1/20/2023 Ocean City Today

PLANS SLOWED

‘Historical’ talks lead to agreement between city, IAFF

New deal good through June 2027 comes with cost-of-living increases

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) After an informal and reportedly amicable bargaining process, members of the International Association of Firefighters Local 4269 and Ocean City government have inked a new agreement that features higher pay and larger pension contributions.

“It was a focus on cooperation,” IAFF President Ryan Whittington told City Council members Tuesday after they approved the signing of a new labor agreement through June 30, 2027.

“It was a focus on us having a shared purpose and it was out of the traditional collective that we [have seen] in years past,” he continued. “Because of that we had a lot of deep conversations. I think that it was educational for our members as well as the city manager and myself.”

Members of the union requested meetings last year with city officials to go over some details of their contract, which was set to expire in 2024. City Manager Terry McGean said the negotiations, which were held with union members, his staff and

County clears way for room tax increase

for their support as the Worcester delegation pursues the legislation at the state level.

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Worcester County is wasting no time this year in pursuing a higher room tax option for Ocean City.

On Tuesday, the County Commissioners unanimously approved a letter to be sent to the other code counties on the Eastern Shore — Caroline, Kent and Queen Anne’s — formally asking

“This is a continuation of our efforts to request the (Maryland) General Assembly pass enabling legislation that would allow us to raise the room tax cap from 5 percent to 6 percent,” Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said at the meeting.

Last year, the Town of Ocean City sent a letter to the county asking to raise the cap, but the steps along the way proved to be too much to complete by the end of the 2022 legislative session.

From the beginning, Del. Wayne Hartman and State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza were making up ground. Due to how late the directive was given to the delegation, they missed the deadline to introduce legislation. Then came the realization that the other code counties would be needed.

A code county is a “home rule” county in which the county commissioners have more latitude in enacting or repealing local laws. State law, however, stipulates that tax laws are beyond the jurisdiction of code counties, and since taxes are

PHOTO COURTESY RYAN WHITTINGTON

Ocean City International Association of Firefighters Local 4269 President Ryan Whittington, left, and City Manager Terry McGean, right, sign a new labor agreement between the union and the Town of Ocean City Tuesday in City Hall.

Commissioners start formal process of allowing resort to go to six cents on dollar

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Plans for an eightstory hotel at a prime waterfront lot near Sunset Park remain on track are but taking longer than expected as developers work out parking and other details.

Members of the resort’s Board of Zoning Appeals voted last week to grant a one-year extension on previous parking and setback approvals for the 90-room luxury hotel planned for a pie-shaped, 45,742 square-foot lot at 700 S. Philadelphia Ave.

“We’ve been working on the site” local attorney Hugh Cropper, who represents the owner and developer, told BZA members at their Jan. 12

meeting.

“[The owner has] diligently pursued this project but given a project of this size and complexity of the project, we’d like to ask for another year,” he continued.

The request and subsequent unanimous vote specifically extends an approval of a special parking exception that allows for smaller dimensions than the code permits on 11 compact spaces, as well as variances on setbacks for the construction.

The project has faced some challenges since it was introduced a year ago, most notably with the provision of parking.

First, at the late January meeting

Fire departments prep for new development

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) These days, it feels like every week someone is proposing, breaking ground on or finishing up a new community in Worcester County, especially in the northern end.

The Worcester County Planning Commission, one of the entities that signs off on such developments, has taken notice of this trend and what it means for fire and EMS infrastructure.

“As we’ve seen, we have over 100 new units going in in Ocean City or Worcester County,” commission member Mary Knight said at a meeting earlier this month. “Within the

next two years, we’re going to have so many new residents.”

“(I’d like to see) if there’s some way (we could) just make a note or have some coordination to the fire chiefs to the area so they can adequately plan. They’re working right now on a committee to look at Worcester County as a whole … to keep that response time down reasonably.”

Knight noted that she’s spoken with Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers regarding the preparedness of his department, and others in the area.

“When we have new development (like we do now), there is always the

All parties happy with how negotiations were handled

Continued from Page 1

former

were done informally and resulted in a deal that benefits both sides.

“I think we had very productive meetings,” McGean said. “I know the council has indicated that our employees are our most important resource and I think this reflects that.”

The new agreement extends the contract through 2027 and includes raises for employees beyond what the former agreement promised, increases in IAFF members’ contribution to the pension plan, provides a Deferred Retirement Option Plan, and extends retiree health care benefits to those hired after 2013. The adjustments will cost a total $590,000 to implement.

Specifically, the wage rate table will be changed this year to reflect 2 percent cost-of-living adjustments for all classifications and steps, with employees in the fire marshal’s office placed at the lowest step in grade for their classifications. Within the new grades, the increase will be at least 5 percent over what they received in

2022.

Beginning in 2024 and annually through the remainder of the contract, employees will receive 3 percent cost-of-living adjustments and advance one step in the pay table, or receive $1,000 bonuses if they are already at the top tier.

Whittington called the striking of the deal “historical,” as it occurred smoothly with full blessings from council and staff.

“I think about the productive relationships and the cooperation that we see. It’s those types of partnerships between our government leaders and our employees that actually improve our service delivery,” he said. “And I think that this council has made this clear that you want to be productive. You want to be cooperative and that’s something we haven’t seen in years past.”

Following the council’s unanimous 6-0 vote, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, several IAFF members, who included both acting and retired firefighters, fire marshals and paramedics, joined city officials in signing the agreement on Tuesday.

opportunity for additional calls, incidents, et cetera,” Bowers said when reached by phone Wednesday.

“Within Ocean City, we have a good planning process. Everybody is connected. Improvements have been made in Worcester County. Certainly, (Worcester County) Fire Marshal (Matt Owens) can speak to that. They’re making sure there is communication between planning and the fire department. They know what type of construction is going on, occupancy, et cetera.”

Bowers added that the Town of Ocean City has a “good process” and the county’s process is improved with better communication and partnerships.

Owens, when reached by phone Wednesday, said that he and Bowers have discussed monthly meetings with the fire marshal’s office and the

10 county fire companies to keep abreast of all new developments and needs.

“There is a coordinated effort between our office and the 10 fire companies to make sure that the development is not overtaxing their response capabilities,” Owens said.

Owens said at the next meeting he’ll be reporting on new projects that have been submitted to the Worcester County Technical Review Committee, the first county stop for any new development.

“Even before that (meeting), we get plans in the office, the beginning stages, the TRC agenda, we send that out to whatever fire companies are projected,” he said. “Electronically, we try to stay connected and then the face-to-face meeting monthly through the chiefs association, we’ll discuss it there as well.”

Room tax increase decision ultimately up to legislature

Continued from Page 1

state matters, it cannot alter the tax structure for one county without the consent of other counties in the same class.

So, ultimately, a raise to the room tax cap had to be pushed back one more year. But now that the calendar has turned to 2023, the county’s position seems to be much stronger to get legislation passed this year.

“I spoke with the other code counties up at (the Maryland Association of Counties convention this year) and none of them saw a problem with it moving forward,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, who represents Ocean City, said.

Young pointed out that this legislation if passed does not in itself raise the room tax cap for Worcester or any other the other code counties. It simply gives each of them the option to do so.

Ocean City officials see the tax in-

crease as a way to help fund potential projects that could help turn the resort into a year-round destination.

The commissioners would need to unanimously approve raising the room tax once the legislation was passed.

Though the commissioners voted unanimously to send the letter, it is unclear if they would unanimously agree to allow the increase, should the legislation pass at the state level.

Last year, the commissioners voted to ask state legislators to increase the cap — which occurred before anyone realized that other code counties had to agree —but it only passed 4-2. Commissioners Jim Bunting and Chip Bertino opposed the measure. Further, new commissioners Eric Fiori and Caryn Abbott have replaced Bud Church and Josh Nordstrom, respectively, and both have thus far voted with Bunting and Bertino on other financial matters.

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Digital Ocean City Boardwalk tram ads get closer to reality

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Plans to outfit the resort’s Boardwalk trams with digital ads are gaining traction for this summer, and if implemented could end up flowing more cash into the city’s transportation budget.

Members of the resort’s Transportation Committee voted last week to begin the steps to transition the space on the city’s eight rear tram carriages to digital advertising platforms. The idea was floated in the fall when Gateway Outdoor Advertising was preparing to take over the contract to sell ad space on city buses and trams from longtime contractor Vector Marketing.

Transit Manager Rob Shearman said Gateway officials researched the concept and determined that they could replace the regular screens, which have been a hard sell to local vendors, with digital ones for an overall bigger return on investment. Shearman likened the new ads to digital displays on billboards that change regularly on short intervals to showcase different vendors.

Shearman said company officials believe they can generate three to five times the revenue currently collected on the spaces.

“We currently charge $1,500 a month for ads on rear facing panels of trams,” Shearman said. “[The company] suggested that the revenue could be between $4,500 and $7,500 for the backs of the trams for the month.”

While Shearman called the projection “ambitious,” he said he believes the initial startup costs can easily be recovered within a year or two.

Gateway officials determined that the initial hardware and installment will cost $37,000 and floated several different financing options. They consisted of having the town pay for the equipment and owning it, similar to

the setup with the current LED backlit displays; amortizing the cost across the six-year contract term; or having the company pay for it outright and take ownership at the end of their contract.

In response to a request for a recommendation on the options, Shearman and Public Works Director Hal Adkins said, despite some pushback in the past about tram ads overall, that it is good idea pursue digital ads for the trams. They also said they like the option of the company paying for the equipment and owning it.

Shearman said he was initially hesitant to make a recommendation to OK the digital ads because of the resistence that has been received, which committee members said came from members of the Ocean City Development Corporation in the past.

Glenn Irwin, the executive director of the OCDC, said in an email this week that organization members have not yet been asked to weigh in on the digital ads for the trams and have no comments, but that they have not always been in favor of the tram ad concept overall.

“In the past years our Boardwalk Committee has not been pleased with the signage design of the boardwalk trams or of the type of signs,” he said. “Many of the advertisers were often not from Ocean City and not local businesses.”

Committee members said they see the ads as a revenue generator and positive attraction and want to expand the offerings.

“I think people like seeing the ads,” Mayor Rick Meehan, who serves as committee chairman, said.

The committee ultimately voted to direct staff to fully research the digital ad concept and bring them final details to review for a formal recommendation to the mayor and council at their next meeting in February.

BZA gives developers more time

Continued from Page 3

when the space dimensions and setbacks were requested, BZA members denied the waiver of 12 spaces in a split majority. Then later, a plan to meet the remainder of the required parking through a lease with the city for use of spaces at the nearby Whiteside Lot was met with backlash from nearby property owners and some council members, forcing the project back to the drawing board.

After some revisions, Cropper said over the summer that he was able to

work out an agreement with Windsor Resorts Inc., the family corporation that owns and operates the Trimper Rides properties, to lease parking spaces from them.

The agreement got the project back on track, but pushed back the timeline, forcing the need for the recent BZA extension.

After Cropper explained the situation at last week’s meeting, BZA members approved the request with little discussion, calling it “a clean extension request.”

“[The company] suggested that the revenue could be between $4,500 and $7,500 for the backs of the trams for the month.”

Rob Shearman, Ocean City transit manager

A tram filled with passengers drives along the Boardwalk in Ocean City. Members of the resort’s Transportation Committee have advanced plans to outfit the backs of trams with digital ads this summer.

A Walk Smart ad featuring Cheswick the Crab promotes pedestrian and driver safety on Ocean City roads. Transportation Committee members are making efforts to secure funding to place these ads on the backs of all resort buses this season in lieu of the state nixing funding for the program.

AD COURTESY TOWN OF OCEAN CITY

Steps taken to place ‘Walk Smart’ ads on resort buses

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Pending council members signing off on funding, and staff members recreating the artwork, the smiling cartoon crab urging people to “Walk Smart” across the resort is set to return to the backs of Ocean City buses this season.

For years, Cheswick the crab and his messages urging drivers to look out for bicyclists and pedestrians — especially when turning — and advertising overall safe walking, biking and driving practices have been displayed on buses, billboards and signs throughout the resort.

To the chagrin of members of the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, Maryland State Highway Administration officials announced they were nixing funding for the program this year, prompting them to solicit staff for a way to bring it back.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who serves as chairman of the BPAC, said recently that he was looking into grants to re-up the program. He followed up the effort with a motion at a Jan. 10 Transportation Committee, of which he is also a member, to allocate $660 to place ads on the backs of 12 buses this summer for $55 a piece. The request was met with unanimous approval from fellow committee members.

“The back of a bus is in your face. It’s a great start,” DeLuca said of ordering the displays.

At a BPAC meeting the following day, money for displays on billboards and a banner plane — for $4,400 and $20,000, respectively — were not approved, and DeLuca contended that he will follow up with the city’s grant writer on the bus ad funding.

Public Works Director Hal Adkins said during the Transportation Committee meeting that he reached out “over and over” to state highway officials to determine if anybody is still working who was involved with the original pedestrian safety walk smart campaign, to no avail.

“No one exists. They’ve all retired. I’m getting no answers,” he said.

From there, he said city graphic artist could feasibly reproduce the artwork and use it on the buses. And for any spaces sold to other vendors, the “Walk Smart” ads will be swapped out.

“The reality is we’ve never sold all 12 locations to a private vendor,” Adkins said of the rear bus panels.

Committee members contended that they would rather see the Cheswick ads, which officials say are necessary given the number of pedestrian and bicycle incidents along Coastal Highway in a given summer, than a blank panel on the bus tails.

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OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) From a winning bid for electrical work at the Downtown Recreation Complex to beach events and veteran banners, Ocean City Council members approved several items this week at their Jan. 17 meeting.

Rec complex bid award

Council members opted to go with the lowest of three bidders to complete electrical work for renovations to the Downtown Recreation Complex.

Cambridge-based Tieder Electric submitted a bid of just over $402,300 for the work, which came in lower than not only the other two companies that submitted proposals, but also the overall estimated cost for the work.

City officials had budgeted $478,000 for the project, which is part of a series of upgrades to the complex on St. Louis Avenue between Third and Fourth streets.

According to a staff report, Tieder is set to begin work no later than March 13, with completion set within 300 days of March 31.

The overall project consists of revitalization of the skate park, playground, and recreation building at the downtown site. The site work phase was also recently bid out and came in over budget.

To help with the cost of the whole project, the city has obtained a $1 million grant.

Half marathon/5K

The Ocean City Island to Island Half Marathon/5K is set for April 29 on the Boardwalk, pier, adjacent concrete pad and streets South of Route 50.

According to a staff report, OC TriRunning Sports will host the event, which will feature both a half marathon and 5K. Both runs begin at 7 a.m. and registration and packet pickup will take place from 1 to 9 p.m., April 28, in the Springfest Entertainment Pavilion.

The half-marathon is set to begin outside of town limits, with runners entering the city by 10 a.m. from Route 50. Participants will turn south on Philadelphia Avenue and continue east on South First Street, cross Baltimore Avenue, and enter the Boardwalk. They will then travel north on Fourth Street and turn east onto the concrete pad, run south, follow around the pier, and finish at the crosswalk between the police substation and Dumser’s Dairyland.

The 5K will begin at the inlet lot and will be confined to the lot, the Boardwalk and adjacent concrete pad. The finish line is the same as the one for the half marathon.

A post-race party will follow the races in the Springfest Entertainment Pavillion and end at 1 p.m.

The staff report said the organizer requested use of the inlet lot, including part of the Springfest grounds, one judges’ stand, 100 pieces of special event fencing, 75 road cones, 50 trash cans, use of city electric, 35 inlet lot parking passes, police support, vehicular access to the Boardwalk and signage.

While the organizer is set to provide EMS support from private companies, he asked for and will receive one city-supplied unit at the finish line.

The organizer is set to pay the city a total $4,470 in private event and asset and support fees.

Soccer challenge

The 2023 Sand Duels Beach Soccer Challenge is set to take place June 10 and 11, and July 29 on beaches downtown.

According to a staff report, the event is scheduled 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily on June 10 and 11 on the beach from Wicomico to North Division streets, and the same hours on July 29 on the beach from Wicomico to Dorchester streets.

Organizers Soccer Event Services Inc. are hosting the small-sided soccer tournament series for players ages 8 through adulthood on 25-by35-yard sand courts. The courts will be set up 75 feet east of the concrete tram lane and extend no further east than the blue beach boxes on the sand.

Beach Patrol access at Dorchester Street will be clearly marked and monitored by event staff.

The organizer requested trash cans, liners and dumpsters; gate access at the Dorchester Street Boardwalk for load-in and load-out; and use of city electric on the beach at Talbot Street and on the beach at the Dorchester Street bump-out. Reservation of one parking spot on Dorchester Street was also requested.

The report said public works staff will provide the requested trash cans but the organizer is required to provide the liners and must move them into larger cans and reline the smaller ones. Staff will open the gate at Dorchester Street for event load-in and load-out, ensure electric is on at both locations and provide a parking spot.

The organizer will pay the town $3,700 in private event and asset and support fees.

Veteran banner program

The Ocean City Elks Hometown Heroes Military Banner Program is embarking on its ninth year honoring local veterans and active duty officers.

According to a staff report, a representative of the OC Elks Lodge Veteran’s Committee requested permission to continue hosting the

Worcester County taking on more plastics to be recycled

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Worcester County’s Solid Waste division is now accepting more types of plastics in the recycling bin.

Now people can recycle plastics that are labeled one through seven. That includes household items such as salad dressing bottles, mustard bottles, yogurt containers, plastic cups and plates and Tupperware.

Most plastic containers have a small recycling symbol on the bottom with a number in the middle. That number tells you which type of plastic you’re dealing with and if it can be recycled. If there is no number on the item, dispose of it in the trash.

Not all plastics can be recycled. Worcester County is not able to recycle boat wrap, vinyl siding, buckets, milk crates, water hoses, 55 gallon drums, flower pots, Adirondack chairs, tarps, plastic trash bags, fencing, large water jugs, oil bottles, antifreeze, gas cans, potato chip bags, Ziploc bags, bubble wrap, candy wrappers, plastic alcohol bottles, or frosted bottles.

All plastic food containers (ex: peanut butter) must be thoroughly cleaned. You can recycle empty prescription bottles if they have a recycle number on the bottle, but make sure the label with the prescription information is removed from the container.

And remember to not put plastic bags in your bin or bag your recycling. Take clean plastic bags to your local grocery store for recycling. The local Food Lion has recycling bins for bags at the entrance to the store.

Not all paper can be recycled ei-

OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

Continued from Page 10

program, which consists of the display of banners from Springfest to Sunfest each year on 40 light poles on the concrete Boardwalk from the amusement pier at the inlet to Fourth Street.

The banners honor veterans who served from WWII to the Vietnam Era as well as residents of Worcester County who are currently serving on

ther. Loose leaf paper, newspaper, magazines, office paper, mail, hard and soft back covered books are all recyclable. Shredded paper is recyclable but must be placed in a closed paper bag in the bin to keep it together.

Brown cardboard boxes, and most boxes that carry food like cereal and macaroni and cheese boxes are also recyclable. But spiral notebooks, wax paper, plastic lined bags, such as dog and cat food bags, paper towels, dryer sheets, shiny paper or cardboard and napkins are not recyclable. And remember to remove any Styrofoam packing materials from boxes and throw that in the trash.

Most cans can be recycled including soda and beer cans, bi-metal cans for soup or pet food. Aerosol cans cannot be recycled and should be thrown in the trash. Water-based paint cans, if dried out, should be disposed of in the trash.

Glass bottles and jars can be placed in the bins for recycling. Mirrors, glass windows, dishes, vases and drink glasses are not recyclable.

Worcester County Hazardous Waste holds a drop-off once a year for residents to dispose of oil-based paints, fluorescent light bulbs, interior and exterior household chemicals (pesticides, cleaning supplies) batteries, computers and laptops, propane bottles/tanks, fire extinguishers, helium tanks. No televisions are accepted.

Worcester County has a thorough list of recycling do’s and don’ts on their website at https://www.co.worcester.md.us/departments/publicworks/Recycling_F AQ for further information.

active duty around the world. The report said members of the OC Elks Lodge #2645 accept and review the honoree applications.

Banner design and printing costs are paid by sponsoring citizens, fraternal organizations and area businesses. Public Works staff members install and remove the banners and brackets.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Pines.

Margaritaville plans still on track

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Jimmy Buffett could still be wasting away in Margaritvaille on the shores of Ocean City one day — it’s just taking a little longer than originally expected.

“They’re absolutely moving forward,” local attorney Hugh Cropper, who represents the developers, said last week. “They’re excited about the project and it’s moving a little more slowly than it was.”

The comments came on the heels of City Council members voting on Jan. 10 to rescind an ordinance that would have fast-tracked the developers’ efforts to obtain a right-of-way on Baltimore Avenue for the project.

Plans for the 13-story, 265-room hotel and accompanying conference room and amenities on the former Phillips Beach Plaza Hotel property between 13th and 14th streets have been in the works for nearly two years.

The developers’ first presentations, complete with intricate plans to secure the property with a planned overlay district, or POD, and meet parking requirements through a unique concept, were met with accolades from council and planning commission members. But as they dove deeper into the plans, things became a little more complicated.

Complaints that the project is too big for the area, would bring too much congestion and traffic, and would not fit with the more relaxed aesthetic of that portion of the downtown area flooded in from all directions.

But the developers persisted, contending that the project is designed to fit in the planned location without negatively affecting the surrounding area. They have also stated that it will create hundreds of new jobs, includ-

ing 100 full-time positions, and provide $50 million collectively in tax revenue to the city, Worcester County and state of Maryland.

Cropper said last week that the recent decision to pull back an ordinance that would have handed the developers the 21-foot-wide Baltimore Avenue right-of-way in front of the project location was a setback, but not a game ender.

He pointed out that because council members opted to replace the ordinance with one that will remand multiple rights-of-way on Baltimore Avenue from North Division to 15th streets to adjoining property owners, the goal could still be met.

“It slows things down but it accomplishes what Margaritaville needs to accomplish,” he said of the second impending ordinance.

Council members voted to rescind the original ordinance, which the

Margaritaville developers had requested, in response to a petition asking to bring it to a referendum. The next ordinance, set to come to the council for discussion sometime in the summer, would include the Margaritaville land along with the rest of the properties.

City officials have agreed to give

RENDERING COURTESY BECKER MORGAN GROUP

A Margaritaville resort planned for development on the oceanside between 13th and 14th streets is shown from Baltimore Avenue in a rendering. The project hit a snag while trying to obtain a right-of-way needed to help meet square footage requirements for development but is still trudging along.

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the following during their Tuesday meeting:

Letter of concern

The commissioners agreed to send a letter to U.S. Rep. Andy Harris concerning reports of whales washing up on shores along the east coast and how it may pertain to seismic testing conducted by wind energy companies.

“(Because) they want to reduce the speed limit to save the right whales, I think we need to send a letter of concern (regarding the) seismic testing due to wind farms and that possible impact on the whales. I would ask that the commissioners send a letter to Mr. Harris and whoever else the administration would be pertinent to do so,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said at the end of the meeting.

“I know whales die of old age but the amount that has washed up during these seismic testing is alarming.”

Private lanes

The commissioners unanimously passed legislation that amends a public safety article to include a provision for the naming of a private lane

road and installation of signed when it is to be served by three or more buildable lots.

“To reduce the costs and inconvenience of re-addressing for our constituents, staff is recommending that the private lane be named early on in the process, such as during the review of a proposed subdivision plat illustrating a shared driveway, or in the case of existing buildable lots or parcels, upon permitting of the first structure, rather than the third,” DRP Director Jennifer Keener wrote in a memo. “The cost for the installation and maintenance of the signage will remain the responsibility of the affected property owners as it is today.”

The passage immediately followed a public hearing session in which no residents spoke.

Electrical standards

The commissioners unanimously passed legislation that repeals and reenacts a subtitle in a building regulations article for construction regulations to make the county’s code consistent with the Maryland Electricians Act, which the Maryland General Assembly revised and adopted during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions.

“The main revisions reflect language modifications from a ‘license’ to a ‘registration,’ the removal of the

references and requirements for the general electrician license and any testing requirements beyond that which would be required for a limited registration, and which is not specifically regulated by the state,” Keener wrote in a memo.

“We have simply rearranged the verbiage in our local code to more clearly reflect these provisions.”

Pipes

The commissioners unanimously approved the purchase of corrugated metal and plastic pipe for the Department of Public Works’s Roads Division for $108,248. The county received five bids after bidding was opened on Dec. 28 with Pennsylvania-based Lane Enterprises presenting the lowest bid.

Funding amounting to $60,000 was approved in the FY23 operating

budget. The rest of the cost will be paid out of the FY22 assigned fund balance.

Additional stock was needed to replenish what the division used in installation projects last year, according to a memo from county procurement officer Nicholas Rice.

Vehicles

The commissioners unanimously approved the order and purchase of four vehicles for various departments from Hertrich Fleet in Milford for a total of about $200,000. The vehicles include a 2023 Ford escape for Development, Review and Permitting, a 2023 Ford F250 Super Cab 4x4 for Emergency Services, a 2023 Ford F250 4x4 for the Maintenance Division of Public Works and a 2023 Ford F250 Super Cab 4x4 for the Roads Division of Public Works.

Project slowed, but not held up

Continued from Page 13

rights-of-way along the corridor back to adjoining owners — who for years have been using much of it anyway — as part of the city’s long-running plans to bury the utility lines and perform other upgrades along that portion of Baltimore Avenue.

“It is what the town has represented all along,” Cropper said of the right-of-way abandonment plans. “It’s been discussed at workshops. It was discussed before Margaritaville was ever even envisioned. It’s been what’s discussed with property owners. I represent other property owners on Baltimore Avenue that were approached … before I ever even knew Margaritaville was coming.”

Cropper also pointed out that the property that is abandoned will be added to the tax bill, creating more revenue for the city.

“People will actually be paying for it and they’ll be responsible for it. I’ve often wondered how motels can park on Town of Ocean City property. If somebody gets hurt, who’s got the liability?” Cropper said. “I would argue with anybody who signs that petition, or opposes an ordinance like that, that it is not a good thing for the town to own property and just have people permissibly use it.”

The Margaritaville developers need a portion of the right-of-way to meet the contiguous square footage requirements to obtain a POD to develop the project. The zoning designation is assigned to large projects to give developers and officials some latitude in design that would not otherwise be allowed in the underlying zone. In exchange for that flexibility, developers also give city officials the right to involve themselves more deeply in the project — beyond what the code would normally allow.

Cropper also said that the develop-

ers have changed their parking plans in light of council members voting against an ordinance that would have permitted large hotels to meet requirements with stacked, or tandem, spaces.

The concept entails having a valet park customers’ cars bumper-tobumper in a tight arrangement that may require having to move several cars to allow one car to exit. While stacked parking is allowed by nature, city code does not allow commercial properties to meet parking requirements with those types of spaces.

The failed ordinance would have allowed developers of new projects in the downtown and upper downtown districts that require 100 spaces or more to meet 20 percent of their parking obligations with stacked spaces staffed by a designated valet and comprehensive parking system.

Margaritaville was the catalyst for the request, however the ordinance stood to benefit other projects as well.

Cropper said last week that the denial sent the designers back to the drawing board to devise a new plan, which still includes tandem valet parking, but does not use it to meet requirements for the project.

“They have revised and they believe they can meet their parking requirement without tandem parking,” he said. “It was redesigned because the spaces were designed much deeper to accommodate two cars. Now they can narrow the aisle width and just have a design to just do one car. And they moved pillars around and that sort of thing.”

With the recent changes, the timeline for the Margariatville project is unknown, but the goal of bringing it to the downtown site is still alive.

“It’s just moving more slowly,” Cropper assured. “But I wouldn’t want to say it’s [held up.]”

Hartman, Carozza starting to lay groundwork for goals

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) General housekeeping continued in Annapolis last week as the Maryland General Assembly kicked off the 2023 legislative session, but Del. Wayne Hartman and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza also began laying the groundwork for some of their legislative goals.

Housekeeping included some old and new assignments for the Worcester County delegation.

Hartman retained his position as Chief Deputy Whip and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza now finds herself on the new Senate Education, Energy and the Environment Committee.

“I’m happy to serve in this position again that allows me to impact the direction and subject matter for the legislation that the House Republican caucus prioritizes,” Hartman said.

Carozza said in a statement that the new committee is vital to her district and the district’s three “F’s” — farming, fishing and forestry.

“My committee’s jurisdiction now

includes energy issues as well as continuing to handle housing, emergency management, elections, and state and local government issues which are all key issues that impact my constituents,” she stated.

Carozza was also appointed to the Senate Executive Nominations Committee and the Joint Committee on the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area. She was reappointed to the Joint Committee on Children, Youth and Families.

Legislation-wise, Hartman said his first bill hearing — a passion project of sorts to see communication boards installed on school playgrounds for nonverbal children that his schoolteacher daughter inspired — will occur next week.

“It’s a simple bill, nothing elaborate,” he said. “It’s easy as a piece of canvas or whatever with illustrations. If a particular school board wants to make it more elaborate, they can. I just want something as simple and economic as possible that the school

See EASTERN Page 16

Wayne Hartman Mary Beth Carozza

Signal on at dangerous crossing

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Maryland State Highway Administration switched on a new traffic signal at the intersection of Route 113 and Main Street in Berlin on Sunday, a development that advocates in the community hope will reduce the number of accidents that have occurred over the years there.

The traffic signal was the result of discussions between SHA and town officials and residents last year, followed by construction beginning in

October.

“It is very important to have that light there,” said Councilmember Dean Burrell when reached by phone. “It’s going to offer a whole new level of safety for folks trying to cross that highway. It is a spot that I didn’t (traverse) if there was any other way. I’m sure there are other folks who live in the Town of Berlin who try to avoid that intersection, too.”

Burrell added that at it can be very difficult, especially at night, to judge how fast an oncoming vehicle is traveling as it approaches the intersection.

“That light will offer another level of security that is appreciated and needed and I’m sure that light is going to be appreciated by not only my district but the entire town,” he said. The light was in flash-only mode on Saturday to give motorists time to adjust and went into full service on Sunday, according to an SHA press release.

Just last month, Tyndall stressed the need for this traffic signal following two auto accidents that resulted in the hospitalization of four people.

Tyndall cited safety improvements at the intersection of US 50 and MD 610 east of Berlin as a good example of what he’d like to see done at the intersection.

Improvements Tyndall has suggested included “Look Again” signs, traffic cameras, more speed limit signs and a traffic light at each location where Main Street intersects with state dual highways.

“Nothing has to be reconstructed, just installed,” the mayor said in December. “Berlin traffic at these intersections is not just seasonal anymore.”

According to the press release, SHA determined a traffic signal would increase the safety of both motorists and pedestrians. Nearly 20,000 vehicles travel through that intersection daily.

“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 in the press release. “This will improve the safety of this intersection for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.”

Eastern Shore delegation meets

Continued from Page 15

board could have at the school playgrounds to allow for those kids to interact more easily.”

Hartman is also cosponsoring a bill for Ocean Downs that will help the horse racing industry ensure its expenses for prize money are covered.

“It’s a system with an operating loss from horse racing,” he said.

The Eastern Shore delegation held its first zoom meeting of the session as well, and Carozza said that representatives from Eastern Shore hospices shared concerns over the possibility that the Maryland Health Care Commission could open the region to more providers during a time when the existing ones are facing “severe” workforce shortages.

Coastal Hospice, which has locations in Salisbury and Ocean Pines,

was a part of that group.

The legislative session is sure to gain steam in the coming weeks, but Hartman said, right now, he’s also keeping track of bills that could pose challenges to his district.

“We’re hearing rumblings of the minimum wage bill that we passed several years ago, where they’re going to accelerate that to $15 an hour and also rumblings that they might be trying to tie that to (the consumer price index), so those might be some of the battles we’re undertaking if that were the case,” he said.

“It’s not always legislation specific to our district that we’re keeping an eye on — it’s legislation that other delegates are putting in that will negatively affect or have a detriment on our district that we have to look out for and be prepared to fight.”

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Maryland State Highway administration installed a traffic light at the intersection of Route 113 and Main Street in Berlin last week and turned it on earlier this week. The intersection has been a focal point for the Town of Berlin for a while as it aims to improve driver and pedestrian safety around the area.

U.S. Coast Guard air rescue of tug boat crew

(Jan. 20, 2023) Members of the U.S. Coast Guard rescued seven people Saturday from a disabled, adrift tug boat towing a barge 30 miles offshore from Ocean City.

According to a news release from the Coast Guard, a crew member aboard the tug Legacy notified watch standers at Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region at about 3:30 a.m. Saturday that while towing a 290-foot barge from New Jersey, to Guyana, a 1,000-foot towing line became entangled and fouled their starboard propeller. The vessel continued to make way on one engine when the tow line snapped. The crew attempted to regain tow of the barge at which time the line became tangled in the port propeller immobilizing the vessel.

The tug’s crew member said Legacy was inoperable and that the crew was making preparations to abandon ship.

The 154-foot Coast Guard Cutter Lawrence Lawson, homeported in Cape May, New Jersey, was already underway and diverted to the incident to help. Once on scene, the cutter’s crew was unable to get near the disabled tug or barge due to on scene weather and concern that the loose tow line beneath the water’s surface would foul the Coast Guard cutter’s propellers. The Lawrence Lawson

maintained station and provided critical assistance to responding units and ensured safety of the seven crew members.

Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capitol Region launched an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City,

New Jersey, and an MH-60 Jayhawk crew from Coast Guard Air Station from Elizabeth City, North Carolina, to hoist the seven people from the vessel. After all seven people were safely hoisted, the air crews flew them to Ocean City Municipal Airport in Maryland with no reported in-

juries.The tug’s crew activated their emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB), and the Coast Guard MH-60 deployed a self-locating data marker buoy (SLDMB) for Coast Guard watch standers to track the tug and barge while awaiting commercial salvage.

Past Assistant Chief Steve Cropper featured this week

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) This week we will recognize Past Assistant Chief Steve Cropper.

Chief Cropper is well-known across the region not only for his long-time involvement in the volunteer fire service but also for his expertise in servicing and maintaining fire apparatus.

Steve was the first member of the OCVFC Cadet Program in 1960 and became a member of the Volunteer Fire Company on Jan. 1, 1963.

He provided 51 years of active service to the company.

Steve’s involvement in the fire company came naturally as his family lived in downtown Ocean City and he loved to

PHOTO BY SEAMAN CARMEN CAVER U.S. COAST GUARD DISTRICT 5

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard rescued seven people Saturday from disabled, adrift tug boat, Legacy, towing a barge 30 miles offshore from Ocean City.

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

PHOTO COURTESTY OCVFC

Past Assistant Chief Steve Cropper

Dead humpback whale found on Assateague

(Jan. 20, 2023) A dead 20-footlong humpback whale was discovered on the beach at Assateague Island National Seashore Monday morning and now marine pathologists will try to find out why.

Apparently, the humpback washed up in the Maryland oversand vehicle area, which was closed at the 21.8 KM mark to allow research and removal crews to work safely.

The whale’s discovery lead the Park Service staff to notify the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Stranding Response Program. DNR works with NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association) and other agencies such as the National Aquarium and Smithsonian Institution in instances like this one.

Assateague Island National Seashore is responsible for carcass retrieval and ultimately, disposal.

A necropsy was planned for Tuesday by DNR and National Aquarium personnel. At this time there are no obvious signs to the cause of death, a statement from the Park Service said.

After the necropsy is completed, the whale carcass will be moved into

the dunes and allowed to dry out prior to its eventual burial.

Visitors who come across the whale should keep a distance and keep any dogs leashed.

The carcass will smell for a while, but previous experience shows that the smell will not be a problem more than 50 yards or so from the actual location.

All marine mammals, alive or dead, are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and collection of any parts is prohibited.

Anyone who sees a marine mammal or sea turtle that has washed ashore could contact the local strand-

ing network.

The Maryland Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Response Program can be contacted at 1-800-

OCVFC

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

628-9944 and the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Stranding Response Program can be reached at 757-385-7575.

Cropper’s 20-year service to OCVFC included many roles

“hang out” at the fire house.

As a young boy, he enjoyed getting to know the “older members” of the fire company. He simply came to love fire trucks!

Steve was appointed “House Man” for the fire company by Mayor Harry Kelley.

He was responsible for cleaning the station and ensuring that the ambulances and the fire apparatus were ready to respond to alarms when needed.

This position later evolved into the position of firefighter/mechanic for the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. Chief Cropper served in this position for 37 1/2 years.

Steve is currently a Gold Badge Member but served 20 years as an assistant chief and numerous years as an engineer and the chief engineer.

He also served four years as a member of the board of directors and is a

long-standing member of the equipment committee.

Cropper’s most memorable event was the 1962 storm.

Downtown Ocean City suffered severe flooding due to the extreme high tides.

The fire apparatus was moved to higher ground and boats were “tied up” in the firehouse for the firemen to respond to calls for assistance.

Steve says his greatest accomplishment in the fire service is gaining the respect and admiration of his peers as reflected by his selection to the Maryland State Firemen’s Association and the Eastern Shore Volunteer Fireman’s Association Hall of Fame.

We thank Steve Cropper 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

CAR FIRE

Flames shoot out from this car in north Ocean City last Monday night before the Ocean City Fire Department arrived to extinguish the blaze. The department was called at 6:38 p.m. and made short work of the fire.

Continued from Page 18

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

PHOTO COURTESY LORI SOWERS

A dead 20-foot-long humpback whale was discovered on the beach at Assateague Island National Seashore Monday morning.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

You may be in a meditative mood this week, Aries. You may think about mundane things or even complex issues. It’s an ideal time to stay indoors and relax with your thoughts.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Obligations to friends or family could interfere with other things you had intended, such as spending time with your partner. As more people call upon you, step back and consider.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You have a strong desire to clean and organize your home this week, Gemini. Spring cleaning certainly comes early. Conquer that clutter.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

All of that extra work on the job will pay off in the days to come, Cancer. Expect an email or personal meeting from a supervisor to discuss.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Practical matters, such as the household budget, may need your attention this week, Leo. A big purchase is on the horizon, so get your finances sorted out.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Giving back to the community can boost your morale, Virgo. Think about offering to shop for an elderly neighbor or volunteer at a food pantry a few days a week.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Careful penny pinching may now result in a nice nest egg you can use any way you desire, Libra. Enjoy the fruits of your labor when you can loosen the pursestrings.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, a sense of duty to loved ones may have you taking on tasks that you otherwise may never consider. Your willingness to pitch in won’t go unnoticed.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Don’t be surprised if the people you help this week are willing to go to bat for you in the future. Consider any assistance you provide an investment in friendship.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Some people know exactly which buttons to push to get a rise out of you, Capricorn. Try to be the bigger person and turn the other cheek.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

A momentary loss of confidence may catch you off-guard, Aquarius. Brush these feelings aside and take on any task or challenge that comes your way.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Nostalgia could hit you hard this week Pisces. Enjoy an unexpected trip down Memory Lane. Contact others who might enjoy it as well.

‘Call to Arms’ to donate blood at Jan. 23-25 drive

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) is announcing a “Call to Arms” to encourage residents to donate blood at the annual three-day blood drive to be held at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Jan. 23-25.

The goal is to book a record 825 donors this year. The record stands at 685 donors in 2021.

The Ocean City Blood Drive occurs during National Blood Donor Month, which was created to raise awareness during a traditionally slow time for blood donations. The blood drive is the largest one of the year for the regional Blood Bank.

Blood Bank of Delmarva staff facilitate whole-blood donations at the 23rd annual Ocean City Blood Drive at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center last year. The 2023 event will take place Jan. 23-25.

Chicken salad with dried cranberries, toasted pecans

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) The ability to learn is shared by all. However, subtle degrees and variation distinguish the superlative from the ordinary.

Put on your thinking cap, it’s time to test your knowledge and see if you can figure out the ingredient of the day.

Apium graveolens is the name of this vegetable and ancient documents confirm its ancestors were originally cultivated for medicinal purposes.

Ayurvedic physicians used this particular food to treat colds, flu, water retention, poor digestion, various types of

arthritis, and liver ailments.

The secret ingredient was deemed a holy plant during the classical period Greece.

Winners of the Nemean Games received a crown made out of this ingredient; similar to the crown of bay leaves displayed at the Olympic Games. In ancient Rome, it was considered an aphrodisiac.

Today, scientists know that the veggie contains androsterone, a pheromone released by men’s sweat glands that attract females.

Here’s the test: In the 18th century, French courtesan Madame de Pompadour, mistress of Louis XV, ate what soup and truffles in an effort to adopt an “erotic diet” so she would be less frigid

Blood Bank of Delmarva to host annual drive in OC

The recent holidays and travel time make donating blood less of a priority for many would-be donors, and winter weather can lead to blood drive cancellations.

The region’s blood supply continues to be threatened by low donor turnout.

“We are grateful to the Town of Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan for being such an incredible partner and for their dedication to helping us replenish the blood supply. I’d also like to thank the convention center staff, and all the municipal workers and residents who make this event so successful year after year,” said Patty Killeen, senior vice president at the Blood Bank. “We encourage all eligible blood donors to celebrate National Blood Donor month by signing up to donate; you’ll even get a free T-shirt.”

Every year, Dough Roller, Candy Kitchen and Wockenfuss Candies contribute snacks for employees, volunteers

and donors, and Tru Hilton is giving the Blood Bank a discount for a block of hotel rooms. The Town of Ocean City, Maryland; Ocean City Lions Club; Greater Ocean City, Maryland Chamber of Commerce; Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce; Blood Bank of Delmarva host the event.

To book an appointment, call 1-8888-BLOOD-8 or visit Ocean City Blood Drive | Blood Bank of Delmarva (delmarvablood.org).

Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. For more information on who can donate blood visit https://www.delmarvablood.org/giveblood/donor-eligibility/

The blood drive will be held Monday, Jan. 23, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 24, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesday, Jan. 25, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the convention center on 40th Street. All eligible donors are encouraged to sign up to give.

CROSSWORD

Add cranberries, pecans to salad

and more attractive to the king? It is also said that she fed the king what soup to spark his fires of passion?

In 1932, France was the first country to actually consume this item as food. It belongs to the same family as carrots, parsnips, fennel, caraway and anise.

The cycle of life begins with seeds that are buried in shallow pans. A warm damp environment ensures a nurturing atmosphere.

When maturity is reached, the young plants are transported to fields for further growth until it is time for shipment.

Supermarkets proudly display the crisp stalks year-round.

For those who are watching their waistlines, two medium stalks have only 20 calories and is a good source of vitamin C and potassium.

“Stalks” are a key clue. If you guessed celery to the questions above, you are correct.

Celery is probably the most overlooked vegetable in the produce section and what a pity.

So why does celery get overlooked when it comes to key ingredients?

One should judge the vegetable on its merits and not its appearance.

The stalks are the epitome of crunchiness. As one chops, you can literally hear the celery succumbing to the sharp knife. Slicing celery on an angle beautifies the presentation.

Biting into the delectable vegetable causes an explosion of natural moisture. The leaves are not to be discarded but cherished for their flavor and adornment.

Chicken salad is a hearty dish and can be eaten as a sandwich, on a salad, or by itself.

In this particular dish, the celery and onions are subordinate and should be chopped finely.

In addition, these vegetables contain a lot of juices. Once they are chopped, place them in paper towels, and squeeze to remove any excess liquid. Otherwise, your chicken salad will become a soggy mess.

One might ask, how does the excess liquid develop?

Over time, salt draws out the natural liquids. This is why after a day or two you will notice a liquid at the bottom of the container. This simple step with the paper towels prevents this from happening.

Tender chicken is a must for succulent chicken salad.

Poach the chicken as opposed to sautéing it. A touch of chicken broth enhances it for a more flavorful dish.

When a recipe calls for only a few ingredients, it is important to showcase each ingredient to its fullest.

Lastly, cut some of the chicken into chunks and using your fingers, tear the remaining chicken. Variation awakens one senses for a more interesting consistency.

Winter is here and chicken salad embellished with dried cranberries and toasted pecans is not only delicious but a perfect adaptation for the chilly weather. Enjoy!

mayonnaise to taste kosher salt to taste

1. In a large sauté pan, bring chicken broth and canola oil to a simmer. Add chicken, cover, and lightly simmer until meat is done, approximately 20 minutes.

Remove chicken and place on a plate lined with paper towels. When cooled, cut and tear chicken meat.

2. When you chop the pecans, only use the pecan pieces. Because they are toasted, you will end up with pecan pieces and very fine crumbs.

3. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

* Chicken has a tendency to absorb the mayonnaise, so you will find that you will use a little more than normal. A specific amount was not given due to the fact that personal preference is your guide.

Secret Ingredient – Celery. “I’m afraid of losing my obscurity. Genuineness only thrives in the dark. Like celery.”

– Aldous Huxley

NOW PLAYING

New Mediacom scholarship app deadline Feb. 28

(Jan. 20, 2023) Mediacom Communications is extending the application deadline for its scholarship program, Mediacom World Class Scholars.

In its 22nd consecutive year, the program will award $1,000 World Class Scholarships to 60 high school seniors planning to obtain further education. Scholarship applications must be submitted by Feb. 28. The deadline was extended from an earlier date and high school seniors are encouraged to apply.

Mediacom’s World Class Scholarship applications are available online at mediacomworldclass.com.

Applicants do not have to be Mediacom customers but must live in areas where Mediacom’s fiber-rich broadband network delivers Gigabit-speed internet service.

Recipients will be selected from the 22 states where Mediacom’s residential customers reside. A complete list of communities in Mediacom service areas is included with the online application.

Inquiries may be sent to scholarship@mediacomcc.com.

ROUGUE CITIZENS

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Jan. 20: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 21: Rougue Citizens, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 22: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 23: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 24: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 25: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Jan. 26: 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. 20: Liquid A, 6 to 10 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 7 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Jan. 21: Putting for a Cause; Support Stop Soldier Suicide, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Full Circle, 5 to 9 p.m.;

SCREAMING MONKEYS

Seacrets: Sat., Jan. 21, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Screaming Monkeys, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Pickle’s Pub: Sat., Jan. 21, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

OC Surf Club launches scholarship

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Ocean City

Surf Club, a local, 501c3 nonprofit, all-volunteer organization, has launched a Kids In Need Education Scholarship Campaign for a local student to afford a college or trade school education.

The club is challenging area busi-

nesses to donate and create a $100,000 scholarship for an economically disadvantaged student in the area to achieve their dreams through a college or trade school education.

OCSC is reaching out to corporations, businesses and/or individuals

to be part of Kids In Need, by making a donation to fund this campaign.

OCSC invites potential donors to take a closer look at the impact the organization has had on the children in the community through scholarships, youth mentoring and environ-

The

Need Education Scholarship Campaign.

(Left) Pictured, with a contribution check, from left, are OC Surf Club Secretary Kevan Thomson, Sandy Deeley, Deeley Insurance Group

President Laura Bren, OC Surf Club President Tommy Vach and OC Surf Instructor Bill Thomson. (Right) Also participating in the campaign, from left, are Rich and Lauren Brueckner of RJB Law, with Vach and OC Surf Club Vice President Rusty Ruszin. See OC Page 25

unique selection of bourbons. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss our on Happy hour, Every day, 3 to 6 p.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFE

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

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.

a.m. to 9 p.m. The Bistro, Friday, 3 to 10 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reef 118 Restaurant, Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy cocktails in the Bamboo Lounge, Sunday through Thursday, 4 to 10 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL

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

$$ | 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 everyday. Happy hour; 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 restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. 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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine with a Caribbean flare from a selection of house specialty entrees such as burgers, seafood, and pastas! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring specialty rums; Sunday

$$ | 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

32 Palm’s inviting decor fuses the perfect atmosphere with Eastern Shore favorites for an exceptional dining experience! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring a

■ MARLIN MOON

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

Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon offers a great selection of entrees, small plates, appetizers, and creatively crafted cocktails. 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 Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

Enjoy one of four restaurants in the Carousel. Serving breakfast; The Bistro, Saturday through Sunday, 7 to 11 a.m. proudly serving Starbuck’s brand. Reef 118 Restaurant, Saturday through Sunday, 7 to 11 a.m. buffet or A la carte. Serving Dinner; Bamboo Lounge, Sunday through Thursday, 4 to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11

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 lite 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.

PHOTOS COURTESY TOMMY VACH

Ocean City Surf Club has launched a Kids In

OC Surf Club looking for donors

mental programs. It is dedicated in its efforts to provide financial assistance to those who need it most.

The Ocean City Surf Club’s goal is to make sure local students have financial access to a world-class education. Join the Deeley Insurance

Group and RJB LAW, LLC as “Kids In Need” Education Scholarship donors helping to make local students college dreams a reality.

To learn more about this campaign or to make a donation in any amount, contact the Ocean City Surf Club at info@ocsurfclub.org.

O’Connor named Pine’eer Craft Club’s January crafter

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Pine’eer Craft Club chose Barbara O’Connor as the January Crafter of the Month.

She creates fused and stained glass works of art ranging from jewelry to decorative items, as well as lights and cutting boards.

O’Connor started her focus on glass over 20 years ago. She still takes classes in pursuit of perfection, or to simply learn a new trick.

After years in New Jersey and Long Island, New York, the O’Connors discovered Ocean Pines in 1997.

She and her husband, John, have taken advantage of what the community offers residents.

John joined the golf club and is a member on the Budget and Finance committee.

Barbara is a member of the Garden Club, in addition to the Pine’eer Craft Club. She has also worked at the OPA Golf Course and volunteered backstage for the Pines Players.

She is a past president, first and second vice president and successfully ran the craft fairs along with her fellow crafters.

She joined the club in order to meet fellow crafters and has made

friends in the process.

“Crafters are special people who love to share with others,” she said. “I love to see people look at my projects and the comments I get fill my heart with pride.”

View O’Connor’s pieces and other handmade items at the Artisan Gift Shop in White Horse Park, on 239 Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines.

The shop is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, visit https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pa ges/artisan-gift-shop.

Any artisan who would like to sell their creations at the shop, should contact Debbie Jiwa or Barbara Herzog, shop managers, or email opcraftclub@aol.com for more information.

All new crafters must go through the juried process, and when items sell, some proceeds go back to the community.

Since its inception, the craft club has donated nearly $179,000 back to Ocean Pines. The group has been hand crafting in Ocean Pines for more than 45 years.

The Pine’eer Craft Club chose Barbara O’Connor as the January Crafter of the Month.

Fri., Jan. 20

BABY TIME: MESSY FUN

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join the group for hands-on, messy time perfect for you and your teeny tiny. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 2 years and younger. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014

UNSTOPPABLE JOY FUNDRAISERHONORING CERVICAL CANCER (TEAL AND WHITE RIBBON)

Salt & Co, 12911 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy a glass of bubbly and small bites while you shop. Mention the fundraiser at check out to support cancer warriors and their caregivers. unstoppablejoyco.org

BERLIN BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THE TASTE OF SUGAR’ BY MARISEL VERA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Books are available at the Berlin circulation desk. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FISH FRY

Bowen United Methodist Church, 8421 Newark Road, Newark, 4:30 p.m. Platters cost $10 and include flounder filet, macaroni and cheese, green beans, cornbread and dessert. For those who eat in, a beverage is included. 410-632-1134

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

Sat., Jan. 21

WALK WITH A DOC

Atlantic General Hospital, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 9 a.m. Location to be determined. Join the group for the monthly Walk with a Doc. Alyce Marzola, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org

PUTTING FOR A CAUSE - STOP SOLDIER SUICIDE

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City. Registration begins at 10 a.m. Register teams: Facebook AL Synepuxent Unit 166 or Emily, 443-497-6894. Play 9 holes of miniature golf in 9 different pubs in Ocean City. After party at 4 p.m.

FAMILY LIBRARY DAY - TISSUE PAPER LANTERNS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10 a.m.-noon. Paint some tissue paper lanterns in celebration of Chinese New Year. All ages

welcome. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CRAFTY SATURDAY: MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Make our own musical instruments. For children ages 4 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-2084014

UNSTOPPABLE JOY FUNDRAISERHONORING CERVICAL CANCER (TEAL AND WHITE RIBBON)

Salt & Co, 12911 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy a glass of bubbly and small bites while you shop. Mention the fundraiser at check out to support cancer warriors and their caregivers. unstoppablejoyco.org

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FRIED CHICKEN DINNER

New Hope United Methodist Church, 7348 New Hope Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Includes vegetables, beverage and dessert. Cost is $15 for adults. Carry out available. 410-543-8244, 410-713-2468

OCEAN PINES PLAYERS MEMBERS AND GUESTS GENERAL MEETING

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 3-5 p.m. Members, guests and potential members welcome. Featuring wine, cheese, meet-and-greet, election of board members and special announcements. Come and vote. https://oceanpinesplayers.org

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. 22

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Jan. 23

24TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY BLOOD DRIVE

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The theme is “Call to Arms.” Each donor will receive a free T-shirt. Appointments: 888-8-BLOOD-8 or visit Ocean City Blood Drive | Blood Bank of Delmarva (delmarvablood.org).

STORY TIME ‘PETS’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Celebrate pets with stories, songs and a craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

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

BEGINNERS ON BROADWAY

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

CROCHETED RUGS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 2 p.m. Bring a size K, L or M crochet hook and old sheets, cotton or poly cotton fabric or clothing cut into 1 1/4” wide strips with as long a length as possible. Registration required: 410-632-3495.

SUPER POWERED STEM: SNOW GLOBES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4 p.m. Learn the science behind snow globes. Come make your own. For children ages 6 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-208-4014

EXPUNGEMENT WORKSHOP

Held via Zoom, 5 p.m. In this presentation participants will learn the basic rules of expungement and how to file for one. Registration required: 443-7836164.

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

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

ROMANCE BOOK CLUB: ‘WHEN KATIE MET CASSIDY’

The Buzzed Word, 11805 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6 p.m. Join the Ocean City library with The Buzzed Word for an afternoon of Queer Romance and wine. 410-524-1818

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, 302-2427062.

Tues., Jan. 24

24TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY BLOOD DRIVE Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9

a.m.-5 p.m. The theme is “Call to Arms.” Each donor will receive a free T-shirt. Appointments: 888-8-BLOOD-8 or visit Ocean City Blood Drive | Blood Bank of Delmarva (delmarvablood.org).

STORY TIME ‘DANCE WITH A DINOSAUR’

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts about dinosaurs. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME ‘BABIES’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. Takehome activity included. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

CHAIR YOGA

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

SYMMETRICAL SNOWFLAKES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Learn about and practice symmetry with this fun snowflake craft. For ages 5-10 years. 410-641-0650, 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 Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

DELMARVA DANCING

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-

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

RENTALS

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

2BR/2BA Monthly Rental until June. $850/mo. plus utilities. No pets. 410-524-0295

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

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.

The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned; B28B50-B77-B89-S29-S32S35-S136-S233-S718-O34 -O158C. Units are being sold due to non-payment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Friday, January 27th, 2023 Time: 10:00 am

ROOMMATES

Seeking RoommateBayview Estates, Selbyville. 5.7 miles to beach. Includes utilities & internet. Shared kitchen, W/D, living room, outdoor space, POOL. VERY CLEAN. $850/month. 302-386-7818

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.

This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register. Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.

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.

289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

Wed., Jan. 25

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

24TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY BLOOD DRIVE

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The theme is “Call to Arms.” Each donor will receive a free T-shirt. Appointments: 888-8-BLOOD-8 or visit Ocean City Blood Drive | Blood Bank of Delmarva (delmarvablood.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. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WINTER SEA GLASS ART

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 5 p.m. Learn how to make a winter themed sea glass art. All supplies included. Limit 10. 410957-0878, 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: 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

FIRST STATE DETACHMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 12 p.m. Any Marines and Navy Corpsman who have served in the Corps, living in Worcester and Sussex counties, are welcome. 410-430-7181, websergeant@firststatemarines.org

SMALL SOCIETY WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Build your own business from the ground up. Multi-day workshop held Jan. 25, 30, Feb. 1 and 3. Jake Nail, jnail@worcesterlibrary.org, www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-2084014

ICICLE & SNOWFLAKE CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3:30 p.m. Practice fine motor skills while making unique winter crafts. For ages 48 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5:30-7 p.m. The goal of the support group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org

Thurs., Jan. 26

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: 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. VA personnel will provide one-on-one assistance with VA claims and benefits. Also register for phone appointments Visitor Engagement Reporting Application at https://vets.force.com. 410-9570878

STEM THURSDAYS

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

PLAY TIME

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

MID-MORNING CRAFT: BUILD A BOT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Use shapes and other materials provided to build your own robot. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410208-4014

HOMEWORK HUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Need some help with homework? Stop by the library for some guidance from friends and staff. All ages welcome. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-2084014

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

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3-4:30 p.m.

Many neighbors are providing care and seek to share their experiences and ideas for assistance. The meetings are private and confidential. Margaret White, 410742-0505 - 128, mwhite@macinc.org

SHOW AND TELL FOR ADULTS

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6-8 p.m. Join in for an evening of wine and stories. Pop in and bring something you would love to share with the group. 443-783-6164, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. A popular and entertaining book discussion featuring books participants have read and want to share. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONGOING EVENTS

CHILDREN’S DESIGN COMPETITION

Create a design that captures Unstoppable Joy and their slogan “Hope is stronger than fear.” The winning design will be featured on their 2023 T-shirts. Submit designs now until Feb. 15. Email to Berkleigh.ujc@gmail.com or mail to the Healing Arts Center, attn: Berkleigh at 617 Franklin Ave., Berlin, MD 21811. Include child’s name and age. Judging and celebration to happen in March. www.unstoppablejoyco.org

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

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.

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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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.

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.

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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

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 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

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

6. For the protection of the public and the Mayor and City Council, the successful bidder must obtain, at the operator’s own expense, comprehensive automobile liability insurance coverage in at least the amount of $1,000,000.00 per person and $2,000,000.00 per occurrence for bodily injury and $200,000.00 for property damage and comprehensive general liability insurance, with a combined single limit of

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

Submit bid to:

VEHICLE VENDING FRANCHISE BID Town of Ocean City City Hall

Attn: City Clerk 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842

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

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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 OCD-1/12/3t

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

CHRISTOPHER T WOODLEY ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of 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 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

HILL, MD 21863-1074

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TOWN OF BERLIN NOTICE

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

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

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

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

(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 de-

livery 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 _________________________________

MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP

PO BOX 910115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19527

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT L. HEIMERT

Notice is given that Michael B. Mathers, 115 Broad Street, P.O. Box 910, Salisbury, MD 21803, was on January 12, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert L. Heimert who died on January 1, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of 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.

Michael B. Mathers 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 19, 2023

OCD-1/19/3t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19383

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EDWARD A. WISE

Notice is given that Coretta R. Marshall, 508 Canon Court, Evans, GA 30809, was on January 09, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edward A. Wise who died on September 13, 2022, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th 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.

Coretta R. Marshall 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 19, 2023

tate No. 19531 Notice is given that SUZANNE SHORT whose address is 232 POWELL CIRCLE BERLIN, MD 21811 was on JANUARY 12, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ERICK DAVID SHORT who died on NOVEMBER 16, 2022 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment 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-1/19/1t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19525 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF TERRENCE CONNORS

Notice is given that Taylor Connors, 170 Wyckoff Ave., 3L, Brooklyn, NY 11237, was on January 10, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Terrence Connors who died on January 7, 2023, without a will.

(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.

Taylor Connors 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 19, 2023 OCD-1/19/3t _________________________________

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19508 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHRISTINE WALSTON

Notice is given that Wayne Morris Jones, 12633 Old Bridge Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on January 11, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Christine Walston who died on December 19, 2022, with a will.

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

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

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ARLETTE K BRIGHT ESQ

THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B SALISBURY, MD 21804

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ERICK DAVID SHORT Es-

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of 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

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 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.

Wayne Morris Jones 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 19, 2023 OCD-1/19/1t

Brian T. Gallagher, Esq Council, Baradel, Kosmerl & Nolan, PA 125 West Street, 4th Floor Annapolis, MD 21404

BRIAN T. GALLAGHER, Substitute Trustee Plaintiff, v.

WILLIAM HENDERSON, et ux. Defendants.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-22-000048

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court of Worcester County this 13th day of January, 2023, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings, 1848 New Bridge Road, Pocomoke, Maryland 21851 made and reported by Brian T. Gallagher, Substitute Trustee, be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 13th day of February, 2023, provided, a copy of this notice be inserted in some newspaper published in said county, once in each of three successive weeks, before the 6th day of February, 2023.

The Report of Sale states the amount of sale to be $13,500.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-1/19/3t

Revitalization grants for Worcester

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) In December, Gov. Larry Hogan announced awards for 376 businesses through Project Restore, an economic recovery initiative that provides financial incentives for small businesses to revitalize vacant retail and commercial spaces.

A total of 376 businesses in all 23 counties and Baltimore City will receive $24.5 million through the initiative —including $8.8 million in property assistance grants and $15.7 million in business operations grants.

Locally in Worcester County, six

businesses were awarded funds totaling $506,918.

In Wicomico County, 10 businesses were awarded a total of $616,786.

In Somerset County, three businesses were awarded funds totaling $46,200.

Project Restore was launched by the governor last year, and is administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

In total, more than 725 businesses have now been awarded grants through the program. The latest application round received almost 800 applications.

The previously vacant properties will return to active use as:

• 119 office spaces

• 110 retail spaces

• 61 restaurants

• 41 manufacturing/industrial spaces

• 44 other uses, such as event space, breweries, salons and indoor recreation

Project Restore provides two grant opportunities for businesses, including nonprofits, that are expanding, moving to or opening in a property that was previously vacant for at least six months:

• Property Assistance Grant: Provides up to $30,000 for one year to support costs associated with rent, mortgage payment or property improvements as applicable.

• Business Operations Grant: For

Book helps author deal with grief

By Susan Canfora Contributing Writer

(Jan. 19, 2023) Dan O’Hare’s book starts with a letter to his little girl. “Dear Olive,” the Ocean Pines Realtor, and reportedly first baby to be born in the sprawling community, writes to the 8-year-old, “when I started writing this book I didn’t know why I was writing it or for whom this book was being written.

At first I was pretty sure it was just for me, as some sort of therapy. I guess I also thought in some way it was for my father, to keep his story alive.

“As I continued to write I began to think it may actually be for you, my dear sweet daughter Olive … as a way to leave something behind for you when I’m not around to express what I learned in my lifetime,” he wrote.

O’Hare and his wife, Caroline, didn’t become parents until he was almost 39 and when the baby was 11 months old, his father went into a nursing home after suffering a stroke. He died in 2019.

It was a life-changing event for the

author, an Ocean Pines Realtor for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty and who coaches high school soccer and lacrosse.

His father, Matt O’Hare, who taught and coached at Worcester Prep, is the bigger-than-life central figure in the 217-page book, titled “Tell Me The Truest Thing You Know.”

“I don’t know if my father ever allowed himself to explore who he was and why he acted the way he did. If he had made that exploration, he never let me know. He wasn’t honest with his children about his mental or physical health and because of that my brother and I were left to navigate these inherited waters without so much as a hand-drawn chart. And it’s not like my father got help from his parents, either. We all know mental health wasn’t really discussed by those generations. I want to end that cycle,” the author wrote.

“The book is really confronting my own issues in order to break the chain of mental illness,” O’Hare told Ocean

See REALTOR Page 35

Lauren Bunting

Rare find in this waterfront 8.57-acre Estate-1 zoned lot in Bishopville w/approved future dock permit in place. Located at the end of a quiet, no-thruway street, the tree-lined, clam shell drive takes you to your private oasis on the water. A conceptual plan is included in the MLS documents for an approximation of where a future home can be placed. There is also the proposed site plan for the approved dock and walkway, w/approvals to clear some tress to allow for the walkway (permits in hand). Property is currently under Agricultural Use Assessment status w/Worcester County tax and assessment office. Property is also enrolled in the MD Department of Natural Resources Forest Stewardship Plan which allows for the low woodland tax assessment rate on the forested land (program not transferrable, but buyers may re-apply if they don't plan to

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Six Worcester biz get funding

Continued from Page 33

businesses that generate sales and use tax, provides up to $250,000 per calendar year to support capital (property improvements, equipment etc.) and operating (staff salaries, marketing, inventory etc.) costs associated with business operations in the vacant property.

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

Promotion

The principals of Gillis Gilkerson (GGI) announce the promotion of Tyler Barnes to president of the firm’s construction operations.

Backed by over 21 years of industry experience, Barnes is well versed in all facets of construction management, making him the natural successor to longtime leader Dwight Miller.

His advancement in leadership occurs in conjunction with the start of a pivotal 40th anniversary year.

With Barnes at the helm, Gillis Gilkerson is positioned to propel into its next decade with confidence.

“This is a milestone year for Gillis Gilkerson and it is an honor to step into the role of president at such an important time,” Barnes said. “I look forward to continuing our service to the Delmarva community with a renewed sense of perspective. For nearly 20 years, GGI has thrived under Dwight’s leadership, a tenure deserving of much appreciation and respect. In continuation of his efforts, I plan to grow the firm while honoring our longstanding commitment to quality and excellence in all that we do.”

Barnes assumed the position at the start of the 2023 year and works in collaboration with leaders of the firm’s development team, which include principals Brad Gillis, Joey Gilkerson and Chris Gilkerson.

Miller will remain onboard as an executive consultant for the newly-established leadership team.

11am-1pm 305 S. Heron Gull Ct., Ocean City 6BR/6BA/2HBA Single Family $2,399,900 Nancy Reither-Smith/Coldwell Banker Realty Saturday, 10am-1pm 218-4 N. Heron Drive, Ocean City 3BR/2.5BA Condo $799,900 Nancy Reither-Smith/Coldwell Banker Realty Saturday, 11:30am-2pm 12 42nd St., Unit 404, Ocean City 2BR/2BA Condo $348,900 Linda Zaretsky/BHHS Saturday, 11am-1pm 207 Dolphin St., Ocean City 4BR/3BA Single Family $1,211,155 PO2 Team/Hileman Real Estate Saturday, 11am-1pm 351 Ocean Pkwy., Ocean Pines 3BR/2BA

Single Family $339,000 PO2 Team/Hileman Real Estate Saturday, 11am-1pm 110 Boston Dr., Berlin 3BR/2BA

Single Family $399,000 PO2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

PHOTO COURTESY DAN O’HARE Ocean Pines Realtor Dan O’Hare is pictured with his book, “Tell Me The Truest Thing You Know.”

Tyler Barnes

Realtor Dan O’Hare writes book

City Today, adding the grief he felt after his father’s death caused him to suffer from anxiety and symptoms he was often convinced were those of major illnesses.

“The goal of this book is to be as honest as possible. That’s the message of the book, extreme honesty, that if you’re dealing with mental illness you need to be honest and you need to confront it,” he said.

Anyone who knew his father – and many did – will enjoy the writing from a male perspective, with O’Hare often talking to his father as he tries to sort out their relationship.

He also talks about his relationship with his mother, well-known Ocean Pines Realtor, Sharyn O’Hare.

“I don’t know many sons who have had easy relationships with their fathers, so that’s a built-in audience there. My hope is the audience is there for people who know people who are struggling with mental illness. I wrote it for people who know people who are struggling. I’m not a psychologist and I don’t know the right thing to do. I just know what I did. But I can explain from my perspective,” he said.

Writing the book was quite possibly the most challenging task of his life.

“I worked in film and TV for years and I made movies. I made documentaries but this was harder because of the subject matter,” he said.

“It might help people who know people like me to understand a little bit. It’s definitely a major message in the book. I talk about what pulled me out of that,” he said.

And what is the truest thing he knows?

“It’s like at the end of the book. I really I don’t want to boil it down into a sentence. Even in the book I say, ‘I’m not even sure but I think this is it.’ Instead of me trying to boil it down, it makes more sense for the reader to go on the journey. The whole book is me being honest and in order to help people, to help my daughter if I’m not around in the future. Part of my issue is after my father had a stroke he lost so much of his personality, so this book a hedge against that.”

The book cost $17.99 and is currently available on Amazon as well as Bethany Beach Books. O’Hare is also working to get his book in other local stores.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Crews with George & Lynch Inc. out of Dover work on water and sanitary sewer lines on Monday in front of the H20 night club on Worcester Street. After they finish digging up and replacing the utility lines, the sidewalks and pavement will be replaced.

Shop with a Cop helped 30 WCPS students at Christmas

(Jan. 20, 2023) The CRICKET Center, in partnership with local law enforcement officers, held its 10th annual Shop with a Cop event on Dec. 10.

Thirty students from Worcester County Public Schools were paired with officers from the Maryland State Police, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Berlin Police Department and Ocean City Police Department.

Each child toured the Berlin Barrack and interacted with some of the police equipment before being sworn

in as a Junior Trooper for the day.

Children and officers loaded up the State Police bus and headed to Walmart where each shopper hand selected gifts for their family.

After shopping concluded, everyone returned to the Berlin Barrack where volunteers helped wrap the new presents and enjoyed lunch with Santa. Chick-fil-a in West Ocean City donated lunch for the children.

Youth participating in Shop with a Cop are designated as “at risk” by the

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The CRICKET Center, in partnership with local law enforcement officers, held its 10th annual Shop with a Cop event on Dec. 10. Thirty students from Worcester County Public Schools were paired with officers from several police agencies.

Dean’s List

Several Worcester County residents recently earns spots on the Dean’s List for their respective colleges and universities.

James Blackmore of Berlin, was among the 579 students who earned Dean’s List honors for the fall semester at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

Students who maintain a 3.4 grade point average or higher are eligible for this honor.

Julianna Fohner of Ocean City, and Gabrielle Izzett of Berlin, were among the 1,087 students who made the fall Shenandoah University’s Dean’s List.

To qualify, students enrolled in baccalaureate degree programs must complete at least 12 semester hours and earn a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher at Shenandoah University, headquartered in Winchester, Virginia, with additional educational sites in Clarke, Fairfax and Loudoun counties.

Rafe Parsons of Berlin, was named to the 2022 fall semester Dean’s List at Bridgewater College, located in the Central Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Parsons is a business administration major at Bridgewater.

He was among nearly 550 students named to the Dean’s List. Students must attained a 3.4 or better grade point average out of a possible 4.0.

Chadwick Fischer from Berlin, achieved Dean’s List for the fall semester at Nichols College in Massachusetts. Students with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 for at least 12 undergraduate credit-hours and no grades below B- receive Dean’s List honors.

President’s List

Julianna Fohner of Ocean City, was one of 477 students who made the President’s List at Shenandoah University for the fall semester.

To qualify for this academic recognition, students enrolled in baccalaureate degree programs must complete at least 12 semester hours and earn a semester GPA of 3.90 or higher.

Elizabeth Pivec of Berlin, was named to the President’s List for the fall semester at Mount St. Mary’s Uni-

versity in Emmitsburg, Maryland, achieving a 4.0 grade point average.

Cristina Jones of Berlin, was named to Southern New Hampshire University’s fall President’s List.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum gradepoint average of 3.70 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List.

Joins board

The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore recently announced that William “Bill” McCain and John Phoebus have joined the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

McCain is the chairman and founder of W. R. McCain Associates, Inc., one of the largest comprehensive real estate valuation and consultation companies located in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

McCain is active in community affairs and has served as a member of numerous civic and professional organizations including prior service as a Wicomico County councilman, TidalHealth Board of Directors, and YMCA of the Chesapeake Board of Directors.

He is an active member of the Wicomico Rotary Club and has served as president and was a former Rotarian of the Year.

McCain is active with Trinity United Methodist Church having served in numerous leadership roles. He is also a 2013 inductee into the Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame.

Phoebus is a partner at Anthenelli, Phoebus & Hickman, LLC., and concentrates in criminal defense and personal injury cases.

A native of Crisfield, Phoebus graduated from Crisfield High School, Washington College, and the Dickinson School of Law.

Phoebus has served on a variety of civic organizations including the Crisfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Wor-Wic Community College Foundation, Hudson Health Services, Coastal Hospice, the McCready Founda-

tion, and the Somerset Count Long Term Recovery Committee.

He is presently the chair of the Leadership Council of the Lower Eastern Shore YMCA and a member of the Edward A. Plank, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Committee.

Graduates

Molly McCormick of Berlin, recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the College of Charleston in South Carolina. McCormick was among more than 290 students who received degrees.

Honor society

Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society, welcomed 1,085 new initiates from 45 universities during November.

They include: Berlin residents Amber Whittaker (Salisbury University), Sarah Beesley (Salisbury University) and Eric Brandenberg (University of Baltimore), and Sarah Hancock (Salisbury University).

Students initiated into the society must be sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate/professional students in the top 35 percent of their class, demonstrate leadership experience in at least one of the five pillars, and embrace the ODK ideals. Fewer than five percent of students on a campus are invited to join each year.

board of education, typically from lower-income homes.

“There was such excitement from the kids as they walked through the aisles,” Executive Director of The CRICKET Center, Lauren Cooper, said. “This event is such a great opportunity to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and kids in our community.”

This event was made possible

through generosity of donors in the community and local grants.

The team at the CRICKET Center collaborates on child abuse cases beginning with the child’s initial outcry through investigation, treatment, and prosecution.

Follow the CRICKET Center on Facebook to keep up with future events and ways to help. For more information, contact Cooper at 410641-0097.

William McCain

John Phoebus

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

DONATION

SCHOOL SUPPORT

FUNDING CONFERENCE

EXHIBIT WINNERS

PAJAMA PARTY

Gabrielle Dolansky’s second grade

City

School celebrates their reading accomplishments by wearing comfy pajamas on Dec. 16. They are pictured next to their completed light bulbs containing titles of books they have read. Standing, from left, are Annabelle Willard, Nyah Lopez and Charlie Ward, and kneeling, August Ryan, Austin Starkey and Alexander Balassone.

PET PORTRAITS

OC Lions President Norm Cathell, left, and Lion Steve McMillan present a check for $1,000 to Past District Gov. Dave Studley, chair of the District 22B Charitable Foundation.

Art League of Ocean City Second Vice President Laura Jenkins presented cash prizes to the winners of the "Force of Nature" art exhibition, on display at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street through Jan. 28. Pictured, from left, are Jenkins; Karen Lembo, honorable mention; Mary Noel, honorable mention; Leo Kahl, first place; show judge Raymond Ewing; and Doris Glovier, third place. Not pictured: Nancy Fine, second place; and Susan Koster, honorable mention.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Bob Wolfing, center, back, presented the annual check of $500 to the Showell Elementary School Kiwanis K-Kids Club on Dec. 9. Kiwanis supports the youth club program for the school year. The students learn about community service during after school meetings with their teacher advisor Evy Collins. Also pictured is Principal Ryan Cowder.

PHOTO COURTESY ROGER PACELLA

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club donated $3,500 to cover expenses for 22 school counselors to attend the National Center for Youth Issues, Maryland School Counselors Conference, in Cambridge in March. Pictured, in front, from left, are Linda McGean, Denee Bowen, Tammy Funk and Stephanie Zanowic, and in back, Lauren Williams, Val Riley, Staci Aperance, Michelle Bankert, Marcea Redden, Josh Horsman, Ari Johnson, Veronica Hayes, Stephanie Covington and Erica Hensley.

Not pictured: Cherie Townsend, Mary Shockley, Charlene Creese and Carlton Cartwright.

class at Ocean

Elementary

Artist Jacki Yamin taught a "Pet Portraits in Pop Art" class in December at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, and students from Ocean City to New York painted their favorite pets. Pictured is Donna Spicer of Ocean City with her portrait.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SWORN IN

HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Ocean City Elementary School students, faculty and staff celebrated Holiday Spirit Day on Dec. 20. The day ended with the annual school-wide holiday sing-a-long, complete with a performance by the OC Stars.

RECOGNITION

GIFT COLLECTION

CREATIVITY

Students

FEATURED ARTIST

Sarah Hancock is the artist in residence in Studio E for January at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street. Hancock is a multi-year Art League of Ocean City college scholarship winner.

During a ceremony at Ocean City American Legion Post 166, Tom Redding, center, was sworn in as senior vice commandant, and Al Soto, left, took the oath as junior vice commandant for the First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League. They are joined by former Commandant Frank Del Piano.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

Norbert Violante, left, is presented an Appreciation

Award from Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City President Bob Wolfing. He helps transport the tables and chairs needed for the club’s weekly 8 a.m. Wednesday meetings in the Assateague Room of the Ocean Pines Community Center.

Worcester Preparatory School students gathered on Dec. 14 to load a truck with gifts to be donated to Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity). Worcester County GOLD Inc., improves the quality of life of local citizens for whom traditional means of well-being support is not fully available. A non-profit organization, Worcester County GOLD promotes dignity by providing financial aid to families in crisis, vulnerable adults and children in foster care. Pictured, in front, from left, are Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School Mike Grosso, Claire Windrow, Elaina Elrick, Caitlin Williams, Vanesska Hall, Laney Hoch, Ronen Poddar, Bella Fernley and Upper School teacher Linda Bragg.

in Julie Vorsteg's second grade class at Ocean City Elementary showed off their creativity after developing a strategy to solve a two-digit word problem and prove the answer is correct. Pictured, from left, are Bryce Kerchner, Wyatt Brown and Angie Raffo.

Tacos, Tiaras and Sombreros FUNdraiser brings in $5,000

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Atlantic General Hospital Junior Auxiliary Group (JAG) recently hosted its annual Tacos, Tiaras and Sombreros FUNdraiser event.

The $5,000 raised from the event was donated to AGH’s upcoming Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program.

The Certified Nursing Assistant Program, which is currently awaiting approval from the Maryland Board of Nursing, was initiated in response to the need for certified nursing assistants in the healthcare workforce at Atlantic General Hospital.

The program will consist of six students who will apply from the general public.

The program is a seven-week training, comprised of classroom, clinical skills lab and hands-on patient care on the Med/Surg inpatient units. The first session is projected to start in April or May of 2023.

This program will be offered costfree to the student, with an agreement that the student will commit to one year of service as a CNA with Atlantic General Hospital once the program is completed.

Scholarship to assist local students at area colleges

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore recently established the Lower Shore Scholarship Fund to assist local students attending area colleges.

The new scholarship fund is unique in that gifts made by donors to the fund may qualify for the Endow Maryland Tax Credit.

The Lower Shore Scholarship Fund provides a new opportunity for donors to support scholarships locally.

Each year, Wor-Wic Community College, Salisbury University, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore will receive equal grants from the Community Foundation to support students who are residents of the tri-county region.

Each school will be empowered to prioritize recipient selection to meet emerging student and workforce needs.

The Endow Maryland Tax Credit Program rewards donors who make charitable gifts to qualifying funds at their local community foundation, including gifts to the Lower Shore Scholarship Fund.

Contributions of $500 or more to the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore under the Endow Maryland program qualify for a 25 percent tax credit on their state taxes.

“Education is the key to growing a stronger community,” said Erica Joseph, Community Foundation president. “We hope these tax credits will help donors maximize their gifts while empowering our next generation of leaders.”

To learn more about the Endow Maryland Tax Credit program and the qualifying funds visit CFES.org/endowmd.

The Atlantic General Hospital Junior Auxiliary Group (JAG) recently donated $5,000 to AGH’s upcoming Certified Nursing Assistant Program.

Students at WCPS begin annual Kids Heart Challenge

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) Elementary and middle school students in Worcester County are participating in the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Kids Heart Challenge.

Each year, the program teaches students stress-reduction techniques and other ways to take care of their hearts.

Many will take the Finn’s Heart Challenge by signing up for two online lessons: one teaches them how to do hands-only CPR and another teaches them the symptoms of a stroke.

Schools also raise money for AHA to support doctors, researchers, hospitals and families affected by heart diseases. Last year, Showell Elementary raised $18,000. Principal Ryan Cowder said they plan to raise $20,000 this year.

“Showell is always looking for ways to give back,” he said.

Ocean City Elementary is also stepping up their fundraising goal.

“Over the past 33 years, the students have raised more than $477,000,” said PE Teacher Tracey Drocella. “Our goal is to raise $25,000 this year so we can break $500,000 in donations.”

Showell Elementary set a goal for 100 percent of students signing up for the challenge to be more active or kind. To get them excited, Crowder hosted an assembly on Jan. 12, where they told about ways to keep their hearts healthy. As a special incentive, he promised that if at least 50 percent of them signed up, he would pick representatives from each grade to silly string him in the hallway.

At Ocean City Elementary School, Principal Julie Smith has also chal-

lenged students to take the heart health challenge.

This year, Drocella and PE teacher Mark Engle are sweetening the pot at OCES by offering a double challenge. If 50 percent of the students take the Finn’s Heart Challenge, participants will get to slime the two PE teachers. And if OCES reaches its fundraising goal, the top fundraisers from each grade will get to dump ice water on the teachers this spring.

“The kids love it!” Drocella said. “It’s all about getting them to understand the importance of helping others. Our students are always trying to find different ways to help people.”

She said AHA has made it easy for the students and families to raise funds, anything from door to door fundraising to asking for donations on social media.

Lower Shore Land Trust will renew national accreditation

(Jan. 20 2023) Lower Shore Land Trust received national accreditation in 2017 from the Land Trust Commission and is now applying for accreditation renewal.

The land trust accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Lower Shore Land Trust is applying for renewal of accreditation and a public comment period is now open.

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each

applicant’s policies and programs.

“Although the board of directors was initially skeptical about the need for accreditation, the process to become accredited made the organization stronger as a governing body,” said Kate Patton, Lower Shore Land Trust executive director.

Land trusts are required to renew their accreditation every five years.

Patton recognized that the process ensures that the policies and procedures are keeping up with the growing organization.

The Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Students at Showell Elementary listen to a presentation on Jan. 12 about heart health from Kim Moore, Maryland-based youth market director for the American Heart Association.

Hogan’s popularity intact as he exits

Now that Gov. Larry Hogan is former Gov. Larry Hogan, the political analysts will swoop in and start dissecting his eight years at the helm of state government.

They will be looking for and expounding on what they perceive to be his successes and failures and whether his performance in office is in sync with his overwhelming popularity among citizens of Maryland.

His critics — on both sides of the aisle — are already saying he could have done more, although what that might have been would depend on whose agenda is being used as a measuring stick. But sure, he could have been more progressive or more conservative, depending on one’s point of view.

But had he been, he would not be leaving office as one of the most popular governors in the country with a 77 percent approval rating, according to the most recent polls. And that’s in a state dominated by the opposition party. Even more interesting is that his approval rating is higher with Democrats than it is with his own party, the Republicans.

The secret to Hogan’s success is not what he did — and his take-charge handling of the covid-19 pandemic consistently ranked among the best — but is what he said and how he said it.

His everyman persona, a public bearing that suggested he honestly enjoyed the job and his avoidance of the pugnacious railing so common among highly partisan politicians allowed him to come across as a non-threatening, thoughtful guy.

In other words, he did take positions that aggravated one side of the aisle or the other, but he didn’t do it with his chin stuck out and trying to yell opponents into submission.

Hogan was smart enough to know what he could and couldn’t do without splintering this state into belligerent political camps fixated on getting one over on the competition.

That’s an attribute this country could use a great deal more of, and it’s why Hogan exits the governor’s office as one of the most popular in the history of the state. That in itself is a huge accomplishment ... no matter what the analysts say.

Ocean City Today

PUBLIC EYE

Egg prices explained

The expression, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” has been revised this year to reflect the growing concern about exorbitant prices. On the advice of consumer watchdogs, this saying has been changed to, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket because you can’t afford it.

What’s that got to do with the price of eggs? Everything.

well-being and start making demands.

My theory is this: hundreds of thousands of post-pandemic chickens — no doubt influenced by socialist Rhode Island Reds — are cutting down on production to bring attention to their calls for a better work-life balance.

By Stewart Dobson

As your grocery store dairy case manager will tell you, the cost of eggs has reached a point where the ingredients of an omelet have become eggs, cheese, chopped onion and a home equity loan.

It’s true, we’re all suffering from shell shock not of our own making.

Worse, I don’t think suppliers are giving us the real skinny on why prices are surging. They say the egg shortage is the result of an avian flu epidemic that has been knocking the flock out of hen houses everywhere.

It’s also true that the CDC reported that 2022 was one of the worst years ever for the bird influenza. The CDC might even be accurate when it says the flu left surviving chickens so fatigued, forlorn and feckless that they don’t feel like working.

I’ll buy that, but I don’t think that’s the whole story. I find it highly suspicious, for instance, that the CDC did not call for chicken masks indoors. After all, that might have solved the problem, since everyone knows if you get one chicken with the sniffles, the rest of them will start worrying about their own

Also on the activist chicken agenda has been the demand that poultry operators adopt the term “top producers” instead of “good layers,” as the latter has been determined to be inappropriate and demeaning.

But perhaps the most significant of the flu’s impacts has been the increasing number of fowl that have complained about being cooped up and are now saying “they would get more done” if they could work at home.

Farmers have countered that this is a big part of the rising prices problem — transportation costs have gone up because they now have to drive around collecting the day’s work from chickens who are working remotely.

As one farmer put it, “We’re all paying for it now. You try to be nice, and the next thing you know you’ve dropped to the bottom of the pecking order.”

Okay, maybe that’s not exactly what happened with the egg supply, but it makes as much sense as some of the other stories I’ve been hearing over the last couple years.

Other theories on the cause of the egg price problem do exist, of course, but I have to say that the one about chickens now spending half their time working and the other half staring into their cell phones is just too farfetched for me.

P.S. What do you call black market eggs?

The Dirty Dozen.

MCBP accepting mini-grant project, research proposals

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) is now accepting community stewardship mini-grant proposals for environmental projects and scientific research needs proposals benefitting the Coastal Bays watershed.

The community stewardship minigrants are available to any individual, group, school, organization, service youth and civic groups for projects that will raise awareness about the challenges and solutions to restore the coastal bays, engage citizens in community-based restoration and protection projects or educate students about the coastal bays.

The MCBP Mini Grant Program seeks to support watershed-based community, science, and educational initiatives that align with CCMP action items.

Through this funding opportunity, MCBP is seeking to engage new applicants and organizations from diverse communities in small-scale projects that enhance communities, engage residents, and, ultimately, improve natural resources.

The scientific research funding is available to MCBP’s partners to assist in responding to research needs identified in the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

Opportunities include reachable scientific goals and the most effective means for implementing them. Existing and on-going projects that seek to augment or add an additional element to an existing scope of work may also be considered for funding.

Both funding opportunities must align with the Maryland Coastal Bays Management Plan, the CCMP. This plan can be found on the MCBP website at www.mdcoastalbays.org.

These funding opportunities are provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding. With BIL funding, the EPA will be making significant investments in the health, equity, and resilience of American communities and taking significant strides to tackle the climate crisis.

Applicants for the community stewardship mini-grants may request up to $5,000 for their project. Applicants for the scientific research grants may request up to $25,000.

Funding details and contact information can be found on the Maryland Coastal Bays website at https://mdcoastalbays.org/funding-opportunities/ . The proposal submission deadline for both funding opportunities is March 1.

Comments from public welcome

Continued from Page 41

Comments must relate to how Lower Shore Land Trust complies with national quality standards. These standards address the ethical and technical operation of a land trust.

For the full list of standards, visit http://www.landtrustaccreditation.o rg/help-and-resources/indicatorpractices.

To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org, or

email comment to info@landtrustaccreditation.org. Comments may also be mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn: Public Comments, 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866.

Comments on Lower Shore Land Trust’s application will be most useful by March 31.

For more information about Lower Shore Land Trust or how to become involved, visit www.lowershorelandtrust.org or call 443-2345587.

Concerns over pending legislation

Editor,

I am writing to inform your readers of some pending legislation in Maryland which may be of concern.

The first bill is HB119 Primary and Secondary Education - Health Education Framework - Established.

This bill would require all counties in Maryland to create an “ageappropriate” curriculum that is consistent with the Comprehensive Health Education Framework.

The Framework requires that seventh grade students be able to “identify solo, vaginal, anal, and oral sex along with possible outcomes of each.”

In addition, the framework requires that students in kindergarten through second grade “recognize” and “identify a range of ways people identify and express their gender.”

Frankly, the thought that my 11or 12-year-old would be required to describe these sex acts is abhorrent.

The bill sponsor is Vanessa.Atterbeary@house.state.md.us.

The other bill of concern is SB1 - Criminal Law - Wearing, Carrying, or Transporting FirearmsRestrictions (Gun Safety Act of 2023).

This bill, if passed, would prohibit a concealed carry license holder from carrying a firearm on or near any public accommodation.

This would pretty much negate the carrying of firearms anywhere except on the owner’s own property.

The bill sponsors are jeff.waldstreicher@senate.state.md.us and susan.lee@senate.state.md.us.

If you disagree with these proposed bills, please contact the sponsors as soon as possible and be sure to copy our Senator, Marybeth.Carozza@senate.state.md.us and our delegates, Wayne.Hartman@house.state.md.us and Charles.Otto@house.state.md.us.

The full text and status of these bills can be read at mgaleg.maryland.gov.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

‘Casablanca’ film debut in U.S. 80 years ago this week

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Jan. 20, 2023) This week, 80 years ago, the movie “Casablanca” began appearing in cinemas across the country. It was released at that time to take advantage of the publicity generated by the meeting of the American president and the British Prime Minister, and their military staffs, in Casablanca, from Jan. 1424.

Its premiere was held at the Hollywood Theater in New York City on Nov. 26, 1942, in order to capitalize on the American landings at Casablanca earlier that month.

Staring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains, Sydney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre and Dooley Wilson, “Casablanca” has become a classic and is universally acclaimed as one of the best movies of all time. It was nominated for eight Academy Awards and won three: Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.

Production of the movie began on May 25, 1942. At that time, the outcome of WWII was very uncertain. Axis forces were on the offensive in North Africa, in the Soviet Union and

in the Pacific. The film was only one of 50 produced by Warner Brothers that year.

In 1941, Irene Diamond, then an assistant story editor for Warner Brothers, came across a play on a trip to New York City. It was written in 1940 by Murray Burnett and Joan Alison and titled: Everybody Comes To Rick’s.

Diamond convinced Hal Wallis, head of production for Warner Brothers, to buy the rights in January 1942, for $20,000 ($280,000 today), which was an unprecedented sum for a script. Twin brothers Julius J. and Philip G. Epstein were given the task of converting the stage play, Everybody Comes To Rick’s, to the screenplay Casablanca. Howard Koch was also involved in the script rewrite.

The song “As Time Goes By,” written by Herman Hupfeld in 1931, was in the original Burnett/ Alison play. It had been Burnett’s favorite when he was a college student. Filming was completed on Aug. 3, 1942 and was $75,000 over budget. Total cost of the production was $1,039,000 — equal to $13,253,000 today.

In the movie, Richard Blaine, the Continued on Page 45

Former anti-opiate ‘Warrior’ still fights substance abuse

(Jan. 20, 2023) Six years ago, Heidi McNeeley and Jackie Ball turned their experience of having a family member who struggles with addiction into a movement that’s helped hundreds of local people find treatment.

The pair formed the Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction and held their first meeting at the Ocean Pines Library in 2016 to talk about the problem and its potential solutions.

About 50 people came to that first meeting. A month later, their numbers swelled to the hundreds and included local politicians and law enforcement, educators, and addiction specialists.

More recently, the Worcester County Warriors merged with Worcester Goes Purple, a nonprofit addictions resource center backed by Worcester County government.

McNeeley, now an Ocean Pines resident, is finding new ways to help the cause.

Jackie’s son had babies. Our sons’ worlds changed and so did ours,” she continued. “Our passion to help those that were addicted, and their families, now embraced our beautiful grandchildren, and we both realized that it was time for things to change.”

At that point, the Warriors approached Worcester Goes Purple founder Debbie Smullen.

“Debbie agreed to take up our reigns, and the group continues to do wonderful work for recovery in our community,” McNeeley said.

McNeeley said many prior Worcester County Warriors board members continue to contribute. Ottey, a former Ocean Pines Police Officer, has opened five recovery homes in the area, including the first ever recovery center in Worcester County.

‘Next summer I will become licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I will be able to medically treat our community members who are addicted.’

Heidi McNeeley, Wor. Co. Warriors Against Opiate Addiction

“It has been amazing to watch her Homes4Hope grow to be a lifesaving force in both Worcester and Wicomico counties,” McNeeley said.

“We had so much incredible community support when Jackie and I founded the Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction in 2016,” McNeeley said. “Jackie and I did not really have a plan for the Warriors. We just knew that we had to reach out to find people that were suffering as a result of their own addiction, or the addiction of their loved ones.”

McNeeley said she was amazed when more than 200 people joined the group within their first month.

“We quickly grew to become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a board of directors consisting of some incredible people, including Jamie McNeely, Kelley Green, Tish Ottey, Tina Kolarik, Tracy Simpson, Colleen Wareing, Nate Passwaters, Laura Bren, Sean Kelley and Beau Oglesby,” McNeeley said.

“We had political support from Jim Mathias and Mary Beth Carozza, and so many other community members opened their hearts and businesses to us.”

All of that translated into a substantial fundraising ability that helped local people get into addictions recovery.

“The Warriors were strong for five years, and for those five years it became clear that our community was hurting and in desperate need of help,” McNeeley said. “We were proud to offer that help whenever we could.

“In 2018 and 2019, my son and

McNeeley now works as a psychiatric nurse at Tidal Health in Salisbury.

“About 90 percent of my patients are dealing with an addiction, and I hope that I have been able to help them and their loved ones as well,” she said. “Next summer I will become licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I will be able to medically treat our community members who are addicted.”

McNeeley is a certified Holy Yoga instructor and teaches morning classes at the River Run Community Center. Donations from the classes are used to help people in recovery. This help includes tickets to recovery centers and the purchase of clothes and other essentials.

She also continues to help direct local people in need of treatment.

“I hope that I can still be a strong resource for their families as well, and I would like to still operate as a sort of clearing house for addictions and mental health,” McNeeley said. “There are so many needs in Ocean Pines alone. I offer my email heidimcneeley@gmail.com and my cell 443513-8370 to anyone who needs resources.”

For help and more information on mental health and substance abuse disorders, visit www.samhsa.gov.

For more information, contact Ocean Pines Association Director of Public Relations and Marketing Josh Davis at 443-366-1844 or jdavis@oceanpines.org.

proprietor of Rick’s Cafe Americain in Casablanca, is portrayed by Bogart. The proprietor of a competing saloon, The Blue Parrot, Sefior Ferrari, played by Englishman Sydney Greenstreet, bragged that, “As the leader of all illegal activities in Casablanca, I am an influential and respected man.” This was his third movie with Bogart and his second with Peter Lorre.

Lorre was a Hungarian Jew, who, as Senor Ugate, stole two Letters of Transit from two German couriers, during the theft of which, they were killed. This brought him to the attention of the local constabulary. The Letters of Transit were very valuable, because they were required to leave Morocco. Just before he was apprehended, and killed, he sureptisously slipped them to Rick.

Meanwhile, Ilse Lund, played by Swedish beauty Ingrid Bergman, with whom Rick had a torrid love affair in Paris just before the Germans occupied it in June 1940, arrives at his establishment.

He had thought they were going to leave Paris together and were to meet at the train station. When she didn’t show, he was heartbroken. It turns out that she was married to noted Resistance Leader Victor Laszlo, played by Austrian Paul Henreid, but had thought him dead. She learned that he was alive, and therefore didn’t meet Rick.

When Ilse arrived at Rick’s Cafe and sees Sam, the piano player, she asks him to, “Play it once, Sam, for old times’ sake.” When he declines, she requests it again, “Play it, Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By’.”

When Rick hears the song, which he has forbidden Sam, played by Dooley Wilson, to ever play in his presence, he comes to the floor and sees her, and all of those fond memories begin flooding back. He then utters the immortal line, “Of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world, she walks into mine!”

Gestapo Major Heinrich Strasser, played by German actor Conrad Veidt, appeared and is concerned that the noted Resistance leader Victor Laszlo is at large in Casablanca, and that there are two unaccounted for Letters of Transit. He is sure that the two exit visas and the Laszlos will be united and that they will escape his clutches.

Rick, who wants everyone to think he cares about nothing, or anyone but himself, at great risk to himself foils the major’s attempt to apprehend Laszlo. Veidt, who had fled Nazi Germany because his wife was Jewish, thought it ironic that he was playing the type of man that caused him to flee Germany!

Rick’s Cafe is populated by all sorts of international characters, contributing to the film’s international intrigue — most of them seeking the precious exit visas. There was Leonid

Kinskey from Russia, who played the Russian bartender, Sascha. Yvonne, one of Rick’s ex-girlfriends, was played by Madeleine Lebeau, of France.

Her story was much like that of the movie. She was married to Marcel Dalio, the son of Romanian Jews. They left Paris just ahead of the Germans, making their way to Lisbon, Portugal, where they obtained visas to enter Chile. When their ship docked in Mexico, they learned their visas were forgeries. Eventually they were able to enter the U.S.

In “Casablanca,” Dalio played Emil the croupier. In the scene where the cafe patrons sing the inspirational French national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” those are real tears coming from Yvonne.

John Qualen, born in Canada to

Norwegian parents, is Laszlo’s Resistance contact. The head waiter at the cafe, Carl, was played by S. Z. Sakall, a Hungarian Jew. Richard Ryen was also from Hungary, and played Col. Heinze, Major Strasser’s aide.

With two weeks left in production, the writers still had not decided upon an ending. One day, as the Epstein twins were driving down the highway, they began ruminating as to how the audience would want to see the story end. They decided that the audience would want to see Rick kill Major Strasser. So, as the Laszlos are about to board a plane for Lisbon and freedom, the major arrives and orders that the plane be stopped.

After Rick kills him, French police appear and the head of the French

Continued on Page 46

OBITUARIES

LAKELYN ASHLEY DRAHEIM

Bishopville

Lakelyn Ashley Draheim passed away peacefully at her home in Bishopville, Maryland, on Jan. 13, 2023, after a yearlong battle with DIPG, an aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer.

Lakelyn was born in Salisbury, Maryland, on June 28, 2017, to her parents, Lauren and Lance Draheim.

To her family, friends and teachers, Lakelyn was known as a passionate, creative and loving little girl who loved to dance, paint, camp, ride fourwheelers, go to school, cook with her Daddy, bake with her Mommy, and play with her brothers, Lawson “Bubba” and Levyn Beau “L.B.”

She often said that when she grew up, she wanted to be a dancer/ballerina/4-wheeler rider/deer hunter/hair dresser, a list which was constantly growing.

When Lakelyn wasn’t cheering on Lawson in sports, she enjoyed going camping in Williamsburg, Virginia, Disney World and at Jellystone Campground in Lincoln, Delaware.

Some of her family’s favorite memories are of making S’mores and playing Charades around a campfire. Continued on Page 46

Pictured from left, Paul Henreid, Candice Bergman, Claude Rains and Humphrey Bogart

Lakelyn Draheim

OBITUARIES

At home, she loved to work on puzzles, read, play school and watch her favorite shows, including “Sleeping Beauty” and “Bluey.”

Lakelyn was kind, intelligent and a beacon of light to everyone she encountered.

She would often style her friends’ hair, do their makeup, paint their nails and always wanted people to feel better when they left her.

Her infectious smile drew people in, her giggle would bring instant joy to everyone she met and her touch would soothe any broken heart.

She is survived by her parents, Lance and Lauren; her brothers, Lawson and Levyn Beau; her grandparents, Eugene MaGee, Eddie and Sally Draheim; her aunts and uncles, Robbie “Bobo” Draheim, Brian and Rebecca “Boppy” Benson, Lenny and Kelsy Draheim, and Hunter and Shannon Draheim; and her cousins, Tripp Benson, Sterling, Amelia, Paxleigh and Brook Draheim.

Lakelyn was preceded in death by her Momom Dolly MaGee; and her great-grandparents, Carlton and Dollie MaGee.

In lieu of flowers, the Draheims are asking that you consider donating to The Cure Starts Now, an organization dedicated to putting an end to Childhood Brain Cancer, in Lakelyn’s Honor using the link, https://p2p.thecurestartsnow.org/18

46. Viewing and visitation: Friday, Jan. 20, 2023 from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

at Showell Elementary School, 11318 Showell School Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

Funeral Services will begin at Showell Elementary School on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023 at 1 p.m.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

GERDA MARLENE STOVER

Berlin

Gerda Marlene Stover passed away peacefully after a short illness on Jan. 2, 2023, at her residence at Gull Creek Senior Living in Berlin, Maryland.

Gerda was born on May 9, 1930, and was the daughter of the late George and Edith Oman.

Toward the end of World War II, she, her mother, sister and two brothers escaped from Berlin during the Russian invasion of the city.

They eventually found themselves safely in territory occupied by the American army.

She had written a very poignant story of what she, as a 15-year-old, had experienced during that time and

gave a presentation of it at her residence and at her son’s neighborhood.

The family was eventually reunited with her father, who had previously been forced to join the German Army. The family re-settled in what was East Berlin at the time.

They subsequently relocated to Frankfurt, Germany.

Gerda resumed her education and, following graduation from school, she was employed by Reuters News Agency for several years before meeting her future husband, Charles Ackerson, an American soldier.

Her son, Robert, was born in Germany in 1950 and the family came to the United States in 1955, settling briefly in Ohio before moving to southern California.

Gerda and her husband had two more children, a son, David (who had tragically passed away in a drowning accident at 12 years old) and another son, Stephen.

Gerda and Charles had eventually divorced and she later married Dennis Stover and they lived happily in Highland, California, for many years.

Gerda then began a second career as an accountant and was employed in this capacity for several years.

She and Dennis traveled extensively, preferring luxury travel on cruise lines and visiting many exotic ports of call. They were married over 30 years when Dennis passed away in 2012.

Shortly thereafter, Gerda moved to Berlin, Maryland, to be closer to family.

Her hobbies were singing, knitting and creating beautiful creations in counted cross stitch.

She was very active during her nine years at Gull Creek Senior Living with participating in their choir and helping the staff with many of their social activities.

She appeared in a few of her residence’s TV commercials and ended them by saying, “I live at Gull Creek!”

She had also volunteered for the town of Berlin’s visitor center, marched in the annual Berlin Christmas parade, as well as the Ocean City Saint Patrick’s Day parade (dressed as a leprechaun!).

She was an avid walker and took great pride in that she could walk the parades the whole way without assistance.

She will be remembered for being a fashion plate and prided herself in always looking her best.

Gerda is survived by her son, Robert Ackerson and his wife, Janet, of Frankford, Delaware; and her son, Stephen Ackerson and his companion, Hong Liu, of Suquamish, Washington; as well as many other family members and friends.

We wish to thank the employees of her residence as well as Coastal Hospice for the care they provided.

She will be missed by all who knew her. As Gerda had requested, a service will not be held.

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page

police, Capt. Louis Renault, played by Englishman Claude Rains, orders his men to “round up the usual suspects.” There, the film ends.

But not everyone was satisfied. About a month after production ended, Bogart was brought back to record the line, “Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship,” which was dubbed in.

Louis had one of film’s great lines earlier in the story, when looking for an excuse to comply with Major Strasser’s edict to put the squeeze on Rick, he ordered the Café closed, saying that, “I’m shocked, shocked, to find that gambling is going on in here,” shortly before he is handed his winnings from the previous evening.

Next week: Natal Conference

Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be con-

Gerda Stover

Sports & Recreation

Decatur wrestlers perform well at War on the Shore

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Stephen Decatur wrestling team battled stiff competition during its annual War on the Shore tournament, held last Friday and Saturday at the Berlin school, finishing in fourth place overall.

“We wrestled really good. Everyone won at least one match, nine won at least two … and we had three guys in the finals and two won it,” said Decatur Coach Josh August. “Our goal was to get top five. There were some really tough weight classes where guys didn’t place.”

Twenty-four varsity teams participated in this year’s WOTS from five states – Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Connecticut – and the District of Columbia.

Mt. Saint Joes, a private school in Maryland, won the tournament with 243.5 points. Sussex Central of Delaware came in second place, scoring 218 points.

Xavier of Connecticut, took third with 175 points. Decatur tallied 158.5 points.

Seven Decatur wrestlers placed eighth or better in their respective weight classes.

Senior captain Logan Intrieri earned first place in the 132-pound weight class. Junior captain Gavin Solito won the 152-pound division.

Freshman Elijah Collick took second in the 106-pound weight class and junior Reid Caimi placed third at 126 pounds.

Junior Parker Intrieri came in fifth place at 170 pounds.

Sophomores Juan Hinojosa and Nate McDaniel placed eighth in the 113- and 182-pound divisions, respectively.

“It puts us in a good place. We’ve got some tough duals coming up,” August said. “We’ve got to keep the momentum going. We’re wrestling well and we’ve got to keep getting better. There’s always ways to improve.”

Five wrestlers representing Decatur competed in the girls’ division.

Sophomores Azariyah Johnson (171-185 pounds) and Chaniah Bernier (204-215), and senior Madeline Reed (105-109) earned first place in their weight classes.

Senior Jenna Danner (110-117) and sophomore Rachel Plata (124-125) came in second place in their divisions.

PHOTO COURTESY SD WRESTLING FACEBOOK

Stephen Decatur senior captain Logan Intrieri earned first place in the 132-pound weight class of the annual War on the Shore tournament held at the Berlin school last weekend.

PHOTO COURTESY SD WRESTLING FACEBOOK

Decatur junior captain Gavin Solito won the 152-pound division of the annual War on the Shore tournament held at the Berlin school last weekend.

Lady Seahawks

wrestle well, SD JV team takes 1st

In addition, Decatur’s JV team won its WOTS tournament.

This week, Decatur hit the mats with the Queen Anne’s Lions on Wednesday in Centreville and won, 55-12.

Logan Intrieri (138), Caimi (126), junior Kole Kohut (195) and seniors ZJ Lyons (145) and Eden McMullen (285) pinned their opponents.

Sophomore Amarian Manuel earned an 11-2 major decision at 152 pounds.

Solito topped his 160-pound opponent, 5-4, and Parker Intrieri outscored his 170-pound competition, 12-6.

McDaniel edged out his 182-pound opponent, 7-5, and Collick won his 106-pound match, 6-1.

Sophomore Aaron August topped his 132-pound opponent, 7-6.

Queen Anne’s forfeited the 113 pound match to Decatur. The Lions scored pins at 220 and 120 pounds.

“Queen Anne’s is really tough. We had some close matches,” Coach August said. “Our guys wrestled hard.”

Decatur’s seniors will be recognized during Wednesday’s competition against the Kent Island Buccaneers at 5 p.m in Berlin.

PHOTO COURTESY SD WRESTLING FACEBOOK

Five wrestlers representing Decatur competed in the girls’ War on the Shore division. Sophomores Azariyah Johnson (171-185 pounds) and Chaniah Bernier (204-215), and senior Madeline Reed (105-109) earned first place in their weight classes. Senior Jenna Danner (110-117) and sophomore Rachel Plata (124-125) came in second place in their divisions. In addition, Decatur’s JV team won its WOTS tournament.

Decatur swim teams score wins over KC, Sussex Central SD Lady Seahawks focus on getting ‘offense clicking’

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Stephen Decatur swim teams picked up two more wins, topping the Kent County Trojans last Thursday and the Sussex Central Golden Knights on Tuesday, both in their home pool at the Pocomoke YMCA.

The Lady Seahawks earned a 12825 victory over the Trojans.

boys’ team to try to fill the events as much as we can to score more points since we are a smaller team. Our boys who are newer to swimming are trying new events and had a great performance in them,” Watts said. “Our veteran boys have been willing to do a variety of events to better support the team. Overall, our team is looking strong going into the later half of the season.”

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 20, 2023) The Stephen Decatur girls’ basketball team continues to take down its Bayside Conference opponents. On Wednesday, the Lady Seahawks earned win number 11, topping the James M. Bennett Clippers, 46-18, in Berlin.

fense clicking,” Kurtz said. “Everyone has good games, but at different times. We can’t quite get everyone playing their best at the same time. It’s all hit or miss.”

Senior captain Mayah Garner led Decatur with 15 points. She also had three steals and two rebounds.

Sophomore Allison Swift chipped in with 10 points, six rebounds, two assists and three steals.

Kristina Watts

Winning their individual races were: senior captains Natalie Canham (200-yard freestyle, 2:13.29; 100-yard backstroke, 1:07.90) and Kaden Hamby (50-yard freestyle, 27.78 seconds; 100-yard butterfly, 1:10.31), and junior Trista Harner (100-yard freestyle, 1:01.34; 100-yard breaststroke, 1:24.15).

Canham, Hamby, Harner and sophomore Kaolin Riser came in first place in the 200-yard medley relay race (2:09.29).

Harner, Hamby, Canham and senior captain Kaelyn Pizlo won the 400yard freestyle relay race (4:11.56).

Riser, freshman Emma Walsh, junior Hannah Allam and senior Katie Mitchell out-swam their competition in the 200-yard freestyle relay event (2:02.09).

“The girls’ team had a dominating meet, winning by over 100 points. The size of our girls’ team is a huge strength for us since we are able to score more points by having more girls in each event,” said Decatur Coach Kristina Watts. “Kent County girls did give us some good competition to challenge us. With only two more meets left we are trying girls in new events to see who will best represent us at Baysides and regionals.”

The Decatur boys’ team won their meet, 89-56.

Seahawks who placed first in their individual races were: senior captain Gavin Stearn (100-yard freestyle, 50.34 seconds; 200-yard individual medley, 2:11.18), junior captain Daniel Karcheuski (100-yard butterfly, 59.80 seconds), junior Mason Castanares (200-yard freestyle, 2:13.41) and freshman Jake Harner (100-yard breaststroke, 1:14.56).

Karcheuski, Castanares, Stearn and sophomore Gavin Conway were victorious in the 200-yard freestyle relay race (1:38.39).

The group also took first in the 200-yard medley relay race (1:48.87).

Harner, sophomores Chance Ponton and Bryce Gill and freshman Jamison Strawley won the 400-yard freestyle relay event (4:38.21).

“We have been working with the

The Decatur girls’ team also won by a large margin over Sussex Central. The Seahawks outscored their opponent, 129-33.

Decatur swimmers who touched the wall first in their individual races were: Canham (200 IM, 2:32.81; 100yard butterfly, 1:07.63), Hamby (100yard freestyle, 1:00.47), Harner (100-yard breaststroke, 1:18.28; 50yard freestyle, 27.22 seconds) and freshman Emily Henley (200-yard freestyle, 2:20.69; 100-yard backstroke, 1:09.34).

Canham, Riser, Hamby and Harner took first in the 200-yard medley relay race (2:06.51).

Williams, Harner, Hamby and Canham were victorious in the 200yard freestyle relay race (1:52.22).

Pizlo, Williams, Henley and sophomore Molly Hoffman out-swam their competition in the 400-yard freestyle relay event (4:31.44).

The Decatur boys’ squad came out on top over Sussex Central, 97-47.

Seahawks who scored a victory in their events were: Castanares (200-yard freestyle, 2:18), Stearn (100-yard breaststroke, 1:05.85; 50-yard freestyle, 22.35 seconds), Conway (100-yard freestyle, 58.06 seconds) and Karcheuski (500yard freestyle, 5:30.40).

Conway, Stearn, Castanares and Karcheuski won the 200-yard medley relay race (1:49.32). The boys also took first in the 200-yard freestyle relay event (1:38.34).

Gill, Ponton, Harner and Strawley came in first in the 400-yard freestyle relay race (4:46.64).

“The team overall was feeling a little sluggish coming off the [threeday] weekend and the previous week of workouts, but that is how they should be feeling at this point in the season,” Watts said. “We have just a few more weeks of hard work before we start preparing for the championship meets. This meet was special for us too because a former club teammate swims for Sussex Central, so it was a little reunion for us.”

Decatur’s final meet of the regular season was yesterday, Thursday, against the Easton Warriors.

The Bayside Conference championship meet is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 4, beginning at 9 a.m. in Cambridge.

Decatur led 18-2 at the end of the first quarter. By halftime, the Berlin squad had increased its advantage to 34-4.

Scott Kurtz

Coach Scott Kurtz said he sat the starters in the second half and gave his reserve players time on the court.

“We used everybody in the first half,” Kurtz said. “[In the second half] we wanted to try to get different girls looks and work on different things.”

After three quarters, the Seahawks held a 46-9 advantage.

“Our focus was to try to get the of-

Senior captain Shelby Rosemond had seven points, five assists, five steals and a rebound.

Junior Sadie Kauffman pulled down 12 rebounds and also had two assists and four points.

Decatur will travel down the road to face the Snow Hill Eagles today, Friday, at 6 p.m.

“Snow Hill has a nice little team this year. It will be a tough battle on Friday,” Kurtz said. “We’re going to have to be on it and play our best.”

The Seahawks will then host the Washington Jaguars on Monday at 6 p.m. in Berlin.

Decatur boys’ basketball team gets big win over JMB

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 20, 2023) After trailing at the end of the first quarter and at halftime, the Stephen Decatur boys’ basketball squad battled back in the second half to win, 81-75, over the James M. Bennett Clippers on Tuesday in Salisbury.

giving them second and third shots,” Johnson said. “We can score, our problem is rebounding and defense. We need to do a better job with that. We discussed it at halftime and we came out with a better defensive mindset in the second half.”

Decatur came out strong in the third quarter, outscoring its opponent, 23-10. At the end of the quarter, the Seahawks led, 61-52.

BJ Johnson

When the two teams went head-tohead in the season opener on Dec. 6, Bennett came out in top in overtime, 81-73.

The difference between the two games, Decatur Coach BJ Johnson said, was that in the first matchup his team was missing three players who were sidelined with injuries, and junior captain, point guard Jayden Hudson fouled out.

“They capitalized on our younger kids’ inexperience,” Johnson said. “They all played in the second game.”

In the second competition, Bennett put 25 points on the board and held Decatur to 15 in the first quarter.

The visiting Seahawks chipped away at the Clipper’s advantage in the second quarter. At halftime, Bennett was on top, 42-38.

“Forty-two points they scored. That’s a lot of points. In the first half we had some defense issues. We were

“The more games you play the better you get. Bennett got better and we got better,” Johnson said. “These kids really wanted to win that game. They came out [in the second half] and were locked in.”

Junior captain Brycen Coleman led Decatur with 25 points. He also had 13 rebounds, four steals, two assists and two blocks.

Hudson chipped in with 17 points, five rebounds, four steals, two assists and a block.

Sophomore Trybe Wise scored 15 point and had nine rebounds, one steal and one assist.

Sophomore Davin Chandler contributed 10 points, seven assists, four rebounds, four steals and a block.

“Bennett is well coached and they’ve got some good kids,” Johnson said. “It was a big win for our program. I’m happy for the kids.”

Decatur will take a trip to Princess Anne to compete against the Washington Jaguars on Tuesday at 6 p.m.

SD indoor track athletes improve with each meet

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Jan. 20, 2023) Stephen Decatur indoor track athletes get better with each meet they compete in, and it was evident during last Wednesday’s competition at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill.

“Although our team did not score a lot we did have several athletes continue to show improvements,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel. “I will be readjusting some relay teams for the [Jan. 18] Bayside meet based on improved times by new runners in individual events. Hopefully, these adjustments will put us in a better position to score in the Bayside [Conference championship] meet.”

Twenty-four schools participated in last Wednesday’s meet.

The Decatur Lady Seahawks scored 12 points to finish in 13th place.

Junior Macy Woroniecki came in third place in the 3,200-meter race (12:46.06) and seventh in the 1,600meter event (5:57.06).

Junior Tiara McDonald took seventh in the 500-meter run (1:32.14).

Woroniecki, sophomores Clarice Piela and Alessandra Fernandez and freshman Ellie Cheynet finished in

seventh place in the 3,200-meter relay race (11:58.20).

The Decatur boys’ squad scored seven points to come in 19th place overall.

Sophomore Brandon Karvoski tied for sixth place in the high jump, with a height of 5 feet 4 inches. Junior Waylon Hobgood took seventh in the 55-meter dash (6.92 seconds).

Hobgood, sophomore Ethan Cowder, and seniors Riley Calloway and Jaden Holland crossed the finish line in sixth place in the 800-meter relay race (1:42.62).

The final meet of the regular season is Wednesday, beginning at 2 p.m. at the Worcester County Recreation Center.

LACROSSE COMMITTMENT

Worcester Prep School senior student-athletes, Caitlyn Hoen of Bishopville, right, and Isabella Borsoni of Ocean City, recently signed letters of commitment to play NCAA Division III lacrosse at Mary Washington University in Virginia, and St. Mary's College-Notre Dame in Indiana, respectively. Hoen is a member of the Charles R. Jenkins Chapter National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. In addition to being a two-time All-Conference player on the lacrosse team, she has also excelled as a two-time All-Conference runner in cross country, two-time honorable mention in cross country, 2020 ESIAC Female Runner of the Year and three-time team MVP. Caitlyn is also a long-time equestrian, as she rode, trained, and competed for 10 years in various local, state and regional Hunter/Jumper events.

Borsoni transferred to Worcester this year from Archbishop Spalding High School in Severn. At ASHS, she was heavily involved in athletics, various clubs and the theatre program. Also, a member of the National Honor Society, she chose to take the most rigorous curriculum available throughout high school, combining honors, IB, and AP coursework. Upon arriving at Worcester, she signed up to serve as the team manager for the varsity volleyball team and is gearing up to play on the lacrosse team this spring. She also serves as the captain of the East Coast Select 2023 woman’s lacrosse team.

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