2/17/2023 Ocean City Today

Ocean City Seaside Boat Show set for Feb. 17-19 at Roland E. Powell Convention Center – Page 51

FEBRUARY 17, 2023 SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY FREE

Baltimore Ave. project delayed again

Downtown utility line work assigned lower priority as expenses continue to rise

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Plans to upgrade Baltimore Avenue took another hit this week as Ocean City Council members opted not to include it in a bond issue for the next fiscal year.

During a discussion at a work session Tuesday about the city’s capital improvement plan — made up of 45 high-dollar projects now ranked from critical to future consideration — most council members agreed that this is not the year to send the estimated roughly $40 million project out to the market for funding.

“Baltimore Avenue is totally functional,” Councilman John Gehrig said while explaining why he ranked the

project a 5, the lowest possible classification, among the proposed projects.

“No one ever contacts us and says, ‘I can’t believe I came into town and this Baltimore Avenue has power lines all over it.’ No one ever says that.”

He and Council President Matt James argued that the project, which has been in the works for years and aims to bury utilities lines and up-

grade the sidewalks from North Division to 15th streets, moved down the chain after they learned the cost more than doubled in September. They both ranked the project a 5, while Councilwoman Carol Proctor ranked it a 4, Councilman Will Savage and Mayor Rick Meehan ranked it a 3, and Councilmen Peter Buas, Tony DeLuca and Frank Knight classified it a 2.

AGH systems back online after attack

Hospital reports function restored without sharing info on specific response

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Systems are back online at Atlantic General Hospital following a cybersecurity attack that completely shut down the network for just over two weeks.

PERCH WITH A VIEW

Bus, tram fares likely to go up for summer

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Ocean City’s transportation budget could see a more than $485,000 revenue boost this year with the City Council’s approval

of a proposed $1 increase in bus and tram fares.

Members of the resort’s Transportation Committee began toying with the idea of raising the rates last month, given that they have been

held at $3 all day for buses and $4 for Boardwalk trams since 2011. Now, with rising costs for fuel, driver and conductor salaries, and overall business operations, staff and committee

See BUS Page 3

According to a news release issued Monday from Toni Keiser, the hospital’s vice president of public relations, the facility’s outpatient walk-in lab and outpatient imaging department are now open and fully operational. The return to normalcy followed a hectic two weeks of hospital personnel taking care of business without use of the hospital’s central computer system.

Staff members discovered something was off within the system early on Jan. 29 after they began experiencing technical difficulties, which resulted in the disruption to some services.

While the lab and outpatient services came back online Monday, pa-

See AGH Page 6

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A blue heron stands on the rail of a walkway and looks around Northside Park on 125th Street in Ocean City. Visitors will typically see two herons roaming around the park.

Bus, tram fares could go up $1

Continued from Page 1

members agreed it is time to look at charging a little more for rides.

At a meeting Tuesday, committee members voted unanimously to recommend to the mayor and council an increase in bus rates to $4 and to $5 for trams. The rates, if approved by council members, are set to go into effect May 1, just in time for the first trams hit the boards for Springfest.

According to staff, now is the perfect time for a change, as both buses and trams are still recovering from low ridership because of the pandemic.

“Normally, in normal times precovid, if we raised bus fares then we would assume some decrease in ridership. Here, ridership is still rebounding,” City Manager Terry McGean explained during Tuesday’s meeting. “… If we raise the fare, bus ridership will probably be flat. Instead of cutting existing, we’re sort of cutting potential growth.”

He said the same situation exists in the tram division, which Mayor Rick Meehan, who chairs the Transportation Committee, hopes is about to rebound as well.

“If we’re fortunate enough to have

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more trams on the Boardwalk, more often, that should increase [revenue]. That’s the goal,” he said.

Meehan admitted that he has been leery about suggesting a rate change, as he pushed years ago for $1 all-day bus rates and has always leaned toward keeping rides cost effective. But he said Tuesday that it’s time to be “realistic” about costs.

“I proposed $1 ride years ago [and] intended to want to keep it … But that was 30 years ago. I think costs have gone up since then,” he said.

City Council members will vote on the requests separately, as more steps need to be taken to change the bus fares. Public Works Director Hal Adkins and Transit Manager Rob Shearman explained that because the state is involved in the bus division, any rate change needs advertised and members of the public must be given a chance to request a public hearing.

Shearman said the process will likely take 45 to 60 days, but he is confident everything can be squared away by May 1. For the trams, since they are a city-owned entity, the council just needs to approve the new rates.

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A tram filled with people rides along the Boardwalk downtown during last year’s Springfest. Ocean City Council members will vote soon on $1 fare increases for both trams and buses for the 2023 season.

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Baltimore Ave. project delayed

Continued from Page 1

The rankings put the project in the third category, where it is classified as “important,” but lags behind “critical” and “very important” projects.

The project has gone through several changes since its inception, which include pushing the start date back from last year to fall 2023 and increasing the completion timeline from two years to four to give staff time to seek funding sources to cover the higher cost.

Staff members continued to work on the design, and before Tuesday’s meeting, City Manager Terry McGean said they were planning to send rightof-way abandonment letters to nearby property owners this week. As part of the plans, the city is abandoning multiple rights-of-way along the corridor and offering to give the land away to adjacent owners, many of whom have been using and maintaining the property as their own for decades. The letters were set to inform the owners of their options.

After the majority of council members — Gehrig, James, Proctor and Savage — denied a motion Buas made to advance the project as planned and move it from “important” to “very important,” the entire council agreed not to send the letters out. The vote also came with a decision to give the State Highway Administration the greenlight to follow original plans to pave the road this fall.

McGean said the plans to bond the project in fiscal 2024 and start this fall were shaky anyway, as the rightof-way abandonment faced potential snags with threats of a petition for referendum for the future ordinance, among other potential setbacks.

“It’s going to be very difficult,” McGean said of meeting that timeline. “Everything pretty much has to go exactly right to make that happen.”

The action essentially puts the project on pause, with staff members continuing to solicit grants to help with funding as they monitor the market for price changes.

DeLuca argued that the project needs to be done now because costs are only expected to go up the longer they wait, but Gehrig disagreed.

“You don’t get scared and buy at the top,” he said. “That’s 100 percent, every time, how you lose.”

Buas also argued to advance the project now, contending that it’s important and overdue. He also said property values will go up along the strip once the utility lines are buried and sidewalks widened.

“This will make us money, just as sure as everything else,” he said.

Gehrig challenged the claim, asking for data to support it, and stated that historic trends show that when property values went up when a similar project was completed on the southern section of the road that it was during a time when assessments

were on the rise across the entire town.

Mayor Rick Meehan said he could relate to both sides of the argument. While he said burying the utilities is not completely necessary for the area to thrive, he said the change will protect utilities from storms and bring other benefits.

He also said that he has put a bug in the ears of the lieutenant governor and transportation secretary for funding for not only Baltimore Avenue, but also a county sports complex that is still floating around and ranked an “important” project as well.

Gehrig also addressed the sports complex, which the city may be on its own to bring to fruition as the county commissioners have killed the idea at their level. Gehrig said that he was more willing to support Baltimore Avenue when the sports complex looked more promising, as it would have created a revenue source. But now, as the complex sits on pause, he said it makes sense to put the Baltimore Avenue project there as well.

“I’m open to it. I did rank it a two last time,” Gehrig said of Baltimore Avenue. “I’m not … opposed. But the questions are real. I think we have common ground now. But let’s work on making the money so we can pay for it. … That alleviates a lot of questions, a lot of pain.”

OC street paving among highest ranked projects

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) The results are in, and Ocean City Council members have agreed that street paving, downtown bathroom renovations, golf course flood control and a host of convention center projects are most deserving of funding in Ocean City’s fiscal year 2024 capital improvement plan.

“It seems like we are like minded on critical and very important stuff,” Councilman John Gehrig said during a work session Tuesday of the council’s ranking of 45 high-dollar city projects listed for funding over the next five years.

The council rated the projects in order of importance on a 1-5 scale, with with 5 being the lowest. The ratings gave staff members direction to create a list for a bond issue and other allocations in the coming fiscal year.

And while there was disagreement over some of the mid- and lower-rankled projects, council members showed solidarity with the most important ones.

Broken down, the “critical” proj-

See CITY Page

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Utility lines and poles stand prominently on Baltimore Avenue near Fifth Street. City Council members opted this week to put the long-planned burying of the lines and upgrade to the roads on pause as funding sources are researched.

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O.A.R. frontman joining Jon

Lampley at March PAC show

(Feb. 17, 2023) Marc Roberge, lead singer of the popular Maryland band O.A.R., will be joined by Jon Lampley during a March 10 performance at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center.

Lampley is an established multiinstrumentalist, best known for his soulful playing on the trumpet and sousaphone.

Along with being a touring member of O.A.R., Lampley holds down the trumpet/tuba chair in Jon Batiste and Stay Human, the house band for the “Late Show with Stephen Colbert.”

A talented vocalist and songwriter, Lampley has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, includ-

ing Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon and Billy Joel.

Lampley and Roberge will kick off the St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Ocean City, performing various songs and covers from O.A.R. at the 40th Street venue.

“We can’t think of a better way to kick off the St. Patrick’s Day weekend than an intimate show with Marc and Jon,” said Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan. “Whether you’re planning a date night, family night or starting your St. Patrick’s Day weekend early, Marc and friends will be an evening in Ocean City you won’t want to miss.”

Visit https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com for more information. Ticket prices range from $59-$65.

AGH computers operational after attack by ransomware

Continued from Page 1

tients also received text messages on Feb. 7 informing them that AGHRx RediScripts Pharmacy services had been restored as well.

Keiser said a ransomware event hit the system, forcing staff to develop continuity plans to care for patients. She said they maintained operations using “downtime procedures,” meaning they implemented methods to handle information that were not dependent on the central computer system. Specifically, they were forced to manually check patients in and out of appointments and record all other information by hand instead of online.

A ransomware attack is when hackers plant encrypted files in a computer system that lock out the network’s owner. The perpetrators then demand payment to unlock the encryptions.

During the duration of the event, Keiser said hospital personnel worked to identify and address the issue as quickly as possible while ensuring the

least disruption as possible to patients.

“Throughout the event the hospital continued to safely provide care for inpatients, those in need of emergency services, patients in the primary care and specialty offices through the Atlantic General Health System and those in other ancillary locations such as the wound center, cancer center and behavioral health crisis center, and conduct elective and emergency surgeries using downtime procedures,” the release said.

Hospital leaders continu working this week with incident response specialists and reported the event to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The release said the local and federal officials are working together to investigate the incident and determine whether any sensitive data may have been impacted.

Hospital officials have not said whether the return to normal operations was because they paid the ransom or restored the system through other means.

City ranks capital projects for its upcoming bond issue

Continued from Page 4

ects, with averages between 1 and 1.49 in rankings, are renovations to public bathrooms on the Boardwalk, flood remediation at Eagles Landing Golf Course, improvements to the Ocean Bowl Skate Park, elevator and escalator replacements and other repairs at the convention center, and street paving in Montego Bay and across the city.

Public Works Director Hal Adkins said the street paving request is unique this year, as the department is asking for more than just the roughly $2.5 million allocated annually for repairs to roads across the town.

He explained that the money covers every aspect of paving, including storm drain pipe replacements,

bricks and gates for basins, milling and re-striping, and has been stretched further and further since covid.

“In recent years, we started realizing that we were losing our purchasing power,” Adkins said. “Covid and the price escalation drove that home.”

The numbers, as compared to figures from 2019, showed that the department is getting between 20 and 40 percent less for its money now. Adkins said the change exacerbated struggles he was already having with trying to keep up with all the roads that need fixed, namely in Montego Bay.

As a solution, he asked for roughly $4.5 million as a separate line item to pave segments of streets in the north end neighborhood to get him through the next two years, while using the $2.5 million already promised for other streets.

The intent, he said, is for sources such as casino revenues and state fees to bump up the amount received over the next couple of years.

Projects in the second category of the CIP, ranked between 1.50 and 2.49, are phase two of expanding the City Watch surveillance system to Baltimore Ave and other priority locations, canal dredging and storm drain cleaning.

In the next category, “important” projects ranked between 2.5 and 3.49 include funding for a new mixed use facility for the police department downtown, long-awaited upgrades to Baltimore Avenue, an indoor/outdoor sports complex on hold at the county level, playground replacements and other upgrades to facilities at Northside Park, and intersection improvements on 142nd Street.

The fourth “less important” category included projects such as replacement of the building and deck, and overall “reimagination” of the tennis center — primarily for pickleball courts, Northside Park pathway and fence replacements, and airport hangar construction. The relocation of the public works yard, parks garage storage expansion and Northside Park amphitheater were all in the last category, classified for “future consideration” with rankings of 4.5 and above.

City Engineer Paul Mauser said Tuesday that although staff weighed in on the rankings, the results he presented are based council’s feedback.

With the council’s approval of the rankings, and no changes to the list Mauser presented, staff will formulate the official CIP list and present it Feb. 28.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Construction work is still underway on Coastal Highway near 40th Street. The project was included within the fiscal 2023 capital improvement plan. This year’s plan is set to include similar paving projects.

OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) From new hours for City Hall to an insurance carrier change, resort council members approved several minor items at their latest meeting on Feb. 14.

City Hall hours

Ocean City’s downtown headquarters will be closing a half hour earlier beginning in April to accommodate the working hours of staff.

Council members voted 6 to 1 at a work session Tuesday, with Councilman Tony DeLuca opposed, to change the hours of operation at City Hall on Third Street and Baltimore Avenue from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

City Manager Terry McGean said staff members asked for the change because they were routinely working a half hour longer, or coming in a half hour earlier to fulfill their eight -and-ahalf-hour workdays with half hour lunches.

He asked the city clerk to track how many people entered City Hall off the street throughout the summer and what times they were coming in, and learned that out of the 3,300 visitors, just 33 came after 4:30 p.m.

“Given now how much you can do online, how few visitors we get after 4:30, [and] I asked the city clerk to look at all other municipalities and government offices in the area, none of them stay open past 4:30,” McGean said.

DeLuca argued that the hours should be increased with shifts staggered to offer better customer service. He said he would prefer to keep the doors open until 7 p.m., like some banks and other businesses are doing now to serve people who work during the normal hours of the day.

McGean said he would have agreed if the demand was there, but

it is not.

The rest of the council agreed with McGean, with Council President Matt James stating that he initially had the same thought about increasing the hours but determined it would be too difficult with scheduling.

Insurance savings

Ocean City will save money on insurance coverage for employees after consolidating life, accidental death and disability coverage under one carrier.

A representative from the resort’s benefits consultant, Bolton, recently conducted a review of the city’s basic and supplemental insurance plans and determined the city could get better coverage for less money by bringing the services together.

According to the research, the city will save $71,000 annually on renewals and $213,000 over a threeyear period with the change.

After a presentation from the Bolton rep and Human Resources Director Katie Callan, council miners voted unanimously to approve the action.

Vending franchisee

A single bid from one franchisee to operate a prepared-food vending business on and from public streets from a vehicle was opened and approved Tuesday for review and acceptance.

Georgeo’s Water Ice Inc, which has held the city’s vehicle vending contract for the past four years, submitted a bid to continue operations for another four years.

The company bid $38,000 per year for a total bid of $152,000, which City Clerk Diana Chavis said was the same amount they paid for the previous contract.

Council voted to remand the bid to staff for review and approval, as it was the only one received.

OC seasonal officers getting hourly raises, new incentives

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Responding to difficulties in recruiting, the Ocean City Council this week approved pay raises and new incentives for seasonal police officers and public safety aides for the coming summer.

At a Police Commission meeting Monday morning, members voted unanimously to give a favorable recommendation to the council to bump up hourly pay rates and add bonuses for both positions.

The next day, council members voted unanimously at a work session to put the plan in action.

“We’re still behind where we were last year on recruiting and it’s very important,” City Manager Terry McGean said Tuesday. “If council chooses to approve these rates, I want to do it as quickly as possible so that it has the biggest impact on recruiting.”

The changes will bump the pay for starting seasonal officers from $19 to $19.57, with returning officers to receive $19.96. They will also get signing bonuses of $500 upon graduation from the academy and will begin receiving full starting pay while training during what McGean called the “mini academy,” which previously offered a lower rate.

Retention bonuses of $500 are also available now for officers who stay through the Oceans Calling Festival at the end of September, and public safety aides from the previous year are eligible for returning pay as seasonal officers.

Pay for starting public safety aides is jumping from $15.91 an hour to $17.39, with the returning rate set

now at $17.74. A $250 signing bonus is available after 80 hours and those who work through Oceans Calling are eligible for $250 retention bonuses.

McGean said he and members of the police department came up with the numbers after reviewing pay for equivalent positions in other municipalities and jurisdictions.

Before Tuesday’s vote, Councilman Tony DeLuca said he thought the increase for seasonal officers at 2.9 percent seemed a little low, and stated he would have like to have seen something closer to 6 percent.

McGean said he agreed with the assessment, but after working through the options with the department staff they determined that the bonuses and incentives would ultimately result in a higher hourly rate and would be more desirable to candidates.

“We had discussions about what would be better off, a higher rate or offering signing bonuses,” McGean said. “I think the thought was, especially when you’re coming in, you’re trying to put a deposit on a place where you’re going to live, having some of that money up front was just better than doing the flat salary increase.”

McGean said the council also had to be careful to keep the rates below the $48,060, or $23 an hour, starting pay for new full-time officers.

The pay for those officers, and other department staff, went up recently through a Fraternal Order of Police contract signed in June. The seasonal officers and public safety aides are not included in those union contracts.

Whale deaths prompt wind scrutiny

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Politicians, citizens and some environmentalists are calling for a slow-down or complete halt of wind energy activity off the East Coast as officials examine the cause of a rash of marine animal deaths, but neither action nor an answer appears to be imminent.

In January, the debate landed on the shores of Worcester County with the body of a humpback whale, which immediately led to speculation regarding the cause of its death.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is examining samples taken from the whale, but representative Allison Ferreira said that it will take “weeks to months” to receive the necropsy report.

“Given that necropsy reports provide a comprehensive account of the stranding event, ranging from a description of external observations and internal examination findings to the diagnostic results of samples taken, they can take several weeks to months to complete and finalize,” Ferreira said in an email.

A few days later, Ferreira added that preliminary findings from the necropsy indicate vessel strike as the cause of death.

“But we do not know (definitively) if it was struck before or after death,” she said. “Results from samples taken from the whale may help inform this, but we may never know.”

Ferreira added that no whale mortality has been attributed to offshore wind activities.

Regardless, politicians and watermen are sounding the alarm that wind

See WIND Page 14

PHOTO COURTESY NPS/K. MEANS

A humpback whale that washed up on Assateague Island last month has sparked much debate over whether wind energy activity in the ocean should stop.

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Wind companies say no correlation to deaths

Continued from Page 12

farm activity must cease while more information is gathered.

“We’ve had nine whales and possibly a dolphin that have washed up (along the northern East Coast),”

Worcester County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said at the commissioner meeting on Tuesday. “The marine mammals are taking a beating and whether that’s originating off whatever coast (it needs to be looked into).”

“This is something that could literally kill our fishing industry off our coast, which is a tremendous amount of money.”

Mitrecic said that Gov. Wes Moore is “actually sympathetic” to Ocean City’s wishes that windmills not be put off its shoreline.

Mitrecic and his colleagues voted to send weekly letters to Moore and his

cabinet regarding their opinion that wind farm activity must be stopped. The commissioners decided each week the letters should highlight a different issue, such as marine life, industry and general concerns that wind energy isn’t as effective as more traditional energy forms.

In a phone interview, Del. Wayne Hartman said it is “hypocritical” of the federal government to push for lower boat speeds while allowing surveying and construction to continue despite the whale deaths that have occurred.

“I understand it may be a death from a boat strike (that killed the whale off Assateague Island) but what’s causing the boat strikes is the fact that the activity in the ocean is now damaging the hearing of the whales,” he said. “I really feel strongly that we need to be serious about going forward with this. We need to stop and find out what is

causing this unprecedented number of not only whales but other sea life (lost) along the coast.”

Even some environmentalists, who have at times found themselves sparring with the fishing industry, are asking for a period to gather more information.

“I’m certainly no expert, but personally I feel there needs to be more research on the impact the wind turbines could have on our wildlife, as it doesn’t seem like there is a lot of solid information,” Sandi Smith, community outreach and marketing coordinator for the Maryland Coastal Bays Program, said in an email.

“It may appear to be a logical explanation that wind turbines caused these whale deaths; however, NOAA came out with the statement that there is no evidence supporting that wind turbines

and these whale deaths are connected. Hopefully, they will be able to find some concrete evidence of what is going on.”

Smith also acknowledged that wind energy company Ørsted has stated its offshore work does not include sounds or actions that would disturb mammals, nor are they aware of any boat strikes caused by their surveying vessels.

She pointed to other factors as well, such as the humpback whale population concentrating more in the mid-Atlantic region as they follow menhaden, their primary food source, which often congregate in major shipping lanes.

“Either way you look at it, these whale fatalities are definitely linked to our impact on the environment,” Smith said.

According to a 2021 order posted by the Maryland Public Service Commission, wind energy company US Wind has pledged $100,000 to the coastal bay program and was planning additional research efforts for estuary programs. It has also pledged $50,000 to support the Assateague Coastal Trust’s Coast for Kids environmental program.

Maddy Voytek, deputy head of government affairs and market strategy for Maryland, said in a statement that there is no current offshore activity related to Skipjack Wind and that surveying concluded off the Delaware coast last spring with no marine mammal strikes reported.

“Ørsted prioritizes coexistence with our communities and marine wildlife,” she stated. “The offshore wind industry is subject to the most stringent level of protections for marine mammals and protected species. Every aspect of our surveys, construction, and operations are reviewed by multiple agencies and subject to protective conditions, including vessel speeds, time of year restrictions for construction activities, and mandatory protected species observers.

“It’s important for all ocean users to continue working with state and federal officials to further advance sciencebased, smart policies that protect critical marine life while addressing climate change.”

On Tuesday, the Town of Ocean City released a statement asking that a moratorium be placed on all offshore wind activity following another whale washing ashore on the east coast.

“Like many other officials along the coast, we believe that development of any energy type within our fragile coastal ecosystem must be done in a responsible manner,” Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan said in the statement.

“Ocean City insists that all approvals and construction of wind farms off our coast be delayed until all environmental issues, economic concerns, and view shed options be fully explored, and these projects are relocated to more suitable lease areas further offshore.”

“We only have one chance to get this right and this is our chance.”

Concerns over new ad contractor

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Members of the Ocean City Transportation Committee want to meet with representatives from the resort’s new transit ad contractor after learning the company has no new client prospects for the 2023 season.

In May, officials awarded a sixyear contract to New Jersey-based Gateway Advertising to sell ad space

on buses and Boardwalk trams. The company took over from Vector Marketing, which did the job for more than a decade, and staff members said Gateway representatives came with fresh new ideas to solicit more business and opportunities.

The new company started in September, and so far, according to data presented to Transportation Committee members at a meeting Tuesday, representatives have only

reported on efforts to renew existing ad contracts.

“I see the renewals. What is new? What new business have they brought?” Mayor Rick Meehan, who chairs the Transportation Committee, asked during the meeting.

Transit Manager Rob Shearman said the report shows “nothing” as of yet, which struck a chord with Meehan and some of the other committee

See COMMITTEE Page 20

Two buses await passengers at the terminal near the inlet downtown. Members of the resort’s Transportation Committee are leery about the new company hired to sell ads on buses and trams after seeing a report that they have not secured any new clients.

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Continued from Page 18

assaults were almost cut in half, from 31 to 17, while collisions also went down from 30 to 17.

“All in all, there aren’t any numbers that are glaring in there that stick out,” he said. “They’re fairly consistent to what we experienced in ’22.”

The trend continued on the January arrest logs, with Buzzuro reporting a total 79 custodial arrests and criminal citations this year as opposed to 81 last year.

Recruitment

Buzzuro reported Monday that this year’s number of applicants for seasonal police officers and public safety aides is down from last year at this time.

But with two more test dates, and a pay raise on the horizon, staff mem-

bers are hoping the total will jump before the season starts.

The numbers show that 61 people have applied to become seasonal police officers so far, as compared to 75 at this time last year. Nineteen are interested in returning from last summer, five of whom have confirmed. The number of officers who had committed to returning at this point last year was three, with 18 reportedly interested.

The number of public safety aide applicants is also down to 28 from 35 from last year. The numbers show, though, that a whopping 40 aides had expressed interest in returning at this point last year with 19 confirmed, while this year only 17 expressed interest with seven confirmed.

Buzzuro said testing dates are set for Feb. 18 and 19 and March 4 and 5, which they believe may bring on more applicants.

Committee ‘disappointed’ in transit ad company’s report

Continued from Page 16

members.

“We could have stayed with the former provider if we were just going to concentrate on renewals,” Meehan said.

He pointed out, and Shearman confirmed, that the company sold staff on their ability to attract new advertisers.

“And they were very keen to want to work with tourism to get some ideas for the direction the town wanted to take its advertising,” Shearman added.

Meehan suggested scheduling a meeting with reps from Gateway to get more information about the efforts they are taking to make good on their promise when they won the contract, which other committee members supported.

“We expect them to exceed expectations, we really do, especially initially. So, it’s disappointing,” Councilman and Committee Member Tony DeLuca said of Gateway’s process to date.

Committee members said they want to meet with Gateway before the

next monthly transportation meeting in March to get answers as soon as possible on the company’s efforts.

“I think we’re pretty much unanimous that we’re disappointed, you can pass that along, in this initial report,” Meehan said. “And I think they’re going to say, ‘Well we talked to local advertisers and they’ve already done their budgets.’ … They should have been aware of that.”

Committee members also agreed to hold off on giving the company the greenlight to buy equipment to begin displaying digital advertisements on the backs of Boardwalk trams. While they support the concept, they are leery of forging a commitment while unsure of Gateway’s ability to sell the space.

“I think maybe we need to wait until we have a meeting with the individuals from Gateway. I’d like to hear their projections as far as selling the advertising,” Meehan said. “I don’t see any great step forward in buses and I would hate to make this investment and then have them tell us, ‘well it’s too late in the year to secure advertising.’”

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State agrees to fund Ocean City ‘Walk Smart’ ads for ’23

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) Cheswick the crab, or some variation of the cartoon crustacean and his “Walk Smart” message, is officially returning to Ocean City buses this summer on the State Highway Administration’s dime.

City officials initially thought they would have to dig into their own budget to display the ads on the backs of buses in 2023 after SHA officials said they were not going to fund the program. But after some nudging

from staff and Councilman Tony DeLuca, who sits on two city committees that advocated for the return of the program in 2023, state agency offocials announced several weeks ago that they changed their minds.

DeLuca said he received a letter stating SHA officials had decided to provide $100,000 for the campaign.

“That’s just for advertising,” DeLuca said during a Transportation Committee meeting Tuesday. “[There’s] $39,000 for enforcement,

See CHESWICK Page 23

A Walk Smart ad featuring Cheswick the Crab promotes pedestrian and driver safety on Ocean City roads. The SHA has allocated $100,000 for the safety campaign in 2023.

POLICE/COURTS

Hit and run

Ocean City Police charged 55-yearold Danielle Gallagher, of Ocean City, with 14 charges, including failure to remain at the scene of an accident, DUI, disorderly conduct, second-degree assault, public intoxication and resisting arrest on Feb. 9.

At 4:45 p.m., officers responded to the report of a hit-and-run that had occurred on the 400 block of Bayshore Drive. Upon arrival they met with an alleged victim of the accident, whose 1998 jeep had been struck by another vehicle. Officers observed damage to the Jeep and debris on the roadway.

A witness on the scene informed officers that a gray Chevrolet passenger car driven by a solo woman struck the Jeep on Bayshore Drive and did not stop, parking up the road and entering a residence.

Officers interviewed Gallagher at the residence, where she admitted to operating the Chevrolet. Officers observed an odor of alcohol on her as well as bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. According to the police report, she also “swayed from side-to-side and lost her balance on multiple occasions” during the interview, in which she claimed that a car pulled out and struck the front of her vehicle.

During instructions for a field sobriety test that she ultimately failed, Gallagher struck the left hand of one of the officers. While being handcuffed the officer observed she tensed up before attempting to walk away and “flare her arms to her side to attempt to resist arrest.”

Cheswick set to return to buses

Continued from Page 22

police. The $100,000 is just for advertising.”

Last month, before the SHA offer come through, members of the resort’s Transportation Committee had voted unanimously to recommend council allocate $660 to place ads on the backs of 12 buses this summer.

Public Works Director Hal Adkins also suggested jumping on an offer from the state agency to wrap an entire bus with a Walk Smart ad, and committee members agreed.

The city tourism department is also working on recreating the artwork, which was expected to be needed when the state had backed out of the program.

The artwork features the cartoon crab Cheswick urging drivers to look out for bicyclists and pedestrians — especially when turning; and advertising overall safe walking, biking and driving practices. The ads have been displayed on buses and in other spots for years in an effort to promote safe walking and biking across the resort.

Maryland State Police look for Showell robbery suspect

(Feb. 17, 2023) Maryland State Police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man wanted in an armed robbery that occurred Saturday in Worcester County.

The suspect is described as a Black male, 6-foot to 6 feet 2 inches tall, approximately 50 to 60 years old with a gray beard and a thin build.

He was last seen wearing a multicolored sweatshirt, a black knit hat, dark-colored sweatpants, white and black Nike shoes and black gloves.

According to a preliminary investigation, the robber entered Smith Market in Showell shortly before 9:35 a.m. on Saturday.

Police said he approached the cashier, displayed a handgun and obtained an undisclosed amount of

money from multiple cash registers.

The robber is believed to have fled the area in a white Honda Accord and was last seen traveling north on old Route 113.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack at 410641-3101.

OCPD identifies suspected vandal in spray paintings

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Ocean City Police Department has identified a 17year-old juvenile male from Bishopville as the suspect associated with a series of graffiti taggings discovered in the area of 33rd Street that occurred during the evening hours of Jan. 18.

On Jan. 19, officers were dispatched to a hotel in the 33rd Street area in reference to graffiti that had been spray painted in several spots of the property.

During the investigation, officers located matching graffiti at a nearby business.

Officers were able to work with local businesses to review video footage, which provided officers with a description of the suspect and vehicle involved. Officers learned that a similar graffiti incident had occurred elsewhere in Worcester County involving the same suspect.

Officers conducted a investigation and were able to identify the suspect involved.

Since the suspect is a juvenile, this case has been referred to the Department of Juvenile Services for charges and restitution.

Police said graffiti cases can often be overlooked and quickly covered by property owners, but noted that these cases can cause hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of damage to private and public property.

The Ocean City Police Department encouraged businesses and residents to report any incidents of graffiti to thedepartment.

In addition, graffiti incidents can be reported online to the Public Works Department at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/public-works/report-graffiti/

Maryland State Police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man wanted in an armed robbery that occurred Saturday in Worcester County.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

HOROSCOPE Film night at OC arts center to preview festival entries

You might feel caught up in a daze this week, Aries. Your mind continues to wander, but your thoughts will settle down soon enough.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Make an effort to bring more people onto your side, Taurus. You can’t possibly win everyone over, but others might be receptive to your ideas with the right approach.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

A sit down with a higher-up could be in order soon, Gemini. Explain your attributes and what you have been doing for the company and make an effort to compromise, if necessary.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you are still following through with resolutions to be more organized. Start slowly and build up to bigger projects when you gain confidence in your abilities.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Celestial energy has you temporarily doubting your abilities, Leo. Normally you are quite confident in your creativity. Give things a little time to settle down.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, excitement could be on the horizon. Caution is needed, but don’t hesitate to embrace the renewed vigor this development inspires.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, this week you may start micromanaging other people without even realizing it. You certainly want things to be in order, but sometimes you have to let others be.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Retail therapy has its allure this week, Scorpio. If you must buy, direct your purchasing dollars toward a sweetheart for Valentine’s Day or another special occasion.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, ground yourself with the small luxuries in your life that bring you joy. This could be the company of friends or cherished mementos.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Misinformation seems to circulate with ease, but don’t believe everything you hear this week, Capricorn. You may need to do some fact-checking of your own.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you could be tempted to indulge in a little gossip as the rumors start flying this week. Take the high road and resist the urge to join in.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, if you feel a little off your game this week, find a friend who can offer you a pep talk. That’s all you need to bounce back.

(Feb. 17, 2023) February’s monthly film night this Saturday at the Ocean City Center for the Arts is a preview of the entries that will be screened at the upcoming Ocean City Film Festival.

The Arts Center is located at 502 94th Street, bayside, and films begin at 7 p.m. with a suggested donation of $5 at the door.

Following the films, attending filmmakers, including Charlie Knott of “The Ghost of Westriver” and Abdul Sesay of “It Could Be You,” will answers questions during a Q&A period.

Five short films will be screened on preview night, Feb.18. Film content is not rated by MPAA, and viewer discretion is advised.

• “Pirate Lesson” directed by Sofia Azpe

An action-packed six-minute comedy adventure initially tells of a fierce captain commanding his ship into battle with a bird crew.

In reality, the captain is a loving father who thinks the battle is a perfect opportunity for a driving lesson for his son.

• “Horseshoe Crabs: How 350-Million-Year-Old Sea Creatures are Vital to Human Survival” directed by Andrea Kramar

Horseshoe crabs are over 350 million

years old, and their blue blood has been critical to the development of COVID-19 vaccines.

Even though they invade coastal beaches each year, their numbers are in decline. The film runs eight minutes.

• “The Ghost of Westriver” directed by Charlie Knott

A distraught pastor deals with the loss of a teenage boy, whose spirit wanders through limbo with his ghostly companion in this 18-minute film.

• “Big Boy” directed by Michael Strassner

Brooks, a lonely 30-something man, seeks to escape the discomforts of daily life by paying for a personal connection in this 12-minute film.

• “It Could Be You” directed by Abdul T. Sesay and Darren C. Murray

When two brothers encounter a homeless man, the youngest shows his disdain for the man until a story is shared that changes his life forever. The film runs eight minutes.

The seventh annual film festival is taking place March 2-5 in the resort, screening 70 independent films both local and from around the world.

The festival is an opportunity for film lovers to view independently-made films by up-and-coming filmmakers and mingle with the filmmakers at after-

Great Backyard Bird Count set for Monday in Berlin

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Maryland Coastal Bays Program will observe the annual Great Backyard Bird Count with a bird count outing at Heron Park in Berlin from 9-11:30 a.m. on Monday.

The Great Backyard Bird Count is an inter-organizational effort between the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds of Canada to help scientists learn more about global bird populations. It was created as a community science project to encourage people to collect data on wild birds and to display their results in near real time at least once from Friday

See BIRD Page 26

hours parties and get-togethers.

Tickets for the festival are available at OCMDfilmfestival.com.

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

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

ALOC Executive Director Thaler to receive award

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Maryland Citizens for the Arts has presented Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League of Ocean City, with the “Sue Hess Legacy Arts Advocate of the Year Award” for 2023.

The annual award recognizes an individual whose advocacy efforts have significantly increased support for and public recognition of the arts in Maryland.

Thaler is the first recipient from the Eastern Shore to receive the honor.

The award’s namesake, Sue Hess, who passed in 2020, was a leader and staunch defender of the arts in Maryland for over 40 years.

Hess, part of the Hess retail store family, was formerly the chair and served on the Board of Trustees of Maryland Citizens for the Arts.

Working on her own at her home in Salisbury and at her beach house in the Little Salisbury neighborhood of Ocean City — near the current location of the Ocean City Center for the Arts — Hess formed a network of grassroots art supporters across the state and was instrumental in driving the growth for the arts in Maryland.

The first Sue Hess Award was presented in 2009 during Maryland Arts

Day and continues to be awarded to individuals whose advocacy efforts have significantly benefitted the entire Maryland arts community.

Maryland Citizen for the Arts will present Thaler with the award during the 2023 Maryland Arts Day on Zoom, Thursday, Feb. 16.

Maryland Arts Day is the largest statewide advocacy day of arts professionals, connecting arts organizations with lawmakers from every legislative district in Maryland.

“Thank you to Maryland Citizens for the Arts for this honor,” Thaler said. “This award continues the legacy of my former neighbor and longtime Art League member, Sue Hess. Sue was part of the effort in the early 1990s to expand the Art League building, and she was so happy when we finally opened the new Ocean City Center for

See THALER Page 28

Bird count held at Heron Park

Continued from Page 25

through Monday.

The Coastal Bays program’s bird experts, Dr. Archer Larned and Kim Abplanalp, will lead the count for the Berlin event. A few species participants may spot include the American Wigeon, White-throated Sparrow, and Piedbilled Grebe. A variety of waterfowl, forest birds, and possibly eagles and other raptors may be spotted as well.

Participants don’t have to be birding experts to take part the event as it will be led by expert guides, making it possible for novices to help the local organization compile data for the international effort.

Recommended gear for participants should include cold weather gear, some sturdy boots, binoculars and a coffee mug for those who want to take advantage of the hot coffee provided at the site. For additional information, contact Dr. Larned at alarned@mdcoastalbays.org. Space is limited so register through the coastal bays website at mdcoastalbays.org. Heron Park is located at 10009 Old Ocean City Blvd.

More information on the Great Backyard Bird Count is available at birdcount.org, which also explains how to join in the count in yards and other local outdoor spaces.

Rina Thaler

CROSSWORD

NOW PLAYING

SEACRETS

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

Feb. 17: John McNutt Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Cellar Sessions, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Feb. 18: Bondarchuk Family Fundraiser, 4-8 p.m.; John McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Coming Alive, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Feb. 19: Element K Trio, 1-5 p.m.

Feb. 23: Opposite Directions, 5-9 p.m.

PIZZA TUGOS

9935 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City 410-524-2922 / pizzatugos.com

Feb. 17: Dunehounds, 9 p.m. to midnight

COINS

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

Feb. 17: No More Whiskey, 8 p.m.

Feb 18: Rockoholics, 8 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Feb. 17: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

Feb. 18: Runner Ups, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

Feb. 19: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

Feb. 20: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Feb. 21: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

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

Feb. 23: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

Thaler presented arts avocate award

Continued from Page 26

the Arts in 2013. I am proud to be part of the strong group of art advocates leading the charge to make arts accessible to the people of Ocean City, the Eastern Shore, and throughout the State of Maryland.”

Thaler spearheaded a public/private campaign to build the Ocean City Center for the Arts that opened 10 years ago in 2013 on 94th Street. She was appointed the nonprofit’s first executive director at that time.

The Arts Center is the largest facility in Worcester County dedicated solely to providing year-round opportunities for artistic expression and appreciation for the visual and creative arts in the community.

Under Thaler’s leadership, the Art League has grown from a small grassroots organization into a regional arts institution providing unmatched access to the arts.

Since opening in 2013, more than 151,000 patrons have visited the Arts Center, and the Art League has served more than 1 million people worldwide through community opportunities and online events.

Thaler’s sheer determination to bring art and cultural opportunities to an area thought of as simply a “vacation town” has stimulated the growth of a vibrant arts community.

Her personal mission is to “design innovative and collaborative programs that advocate through art for social change and address pervasive social issues on the Lower Eastern Shore, including diversity, poverty, addiction, animal welfare, and mental health,” she said.

Previous awards for Thaler’s arts advocacy efforts include the 2015 Henson Award from the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore to the Art League of Ocean City, the 2017 Worcester County Commission Woman of the Year Award, and the 2019 Distinguished Women of Ocean City Award from the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce.

Thaler served on the Ocean City Arts Advisory Board that established the 1,200-seat Ocean City Performing Arts Center, the only theater of its kind on the Lower Eastern Shore.

She has also served on state-wide panels and committees including the

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

■ 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.

■ COASTAL SALT

1601 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-973-7258, www.coastalsaltoc.com

New American restaurant with reel eats & high spirits. Local seafood and Chef’s specials. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner overlooking the beautiful ocean view from the boardwalk. Open Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. Pet friendly, patio with heaters. The best staff, creative eats with plenty of free parking.

■ 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 through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Happy hour drink specials and $10 eats, Everyday, 3 to 6 p.m.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Try the new Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. With a family atmosphere you can enjoy build your own street taco’s with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsas. Serving foods such as little cravings, Papi’s trio guacamole, Queso Fundido and choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour: Monday through Friday, 3 to 5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in, or order online for your carryout and delivery by Door Dash. Catering is available.

■ PICKLES PUB

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open daily. Serving food until 1 a.m. Free parking across the street. Daily food and drink specials. Live entertainment 6 nights a week. Lots of pool tables. Liquor store attached. Game room. 30+ drafts on tap. Dine in or carry out.

Maryland State Arts Council, Maryland Citizens for the Arts, and Governor Hogan’s Maryland Arts Recovery Task Force during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A working artist herself, Thaler is known for her contemporary water media paintings and is a founding partner of Gallery One in Ocean View, Delaware.

She is the proud mother of Brandon and Chelsea Thaler and has resided with her husband, Jeff, in Ocean City since 1980. The couple has been actively involved in the local business community for more than 40 years.

In honor of their work and generosity, the Board of Directors of the Art League named the Thaler Gallery at the Arts Center in their honor.

Additional information about Thaler’s art is available at www.rinathaler.com. Information about the Art League of Ocean City is available at www.OCart.org.

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

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 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

6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-6445639, www.longboardcafe.net

Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surfthemed setting with weekly specials. Featuring burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more. Open 11 a.m to 9 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. Dine-in and curbside pick-up.

■ MARLIN MOON

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

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 Friday, 3-6 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 1-6 p.m., featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m. Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dinner, 4-10 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.

Screenings to be offered at Ocean Pines CC

March 7

(Feb. 17, 2023) Residents living in and around the Ocean Pines area can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening on March 7.

The Ocean Pines Community Center, located at 239 Ocean Parkway, will host this event.

Screenings can check for: the level of plaque buildup in arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and overall vascular health; HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels; diabetes risk; and kidney and thyroid function.

Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available. Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with attendees to create a package that is right for them based on age and risk factors.

Call 1-877-237-1287 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com. Pre-registration is required.

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 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

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

■ 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.

■ PIZZA TUGOS

9935 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City 410-524-2922, pizzatugos.com

$$/Full bar/ Celebrating 40 years in Ocean City. Offering pizza, wings, burgers, subs, salads, pasta and more! Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 2 a.m.

Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., Feb. 17

40TH ANNUAL OC SEASIDE BOAT SHOW

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Featuring 350 boats, more than 140 exhibitors and 50 boat dealers. Admission cost is $10 for adults, $1 for children under 14 years and $15 for weekend pass. 443880-3602, www.ocboatshow.com/index.cfm

LEGO LAB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12:30 p.m. Calling all master builders. Bring some of your own or use the library’s LEGOs. For ages 6 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BERLIN BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THE BLUEST EYE’ BY TONI MORRISON

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Berlin circulation desk. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FISH DINNER

Bowen Church, 8421 Newark Road, Newark, 4:30-7 p.m. Dinners cost $10 and include flounder filet, green beans, Mac and cheese, corn bread and dessert. Beverage included for those eating in.

Sat., Feb. 18

40TH ANNUAL OC SEASIDE BOAT SHOW

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Featuring 350 boats, more than 140 exhibitors and 50 boat dealers. Admission cost is $10 for adults, $1 for children under 14 years and $15 for weekend pass. 443880-3602, www.ocboatshow.com/index.cfm

WALK WITH A DOC

Tune in to the Atlantic General Hospital Facebook page (9 a.m.) for a video message from an AGH representative, then spend the next hour taking a walk on your own. Alyce Marzola, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org

CONTRIBUTIONS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS ON DELMARVA

Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 10 a.m.-noon. Dr. Clara Small, History Professor Emeritus of Salisbury University will lead this discussion. Free and open to

the public. Limited seating. Register: germantownschool@gmail.com, 443-2359803.

PROJECT T(W)EEN: CARDBOARD CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. The possibilities are endless. The library will provide the materials, you bring your imagination. Be ready for a mess. For ages 11 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.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

FEBRUARY FILM NIGHT

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 7 p.m. Previewing the films to be screened at the Ocean City Film Festival. Followed by a Q&A with attending filmmakers. There will be a suggested donation of $5 at the door. Viewer discretion is advised. 410524-9433

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., Feb. 19

40TH ANNUAL OC SEASIDE BOAT SHOW

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring 350 boats, more than 140 exhibitors and 50 boat dealers. Admission cost is $10 for adults, $1 for children under 14 years and $15 for weekend pass. 443880-3602, www.ocboatshow.com/index.cfm

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Feb. 20

ANNUAL GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT Heron Park (formerly Berlin Falls Park), 10009 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 911:30 a.m. Maryland Coastal Bays Program’s bird experts will lead the count. Novice and expert birders welcome. Dress accordingly and bring binoculars. Register:

mdcoastalbays.org. alarned@mdcoastalbays.org

DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF WORCETER COUNTY MEETING

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m. Social begins at 9:30 a.m. Speaker will be Dr. Nicole Hollywood, Board President of Salisbury PFLAG. PFLAG is a non-profit coalition of LGBTQ+ persons, their families, friends and allies.

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

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

Tues., Feb. 21

STORY TIME ‘NUMBERS’

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

STORY TIME ‘MICE’

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

BLOCK PARTY

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

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Focus will be on “Death in the Woods,” a short story by Sherwood Anderson. The group meets twice a month to discuss classic and modern selections. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

POLAR BEAR DEN CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 3:30 p.m. Build a shelter for the polar bear using only the

materials provided. For ages 8 years and older. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Allyou-can-eat. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children and free to children 5 years and younger. Carry-out available. Proceeds support Stevenson’s Children and Youth. 410-641-1137

SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. 5-7 p.m. A free will offering is suggested.

‘PROVIDING CARE AND COMFORT AT THE END OF LIFE’ PRESENTATION

Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, 6 p.m. Presented by Arnold Bienstock, Chaplain of Coastal Hospice. 410-641-5433

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER

St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 5:30-7 p.m. Includes regular, chocolate chip, blueberry or gluten free pancakes; sausage; juice; coffee; tea; and ice cream. A $10 donation for adults and $5 for kids 11 years and younger. Everyone is welcome.

Wed., Feb. 22

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Held via Zoom, on the third and fourth Wednesdays of each month, for surgical

Continued on Page 32

Call 410-723-6397

by Monday 5 p.m.

Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

The University of Maryland Extension, Somerset County, Administrative Assistant II (Position #103469), Full-time (40 hr./week).

H.S. diploma, 3 years administrative experience. Base salary $39,232/year. Must apply online: https://ejobs.umd.edu

For best consideration, apply by 2/24/2023, or until a suitable candidate is identified. Background check required. EEO/AA

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility

Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Worcester County Health Department

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

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by February 27, 2023.

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

Worcester Preparatory School is seeking

EXPERIENCED TEACHERS

Candidates for this position should possess a degree in education. Previous experience teaching lower, middle and upper school students is desirable. State certification is not required. Candidates with experience and an interest in coaching are desirable.

Located on Maryland's Eastern Shore in Berlin just fifteen minutes from the Ocean City benches. Worcester Preparatory School is a co-ed independent day school of over 500 students in grades pre-K - 12. The school has comprehensive facilities on a 45-acre campus just a mile from the vibrant town center in Berlin. Governed by an independent board of trustees, WPS was founded in 1970 and enjoyed rapid growth in the decades that followed. It is the premier independent school on the Eastern Shore, drawing students from Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware; some travelling over an hour to reach campus. All graduates matriculate to four-year colleges or universities, many among the most selective in the nation. Worcester Preparatory School is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Compensation and benefits are competitive with other area private schools and are adjusted based on experience level and credentials.

Interested persons should send a letter of interest, employment application, resume, and educational philosophy (if available) to Linda Watson, Director of Human Resources, at lwatson@worcesterprep.org.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Barn 34 Hiring All Positions Apply in person Wed. & Thurs. between 9am - 12pm 3400 Coastal Hwy.

Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters & Carpenters Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

The University of Maryland Extension, Wicomico County, Administrative Assistant II (Position #103475), Part-time (20 hr./week). H.S. diploma, 3 years administrative experience. Base salary $19,616/year. Must apply online: https://ejobs.umd.edu

For best consideration, apply by 2/24/2023, or until a suitable candidate is identified. Background check required. EEO/AA

Security Guard Positions available in local high-rise condominium. Part time and/or full time. Good starting pay w/salary increase and bonuses available annually.

Send resume to apurnell@legumnorman.com

Maintenance Positions available in local high-rise condominium. Part time and/or full time available. Good starting pay w/salary increase and bonuses available annually.

Send resume to apurnell@legumnorman.com

PAPA JOHN'S MANAGERS, DRIVERS INSIDERS

Ocean City 302-541-8081

Worcester Preparatory School seeks an experienced

FULL-TIME UPPER SCHOOL MATH TEACHER

This position reports to both the Head of Upper School and the Head or Middle School. Candidates for this position should possess a BS degree in Mathematics, with the demonstrated ability to teach Algebra at the above referenced level. Previous experience teaching middle and upper school students is desirable. State certification is not required. Candidates with the experience and interest to coach are desirable.

Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in Berlin just fifteen minutes from the Ocean City beaches, Worcester Preparatory School is a co-ed independent day school of over 500 students in grades pre-K-12. The school has comprehensive facilities on a acre campus just a mile from the vibrant town center in Berlin. Governed by an independent board of trustees, WPS was founded in 1970 and enjoyed rapid growth in the decades that followed. It is the premier independent school on the Eastern Shore, drawing students from Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware; some travelling over an hour to reach campus. All graduates matriculate to four-year colleges or universities, many among the most selective in the nation. Worcester Preparatory School is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Compensation and benefits are competitive with other area private schools and are adjusted based on experience level and credentials.

Interested persons should send a letter of interest, employment application, resume, and educational philosophy (if available) to Linda Watson, Director of Human Resources, at lwatson@worcesterprep.org.

HELP WANTED ROOMMATES

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

RENTALS

RENTALS

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

WINTER WEEKLY RENTALS

Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals

We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

ROOMMATES

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.

Fully Furnished Room for Rent Ocean Pines. All Utilities Included. Full House Privileges. Year round or Seasonal. $600 per month 443-880-2317

House To Share, Selbyville on canal, community pool, covered porch, 10 min. to beach. Includes Internet and util. Shared kit., W/D, liv. rm. Private BR and bath. $850/ mo. 240-372-5944

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

Industrial Warehouse

Spaces: 4000 sq. ft., 2100 sq. ft. and 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18 ft. high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1600 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

DONATIONS

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.

YARD SALE

YARD SALE

MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE Sat., Feb. 18, 7am-1pm. South Gate, Ocean Pines, Johnnys Pizza. Spaces available. Call John, 443-880-2486.

CALENDAR

Continued from Page 30

patients. Atlantic General Bariatrics Center, 410-641-9568

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

FIRST STATE DETACHMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE MEETING

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

ASH WEDNESDAY

The Church Mouse Thrift Shop, 101 N. Main St., Berlin. 12-1 p.m. Fr. Carl Mosley will be distributing ashes in front of the Church Mouse. Stop in your car or walk by and get ashes. An Ash Wednesday Service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 7 p.m.

‘WA$TE TO WEALTH - THE POWER OF COMPO$TING’ & SOIL ANALYSIS PAIRED UP WITH A MURDER MYSTERY TASTING

Assateague Coastal Trust, 10959 Worcester Highway, Berlin, 5:30 p.m. Part of the

“Sip and Science Series.” Registration required: https://www.actforbays.org/calendar. Cost is $25 and includes both workshops, soil test kit and a tasting. BYOB. outreach@actforbays, 443-8569309

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, 410-641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE

St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Soup supper begins at 5:30 p.m. Worship service begins at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Thurs., Feb. 23

STEM THURSDAYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Use your creativity and build using

MARYLAND STATEWIDE

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK FOR SALE

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

SERVICES

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

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

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

PETS AND PET SUPPLIES

Use Happy Jack® Skin Balm® on cats & dogs to treat hot spots & skin allergies without steroids! At Tractor Supply® (www.fleabeacon.com).

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-888-928-1656 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/mddc

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

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

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. Join the group for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

INTERACTIVE STORY TIME: BUILD A STORY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Build a fairy tale with the group. A fun and interactive story time followed by a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CROCHETED RUGS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market 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 1.25” wide strips with as long a length as possible. Register: 410-957-0878.

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 ZUMBA

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

AL ‘HONDO’ HANDY TO ADDRESS WORCESTER COUNTY NAACP BY ZOOM

Al “Hondo” Handy will discuss his book “Defying Expectations: Family, Sports and Recreation,” at 6:30 p.m. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id =100064654900871.

BEACH SINGLES-55 PLUS Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. Info: 302-436-9577 or

Crossword answers from page 26

Rosenberg & Associates, LLC

4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 907-8000

www.rosenberg-assoc.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

14104 DUKES AVE.

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Marlene T. Dipino dated February 29, 2008 and recorded in Liber 5096, folio 422 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, 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

FEBRUARY 21, 2023 AT 3:55 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #10-185777.

The property, which is improved by a dwelling, 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 $36,000 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 to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Sub. Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. 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 charges and ground rent, to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale forward. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional

terms to be announced at the time of sale.

If the Sub. Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, the deposit shall be forfeited, to the Trustees for application against all expenses, attorney’s fees and the full commission on the sale price of the above-scheduled foreclosure sale. In the event of default, all expenses of this sale (including attorney’s fees and the full commission on the gross sale price of this sale) shall be charged against and paid out of the forfeited deposit. The Trustees may then re-advertise and resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser or may avail themselves of any legal or equitable remedies against the defaulting purchaser without reselling the property. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Trustees' file number 22-001694MD-F-1.

NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF BILL 23-02 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 23-02 (Electrical Standards) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic and Purnell on January 17, 2023.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

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

This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage.

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

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-2/2/3t

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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McCabe, Weisberg & Conway LLC

312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, Maryland 20707 301-490-3361

Laura H.G. O’Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs vs. Shana E. Myers Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-22-000214

NOTICE

Diane

S. Rosenberg,

Mark D. Meyer, et al., Substitute Trustees

ANN KARWACKI GOODMAN ESQ PARKER COUNTS

129 N WASHINGTON STREET PO BOX 1209 EASTON, MD 21601

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ORDERED, this 26th day of January, 2023 by the Circuit Court of WORCESTER COUNTY, Maryland, that the sale of the property at 415A 146th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842 mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Laura H.G. O’Sullivan, et. al, Substitute Trustees, be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 27th day of February, 2023 next, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in some newspaper published in said County once in each of three successive weeks before the 20th day of February, 2023, next.

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NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF BILL 23-01 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 23-01 (Emergency Services – General Provisions) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic and Purnell on January 17, 2023.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

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

This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage.

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

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of EILEEN C SHEA Estate No. 19556 Notice is given that PATRICIA M SHEA whose address is 9 BEACH COURT BERLIN, MD 21811 was on JANUARY 27, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EILEEN C SHEA who died on SEPTEMBER 1, 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 27th 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 pre-

The report states the amount of sale to be $435,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-2/2/3t

BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

CARRIE M. WARD, et al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs. JAMES JUBILEE, SR. SHARON D. MURPHY 216 Carsons Court Pocomoke City, MD 21851

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-22-000186

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 24th day of January, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 216 Carsons Court, Pocomoke City, MD 21852, made and

reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 27th day of February , 2023, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 20th day of February, 2023.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $126,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/2/3t

No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.

Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.

For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY OCD-2/2/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2023

At 7:00 pm

Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-544, Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the SC-1, Shopping Center, Zoning District by reference to 110-514(10), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the LC-1, Local Commercial District to permit a water-related recreational activity - specifically to operate five (5) rental pontoon boats at the existing pier projecting into the Isle of Wight Bay. The site of the proposed use is described as Map 113, Parcel 7015, Land Unit 4-C, 10,255 square feet of the Village Land Condominium; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway, at the pier directly behind the Taphouse Tavern, and locally known as 4507 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: S & S PROPERTIES AND RON CROKER (FILE #2312100001)

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19555

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KATHRYN L. BARTZ

Notice is given that James F. Bartz, 10632 Worcester Highway, Berlin, MD 21811; and Leona Harper, 3122 Rosalie Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21234, was on January 27, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kathryn L. Bartz who died on January 8, 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 27th 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.

James F. Bartz

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

February 02, 2023

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BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Carrie M. Ward, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs. RUTH P. ROBERTSON

THOMAS H. ROBERTSON (DESEASED)

44 Nottingham Lane Berlin, MD 21811

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-22-000250

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 8th day of February, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 44 Nottingham Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 13th day of March, 2023, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 6th day of March, 2023.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $216,643.48.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/16/3t

HOLLY A. MUSSELMAN, ESQ. 3314 PAPER. MILL ROAD, STE. 103 PHOENIX, MD 21131

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19554 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES RONALD GOSSER

Notice is given that Kathryn S. Gosser, 82 Hingham Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, was on February 01, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Ronald Gosser who died on December 8, 2022, with a will.

on or before the 1st day of August, 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.

Kathryn S. Gosser

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:

February 09, 2023

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

PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET

SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

SMALL

ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19561 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA E. CRNOVIC

Notice is given that John M. Crnovic, 48 Skylark Drive, Coraopolis, PA 15108, was on January 31, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Barbara E. Crnovic who died on November 30, 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.

Leona

Harper Personal Representatives True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

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

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 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.

John M. Crnovic

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:

February 09, 2023

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JULIE A. SWANN ESQ.

LAW OFFICES OF PETER G. ANGELOS, P.C.

100 N. CHARLES STREET, 22ND FLOOR BALTIMORE, MD 21201-3804

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 14219

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MELVIN F. MISLAK

Notice is given that David R. Mislak, 1504 Hawthorne Court, Freeland, MD 21053, was on February 03, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin F. Mislak who died on March 2, 2011, 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 3rd day of August, 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.

David R. Mislak

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:

February 09, 2023

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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 Estate No. 19572

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD A. D’ANNUNZIO

Notice is given that Ronald J. D’Annunzio, 3307 N. Whales Road, Norristown, PA 19403, was on February 07, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard A. D’Annunzio who died on January 22, 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 7th day of August, 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.

Ronald J. D’Annunzio 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: February 16, 2023 OCD-2/16/3t

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

PO BOX 910

115 BROAD STREET

SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19580

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GEORGE D. ENGLAND

Notice is given that Kristina E. Muneses, 24 Greenmeadow Drive, Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093, was on February 09, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George D. England who died on January 8, 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 9th day of August, 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.

Kristina E. Muneses

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:

February 16, 2023

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROY MICHAEL FOREMAN

Notice is given that Candace P. Foreman, 53 Offshore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, was on February 09, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Roy Michael Foreman who died on November 3, 2022, with a will.

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

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

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

(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.

Candace P. Foreman

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:

February 16, 2023

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CHRISTOPHER T WOODLEY ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

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MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER,

VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP

PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET

SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of GERTRUDE CAROLINE YAWORNICKY Estate No. 19583

Notice is given that CAROL YAWORNICKY WITHERS whose address is 20751 ROYAL PALACE SQUARE #423 STERLING, VA 20165 was on FEBRUARY 09, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GERTRUDE CAROLINE YAWORNICKY who died on JANUARY 2, 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 9th day of AUGUST, 2023

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

NOTICE

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BID SOLICITATION

Sale of Surplus Property

Worcester County, Maryland

Worcester County has declared surplus and now offers for sale the following described real properties: Economic Development Building – 100 Pearl Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863 and Warehouse Facility – Prior Liquor Control Building – 5363 Snow Hill Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

All offers and any other documents required as noted in this RFP and any addenda must be submitted to Nicholas Rice, Procurement Officer, 1 West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill, MD 21863, by Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Late Bid Documents will not be accepted. Submit one (1) original and three (3) copies of completed Proposal Documents. Each copy of the proposal will be bound in a single volume. All copies of the Proposal submittal and any other documents

required to be submitted with the Proposal will be enclosed in a sealed envelope. The envelope will be identified with the project name and the Proposer’s name and address. If the proposal is sent by mail, the sealed envelope will be enclosed in a separate mailing envelope with the notation “SEALED PROPOSAL ENCLOSED-Economic Development Building” or “SEALED PROPOSAL ENCLOSED-Warehouse Facility”, in the bottom left-hand corner of the sealed envelope Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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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 7th day of AUGUST, 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

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Lubin Kyle Pilchard

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:

February 16, 2023

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TOWN OF OCEAN CITY

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING

MARCH 6, 2023 AT 6:00 P.M. CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS

RE: Critical Area Code and Map Update

A Public Hearing is scheduled on Monday, March 6, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842. The hearing is to advise the public of the proposed adoption of the new Statewide Critical Area Map dated March 2022 delineating the Critical Area boundary line for the Town, said map being prepared by the Department of Natural Resources and the Critical Area Commission with no change to critical area designations of the Town. Additional information can be obtained by contacting Environmental Programs Administrator Jenelle Gerthoffer or 410-289-8825. The hearing is open to the public and public testimony is encouraged. Thereafter, the Mayor and Council will make its determination and, if approved, an ordinance will be adopted.

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DAMIAN L. HALSTAD HOFFMAN, COMFORT, OFFUTT, SCOTT & HALSTAD, LLP

24 N. COURT STREET WESTMINSTER, MD 21157

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ANDREW J. CALVERT Estate No. 19567 Notice is given that BRUCE CALVERT whose address is 9 PARK AVENUE, WESTMINISTER, MD 21157 was on FEBRUARY 07, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANDREW J. CALVERT who died on DECEMBER 22, 2022 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/16/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19568

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LUBIN W. PILCHARD

Notice is given that Lubin Kyle Pilchard, 3852 Sirman Drive, Snow Hill, MD 21863, was on February 07, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lubin W. Pilchard who died on July 11, 2002, 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 7th day of August, 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

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

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

Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to waive 16 parking spaces for proposed new commercial tenant spaces and outdoor dining. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 4, 7-9, and half of Lot 5, Block 9N of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat; further described as located on the west side of Atlantic Avenue between 8th and 9th Streets, and known locally as 801-807 Atlantic Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH G. THOMPSON, PLLC – (BZA 2641 #23-09400001)

6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(1) requesting a special use exception to allow temporary tents for special events during the Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and also pursuant to Section 110-94(2)(b) an associated special parking exception to accommodate the tents and other proposed activities. The site of the appeal is described as Parcel 7011, Lots 4A, 4B, 4BA, & 4BB, of the Village Land Condominium plat; located on the west side of Coastal Highway at the 45th Street intersection, and locally known as 45th Street Village, 4501 Coastal High-

way, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: DELMARVA IRISH

AMERICAN CLUB C/O RICK

MEEHAN - (BZA 2644 #2309400001)

6:20 PM

POSTPONED UNTIL 3/9/2023

MEETING DATE

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting after-the-fact variances in the MH-Mobile Home zoning district, for a newly constructed singlefamily dwelling unit and HVAC units which encroaches into the required 5’ eastern side yard setback and the required 10’ western front yard setback along Oyster Lane. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 1119, Section 3A, of the Montego Bay Mobile Home Park Plat; further described as located on the southeast corner of Beachcomber Lane and Oyster Lane, and locally known as 211 Beachcomber Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: LINDA & MICHAEL

MARTIN – (BZA 2645 #2309500001)

6:30 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to the side yard setback to allow egress stairs remain as required by the Fire Marshall providing a maximum remaining setback of 10”. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 41, Parcel 3343, of the Neptune Development Plat, further described as located on the west side of St. Louis Avenue between 16th and 17th Street, and locally known as 1619 St Louis Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: CHRISTOPHER

CHRISTIAN – (BZA 2646 #2309500002)

6:40 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2 & 3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards to allow 42 parking spaces on the satellite parking lot at the southwest corner of 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, dedicated to the entire Hyatt Place Hotel project –Hyatt Place East located at 1 16th Street and the future Hyatt Place West, to be addressed as 101 16th Street, to be a minimum of 8’3” x 18’ instead of 9’ x 20’ as required by Code, and 9 parking spaces which back out into Wilmington Lane to be a minimum of 10’ x 18’ instead of 10’ x 20’ as required by Code. Also, on the same satellite lot and the future hotel site, pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a), requesting variances for the satellite parking lot to 1) Code Section 30-553(c)(8)(h)(ii), the five-foot landscape area required to be provided between vehicular use areas and public street rights-of-way. On the 15th Street boundary, request is to allow minimal width of 3.24 feet. On the Philadelphia Avenue boundary, the applicant is requesting to reduce the requirement

to a minimal width of 2.22 feet; 2) Code Section 30-553(8)(h)(iii), requesting a variance to the two-foot, six-inch landscape area required to be provided along adjacent properties and public alleyways. On the south property line adjacent to another parcel, the applicant is requesting to reduce the requirement to a minimal width of 2.25 feet; 3) Code Section 30-553(8)(h)(iv), requesting a variance to the five percent plantable areas required to break up the vehicular use areas for all uncovered parking areas which contain 30 or more parking spaces;

4) Code Section 30-553(15)(a) requesting variance to the required perimeter landscape ratio of one tree for each 35 linear feet and five shrubs for every one tree. Also requesting variances on the main Hyatt Place West site to 1) Code Section 30-553(8)(h)(iii), requesting a variance to the two-foot, six-inch landscape area required to be provided along adjacent properties and public alleyways. On the south property line adjacent to another parcel, the applicant is requesting to reduce the requirement to a minimal width of 2.26 feet; and 2) Code Section 30553(15)(a), requesting variance to the required perimeter landscape ratio of one tree for each 35 linear feet and five shrubs for every one tree. The sites of the appeal are described as (satellite parking lot) Tax Map 0111, Parcel 4185, Lots 11 and 12, Block 54N of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat, locally known as 1409 Baltimore Avenue; and the site of the future Hyatt Place West Hotel - described as Tax Map 0111, Parcel 4187, Lot 7, locally known as 1507 Baltimore Avenue; Parcel 4188, Lot 6, locally known as 1509 Baltimore Avenue and 103 16th Street; Parcel 4172, Lot 1, locally known as 1508 Philadelphia Avenue; Parcel 4171, Lot 4, locally known as 105 and 107 16th Street – all part of Block 1 of the C. Edward Shute Plat – to be readdressed and locally known as 101 16th Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: FISHER ARCHITECTURE LLC C/O HEATHER MORRISON – (BZA 2647 #2309500003)

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

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman

Maureen Howarth, Esq. Attorney OCD-2/9/2t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19585 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NANCY BOZENTKA

Notice is given that Christina Romansky, 13907 Fiesta Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on February 09, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Nancy Bozentka who died on January 13, 2023, without a will.

Further information can be ob-

tained 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 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.

Christina Romansky

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: February 16, 2023

OCD-9/16/1t _________________________________

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19581

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF IRA BERNARD BARBER

Notice is given that Tanisha Durden, 2353 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207, was on February 09, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Ira Bernard Barber who died on February 2, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having 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 Reg-

ister 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.

Tanisha Durden

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:

February 16, 2023 OCD-2/16/1t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19584 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT J. GRAY JR.

Notice is given that Deborah Parker, 252 Whistling Pine Road, Severna Park, MD 21146, was on February 09, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert J. Gray Jr. who died on December 30, 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 9th day of August, 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.

Deborah Parker 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:

February 16, 2023

OCD-2/16/3t

CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ

MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC

100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM G B OCHSE Estate No. 19586 Notice is given that MARY C OCHSE whose address is P O BOX 551 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843 was on FEBRUARY 10, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM G B OCHSE who died on NOVEMBER 25, 2022 with a will.

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

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

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

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

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

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

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

OCD-2/16/3t

IN THE MATTER OF:

Isaiah Elijah Moore FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: Isaiah Elijah Spence BY AND THROUGH THEIR MOTHER/FATHER/GUARDIAN: Kashmere Mariah Spence IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No.: C-23-FM-22-111

NOTICE

FOR PUBLICATION (MINOR) (Md. Rule 15-901)

The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name to change the name of a minor from Isaiah Elijah Moore to Isaiah Elijah Spence.

The petitioner is seeking a name change because: The mother and child want him to have the same last name as she does.

Any person may file an objection to the Petition for Name Change on or before 3/4/23.

The objection must be supported by an affidavit (written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation) and served upon all parties (Md. Rule 1-321). If no timely objection is filed, the court may enter a default judgment or grant the name change.

A copy of this notice must be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an objection.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-2/16/1t

PEDEGO BIKE RAFFLE

$25 1 Chance

$50 3 Chances

$100 7 Chances

$100 7 Chances

The Coastal REALTORS® Foundation is a charitable fund held by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. The association raises money for the fund through an annual charity golf tournament as well as other efforts through the year. The fund is accessible to members of Coastal through an application process administered by a committee of members. Grant recipients must be 501(c)3 organizations and must be located in Somerset, Wicomico, or Worcester counties.

Through out the year we raise money for the Coastal Foundation through raffles, our golf tournament held in October, and donations from our members. With over 1000 members on the Lower Shore, REALTORS® give back countless amounts of their time, money, and expertise to nonprofits. Grants are awarded 3 times a year.

For more information about the Coastal REALTORS® Foundation, visit www.coastalrealtors.org/car-foundation.

WE THANK OUR SPONSORS & YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION

Coastal Association of REALTORS®

DRAWING: May 31st, 2023

REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®

Pedego Electric Blue Element

Changes to single-family pricing framework

The FHFA directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to reduce the LLPAs in 2022 on homebuyers but raised them in high-cost markets.

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) In mid-January, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced further changes to Fannie Mae’s and Freddie Mac’s (the Enterprises) single-family pricing framework by introducing redesigned and recalibrated upfront fee matrices for purchase, rate-term refinance, and cash-out refinance loans.

As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explained, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac charge both a marketwide flat guarantee fee as well as upfront fees LLPAs that are tailored to credit scores and down payments for individual borrowers.

These pricing changes broadly impact purchase and rate-term refinance loans and build on the upfront fee changes mentioned above that FHFA announced in January and October 2022.

The new fee matrices consist of three base grids by loan purpose for purchase, rate-term refinance, and cash-out refinance loans—recalibrated to new credit score and loan-to-value ratio categories—along with associated loan attributes for each.

The updated fees will take effect for deliveries and acquisitions beginning May 1, to minimize the potential for market or pipeline disruption.

“Our initial review indicates that the new framework results in a modest net increase in overall pricing, which is a concern given ongoing affordability challenges and the higher interest rate environment,” said Bob Broeksmit,

president and CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association. “With the peak homebuying season coinciding with these changes, FHFA should consider additional program changes to improve affordability, including raising the area median income threshold for the GSEs’ low down payment prod-

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Joins board

James “Ken” Church was recently elected to join the Bank of Ocean City Board of Directors.

Church is a lifelong Worcester County resident and business owner.

As a real estate broker with Bud Church Realty, he has consistently been in the top 1 percent of both commercial and residential sales over the last several years.

He has personally completed the sales of many historic properties in Worcester County.

ucts. This move would expand eligibility for borrowers who can meet the monthly obligation of a mortgage payment but do not have significant savings to make a large down payment.”

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

Church is a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, and holds a degree in government and finance from East Carolina University.

In the community, Church and his family have spent many years of active participation in local youth sports. They have contributed in many ways, to the community, and look forward to continuing that tradition for many years to

James K. Church

Continued on Page 44

Home buyers who do not have funds for significant down payments see benefit

Seasonal job and resource fair hosted by OP Chamber

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce will conduct a seasonal job and resource fair on Saturday, March 18 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Princess Royale Ocean Front Resort at 9100 Coastal Hwy. in Ocean City.

Spaces are available for $150 for chamber partners and $200 for nonmember businesses, although the fee for businesses that join the chamber upon registering for the fair would be $250, with $100 going toward a down payment toward your first year’s dues. Businesses that do join through this process will be sent the partnership application and invoice for the balance.

Along with hundreds of seasonal employment opportunities, the fair

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Continued from Page 42

come.

“I would like to personally welcome Ken to the Board of Directors for Bank of Ocean City,” said Reid Tingle, president and CEO of Bank of Ocean City. “His knowledge of the local real estate market, business experience and commitment to our community continues the tradition of BOC directors being part of the fabric of the communities we serve.”

will feature resources available in Ocean City such as housing assistance, transportation information, legal aid providers, safety information, urgent care facilities and other information.

Employers may reserve space at the fair via the internet link, https://business.oceanpineschamber.org/events/ details/2023-ocean-city-seasonal-joband-resource-fair-14875. A flyer at the reservation web site can be distributed to potential employees to help spread the word.

Information about the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce, its dues and benefits can be found at https://business.oceanpineschamber.org/member/newmemberapp.

Bank of Ocean City is a locallyowned, independent community bank. Established in 1916 and headquartered in West Ocean City, the bank has five offices; two in Ocean City, one in Ocean Pines, one in Berlin and one in Fenwick Island, Delaware. Its sixth office is scheduled to open in Selbyville this spring.

For more information, contact Tingle at the 59th Street office at 410524-6144.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!

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Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com

Saturday OPA regular board meeting materials available

(Feb. 17, 2023) Meeting materials for the Feb. 18 regular OPA Board meeting are now available online.

The meeting will be held as a hybrid of in-person and virtual, with seating available in the Clubhouse Meeting Room on 100 Clubhouse Drive.

The meeting is scheduled to start at 9 a.m.

Valid property owner ID cards are a requirement to attend Board meetings. Cards may be obtained at the front counter of the Ocean Pines Administration Building on 239 Ocean Parkway.

The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:25 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Property owners must bring a driver’s license for verification to obtain a card.

First-time cards are free, and replacement cards are $5. Property owner ID cards are the same as membership card.

There is no deadline to get a card. For questions, call 410-641-7717 or

email info@oceanpines.org.

To join remotely, use the Microsoft Teams link: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetupjoin/19%3ameeting_MjRiZTJmZTYt Mzg2ZC00YjBjLWIwOWQtNGY3OG NkMmEwYjM0%40thread.v2/0?con text=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22625a6 322-2b2f-40fa-94f8d7dd44d78153%22%2c%22Oid%22 %3a%225fa869f5-01ad-476a-9570540fe1ce4736%22%7d.

The link can also be found on the Ocean Pines website, under both the calendar and news sections.

If prompted, use the web browser plug-in only and not the full client.

To view the agenda and meeting packet, visit https://www.oceanpines.org/documents/10184/53744/ 2-1822+Board+Meeting+Packet.pdf.

Following the meeting, the video will be posted to the Association YouTube channel and links will be announced on the Ocean Pines website, www.oceanpines.org.

Cell: 410-430-7302

Office: 800-992-7777 x1109

Mary@MaryMcCracken.com

New Listing!

Gold Badge member Charles Bunting served since 1970

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) This week, as we continue to recognize long-serving members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, we will “Spotlight” Gold Badge Member Charles Bunting.

9800 COASTAL HIGHWAY • UNIT 1310 OCEAN CITY, MD

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$ 799,900 (MLS MDWO2012318)

Charles, a life-long resident of Ocean City, joined the volunteer fire company on Oct. 25, 1970, following in the footsteps of his Father, William “Bill” Bunting.

The senior Mr. Bunting served the OCVFC for nearly 50 years and was a pioneering member of the fire police for the volunteer fire company. “Charlie” now serves as a Worcester County fire police officer.

Charlie retired from the Town of Ocean City Public Works Department and had previously been employed by the Department of Recreation and Parks. He now serves as a school crossing guard for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.

He served four years in the OCVFC

Cadet Program and provided 41 years of active service to the company including several years as an instructor for the cadet program.

When asked his reason for joining the volunteer fire company, Charlie said he simply wanted to serve his community.

He also added with a smile, “I always wanted to play pool with the older members of the fire company at the Dorchester Street firehouse.”

Firefighter Bunting cites the large building fires on the Boardwalk during the 1970s and ’80s as the most significant events of his firefighting career.

Charles said the opportunity to serve his community and assist his neighbors during their time of need was his greatest accomplishment in the fire service.

We thank Firefighter Bunting for his years of service and commitment to the safety of his neighbors and visitors to our community.

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

Charlie Bunting

WCPS offers look at Blueprint for Maryland’s Future

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) If there’s one thing the leadership of Worcester County Public Schools knows for certain about the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the massive overhaul of the state’s education funding practices, it is that nothing is known for certain.

There are strong indicators of what Worcester County and the state’s 23 other school districts can expect — this will cost county governments (and taxpayers) more money — but in a meeting with the County Commissioners, Board of Education and the public last week, school Superintendent Lou Taylor likened the blueprint’s construction to building an airplane “as it’s going down the runway.”

“In some cases, they’re building the airplane as it’s taking off,” Taylor said. “So that worries me … (as to) where we will land.”

One of the bigger financial sticking points is the implementation of a $60,000 base salary for teachers starting by July 2026, the last point of a nearly four-year timeline that began this past December with the state Accountability and Implementation Board adopting the blueprint officially.

The next major milestone in the timeline is March 15 when public school systems must submit implementation plans.

“To be quite frank, I do not know,” Taylor said regarding what the finished product will look like. “I don’t even know if the plan is going to change tomorrow or a month from now.”

Nevertheless, Taylor and other school officials broke down the blueprint, which is composed of five “pillars” — early childhood education, high-quality and diverse teachers and leaders, college and career readiness pathways, resources to ensure student success and governance and accountability.

Dee Shorts, the local system’s chief academic officer for Pre-K through eighth grade, is responsible for developing the early childhood education pillar. She told the commissioners the blueprint significantly expands full-day pre-K for all the county’s 4-year-olds.

“It’s new and very exciting,” Shorts said. “Now according to the blueprint we really have to be tracking and following what kids are doing, whether they’re in Worcester County Public Schools … or whether they’re at (other schools and daycare centers).”

The county will need to assist childcare providers that want to be part of the blueprint. Should one apply, it will be up to the local system to reach out to it and ensure that it has the same resources and support as any other county school.

“In the big picture, when they become 5 years old (they will transition seamlessly to public school),” Shorts said. “That’s what we’re doing through the blueprint. They’re all our kids by the time they reach kindergarten.”

Chief Operations and Human Relations Officer Dwayne Abt, who is overseeing the high-quality and diverse teachers and leaders pillar, said the blueprint will make the process of teacher licensing more rigorous.

One incentive for meeting the standard is that teachers who receive National Board Certification will receive a $10,000 salary bump. Abt said that the county’s schools currently employ six such teachers and 20 more are working toward certification.

Principals are now recommended to teach for 10 percent, or 90 minutes, of their workday while vice principals must teach for 20 percent of their workday.

To meet the July 2026 teacher salary mandate, a five percent costof-living adjustment (COLA) will be required for the next four years, Abt said.

“We have a workgroup now with our teacher’s union and with management to … look at that requirement and how we’re going to get there,” he said. One possibility, he said, would be to remove some of the current pay schedule’s steps to allow teachers to get $60,000 more quickly.

Annette Wallace, the schools’ chief safety and academic officer who is spearheading the college and career readiness pathways pillar, said that these pillars are all connected.

Her pillar, for instance, ties into the first pillar by synchronizing students’ paths through the public school system back to kindergarten.

“The goal of this pillar is for us to never have a student leave third grade who can’t read, to never have a sixth grader who is not on grade level, to never have a ninth grader who hasn’t earned the number of credits in

their ninth-grade year that they’ll graduate by the time they’re a senior, to be college and career-ready by 10th grade,” Wallace said.

She stressed how important it is to have students reading by third grade, saying that many correctional institutions are built based on the number of local students who can’t read in the third grade.

“If you can’t read in third grade, you are more likely to be incarcerated,” Wallace said. “That’s a formula that’s used in this country. We want our kids to be educated and we know it starts there.”

School health services coordinator Lauren Williams, who is responsible for the human success pillar, said the blueprint will ensure that resources are spent where they are most needed, highlighting additional support for English learners, low-income students and special education students.

“(The goal is) that it’s not serving the population of the school but really the dollars are being used to make an impact with that population,” she said.

For instance, a school is eligible for “Concentration of Poverty” grants if more than 70 percent of the student body lives in poverty. Pocomoke Elementary, Pocomoke Middle and Cedar Chapel Special School all qualify for this grant.

The school system’s Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert rounds out the leadership team with his work on the fifth and final pillar — governance and accountability.

“(This pillar is) basically making sure we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing with the blueprint. doing the reporting, getting stakeholder feedback, those types of things,” Tolbert said.

He said one concern for the school system is the requirement for school systems to demonstrate that at least 75 percent of per-student formula funding follows students to their schools.

“We’re going to have to work over the next year or two to really finetune how we allocate those resources to each individual student,” Tolbert said.

“I think this is a little flawed from the state because for special (education), not all special ed kids require the same level of services.”

Despite all the information presented, Tolbert reminded his audience that none of it is certain yet.

“The costs we provided today are the best estimates based on available information,” he said. “We don’t know what future enrollment in the programs is going to be, student needs, collective bargaining has to happen and additional clarification in the blueprint. All these things that we shared today could change and probably will change.”

Commissioner Chip Bertino said one of his main takeaways was that the blueprint will cost the taxpayer more — but how much is not yet certain.

While thankful that county and school officials appear to be on the same page and working together, Bertino criticized what he said was a loss of local control being mandated from the other side of the Chesapeake Bay bridge.

“We are taking what I believe should be handled by us and the special relationships we have and we are losing that local control,” he said. “It’s costing us more. We’re losing local control and I think that is something we need to deal with in some form or fashion.

“We will get through this together but at some point, I believe that the taxpayers of this county are going to look at this and say, ‘We’re already spending more per pupil. What are we getting for our money, especially when the state is telling us that we need to spend more?’

“That is something that’s on our radar … But at some point, the state has to recognize it can only do so much.”

PHOTO COURTESY MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future is divided into five pillars, which officials say all feed into each other.

Annual OC Seaside Boat Show this weekend

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) The 40th annual Seaside Boat Show, sponsored by the Ocean City/Berlin Optimist Club, is being held at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center this President’s Day Weekend.

Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $1 for children. For $10, everyone who enters gets a chance to win a Sweetwater pontoon boat and motor donated by Scott and Mary McCurdy, owners of North Bay Marina. For the past 35 years, North Bay Marina has donated the grand prize.

“Without this and many others’ support, our show would not be what it is today,” said Charlie Dorman, chair of the boat show for the past 34 years.

The show will feature more than 350 boats, 150 exhibitors and 50 boat dealers exhibiting the newest models and watersports-related items. These will include sports cruisers, sports fishing, performance and super boats.

The show will also have on display marine electronics, trailers, canvas products, motors, jewelry, art, financing and insurance. The large number of boats sold each year during this three-day show has established it as one of the most popular boat shows on the East Coast.

Dorman said vendor space traditionally sells out by October each year. This year many vendors bought multiple booths.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Dorman said the show isn’t just for boaters or those who want to be.

“We have everything. There will be free face painting for the children and vendors selling clothing, pocketbooks, jewelry, and fishing tackle,” he said.

The pontoon boat is not the only prize up for grabs during the show. Scott Lenox, host of the television show “Hooked on OC,” will host a fishing seminar on Saturday, at 1 p.m. Anyone attending the free seminar will have the chance to win a Mercury four-horsepower MH fourstroke outboard motor donated by Goldsborough Marine in Crisfield, Maryland.

“This is the first time we have had this,” Dorman said. “Just for attending the seminar, you have a chance to win an outboard motor. Tickets will be drawn at the end of the seminar.” Dorman also said boat show visitors can enter the 50/50 raffle for a chance at three cash prizes. Tickets are $20 each and 10 for $100. All funds raised from the raffle will go to OC/Berlin Scholarship Fund for Stephen Decatur High School. In addition, the Opti-Ms members will be selling chances for gift baskets. Each basket has a theme, including beauty, beach, date night and outdoor adventure.

Tickets for the baskets are $1 each and the winner doesn’t have to be present at the drawing to win.

“All the money from the baskets will go toward scholarships and other

organizations we receive requests from, such as the Cricket Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore, Ocean City Recreation and Parks, GOLD, and others,” Eileen Deutsch of the Ocean City/Berlin Opti-Ms said.

Income raised from the Seaside Boat Show and other Optimist projects benefit thousands of young people annually.

“This year marks our club’s 50th year in helping the youth of our community,” Optimist Club President Christina Dolomount Brown said. “Every year we provide funding for not only scholarships, but numerous

programs from sports activities to the arts. With 14 public schools and over 6,700 children in Worcester County, there is an endless list of possible funding opportunities.”

The show runs from Friday through Sunday at the convention center on 40th Street.

“Friday and Sunday are good days to come. Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., it will be wall-to-wall people, Dorman said. “We usually see about 15,000-18,000 people at the show.”

Show times are Friday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 18, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Serve this venison chili with side of history

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) The origin of chili encompasses an irrefutable subject of uncertainty.

Certitude is not likely, but it is possible that a mixture of meat, beans and peppers were known to the Aztecs, Incas and Mayan Indians.

Not everyone shares in this theory. Some maintain that chili (as we know it) is a Mexican dish. However, chili cannot be found in Mexican restaurants except for some establishments that cater to tourists.

Inconclusiveness carries on, so let us focus on what we do know about the peppery blend of meat and beans that has captured the hearts of food enthusiast all over America.

By the end of the Civil War, Union and Confederate forces had consumed most of the beef east of the Mississippi. Prior to the war, pork had been the meat of choice.

Joseph McCoy, an enterprising promoter, understood that the victorious North would be the perfect market for cattle.

He also knew there were millions of wild longhorn cattle that roamed untended in the southern parts of Texas. So, McCoy set out to discover a new cattle route which would eventually become known as the Chrisholm Trail. This trail included a route from Texas to Kansas, where the cattle would be sold and shipped eastward.

Between 1866 and 1895, approximately 10 million cattle were taken to railroad cow towns. The men on the trail worked long hours, traveling the 1,200-mile route at about 10 to 12 miles a day.

A typical herd consisted of several thousand head of cattle. The animals would move along two or three abreast. Like any other job, rules and regulations led them.

The person in command (trail boss) was always an experienced trail rider and usually rode ahead of the herd, spotting for danger, grazing

land, and water.

Surprisingly, the cook was second in line of command. In addition, two cowboys rode on either side of the herd, while flank riders kept the cattle in line and the drag riders were at the rear.

One might be wondering why chefs were held in such high regard?

Contrary to popular belief, the cooks on the trail considered them-

selves to be “professionals.”

The chuck wagon was a reflection of the proficient environment. Riding and eating were the main activities, and pleasing the palate was a must.

Food supplies were limited and nothing went to waste. Of course, beef and wild game were available along the drive.

Pinto beans, bacon, cornmeal, cof-

The 40th annual Seaside Boat Show will take place this weekend inside the Roland E. Powell convention center on 40th Street.

Venison chili’s history diverse as ingredients

fee, molasses and honey were popular additions.

Local produce such as chilis and peppers were inexpensive and offered options in a time of limitations.

There is no doubt that the influence of Mexican cuisine played a key role in menu planning. Cattle cooks infused that style of cooking to create chili.

It was and still is one of America’s favorite winter dishes.

Chili has come a long way.

Vegetarian, white chili, chili mac, and Cincinnati chili are just a sampling of this humble dish. Venison chili is another variation and is popular on the Eastern Shore.

Chili has surpassed the boundaries

of conventionalism and this is a good thing.

Chili can be served by itself, over rice, pasta, or a baked potato. There are no boundaries when it comes to pleasing one’s taste buds.

The following chili recipe is made with chunks of venison as opposed to ground venison. I find it makes a heartier and more interesting chili.

Ground beef can be used as a substitute, and chunks of sirloin raises the bar of sophistication.

In addition, carrots, zucchini and yellow squash are pureed and added to the chili. Over an extended period of cooking time, they will break down and become a natural thickener.

Baby portabellas are also added. Chili has a tendency to be one note,

and this addition adds variance. This step is optional.

The following recipe will make one big pot. Chili is easy to make but it is time consuming.

Chili freezes very well and for this reason I make it one big batch. Enjoy!

Venison Chili

Ingredients

5 pounds venison roast, cut into cubes

1 pound Italian sweet sausage, casing removed and crumbled

1 pound Italian hot sausage, casings removed and crumbled

5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

6 large cloves garlic, minced

5 large yellow onions, coarsely chopped

8 stalks celery (including the leaves) chopped

5 assorted bell peppers, (red, orange, yellow and green), seeded and cored

2 small zucchinis, seeds removed a cut into quarters

2 small yellow squashes, seeds removed and cut into quarters

5 carrots, peeled and cut into quarters

20 ounces baby portobellos, cleaned and sliced

2 quarts chicken broth

2 quarts beef broth

3 tablespoons veal demi-glace (optional)

2 (12 oz.) cans of favorite amber beer

2 (28 oz.) cans whole tomatoes, seeded, and chopped

10 (1.25 ounce) favorite chili seasoning packets

4 tablespoons dried oregano

2 teaspoons ground cumin

4 bay leaves

2 (15.25 oz.) cans of dark kidney beans, drained

1 (15.25 oz.) can of black beans, drained

1 (15.25 oz.) can of cannellini beans, drained

3 tablespoons corn starch

4 ½ tablespoons water

1. In a large Dutch oven or pressure cooker, sauté venison in olive oil over medium heat until it obtains a nice sear. Set aside.

2. Repeat this process for the sausages.

3. Add the venison, broths, demiglace, and beer to the Dutch oven and simmer for one hour with the lid on, stirring occasionally.

4. In the meantime, in small amounts, place the onions, peppers, squash and zucchinis in a food processor, and pulse until chopped. Set aside.

5. Place carrots in the Dutch oven and pulse until they are finely chopped. Set aside.

6. When the meat has simmered for one hour, remove the lid, add the remaining ingredients except for the cornstarch and water and continue cooking until the venison is tender, approximately one hour.

7. Combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. When the chili is almost done, add the slurry to thicken it.

8. Serve chili with favorite condiments.

Secret Ingredient – Choice. “The strongest principle of growth lies in the human choice.” – George Eliot

Hartman and Carozza united against sex education plan

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) It’s a numbers game for those in Annapolis who find the Comprehensive Health Education Framework bill problematic and right now the numbers aren’t good for stopping it.

Last week, the Worcester County Commissioners took aim at the bill that requires the state’s health and education departments to develop a comprehensive health education framework and includes language that Commissioner Jim Bunting described as “smut.”

Now, this week, Del. Wayne Hartman said he also has a lot of concerns with the “egregious” bill, which is sponsored by Del. Vanessa E. Atterbeary, who chairs the Ways and Means Committee on which Hartman

sits.

“The bill goes way beyond what the curriculum should be in our schools,” Hartman said. “Our parents should be the ones in the children’s lives teaching many of the things in that bill. Different things are going to be taught at what they call age-appropriate levels but who’s determining those levels?”

Acknowledging the uphill battle opponents to the bill have ahead of them, Hartman said the goal right now is to work toward an acceptable compromise.

“We don’t (appear) to have the number (of votes) to top it, but we’re certainly trying to make it better.”

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza said in a text message that she is also against the bill.

“(The Education, Energy, and the

Hartman upholding infrastructure priorities

Environment Committee) heard the Senate-version of the bill … and I pointedly questioned the bill sponsor and state superintendent about their support of the bill,” she said. “I strongly oppose this bill, and I highlighted in the hearing that local boards of education, local superintendents, and thousands of Maryland parents also strongly oppose the bill.”

She added that she’s received many calls, emails and private Facebook messages from constituents voicing that strong opposition.

Bunting had specifically pointed to criteria from the report that states that students in the seventh grade should be able to “identify solo, vaginal, anal, and oral sex along with possible outcomes of each” in one example and students in the eighth grade should be able to “identify proper steps to using barrier methods correctly.”

Meanwhile, a marathon hearing in the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee lasted 11 hours on Tuesday as Senate Bill 1, the Gun Safety Act of 2023, was debated.

The bill would greatly restrict where gun permit holders could wear, carry or transport a firearm and requires permit applicants to give the Secretary of State Police their personal information and waive the confidentiality of all private records.

“This bill places unnecessary regulations on our constitutional right to keep and bear arms,”

Carozza said in a statement. “I am disappointed that the General Assembly is pushing for ineffective gun control measures; the focus should be on the repeat, violent offenders using guns, not law-abiding citizens who have had extensive training before being approved for a gun carry permit.”

Carozza was also looking forward to a hearing in the same committee for a bill she sponsors that would require a person charged with a reckless or negligent driving offense that contributed to the death of another to appear in court.

“Not only does the bill ensure that the charges are reviewed by a judge, but it would allow the opportunity for closure for the survivors,” said Carozza. “Anyone whose actions caused someone to lose their life should not be able to simply pay a fine without facing the victim’s survivors.”

In the House of Delegates, Hartman said he met with Lt. Gov. Arena Miller this week to discuss transportation.

“(We want to) keep momentum going with what was started with

Route 90 and Gov. Hogan’s (feasibility) study,” Hartman said. “We want to make sure the new administration is aware of the priority and (Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan) and I had an opportunity to talk to the new administration including the new Secretary of Transportation (Paul Wiedefeld). It was a very productive meeting.”

Hartman said that he and Meehan also touched on funding renovations for the widening of Baltimore Avenue and putting in underground utilities to make infrastructure more sustainable in the event of a bad storm.

They also want to see wider sidewalks.

“Five-foot sidewalks with traffic up against them is not ideal,” Hartman said. “And then there are the utility poles in the sidewalks too. There are many obstacles for someone (traversing that) in a wheelchair, for instance. There’s a lot of reason why that’s a priority, as well as securing matching funds from the state.”

Hartman said he was also looking forward to a bill hearing for legislation that will allow out-of-state vendors to participate in the annual OC RV Show in October.

“The outdoor recreational things became very popular during covid so there is a lot of demand for travel trailers and motor homes and things like that,” he said. “It’s important to have (as many) vendors (as possible) there to make the show bigger and better.”

Mary B. Carozza

Wayne Hartman

Support HB 540

House Bill 540, which would institute an advertising income tax credit for small businesses in Maryland, came up for its first hearing Thursday afternoon before the General Assembly’s House Ways and Means Committee.

On this committee sits this district’s Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C), an advocate for small business who we believe will support this measure.

There’s no reason that he or any other member of the legislature should oppose the bill, given its comparatively small fiscal footprint. As written, HB 540 would allow businesses with fewer than 50 employees to claim a state income tax credit against the cost of advertising in a Maryland-based news entity.

To be clear, this newspaper and the several others serving the coastal area would benefit from this measure, which would allow small businesses to claim a credit of up to $1,000 in the first taxable year, and $500 per year after that for up to five years.

Not quite as apparent, perhaps, is the fact that these local newspapers are critical to keeping the public informed about their governments and events in their communities. This bill will help them to continue doing that job at a time when all local media is up against internet advertising giants such as Google and Facebook.

Similarly, small independent businesses are being squeezed by the regional and national corporations that are establishing operations here and they need to raise their public profiles to survive.

This tax credit will help them do that ... to a degree. If anything, this tax break should be bigger — and include an allowance for seasonal employees — and help preserve not just local newspapers, but the many small businesses that need to boost their visibility to remain competitive.

This is a bill that both Republicans and Democrats should be able to support. We strongly urge them to do so and ask local business organizations and the public to call for its passage as well.

Missing Shawn Soper

I never worked with Shawn Soper, who passed away Wednesday night after suffering a serious illness. But I did know him, especially through his work for our competitor, the Maryland Coast Dispatch.

mitment to the communities they served just as seriously as any major league metro reporter or editor would.

By Stewart Dobson

EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson

MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli

STAFF WRITERS ..............Jack Chavez, Mallory Panuska,

Hoffman

ACCOUNT MANAGERS .......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin

SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks

GRAPHIC ARTIST .................................... Kelly Brown

PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts

Although one of the cardinal rules of the news business at any level is never to give your competitor the benefit of your news space, it can’t be helped in this instance because Shawn had a major impact on this publication as well.

Generally, that impact would be expressed like this: “Shawn Soper had the story, so why didn’t you?”

I must have asked that question hundreds of times over the 23 years that Shawn worked on the other side of the aisle, so to speak.

The thing is, though, I knew the answer, as should have anyone who encountered Shawn on the job or counted his weekly bylines.

He was a non-stop working machine of the sort that used to populate the newsrooms of weekly newspapers back in what I call the old days.

My father was one of those people for nearly 50 years. I was probably 12 years old or so before I discovered that not everyone’s father had to go back to the office three nights a week, or had to go out to take a photo, or had to cover something on the weekend.

That was his job and that’s just the way it was with him and many of his contemporaries. They took their work and their com-

That is, perhaps, why I find Shawn’s passing difficult to absorb — he was cut from the same cloth and it bothers me that the number of people like that in this business is dwindling.

I’m not saying our current reporters, or those who worked with Shawn, aren’t just as committed to doing a good job. They are. But he always struck me as the sort who would have been just as comfortable lugging around one of those old five-pound Speed Graphic press cameras back in the 1950s as he was carrying the tiny-by-comparison digital shooter that accompanied him on assignments.

And unlike some modern small market media types who tend to think they’re hot stuff when they decidedly are not, Shawn was always courteous and respectful to others on the scene, and frequently funny.

They just don’t make many like that anymore, and that’s a shame. Sure, there are still a few here and there, but they’re disappearing, as are the once plentiful independent small newspapers that employed them.

As unusual as it might seem for me to devote this much space to recognizing someone I didn’t know as well as I would have liked, it remains that Shawn was one of us — a very small contingent of people who do what we do because we like it and believe in it.

While our sense of loss cannot compare to that of his family, close friends and co-workers, it’s still a sad day for all of us who make a living in this business.

That’s because we respected him for what he did and how he did it ... the old-fashioned way.

Military learns much from battle with Erwin Rommel

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) This week, 80 years ago, the American GIs had their first encounter with the German “Desert Fox”(der Wüstenfuchs) — Field Marshal Erwin Rommel — the tough veterans of his Deutsch-Italienishe Panzermarmee, the vaunted German 88 mm artillery guns and the monstrous new Tiger tanks. The Americans learned some valuable lessons.

After the defeat of Field Marshal Rommel’s Deutsch-Italienishe Panzermarmee in Egypt and the Allied invasion of French North Africa, on the other side of the African continent,

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Commercial boat ramp use, parking not at odds

Editor,

At Tuesday’s County Commissioners meeting (Feb. 7) we finally heard the Recreation and Parks Department’s proposal for opening our public recreational boat ramps to commercial users and creating a fee-based permit system for all users of the public boat ramps throughout the county.

This is becoming a divisive issue, but it shouldn’t be.

Parking and opening the recreational boat ramps to commercial use are separate issues and should remain separate.

Parking at the West Ocean City commercial harbor and other popular recreational ramps can be difficult during peak weekends, occasionally leading to confrontations and calls for police intervention.

Whatever the solution is for managing overflow parking at the commercial harbor and our most heavily used recreational boat ramps, we should not ignore public safety considerations.

More commercial vehicle traffic speeding to get to a ramp and more

the Axis had, belatedly, transferred nearly a quarter million men and 850,000 tons of supplies and equipment, with the permission of the French government, to the French colony of Tunisia.

If even half those supplies and reinforcements had been provided to Field Marshal Rommel in July 1942, when he requested them, the tide would have turned, and Axis forces under his command would have taken the Suez Canal. Now the Axis forces were being squeezed from both sides, and those supplies and reinforcements would be squandered.

The Deutsch-Italienishe Panzer-

Continued on Page 56

overflow parking on narrow residential roads serving more rural boat ramps are not solutions.

They would be a public safety problem.

Much of this discussion is being driven by one attorney representing one commercial operator whose annual special permits to take clients out to shoot cow nose rays are expiring.

We should let them expire.

He can operate without opening the recreational boat ramps to commercial users, as the staff is advocating.

Commissioner Bunting knows how popular our boat ramps are among recreational users—he hears the complaints due to overcrowded parking lots and roads clogged by out-of-state boat trailers.

He suggested the staff focus on nonresident parking and not bow to the legal pressure to open recreational ramps up more to commercial users, who he said should obtain special use permits limited to specific, short-term activities.

We’ll see how the staff responds at the next meeting of the Commissioners.

Stephen Katsanos South Point

American M3 Lee Crew, Tunisia, 1942

marmee, located in the south of Tunisia, occupied the Mareth Line, on Feb. 15, 1943. It had been constructed by the French in the 1930s as a precaution to any Italian invasion of their Tunisian colony and was located 80 miles inside the Tunisian border.

The Panzermarmee consisted of the Deutsches Afrikakorps and the Italian XX Motorized, and XXI Infantry, Corps. The glory days of the Deutsches Afrikakorps were long gone. With most of its veterans buried, its leaders captured or dead, and most of its equipment destroyed at El Alamein, and the 21st Panzerdivision stripped from it, it was a mere shadow of its former self.

The army also included the remnants of the elite Ramcke Parachute Brigade. Recognizing the Italian contribution, the army was renamed First Italian Army on Feb. 23 and placed under the command of Giovanni Messe, generally acknowledged as the best Italian field general.

In the north of Tunisia, the new troops that were arriving were organized into the Fifth Panzerarmee under the command of Hans-Jürgen

von Arnim. Gen. von Arnim’s Fifth Panzerarmee was combined with Gen. Messe’s First Italian Army to form Armeegruppe Afrika, briefly commanded by Field Marshal Rommel.

Tunisia is dominated by a mountain range — the Eastern Dorsal — which runs north to south, parallel to, and about 70 miles from, the coast. There were several passes that led through the mountains to the coast. One was Faid Pass. The Allies had occupied it in November 1942. The Axis recognized that Allied troops coming through the pass could separate the two Axis armies and cut off Gen. Messe’s First Italian Army from supplies now coming into the ports of Tunis and Bizerte.

On Feb. 1, 1943, the 21st Panzer Division, commanded by HansGeorge Hildebrandt, seized the pass from the French XIX Corps, commanded by Gen. Alphonse Juin.

Ever the gambler, Field Marshal Rommel decided on a bold strategy to address the Axis’ deteriorating situation in North Africa. Since the Allied Eighth Army, under Gen. Bernard Montgomery, was not expected to,

and did not, move very quickly, Field Marshal Rommel decided to hold the Mareth Line in front of General Montgomery’s Eighth Army with infantry units, while his mobile troops struck the predominately American forces near Kasserine Pass.

Field Marshal Rommel’s plan envisioned that both Axis armies would be involved, and with a pincer movement, would capture the huge Allied supply depot at Tébessa, Algeria, surround the Allies and annihilate them. Tébessa is located 15 miles west of the Algerian-Tunisian border and today has a population of 650,000.

However, Gen. von Arnim was more conservative than the “Desert Fox.” Although, Field Marshal Rommel had ultimately convinced his formerly recalcitrant Italian allies to follow his lead, he had only been able to do so by demonstrating the success which his audacity had brought, and by recognizing the limitations of those allies, primarily in equipment and transportation.

By the end of his two years in North Africa, even though the Panzermarmee Afrika had been virtually destroyed at El Alamein, most of the

Italian soldiers would willingly follow and obey Germany’s youngest Field Marshal — “der Wüstenfuchs.”

In von Arnim, however, he found a different attitude. Gen. von Arnim was of Prussian nobility, older than Field Marshal Rommel, fresh from the Eastern Front, not impressed by the desert exploits of the young Swabian upstart in this backwater theater and probably jealous of his field marshal’s baton.

Consequently, cooperation between the two was very difficult. Although Kasserine Pass is considered an Axis victory, because of the lack of cooperation from von Arnim, it was not what it could have been. Even then, it would probably have only served to prolong the demise of the Axis position in North Africa by a few months, even if it had been com-

Continued on Page 57

OC offering beach district plants to public once again

(Feb. 17, 2023) For the 18th year, the Town of Ocean City will be offering beach district plants to the public for planting in the secondary dune area.

The plants being offered are hardy plants that tolerate the harsh environment of the ocean front areas.

In addition, these plants provide habitat enhancement, food and shelter, water quality treatment and erosion control to the secondary dune area, which tends to be overlooked and needs attention.

“We began this program to help create habitat and prevent erosion of the area behind the dune, which was in need of attention,” said Town of Ocean City Environmental Engineer Gail Blazer. “The plants are very beneficial to the stability of the dune system and help with erosion and scour. Our residents and property owners love the program and it benefits the environment and the beach, so it is a win for everyone.”

Ocean front and ocean side residents will have the opportunity to order plants that will need to be picked up at a predetermined date and time.

Suitable plants to add to a secondary dune area include beach grass, bayberry, rugosa rose, beach plum, high tide bush, red cedar and panic grass.

Applications are now being accepted. The deadline is Feb. 24.

For more information or to receive an application, contact Joann Landon at 410-289-8887 or email JLandon@oceancitymd.gov.

Also, more information is provided by visiting https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/planningcommunity-development/.

Continued from Page 56

pletely successful, given the numerical and materiel superiority of the Allies, which would have overwhelmed the Axis, as it did at El Alamein.

The force facing the Axis on the western side of Tunisia was Lt. Gen. Kenneth Anderson’s British First Army, consisting of two corps of Commonwealth troops and one each of French and American.

On the morning of Feb. 14, the Panzers of Baron Friedrich von Broich’s 10th and Gen. Hildebrandt’s 21st Panzerdivisiones, delivered their St. Valentine’s Day greetings to the green Americans at Zidi Bou Zid, an American communications hub and supply depot.

The American corps commander, Gen. Lloyd Fredendall had dug himself in 80 miles from the front. He made his troop displacements from his headquarters with little to no regard for terrain, or the advice of the commanders on the scene.

The Americans, who had just beaten the French in Morocco and Algeria rather easily, were overconfident and undertrained for what they were about to receive. Lt. Col. John Waters, son-in-law of Maj. Gen. George S. Patton Jr., had told his men, “We did very well against the scrub team. Next week we hit the Germans. When we make a showing against them, you may congratulate yourselves.”

There would be no congratulations. In fact, Col. Waters was captured, and spent the rest of the war as a prisoner of the Reich. In addition to Col. Waters, the two Panzer divisions killed, wounded or captured 1,000 American soldiers and destroyed 100 tanks.

Field Marshal Rommel then sent Baron von Leibenstein’s DAK into action, and on Feb. 17, it captured Thelepte Airfield and 50 tons of much needed fuel and lubricants. By this point Gen. Fredendall’s II Corps had lost 2,546 men, 103 tanks, 280 vehicles, 18 field guns, three antitank guns and an anti-aircraft battery.

Baron von Leibenstein’s DAK, and the two additional Panzer divisions, jointly assaulted Kasserine Pass on Feb. 19, 1943. Unlike Gen. Fredendall, Field Marshal Rommel led from the front, as was his custom. And as usual, the presence of “der Wüstenfuchs” inspired his soldiers.

As the Axis units passed through Kasserine Pass, they could see the burning hulks of 22 American tanks and 30 half-tracks. But more and more Allied units were joining the fight and the Axis fuel and ammunition was getting lower and lower. Finally, on Feb. 23, after pushing the Americans back 50 miles, and giving them a thrashing, “der Wüstenfuchs” called it off. It was his last victory.

The Americans had suffered 6,000 casualties and the loss of 183 tanks.

This was more than 20 percent of their force — an unacceptable number. Axis losses were 2,000 and 34 tanks.

In his report to Army Chief-ofStaff George C. Marshall, Allied Commander Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “Our soldiers are learning rapidly. I assure that the troops that come out of this campaign are going to be battle wise and tactfully efficient. They are now mad and ready to fight. All our people, from the very highest to the very lowest, have learned that this is not a child’s game and are ready and eager to get down to business.”

As for Gen. Fredenall, British Gen. Sir Harold Alexander remarked to Ike, “I’m sure you must have better men than that.” Gen. Ernest N. Harmon described him as a, “... physical and moral coward.” On March 6, Gen. Fredenall was replaced by Maj. Gen. George S. Patton Jr. Gen. Patton would not dig in 80 miles from the front!

This was the first battle which Ernie Pyle covered.

Next month: The Third Battle of Kharkov

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

MELVIN FRIEDMAN

Ocean City

Dr. Melvin “Maish” Friedman passed away in the comfort of his home in Ocean City, Maryland, surrounded by family, on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023 at the age of 86.

Melvin was universally liked and revered by his community. He lived a life filled with love, generosity and kindness, always putting others before himself. He was a true friend to all who knew him.

He graduated on the Dean’s List from the University of Maryland’s School of Pharmacy despite having a severe hearing impairment.

Melvin, commonly referred to as Doc, was a hard-working, successful, businessman who owned Linden Pharmacy in Baltimore before moving to Ocean City, Maryland, where he owned businesses for over 30 years.

Following his retirement, he was the chairman of the Ocean City Community Health Fair in partnership with AARP for over 17 years.

As a bilateral recipient of Cochlear implants, he was an ambassador for new patients seeking implant surgery.

After only six months of knowing each other, he married the love of his

life, Jackie Friedman (nee Hoffman). For the next 61 years, they were always by each other’s side enjoying the simple pleasures of life and remaining devoted to one another.

Together, they had four children, Jill (Ernest) Slovon, Steven (Sandra) Friedman, Brian (Lisa) Friedman, and Barry (Kim) Friedman; and nine grandchildren, Stephanie (Jeff) Adler, Erin Slovon, Abby Friedman, Mattie Friedman, Halle Friedman, Reese Friedman, Bryce Friedman, Brandon Friedman and Sydney Friedman.

His family will forever cherish the memories they shared with their Pop Pop.

Maish was born and raised in a tight-knit Jewish community in Baltimore where traditions and values were passed down from generation to generation.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Kenneth Friedman, Shirley Sohmer and Irving Friedman; and his loving parents, Lena and Samuel Friedman.

His family was everything to him, and he made sure to stay connected over the years.

Melvin will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will always remember his warm smile, intelligence, silly antics, determination and unwavering spirit – he was a true mensch.

His legacy of love and kindness

will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

Services were at Sol Levinson’s Chapel in Pikesville, Maryland 21208, on Monday, Feb. 13, 2023. Interment was at Shaarei Tfiloh Cemetery.

Please omit flowers. Contributions in his memory may be sent to Cochlear Implant Awareness Foundation (http://www.ciafonline.org/).

Please refer to Sol Levinson’s website for additional shiva dates and times.

CLARENCE EBE HUDSON Bishopville

On Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, Clarence Ebe Hudson, loving husband and father, was called home at the age of 86.

Clarence was a member of the first graduating class of Stephen Decatur High School in 1955, making him the first in his family to graduate high school.

Clarence spent most of his career working with his brother, Bob Hudson, building homes in Ocean City and the surrounding areas, finishing his carpentry career at the age of 76 working for Kenny Baker and daughter, Anne Marie, at the Francis Scott Key Motel.

He spent all of his life around the water. Clarence was an avid hunter and fisherman spending most of his youth combing the shores of the river for soft shells, fishing nets and crab pots with his father, and building truck bodies in the family barn.

Clarence met the love of his life, Barbara, at the age of 21. He won Barbara’s heart with his blue eyes, Bishopville charm, and smooth dance moves.

Clarence and Barbara spent their weekends with their children and friends camping at Tom’s Cove Campground in Chincoteague, Virginia.

All Clarence and Barbara had to do was show up at the Clubhouse and the band would play “WipeOut” to get the party started.

Later in life, Barbara and Clarence returned to camping with their daughters and grandkids. He spent many hours with his family fishing on his boat or surf fishing on Assateague Island.

Clarence loved his family. He taught his family so much during his lifetime; the importance of hard work and determination, fearlessness; and never letting age stop you from enjoying life.

As his grandkids and Clarence would say, “He was the best.”

Clarence is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara; his daughter, Brenda, widow of Dean Wooten of Bishopville; his daughter, Terry and Patrick Townsend of Parsonsburg; his grandchildren, Megan and husband, Michael Clifford, Gabrielle Wooten, Taylor Townsend and Ryan Townsend; numerous nieces and nephews and his beloved dog, Bentley.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Archie and Mary Hudson of Bishopville; his daughter, Margaret Ann; his siblings, Bob, Grace, Jack and Elsie; his beloved dog, Pudge, and his cat, Spotty.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Feb. 21, 2023, at BishopHastings Funeral Home, 19 South Main Street, Selbyville, Delaware. Friends and family are invited to visit from 12-1 p.m.

Flowers are welcomed, or donations can be made to Assateague Mobile Sportfishermen’s Association, where Clarence was a lifetime member, P.O. Box 106, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

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

DR.

Melvin Friedman

Clarence Hudson

Sports

Recreation

Decatur wrestling regional and state dual champions

By Lisa Capitelli Staff Writer

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Stephen Decatur wrestling team won its fourth consecutive regional dual title last Thursday, then two days later, captured its fourth straight state championship.

Decatur battled C. Milton Wright in the 2A East Region semifinals on its home mat in Berlin, and came out on top, 43-27.

The Seahawks earned victories in the first six matches to take a 31-0 lead. Decatur then won three of the next four to extend its advantage to 43-3, then forfeited the final four matches to save wrestlers for the championship round.

Sophomores Juan Hinojosa (113) and Aaron August (126), junior Reid Caimi (132) and senior captain Logan Intrieri (138) pinned their opponents.

Freshman Elijah Collick scored a 12-4 major decision at 106 pounds.

Sophomore Liam Hugues won his 120-pound match, 3-1. Senior Evan Haworth (152) and junior captain Gavin Solito (160) outscored their opponents, 11-6 and 5-3, respectively.

C. Milton Wright forfeited the 170pound match.

“We went against them a couple weeks ago and the score was pretty decisive in our favor, but they came out with some guys that wanted to

win and they moved some things around in the lineup,” Coach August said. “Our guys had tough matches. It doesn’t help when you have to wrestle again in 30 minutes, but that’s what they’re all about. They persevered and showed a lot heart.”

On the other mat, Parkside defeated Rising Sun, 42-32, to meet Decatur in the finals.

Collick started things off with a pin at 113 pounds. Parkside won the next two by pin and decision to take a 9-6 lead.

Caimi (132) and freshman Alex Riehl (138) pinned their opponents.

“Alex Riehl is a freshman - I think he has like six matches this year on varsity - and he’s losing, he’s on his back and he comes back and he gets a pin,” August said. “I think that was the turning point. I think that got a lot of fire under us and maybe took a little wind out of their sails.”

Intrieri then earned a 14-2 major decision at 145 pounds. Solito shut out his 152-pound competition, 7-0, to put Decatur ahead, 25-8.

“Solito, I can’t say enough good things about that kid. Him and Logan have been leaders this whole year on and off the mat,” August said. “I’m glad that we have them.”

Parkside got a decision at 160 pounds, but Decatur took the next three matches – junior Parker Intrieri (170), 9-3 decision; sophomore Nate

McDaniel (182), pin; and junior Kole Kohut (195), pin.

Leading 40-11, Decatur forfeited the next two matches.

Parkside forfeited the final match, 106 pounds, to Decatur.

The Seahawks won, 46-23, to secure the 2A East Region dual title.

“Parkside came to win. They beat a tough Rising Sun team. They had some guys step up and beat some guys they had lost to or some ranked guys in the state,” August said. “I knew it wasn’t going to be easy. A lot of those matches could have gone either way and our guys just came out on top.

“They wanted it. I think they expected to be at North Point on Saturday. They wanted to get there,” August added.

Decatur took a trip to North Point High School in Waldorf on Saturday for the 2A state dual championship.

The Seahawks’ met Middletown in the semifinal round.

Parker Intrieri logged a 15-4 major decision at 170 pounds.

Middletown tallied two decisions, a pin, and a forfeit by Decatur in the next four matches to pull ahead 18-4.

“They were just stronger up top than we were,” August said.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur freshman Alex Riehl pinned Parkside’s James Fisher in their 138-pound match of the 2A East Region dual finals last Thursday in Berlin.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Stephen Decatur wrestling team won its fourth consecutive regional dual title last Thursday in its home gym in Berlin.

Decatur swim teams set to compete in regional meet

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Stephen Decatur swim teams will compete in the 3A-2A-1A East Region championship at the Arundel Swim Center this Saturday.

“This week, we are doing less volume but more speed swimming, focusing on starts and turns, and training our mind to be prepared for races,” Decatur Coach Kristina Watts said on Tuesday. “Our goal for regionals is for the girls’ team to place second in the region, the boys’ team to place first, and to get season-best times or close … [and] to send close to everyone who is swimming [to states].”

The Lady Seahawks came in sec-

ond place last year behind Easton, who is favored again this season. The Decatur boys’ squad finished in sixth place during the 2022 regional meet.

“We received a draft of the meet program [on Monday] and our swimmers look to be seated well to qualify for states, but anything can happen at regionals so we are doing our best to be prepared physically and mentally,” Watts said.

The top three finishers in each event will automatically qualify for the state championship meet, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 25 at the University of Maryland College ParkEppley Recreation Center. The individuals and relay teams with the next 12 best regional times statewide also advance to the championship.

Decatur’s reserve players shine in win over Mardela

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Feb. 17, 2023) The starters took a little break and Stephen Decatur’s reserve players were the stars of the show on Tuesday on the road against the Mardela Warriors boys’ basketball team.

“We gave the other players an opportunity to get a lot of time on the court. They got the experience to play a full game,” Decatur Coach BJ Johnson said after the 85-41 victory. “All of the reserve players did a good job, and it was nice to see the starters cheering for them.”

Decatur scored 21 points in the first quarter and held Mardela to three. The visiting Seahawks added 24 points in the second quarter to the Warriors’ 12, to go into the halftime break ahead, 45-15.

After three quarters, the Berlin squad held a 63-31 advantage.

“I was impressed with the way they shared the ball and played defense. They worked hard on playing the right way, and everybody scored so it was a great night overall,” Johnson said.

All eight players who dressed scored points. Sophomore Noah Tucker led Decatur with 26. He also had seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block.

Senior Davion Rounds chipped in with 15 points, nine rebounds, six assists and one steal.

Junior Lukas Loring added 12

Decatur wrestling team to host Bayside Conf. tourney

Hinojosa then earned a 23-9 major decision at 106 pounds, followed by a pin by Hugues at 113 pounds.

Logan Intrieri (132), Solito (152) and Haworth (160), recorded 7-5, 13-8, 11-5, 9-5 and 9-2 decision, respectively.

points, 10 rebounds, three steals and two assists.

Sophomore Zakhari Baker contributed with 12 points, two steals and a rebound.

The victory was the 11th straight for Decatur. Johnson said Wednesday he hoped to close out the regular season with 12 consecutive wins going into playoffs.

The team was scheduled to play its final regular-season game yesterday, Thursday, against the Parkside Rams on its home court in Berlin. Decatur seniors were to be recognized before the match.

“It would be great for the seniors to go out on a regular-season win,” he added.

Seeding for the MPSSAA regional tournament will take place on Tuesday. Decatur will compete in the 3A South Region II division.

First-round regional tournament action will kick off either Friday, Feb. 24 or Saturday, Feb. 25.

Hampered by injuries at the beginning of the season, Johnson said once his players became healthy, the group “came together well and did what we were expected to do.”

“We want to stay healthy. The main goal is to win the region and state championship,” he continued.

“We look forward to accomplishing those goals.”

To advance far in the playoffs, Johnson said the Seahawks need to hone in on defense and rebounding, “which we’ve been preaching all year,” he added.

“And taking care of the basketball. If we do those three things we’ll go far,” he said.

Collick tied it up, 18-18, with a 9-0 major decision at 120 pounds.

Middletown got a major decision and decision in the next two matches to take a 25-18 lead.

Logan Intrieri pinned his 138pound opponent, then senior ZJ Lyons won, 6-3, at 145 pounds.

“The turning point was ZJ Lyons’ pivotal match. It put us up by two,” August said. “ZJ came through big. He wrestled smart and kept his composure. Then, Evan beat their captain to put us up by five.”

Haworth (152) and Solito (160), scored 7-4 and 15-9 decisions, respectively, to give Decatur the advantage.

“It came down to the last match. If they got a pin they would win … We were up five with Solito left,” August said. “I knew if we left it with Gavin he would wrestle his heart out.”

Decatur won, 33-25.

“We moved some people around to saves some points. We tried to squeeze out every point we could. They’re a really good team,” August said. “We knew it was going to be close and we matched up really good with them. Every match was back and forth.”

After a “stressful” competition against Middletown, Decatur dominated Sparrows Point in the final round, winning 49-18, to bring home its fourth consecutive state dual team title.

Kohut (220), Hugues (113), Collick (120) and Parker Intrieri (170) pinned their opponents.

Riehl earned a 10-1 major decision at 138 pounds.

McDaniel (182), Caimi (126),

Sparrows Point forfeited the 106pound match.

“I thought we wrestled hard. Some of the matches were close,” August said. “You never expect to go into a finals and win by 31. The kids were super excited and now we’ve got to keep on moving.”

Sparrows Point had defeated Decatur, 42-36, in January during the Iron Horse Duals tournament.

“Iron Horse was tough, and we lost three matches there and I think that helped us re-focus on what we needed to do better,” August said.

“I’m glad we lost to them at Iron Horse. It made us take them more serious in the finals. Our kids wanted to win, to go out and get that [Iron Horse Duals] win back.”

Decatur will host the Bayside Conference championship this Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m., at the Berlin School.

Decatur won the Bayside Conference championship title by more than 100 points last year. Decatur took home the Bayside Conference championship 10 consecutive seasons (2002-2011), then again in 2017, 2019, 2020 and 2022. There was no wrestling season in 2021 because of covid.

August said the goals is for the team to win again, to have six or seven in the finals – all having the potential to win – and the rest place top four in their weight classes.

The top four in each weight class automatically advance to the regional tournament.

“The goal is to get all the guys to regionals,” August said.

The cost for spectators is $15.

BJ Johnson

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur junior captain Gavin Solito shut out his 152-pound competition, Aiden Pusey, 70, last Thursday in Berlin during the regional dual finals.

Continued from Page 59

Decatur Lady Seahawks to compete for Bayside title

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Stephen Decatur girls’ basketball team celebrated Valentine’s Day Tuesday night with a 63-14 victory on the road over the Mardela Warriors.

“It was a full team effort,” Decatur Coach Scott Kurtz said. “Nine of 10 girls scored, we passed well, rebounded well and defended well as a team. Hopefully the team dynamics will carry into the playoffs.”

The Lady Seahawks led 15-2 at the end of the first quarter. At halftime, the Berlin squad was on top, 31-7.

After three quarters, Decatur held a 49-10 advantage.

Senior captain Mayah Garner was the team’s top producer with 16 points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks.

Freshman Paityn Tyre chipped in with 10 points, eight rebounds and one steal.

Mallards struggle with injuries and holding late leads

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Worcester Prep boys’ basketball team struggled this season with injuries and finishing out games strong to secure victories.

The Mallards wrapped up the regular season, losing to the Saints Peter and Paul Sabres, 64-57, last Thursday in Berlin. Worcester’s seniors were recognized before the match as it was the team’s last competition on its home court.

“It was one of the better games we played this year,” said Prep Coach Pat Moylan.

Baskets were traded in the first quarter, but the Prep squad held an 18-15 advantage at the end. At halftime, Worcester led 28-27.

The Sabres scored 26 points in the third quarter to the Mallards’ nine, to pull ahead, 53-37.

“We got off to a bad start. We didn’t keep up in the beginning of the third quarter,” Moylan said. “We didn’t score and we didn’t stop them. We were down 14, 16, then we came back and cut it to five points, then some turnovers. We had a good chance to get it to three or two.”

Worcester outscored its opponent, 20-11, in the final quarter, but it wasn’t enough of a push to make up the

Junior Alexis Berrie had eight points, five rebounds, five assists and a steal.

Sophomore Sam Boger contributed with eight points, four rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal.

Decatur was in a back-and-fourth battle with the Parkside Rams on Wednesday in Salisbury, the final game of the regular season.

Parkside came from behind late in the competition to win, 65-63, but Decatur will still represent the Bayside South in the conference championship on Tuesday night at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury at 6 p.m.

Garner led Decatur with 18 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and a block.

Senior captain Shelby Rosemond had 15 points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists.

The Seahawks, 17-3, will face the Bayside North champions, the 19-0 Kent Island Buccaneers, for the Bayside title.

Kurtz said his players need to “stay out of foul trouble, so we can play our style of basketball, and rebound better.”

SD indoor track athletes face strong regional competition

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Feb. 17, 2023) The Stephen Decatur indoor track and field athletes faced strong competition during the MPSSAA 3A East Regional Championship meet, held last Tuesday at the Baltimore Armory.

“The level of competition at this meet far surpassed anything either Decatur team faced during the regular season.

Northern from Calvert County dominated the meet, winning for both the boys’ and girls’ teams,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel. “Overall, both [Decatur] teams worked hard to compete on a challenging track against one of the toughest regions in the state. The Baltimore Armory is not an optimal venue for a track meet as teams slipped and slid all over the surface of the track. During the boys’ 4x200-meter relay, five teams were disqualified as they could not keep their footing around the sharp turns

and slid out of their lanes into other teams.”

The Decatur girls’ 4x400-meter relay team of juniors Macy Woroniecki and Tiara McDonald, sophomore Nevaeh Horton and freshman Ellie Cheynet were the only ones to score points for the school. The group came in eighth place in the race (5:02.58).

Hommel was pleased with the athletes’ performance this season.

“Our team is young, however, so I am optimistic for upcoming seasons,” she said. “We are only losing [to graduation] five male seniors – [there are] no female seniors [this year] –and there are several underclassmen that have real potential to be competitive next year.

“Freshman Ellie Cheynet in particular is one to watch as she qualified in four events for the regional meet, only losing to upperclassmen in the 500m run and three other freshmen in the 800m run,” Hommel continued. “She is extremely competitive and is a dedicated team member. I look forward to seeing what she is able to accomplish in the future.”

deficit.

“One of the problems, especially in later games, was no scoring options. No one taking the lead to score,” Moylan said. “If you don’t score points you can’t win games. No one stepped up to take charge.”

Senior Jack Gardner led Worcester in the final game with 15 points, hitting five threes. He also blocked two shots and had one rebound and

Scott Kurtz Brenda Hommel

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Worcester Prep senior captain Harrison Humes takes the ball to the basket during last Thursday’s game against Saints Peter and Paul in Berlin.

Mallards played hard all season

Continued from Page 61

one steal.

Senior captain Griffin Jones chipped in with 10 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, six steals and one block.

Senior captain Harrison Humes contributed with 10 points, seven rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.

Senior JR Hamer added seven points, five rebounds, three blocks and one assist.

“I told the boys after the game that I was proud of the way they played all year – their effort, they played hard, gave it their all, and they’re just good kids,” Moylan said. “The expectations were higher than what the results were this season. The coaches felt it as well as the kids.”

Worcester finished the season with a 3-11 record.

“There were a lot of games that could have gone either way. We allowed teams to come back and take the lead and win the game,” Moylan said. “We got shots, but we didn’t make them … We didn’t have a lot of guys with a lot of game experience. We only had three guys with significant time going into the season.”

WP Lady Mallards showed improvement this season

The team will graduate six players, five of whom were starters.

Despite losing key players, Moylan said there are several talented underclassmen he will count on to help the team succeed next year. The JV program also has a solid season, and some of those players may move up to varsity next year.

“I’m looking forward to next year,” he said.

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Feb. 17, 2023) Worcester Prep Coach Mike Kelley saw huge improvement from the girls on his basketball team this season.

“It was a fun season. They worked really hard, they learned a lot,” Kelley said. “As a coach, to see improvement every day is a very positive feeling. It makes you feel good about what we’re doing out here, turning these players into hopefully players that love the game of basketball and treasure it and enjoy this high school experience.”

Worcester lost its final match of the season, 60-27, to the Saints Peter and Paul Sabres last Thursday in Berlin.

“They’re a senior,- junior-heavy team, they’ve been together for three, four years, they’re a good team and it was a wonderful challenge at the end of the season,” Kelley said.

Prep freshman, starting point guard Sydney Mize led the team with nine points, three rebounds, two steals and an assist.

“To come out after playing middle school, eighth grade basketball to varsity, she’s had tremendous growth, she had a great game tonight and just to see her grow from start to finish is going to be a huge help for our future, even as a sophomore point guard for us,” Kelley said.

Junior Esther Mehilli had five points and two steals. Senior Caitlyn Hoen chipped in with four points and five rebounds.

“We took our lumps this year and we’ll be ready moving forward,” Kelley said.

Worcester finished the season with a 6-9 record.

“A couple of losses in there that were a little hard to swallow, but overall when I look back to the first night against Salisbury School and we couldn’t break the press for anything, and these last two games we played the press was nothing,” Kelley said. “We were able to pass the ball, move it up, so when I see that kind of growth in areas like that it makes me feel good about what happened on the season.”

The team was young this year. Of the 15 players on Kelley’s roster, 10 were underclassmen (seven freshmen and three sophomores).

“I saw a ton of improvement, especially with the freshmen getting a lot of minutes this year. Still a lot of growth to go, but certainly the limited time we had out here to prepare for games and the season we certainly did a good job of getting some growth in there,” Kelley said. “Five freshmen got significant minutes, close to half a game or more. Two played almost the whole game, every game.”

The team will graduate three players – “two starters who played every minute possible and one energetic spark off the bench” – but Kelley is optimist about the future with the underclassmen getting a year of varsity experience under their belts.

“The next two, three years I’m really looking forward to them. I think we can do a lot of great things as long as we stick together and keep working,” he added.

Pat Moylan

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Worcester Prep senior captain Griffin Jones blows by two Saints Peter and Paul players during last Thursday’s game in Berlin.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Freshman Emily Southard dribbles the ball up the court for Worcester Prep during last Thursday’s game against Saints Peter and Paul in Berlin.

Mike Kelley