunteering with the Mount Rainier Volunteer Fire Department, Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department, and Cottage City Volunteer Fire Department.

He also worked as an instructor for the Maryland Fire Rescue Institute, and as a master firefighter and HazMat

FDR at Casablanc

John E. Fisher III

EDGAR NORMAN JONES JR.

Ocean

Pines

Edgar Norman Jones Jr., age 71, of Ocean Pines, Maryland, slipped away on Jan. 3, 2023 at UMMC in Baltimore.

These last years of Norm’s life were challenging, but he met them head-on with the gusto and spirit for life by which he was known.

Born in Annapolis, Maryland, and raised in Eastport, he is the baby brother of the remarkable Jones team.

With his devastated wife, Diana, he is survived by his son, Edgar N. Jones III (Shannon), and his grandchildren, Macie E. Jones and Edgar N. Jones IV, all of whom he deeply cherished and adored.

Norm was predeceased by his parents, Edgar N. Jones Sr. “Wimpy” and Marybelle “Mutt,” and he is also survived by his sister, Geral ParksLisi (Richard); and brothers, James Michael Jones (Bobbi) and John Frank Jones (Mary Ann).

Norm served proudly in the US Navy on the USS Coral Sea during the Vietnam War.

From a long fire service family line, he followed his father and brothers into and retired from the Annapolis City Fire Department as a

firefighter and paramedic during the early development years of Maryland’s Emergency Medical System (Shock Trauma).

Having lived in Maryland, Florida and Tennessee, he finally settled in his beloved Ocean Pines, working hard and playing hard at Berlin’s GlenRiddle Golf Course until he no longer could.

Norm was positively thrilled with an ocean fishing trip with his son this last birthday, a dream fulfilled.

His enthusiasm was infectious; he never met a stranger, and he loved his family, friends, children and animals as they loved him.

Jokester and trickster that he was, he was also funny, impulsive, honest, smart, intuitive, thoughtful, creative, kind and generous. He treasured great fun, good food, and a helluva house party.

Norm lived life thoroughly and never missed an opportunity to take you on that ride with him. His soulmate, Diana, was his rock; and Norm was her rocket.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, at The Links at Lighthouse Sound Golf Course, 12723 St. Martin’s Neck Road, Bishopville, Maryland 21813, with a lite fare reception following.

In lieu of flowers, gifts and donations in Norm’s memory may be made to The Church Mouse, a thrift

shop and local outreach, P.O. Box 429, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

Your “Stormin’ Norm” stories and memories may be shared using the Memories tab on the page: https://kalasfuneralhomes.com/obit uaries/Edgar-Jones,Jr.-9263.

GRAYCE COHEN Ocean City

It’s with great sadness that the family of Grayce Cohen announces her passing.

She died peacefully, at her home on Dec. 14, 2022, and next to the ocean, as were her wishes.

She was preceded in death in 2011 by her devoted husband of 65 years, Aaron Cohen.

Born in Schenectady, New York, on March 11, 1925, she also lived in Bethesda, Maryland, Phoenix, Arizona and Ft. Collins, Colorado, before settling in Ocean City, Maryland, for the last phase of her life.

No matter where she resided, she attracted a vibrant and diverse group of friends and associates. She enriched their lives, and they hers.

Grayce lived her long life with energy, curiosity, generosity and most importantly, love.

The passions in her life included her family, friends, synagogue, condominium community, music, the arts, reading and cooking for others.

She will be sorely missed by her children, Bruce Cohen and Sharon Koransky; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren (all of whom knew her as Gammy); brother, Dr. Jay Cohn, numerous nieces and nephews, and many, many close friends.

No amount of gratitude is adequate in acknowledging both Terrell Matthews and Doug Dewar. Their loving care allowed Grayce to comfortably and safely remain in her home through the time of her death.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., May 21, 2023 at Temple Bat Yam, 11036 Worcester Hwy, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

The memorial will be streamed live as well. As the date approaches,

please find any updated information about the service at the Holloway Funeral Home website: www.hollowayfh.com.

Contributions in Grayce’s memory can be made to the Temple Bat Yam General Fund at the Temple’s website: www.TempleBatYam-oc.org.

REV. BRYAN EATON GLANCEY Salisbury

The Reverend Bryan Eaton Glancey, age 72, passed away at TidalHealth Hospital in Salisbury, Maryland, on Monday, Jan. 2, 2023.

Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, he was the son of the late Charles Glancey and Joyce Eaton Glancey.

Rev. Glancey prided himself in helping others over his nearly 50 years as a pastor – most recently he was pastor of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Hurlock, Maryland, and St. Paul’s by-the-Sea in Ocean City, Maryland.

Rev. Glancey was passionate about the St. Andrews Food Bank and its mission of feeding those in need.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Glancey; his son, Bryan Glancey Jr.; his two brothers, Kevin Glancey and Gary Glancey; and his two grandchildren, Audrey Beth Glancey and Ralph Glancey.

Services are schedule for Friday, Jan. 13, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, located at 301 S. Main Street, Hurlock, Maryland 21643.

Donations for the Food Bank are to be accepted in lieu of flowers.

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

DOROTHY B. GODFREY Bishopville

Dorothy “Dot” B. Godfrey, age 97, of Bishopville, Maryland, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023.

Born in Salisbury, she was the daughter of the late George W. Taylor and Erma B. Shockley Taylor

Deputy Chief Fisher mourned

Continued from

team shift leader with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.

Also, reflecting on the service of Deputy Chief Fisher, Volunteer Fire Company President Freddie Senger said, “Deputy Chief Fisher was more than a colleague, he was a friend, mentor, and a devoted member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. He will be deeply missed.”

Throughout his career, Chief Fisher was known for his kind nature

and his dedication to serving his community. He will be greatly missed by all those who had the privilege of working with him, and his favorite quote “Hot Dog!” will always be remembered as an endearing term used to greet his fellow firefighters.

All Ocean City first responders, extended their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Deputy Chief Fisher. A celebration of life ceremony will be announced at a later date.

Edgar Jones Jr.

Grayce Cohen

Bryan Glancey

OBITUARIES

She was a member of Zion United Methodist Church in Bishopville and the Worcester County Farm Bureau.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa A. Nugent and husband, Todd, of Bishopville; a niece who was like a daughter to her, Tammy D. Kane and husband, Bobby, of Ocean Pines; a sister, Lois Perdue of Salisbury; a brother-in-law, Donald W. Godfrey and wife, Patricia, of Delmar; a sister-in-law, Alberta C. Godfrey of Pocomoke City; her grandchildren, Jeffrey E. Godfrey Jr. and wife, Carrie, Rita S. Godfrey, Chelsea R. West, Mason E. Kane, Aiden R. Kane and Noah R. Kane; six great-grandchildren, Austin, Emily, Wyatt and Aliza Godfrey and Ruby and Remy Windsor, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Everett B. Godfrey Jr.; a son, Jeffrey E. Godfrey Sr.; a nephew, Everett H. Godfrey; and two brothers, Billy Taylor and Gerald Taylor.

A funeral service was held on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023 at BishopHastings Funeral Home in Selbyville. Burial was in Zion Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to: Zion Church Cemetery, c/o Naomi Johnson, 35141 Johnson Store Road, Selbyville, Delaware 19975; or Bishopville Vol. Fire Dept., P.O. Box 350, Bishopville, Maryland 21813.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

MARY ELIZABETH DOYLE HALL SMITH Seaford

Mary Elizabeth” Libby” Doyle Hall Smith of Seaford, Delaware, formerly of Ocean Pines, Maryland, passed away in Seaford, on Jan. 2, 2023.

The daughter of the late George Altair and Henrietta Keelan Doyle, she was born on March 7, 1925, in Pittsburgh.

She moved to Philadelphia, attended Lower Merion Senior High School, and studied at Pennsylvania State University, where she received a B.S. in Science with a major in Chemistry.

Following graduation, she took a job at Monsanto Chemical Company in Dayton, Ohio.

During the Cold War, Monsanto’s Mound Lab was under the auspices of the Atomic Energy Commission, where she worked on a project requiring top secret clearance.

While in Dayton, she met and married James E. Hall, Jr.

She was involved in the community and volunteer work serving on the initial Women’s Board of the Chil-

dren’s Hospital as it was being built, the Board of the Dayton Chapter of the Christ Child Society, and the Junior League of Dayton, serving as its president from 1963-65.

In 1970, she married Carter T. Smith and moved to Columbia, South Carolina, for three years. In 1974, she relocated to Laurel, Maryland, taking a position at the University of Maryland until her retirement in 1986.

In 1987, she and Carter moved to Ocean Pines, Maryland, where they became involved in the community and in their church, the First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, where she served several years as Deacon.

She was elected president of the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines in 1990 and was a member of the Art League of Ocean City, the Sinepuxent Chapter of Questers, and the Worcester County Arts Council.

Aside from her parents, Libby is predeceased by her husband, Carter T. Smith; her oldest daughter, Diane H. Fritschle of Sarasota, Florida; her brother, Col. Lawerence A. Doyle of Dover, Delaware; and her nephew, Scott Doyle of Indianapolis.

She is survived by her son, James E. Hall III of Sanford, North Carolina; and three daughters, Amy H. Coughlin (Robert) of Dayton, Mary C. “Molly” Day ( Richard) of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, and Jane H. Hill (Lance) of Dagsboro, Delaware; son, Steven C. Smith (Sally) of Horsham,

Pennsylvania; daughter, D.D. (John) of Indian Trail, North Carolina; and son, Creighton C. Smith of Catonsville, Maryland; 18 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her brother, James H. Doyle of Indianapolis, and several nieces and nephews.

She was a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Theta, a former member and past president of the Sinepuxent Chapter of the Questers, a nonresident sustaining member of the Junior League of Columbia, South Carolina, and a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Seaford.

“Libby,” “Mother,” “Mimi” was the heart of our family. She will be dearly missed by us all.

A memorial service will be held at Manor House in Seaford, Delaware, on Jan. 18, 2023, at 1 p.m. The family will receive friends at Manor House following the service for refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Manor House Benevolence Fund, 1001 Middleford Rd., Seaford, Delaware 19973; or the Worcester County Arts Council at 6 Jefferson St., Berlin, Maryland 21811.

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

KATHRYN LOUISE BARTZ

Berlin

Kathryn Bartz, age 74, from Berlin, Maryland, previously Baltimore, fought a hard battle these past few years. She passed away peacefully at Atlantic General Hospital on Jan. 8, 2023.

Kathryn was born Jan. 7, 1949 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Kathryn leaves behind to cherish her memories by her brother, James Bartz and his wife, Rose Bartz; and sister, Lee Harper and her husband, Frank Harper.

Kathryn is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Leona Bartz; and sister, Linda Radke, who is survived by her husband, Kenneth Radke.

Kathryn enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved to go to the casino and watching football. Most of all she loved living the legend.

A memorial service will be held at Evans Funeral Home, 8800 Harford Road, Parkville, Maryland, on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Donate to Susan G. Komen to help fight breast cancer.

Mary Smith

Dorothy Godfrey

Kathryn Bartz

Sports & Recreation

SD Lady Seahawks

score 59 pts, hold Warriors to just 2

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Stephen Decatur girls’ basketball team scored 59 and held the Mardela Warriors to just two points on Tuesday in Berlin.

“Our guards still just have to be more of a basketball player. A lot of times they’ll practice running certain plays in certain spots but then in a game they’ll come out and be guarded completely different and they kind of just get robotic when it breaks down,” said Decatur Coach Scott Kurtz. “We’re trying to get our guards to really just attack when there’s openings and be aggressive. At times, they did well with that and it usually ended up well, and at times, we got a little bit too robotic and didn’t get good looks. We’re just going to continue to keep trying to push them at practice, getting them to be a little more aggressive.”

Scott Kurtz

Decatur put 13 points on the board before Mardela netted a foul shot, with 1:32 remaining in the first quarter.

At the end of the first quarter, the Lady Seahawks led 16-1.

The Berlin squad outscored its opponent, 20-1, in the second quarter to go into the halftime break on top, 36-2.

Decatur tacked on 15 points in the third quarter and eight in the fourth, while the defense held Mardela scoreless.

“We’ve really just been focused on trying to get our offensive organization when we have the ability to push in transition, running the floor in our appropriate spacing and trying to execute, but when we’re slowing down running through our sets, setting solid screens, making the extra pass; we’ve been continuously trying to get back to the drawing board to put more stuff in to give the girls opportunities to score,” Kurtz said. “It’s really about just getting different groups on the floor and trying to execute our sets in the half court, so when we get into the games we know will be a little bit closer we know we can rely on them to know what they’re doing.”

Senior captain Mayah Garner led Decatur with 19 points. She also had four rebounds and five steals.

Senior captain Shelby Rosemond

contributed with nine points, seven steals and one rebound.

Senior captain Jessica Beck chipped in with eight points, eight rebounds, one assist and one steal.

Sophomore Allison Swift added seven points, five rebounds, one as-

sist and one steal.

Junior Sadie Kauffman tallied six points, nine rebounds, one assist and one steal.

Decatur will host the James M. Bennett Clippers on Wednesday in Berlin at 6 p.m.

Seahawks play together, share basketball well

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 13, 2023) Stephen Decatur’s 81-15 victory over the Mardela Warriors on Tuesday in Berlin was a team effort, with 11 of 12 Seahawks putting points on the board and all of the basketball players contributing on defense.

“Everybody contributed to the win

I thought they played together as a team and they shared the ball with each other well,” said Decatur Coach BJ Johnson. “We played well. The main focus for us was to make sure we played the right way, not pick up any bad habits and share the basketball. I think the kids did a really good job with that.”

Johnson started his reserve players on Tuesday night and they produced, scoring 25 points and holding Mardela to just three.

BJ Johnson

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

(Left) Stephen Decatur senior captain Jessica Beck makes a layup. She had eight points, eight rebounds, one assist and one steal in the team’s 592 victory over Mardela on Tuesday in Berlin. (Right) Sophomore Sam Boger drives past a Mardela player and goes to the basket. She had five points, six assists, two steals and a rebound.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur freshman April Bondurant looks for a teammate to pass to while guarded by several Mardela players during Tuesday’s game in Berlin.

All SD players contribute in victory

“All kids deserve to hear their name called [over the speaker announced as a starter]. It’s important for them as well as their parents,” Johnson said.

Sophomore Noah Tucker got things going for Decatur with a threepointer 12 seconds into the game. (He had three total in the first quarter).

The players who typically start for Decatur came in for the second quarter. The boys built off their teammate’s big first-quarter lead, with junior captain Jayden Hudson capping off the first half with a long three-pointer at the buzzer.

The Seahawks outscored the Warriors, 28-3, in the second quarter, to go into halftime on top, 53-6.

The first-quarter group took the court for the third quarter and extended Decatur’s lead to 63-9.

Decatur’s starting five wrapped the game up, netting 18 points to Mardela’s six in the final quarter.

Junior Lukas Loring scored 12 points. He also had six rebounds, one assist and one steal. Junior captain Brycen Coleman chipped in with 12 points, six rebounds and two steals.

Tucker added nine points, three rebounds, one assist, one steal and a block. Hudson finished with nine points, three assists, one rebound and one steal.

Sophomore Zakhari Baker tallied nine points, one rebound, one assist and one steal. Sophomore Trybe Wise logged eight points, six rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.

“I’m glad everyone was able to contribute. It was good to get the win after coming off a tough [59-64 loss to] Wi-Hi on Monday,” Johnson said. “The goal is to continue to move forward, execute our offense and defense and continue to play the right way.”

Decatur will take a trip to Salis-

bury today, Friday, for a 6 p.m. game against the Parkside Rams.

The Seahawks will head back to Salisbury on Tuesday to battle the James M. Bennett Clippers at 6 p.m.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

(Left) Stephen Decatur freshman Caleb Loring shoots over a Mardela player during Tuesday’s game in Berlin. He scored seven points and had six rebounds and three steals in Decatur’s 8115 victory. (Right) Junior Matt Beck fires off a three. He tallied five rebounds, four assists and two steals in the game.

Decatur to host annual War on the Shore

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Stephen Decatur wrestling team finished in fourth place overall during last weekend’s Iron Horse Duals at C. Milton Wright High School in Bel Air, Maryland, and now the program will host its annual War on the Shore, today and Saturday in Berlin.

8-0 in his matches, wrestling at 106 and 113 pounds.

Senior captain Logan Intrieri (132/138), junior captain Gavin Solito (160/170) and junior Kole Kohut (195/220) finished the tournament with 7-1 records.

10 a.m. on Saturday. Matches will run on five mats.

Rachel Plata, fifth; and Chaniah Bernier, sixth.

“We have three first-year wrestlers and one won the tournament,” August said.

Admission cost is $15 per day/$25 for the weekend.

“Everyone would agree, Iron Horse is the toughest dual tournament in Maryland. There were teams ranked [in their respective state] in both pools,” said Decatur Coach Josh August. “Everyone wrestled hard. Some kids really stepped up [and] rose above expectations, some struggled with the jump in competition.

After an extremely competitive Iron Horse Duals, August said, “War on the Shore doesn’t get any easier.”

But before War on the Shore, Decatur traveled to Mardela Springs on Wednesday to face the Mardela Warriors. Decatur won, 72-12, with 10 wrestlers earning pins, nine of them in the first period of their matches.

The JV division will begin competition at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, while the girls’ division will open at 2 p.m. Decatur will have several female wrestlers competing, many of whom did well during last weekend’s Who’s #1? girls’ tournament at Northeast-Anne Arundel – sophomore AJ Johnson, first place; seniors Jenna Danner, third; and Maddie Reed, fifth; and sophomores

Saturday’s varsity matches can be viewed live for free at https://www.sdhswarontheshore.com/ livestreams.html. Results will also be updated on trackwrestling.com.

Josh August

“Obviously, you want to go and win,” he continued. “It was an eye-opener. It will be good in the long run. We got to see where we need to be in the next few weeks of the season … [and] what we need to work on as a team and as individuals.”

Decatur went 5-2 in its pool, earning wins over John Carroll (69-6), Boy’s Latin School (61-14), Leonardtown (4524), Montgomery Blair (50-18) and Archbishop Spalding (53-28).

Cape Henlopen edged out Decatur, 39-34, in the first match. South Carroll topped Decatur, 54-27, in the seventh match of the tournament.

In the third/fourth-place competition, Sparrows Point came out on top over Decatur, 42-36.

“South Carroll was really tough. They’re probably one of the best public schools in Maryland, ever. They have three nationally-ranked kids,” August said. “Cape is number two in Delaware and it’s always a close match. Sparrows Point, we matched up good at some weights and other weights we were outmatched.”

Decatur freshman Elijah Collick went

Intrieri (145), Kohut (220), senior Evan Haworth (170), juniors Reid Caimi (138) and Parker Intrieri (182), sophomores Juan Hinojosa (120), Aaron August (132), Amarian Manuel (152) and Nate McDaniel (195) and freshman Jake Saullo (126) pinned their opponents.

Mardela forfeited the 113- and 160pound matches. The Warriors scored a pin at 285 pounds, and Decatur forfeited the 106-pound match.

“They look good. We have been working hard,” Coach August said. “There are some tough kids at War on the Shore, so they will have to wrestle their best this weekend.”

Two dozen varsity teams are entered into this year’s WOTS from five states –Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Connecticut – and the District of Columbia.

Among the hundreds of wrestlers competing, 75 are state-ranked.

“It’s a very tough tournament,” August said. “Our goal is for all 14 guys to place (in the top eight). If we can do that, we’re wrestling pretty good. A couple kids could be in the finals, but it depends on the brackets.”

Varsity matches will begin at 3:30 p.m. today, Friday, at Stephen Decatur High School in Berlin and run until about 9 or 10 p.m. Action will kick off at

Speed, race strategy come out during SD swim meet

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 13, 2023) The Stephen Decatur girls’ swim team won its first meet back after winter break, while the boys’ squad finished tied with the Kent Island Buccaneers last Thursday at the Pocomoke YMCA.

“We finally have a fully, healthy team and we were able to get in some solid workouts [before the meet],” said Decatur Coach Kristina Watts. “Kent Island is the largest team we’ve faced this season from our conference, so they were our toughest competitor so far. Both girls and boys had some close races that I was glad to see their speed and race strategy come out in.”

The Lady Seahawks earned a 94-76 victory.

Winning their individual events were: senior captains Natalie Canham (200-yard individual medley, 2:31.56; 100-yard butterfly, 1:03.65) and Kayden Hamby (100-yard freestyle, 1:00.25; 50-yard freestyle, 27.56 sec-

onds), junior Trista Harner (100-yard breaststroke, 1:20.16), and freshman Emily Henley (100-yard backstroke, 1:10.53 (tie).

Canham, Hamby, Harner and sophomore Vienna Williams came in first place the 200-yard medley relay race (2:06.18).

The girls also won the 200-yard freestyle relay race (1:48).

The boys’ competition ended in a 7777 tie. Decatur won six races, while Kent Island was victorious in five.

Decatur swimmers who scored firstplace finishes in their individual events were: senior captain Gavin Stearn (500yard freestyle, 5:54.16; 100-yard backstroke, 1:01.13), junior captain Daniel Karcheuski (200-yard individual medley, 2:10.82) and junior Mason Castanares (100-yard butterfly, 1:04.50).

Stearn, Castanares, Karcheuski and sophomore Gavin Conway won the 200-yard medley relay race (1:49.93).

The boys also came in first place in the 400-yard freestyle relay race (3:45.75).

The next swim meet is Tuesday at 3 p.m. against Sussex Central at the Pocomoke YMCA.

Kristina Watts

Wetsuits can make winter surfing ‘rather pleasant’

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Jan. 13, 2023) Being as that we are more or less in the “middle” of winter, I thought it would be an idea to continue with a winter surfing theme.

Winter surfing can almost be considered a sport within a sport or an art within an art.

Assuming that one isn’t in a position to relocate to a warmer climate, if surfing is on the schedule, winter has to be dealt with.

To some, it’s really no big deal.

The attitude is simple, just put on the gear and go. And basically, that’s all it really takes.

But look a bit deeper and much more can be said.

To stay warm, it is wise to start warm.

Unless a change into a wetsuit can be done in a heated vehicle an idea would be to get suited up at home or at some heated locale.

We’re talking full “thicker” wetsuit, wetsuit boots, gloves and a hood or a cap. Cold water is no joke, never mind colder air.

The water is currently hovering around 43 degrees and if we’re lucky, it won’t drop any more.

The air temperatures are roughly ranging from lows in the mid-20s to highs in the mid-40s.

Granted, there are variations to these air temperature figures but these are the normal or average temperatures.

The water will generally stay more consistent, not changing nearly as much as the air.

Oh, and let’s not forget the wind chill factor. The wind chill will naturally make the air feel colder.

It doesn’t take much figuring to realize that the winter encompasses roughly half of the year.

To keep an edge in one’s surfing it’s a good idea to maintain a continuity.

There’s no shame in laying off during the colder times, but it seems to take a while to get back into form once it warms up.

It’s safe to say that it all comes down to a matter of desire. The fact is that wetsuits work pretty well and can actually make winter surfing rather pleasant.

In my travels to warmer areas, it would be rather easy to get into conversations with local surfers.

When I’d explain winter surfing back home the comments would either range from them thinking I was a gnarly, grisly guy to me being a complete nut ball.

My reaction would be to reply, “You would probably do the same thing if you lived in the same or similar area.”

Winter surfing is really a pretty special thing. Those that participate know the drill. They know what I’m talking about.

Yes, it takes a bit to get used to but once you push over the edge you find that it’s really not that big a thing.

Again, it’s all in what you get used to.

Sure, it costs a few dollars but once the equipment is acquired everything else is basically free. And even with the money spent, the surfer generally finds that it’s worth every penny.

— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.

Athletes ‘stepping up and doing what they need to do’

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 13, 2023) Twenty-two schools participated in last Wednesday’s indoor track meet – the first competition following the Christmas break – at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill.

“It wasn’t a PR (personal record) event, especially coming off winter break, but the kids definitely worked hard,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel. “They’re stepping up and doing what they need to do.”

Both the Decatur girls’ and boys’ teams finished in 14th place overall.

The Lady Seahawks scored 11 points. Junior Macy Woroniecki scored points for her team in all four of her events, which Hommel said is “pretty impressive.”

“She continues to run strong and is certainly a leader for the team,” Hommel added.

Woroniecki came in fourth place in the 1,600-meter race (5:55.60) and sixth in the 3,200-meter event (13:12.57).

She also ran a leg of the 3,200meter relay race with sophomores Clarice Piela and Alessandra Fernandez and freshman Ellie Cheynet. The girls crossed the finish line in seventh place overall (12:03.60).

Woroniecki, Piela, sophomore

Nevaeh Horton and junior Tiara McDonald took ninth in the 1,600-meter relay race (5:20.16).

The top eight in each individual and relay event score points. Kent Island’s “A” and “B” relay teams finished in first and third place, respectively in the 1,600m relay, but only one can score points, so Decatur was awarded one point for its ninthplace finish.

The Decatur boys’ team scored 12 points in the competition.

Junior Anthony Kolb placed sixth in the 55-meter dash (6.85 seconds). Sophomore Brandon Fitzgerald finished eighth in the high jump (5 feet 2 inches).

Seniors Jaden Holland and Riley Calloway, junior Waylon Hobgood and sophomore Ethan Cowder took fourth in the 800-meter relay race (1:42.51).

Fitzgerald, Calloway, Cowder and sophomore Alex Ward crossed the finish line sixth overall in the 1,600meter relay race (4:12.58).

Dealing with injuries and sickness, Hommel said, “we’re trying to keep people healthy.”

“We’re trying to limp along with the season. Most kids use it as springboard for outdoor track,” she added. “We entered a few ‘B’ relays, so it was nice to see the kids get a chance and perform well. We want to keep them interested and get them faster.”

The next indoor track meet is Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Worcester County Recreation Center.

Brenda Hommel