2/23/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

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— Page 8

FEBRUARY 23, 2024 PRICELESS

Blueprint for Maryland’s Future County faces hard choices

School program panel says commissioners have tough decisions ahead

Although county government is ahead of other counties in funding parts of the state-mandated overhaul of public education, it needs to play catchup fast in other areas to keep pace with the state

plan’s timeline. That, says the board overseeing the program’s implementation, could require the county to cut funding in other areas to cover the cost of what they need to do. — PAGE 56

Rank and file back closing seasonal program

Many Ocean City police officers began their careers here as summer cops, and while they credit that for what they learned, they agree the time for change has arrived.

— Page 20

YOUR COMMUNITY

Opera award winner: Soprano Katerina Burton, a 2012 graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, captured a top prize in a New York singing competition. – PAGE 57

Foster homes needed: The county Department of Social Services has just six foster care facilities and needs more now.— PAGE 54

Rotary donation: The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club recently bought blankets and hygiene kits for two local nonprofits. — PAGE 63

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY DISPATCH

GREENWAYS

Scott Fox of Mead & Hunt, right, talks to a South Point resident about the development of the Worcester County Greenways Master Plan during a public input meeting Feb. 20 at the Berlin library. Story on page 16.

What is Constant Yield?

And why you might want to know about it

By Stewart Dobson Editor

As town and county governments move from preliminary work in their annual budget-building processes to assigning priorities to their possible spending, the deciding factor in their discussions will be money — how much they have and how they might get more.

These conversations will then turn to property taxes, the greatest and most politically sensitive source of local government revenue in this county since no one likes paying more taxes as a matter of principle.

Two-thirds of Worcester County government’s general fund revenue comes from property taxes, while these same taxes constitute 41% of Ocean City’s general fund in-

come and 37% of Berlin’s.

Because this revenue is the dominant factor in town and county budgets, any shift in the state’s assessment of properties in these districts could have a significant impact on government spending and taxpayers ... depending on the tax rate these governments impose.

This is where something known as the Constant Yield Tax Rate enters the picture.

§ § §

Trying to understand the state’s Constant Yield Tax Rate requires one thing: stop calling it the Constant Yield Tax Rate.

Instead, refer to it as the Do Nothing Tax Rate, the Status Quo Tax Rate or the Same Tax Bill Rate, because that’s what it is: a number the state Department of Assessments and Taxation calculates to show property owners what their local and county tax rates would be if their governments decided to collect roughly the same tax revenue in the fiscal year ahead as they did the year before.

The state sets this number based on the

annual increase or decrease in the total assessed value of real estate in a specific district, with the Do Nothing Rate functioning like a counterbalance on a seesaw.

If the tax base goes up, the Do Nothing Rate goes down until the seesaw is level. Similarly, if the tax base goes down, as it did in 2009, the Do Nothing Rate moves up proportionately. In both cases, however, the taxpayer would see no change in the amount of taxes paid were the Do Nothing Rate to be applied.

For example, let’s say the 2023 assessed value of real property in Town A is $1 million (a ridiculously low number, but we’ll get to that later) and its tax rate is $1 per hundred dollars of assessed value.

That value ($1 million) divided by 100 comes to $10,000, which is then multiplied by the tax rate ($1) to produce $10,000 in revenue for Town A.

But then, the real property in Town A is reassessed by the state and, because of housing demand and other market circumstances, the state raises the total assessable

See DO NOTHING Page 8

SUNDAY

Mayor: OC rejects wind farm aid handout

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) While some coastal communities in Delaware are considering a benefits package from US Wind that could bring $10 million in financial benefits, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan went on record this week to publicly reject a similar offer from the offshore wind company.

Earlier this year, five Delaware communities – Henlopen Acres, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach and South Bethany – began evaluating a community benefits package from US Wind, the company developing wind projects off the coast. As presented in an agreement, each of the five towns would receive $2 million over a 20-year period, paid in $100,000 increments.

The offer was also extended to the

Town of Ocean City, according to a news release issued Wednesday. Meehan, however, said the package came with stipulations that prevented local government officials from speaking out against US Wind’s plans.

“I find it unconscionable that any local officials would consider payment to silence their voice on any issue that directly affects their constituents or their community,” Meehan said in the news release. “In December 2023, I received an email from Jeff Grybowski, Chief Executive Officer for US Wind, offering Ocean City the same opportunity that has been extended to the Delaware Beach Towns. My response was, ‘Respectfully the future of the Town of Ocean City cannot be bought and we intend to continue to do what is necessary to protect the interests of our residents, property

owners and future generations.’”

For some small coastal communities in Delaware, the benefits package could provide significant funding for long-awaited capital projects. In an interview earlier this year, Henlopen Acres Mayor Joni Reich said potential uses include dredging of the community’s marina and drainage improvements.

“The amount of funding being offered is very significant for a town of our size which has an annual budget of $1.1 million,” she said at the time. “If our Commissioners decide to participate in the Agreement, we would determine how to use the funds as part of the regular annual budget process.”

While the community benefits package was formally presented to the Delaware Association of Coastal

Towns (ACT), two members – Lewes and Fenwick Island – were not listed on the agreement presented to the public. In September of 2022, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to not pay dues toward ACT’s hiring of a consultant to interact with the various offshore wind companies.

“Fenwick declined to be involved with hiring a consultant to negotiate a community benefits package with the wind farm companies,” Fenwick Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said in a statement. “We believe as advocates for our community we need to be able to speak freely, openly and without restriction to question the wisdom of moving forward with wind farms off our coast.”

US Wind reports the community benefits package includes a stream of annual payments over 20 years, worth $2 million to each town. The payments would begin if and when US Wind begins construction on its MarWin project. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is expected to issue a decision to approve or disapprove the company’s plans by the fourth quarter of 2024.

“We expect to deliver clean offshore wind power to the Delmarva region for a long time,” Grybowski said in a statement earlier this year. “As a member of this community, we believe it’s important to do what we can to help it thrive. These coastal towns are important to the state of Delaware and beloved by those who enjoy them. US Wind is committed to contributing to their continued health and resilience.”

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HMRA pushes for changes to state insuranace legislation

Organization pushing to exempt seasonal workers

from Md. FAMLI program

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) A local trade organization is seeking changes that could exempt certain seasonal workers from the state’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance program.

changes, clarifications and shifts in the implementation of the program. They said the start date for making contributions would shift from Oct. 1, 2024 to July 1, 2025, while the start date for benefits would move from Jan. 1, 2026 to July 1, 2026.

“We have started the program but did not have the staff and budget until the very end of last session,” said Secretary of Labor Portia Wu. “That is the reason we are seeking some additional time to work on the program.”

Last week, the House Economic Matters Committee and the Senate Finance Committee received testimony on a cross-filed bill that will modify the Maryland Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program. While those in support say the changes will allow for a smooth rollout, officials at the local level continue to share their concerns about the impact the program could have on seasonal employment.

“Our recommendation is that J1/H-2B employees should be excluded from the FAMLI Program and thus excluded from paying into this program, just as they are excluded from paying into Social Security and Medicare,” testimony from Susan Jones, executive director for the Ocean City HotelMotel-Restaurant Association, reads.

Last year, the Maryland General Assembly approved a bill to implement the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program, which would set required contributions - divided equally between employees and employers with 15 or more workers - to receive job protection and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for family medical events. And in January, legislators introduced House Bill 571 (cross-filed with Senate Bill 485) to modify some of the program’s provisions related to the payment of contributions, the calculation of the average weekly wage, the submission of claims, and the use of contributions or other funding by the secretary of labor, among other things.

During last week’s testimony in front of the House Economic Matters Committee, Del. Lily Qi said the changes came from input provided during stakeholder meetings, which were scheduled following last year’s passage of the FAMLI Program. She said the proposed bill would settle a range of issues.

“HB 571 is to further modify the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program that we passed last year,” she told the committee. “It was a milestone piece of legislation that we should all be very proud of.”

Officials told legislators last week they were seeking support of House Bill 571, which makes administrative

Other changes include the definition of wages and enhanced data privacy and protection. The bill also allows the labor department to issue grants to educate the public on the FAMLI Program.

“HB 571 provides the department with additional time and tools needed to implement Family Medical Leave Insurance,” Wu said. “We respectfully request a favorable report.”

Legislators last week also received testimony from those who requested amendments to the bill. In a letter to the Economic Matters Committee, Jones shared her support for the program delay, but voiced concerns that the FAMLI Program could hurt Ocean City’s J-1 visa student workers and H2B employees.

“From the perspective of the J-1/H2B employee, a contribution is being withheld from employees who likely won’t have the opportunity to apply for the benefit,” she wrote.

Jones also shared concerns that the program could lead to fraud. She said instances of fraud were also reported under the Employee Retention Tax Credit, intended to encourage businesses to keep employees on payrolls.

“Will Maryland be vetting all foreign doctors’ reports?” she wrote. “If false claims are filed, these exchange visitors could return to their home country and collect up to $1,000 per week for 12 weeks for EVERY job they worked (J-1/H-2B often work for 2 or more employers during their time here) fraudulently claiming Maryland FAMLI funds.”

Ultimately, Jones asked the committee to amend House Bill 571 to exempt J-1 and H-2B employees from the FAMLI program.

“The way the FAMLI program currently is, an employee could come to work for one day and then go out on FAMLI for 12 or more weeks and the employer will have to protect that job and pay for their benefits, if applicable,” she wrote. “Governor Moore states he wants to make Maryland the best place to start a business, but this plan puts a tremendous burden upon employers. In theory, the FAMLI Program is to help, however, the balance of benefits errs on the side of the employee and ultimately will be detrimental to small businesses unless modifications are made.”

Susan Jones

Do nothing rate counters new asssesments

Continued from Page

value to $1.1 million.

If Town A leaves its tax rate unchanged, it would collect $1,000 more in property taxes for a total of $11,000 but that’s where the state’s Do Nothing Rate comes in.

Each February, the state notifies all counties and towns what their tax rates would be if they wanted to leave their property tax collections as is. In this instance, the state would inform Town A that it could lower the tax rate to 90.91 cents and still bring in roughly $10,000. That 90.91 cents is the Constant Yield or Do Nothing Rate.

Even though the state provides these figures to local governments, their actual purpose is to let property owners know where they and their tax bills stand.

If, for instance, Town A’s elected officials declared, “Good news! We’re leaving the tax rate where it is!” the Do Nothing Rate shows otherwise, since taxpayers whose properties are now valued higher will pay more.

If reassessment raises the value of a home in Town A from $100,000 to $110,000, and Town A sticks with its $1 tax rate, the result would be a tax increase of $100, from $1,000 to $1,100. The Do Nothing Rate, however, would show that this higher value could be countered by an equal drop in the tax rate.

Obviously, this rate applies to whole towns and counties, and not to individual properties, but the principle is the same.

A new wrinkle in the law this year, however, makes finding this Do Nothing number more difficult for

the public. Up until this year, governments had to post the rate in a public notice twice no matter what their tax intentions were.

The new law approved by the Maryland General Assembly last year requires one notice, and then only if counties and towns are advertising a public hearing on their intentions to raise their tax rates from the year before.

What this means for taxpayers is their tax bills could increase without notice because of a reassessment if local governments leave their tax rates as they stand, or anywhere between them and the Do Nothing Rate.

Because of the sharp rise in property values and the corresponding increase in the state’s reassessment of property in the Ocean City tax district, the change in local tax bills

could be significant.

§ § §

Worcester County’s Do Nothing Rate, as computed by the state, is 77.07 cents per hundred dollars of assessed value. That means the county could cut 7.4 cents from its current tax rate of 84.5 cents and still collect the $149.5 million it brought in the year before.

If it stands pat on its current rate, it would see a revenue gain of $14.4 million, taking its real estate tax receipts from $149.4 million to $163.8 million, according to figures compiled by the state Department of Assessments and Taxation.

The same department worksheet shows that the county’s net tax base gained $1.7 billion, going from roughly $17.7 billion in 2023 to $19.4 billion for the new fiscal year. The greatest portion of this increase is because of the surge in property values in the Ocean City tax district, which was reassessed in 2023 for the fiscal year beginning in July.

Largely propelled by market demand, the net assessable value of Ocean City real estate leapt by $1.2 billion in this reassessment, from about $9.6 billion to $10.8 billion.

Consequently, if the Ocean City Council votes to maintain the current tax rate of 45.26 cents per hundred dollars of assessed value, the city would realize a revenue gain of $5.6 million in the upcoming fiscal year.

Its Do Nothing Rate, according to the state, is 40.05 cents, which, if applied to the new tax base would generate $43.2 million in tax income. If, on the other hand, it maintains its current rate of 45.26 cents, it would take in a tax revenue total of $48.9 million.

Obviously, election officials in the towns and county can set their tax rates anywhere they want. Because of the major difference between their current and Do Nothing rates, even establishing a rate somewhere between the two would bring in more money.

Property owners should be aware

See

Reduced tax bill improbable with major expenses ahead

that neither the tax rate nor the assessable base alone makes their tax bills go up or down. It is always some combination of the two, with the Constant Yield or Do Nothing Rate being applied to produce a starting point based on the previous year’s income.

Although the Do Nothing Rate suggests that lower taxes are possible in the year ahead, the odds of that happening lie somewhere between highly improbable and extremely unlikely.

Whether it’s household spending or public spending, seldom does any-

thing cost less. This explains why local governments rarely even contemplate, much less act on, reducing taxes.

Every year also seems to bring new financial challenges, which in the year ahead threaten to consume much of the new revenue Ocean City and Worcester County stand to collect from a tax rate several notches above the Do Nothing minimum.

On Worcester County’s plate this year are raises for teachers, funding elements of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education program and, depending on the outcome of current negotiations with state authorities, the possibility of having to contribute an extra $6 million to the county health department.

Lunch Special: 11am-4pm

$9.99 Pot Roast

Pot Roast Dinner 5pm: $12.99

7pm: Ladies Night

With the exception of the promised raises for teachers, these other obligations are mandated by the state and beyond the county’s control.

Friday:

Lunch Special:

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Thursday: P Dinner ter 14.99 Fried Oys

Saturday:

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Ocean City has its own unique circumstances, the most notable of which is next year’s switch from using seasonal police officers to bolster the department’s ranks for the summer to an expanded full-time operation.

This, too, is the result of state regulations, but it remains that the cost of this departmental conversion will be in the millions of dollars.

Ocean City officials hope that some of this new expense will be covered by adding a penny to the room tax, but there are no guarantees since the exact cost of the expanded department has yet to be defined.

As it is, the towns and county are just getting into the real numbers game and can’t yet say exactly where their budgets are headed.

But because of the Do Nothing or Constant Yield Tax Rate, taxpayers will be able to see the foundations of the budgets they are about to build.

Resort leaders support exhibition driving legislation

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) Ocean City representatives visited Annapolis last week to testify in support of a statewide bill that addresses street racing and exhibition driving.

Last week, both the Judicial Proceedings Committee and the Environmental and Transportation Committee heard testimony on a cross-filed bill that would alter certain penalties and points assessments for motor vehicle violations related to speed racing and exhibition driving. During last Tuesday’s hearing on Senate Bill 442, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan urged legislators to implement statewide legislation similar to one enacted for the resort in recent years.

“I want to tell you that this made a difference, and I think a statewide bill … will make a difference,” he told the Judicial Proceedings Committee. “Because what we saw happening in Ocean City, you are now seeing happen on random occasions throughout the entire state. This legislation will help deter that from happening, just like it did in Ocean City.”

As proposed, the legislation would establish penalties and points assessments for violations related to speed racing, prohibit a person from engaging in exhibition driving on any highway or private property used for driving by the public, and establish certain affirmative defenses to a charge of exhibition driving, among other things.

During testimony last week, Bruce Bereano, Ocean City’s lobbyist, urged lawmakers to issue a favorable report on the proposed bill. He said similar legislation that established a special event zone in Ocean City years ago had been successful. However, he asked the committee to remove any language that would change Ocean City’s law.

“That has worked completely, 100%, and that has been administered fairly, properly and partially,” he said. “This bill, we worked extensively with your chair and your vice chair and also on the House side. There’s full agreement on this bill. I only ask that we have an amendment that consists of leaving Ocean City’s law intact and alone.”

By way of background, town officials came before the state legislature in 2018 seeking a special event zone in Ocean City during select motorized events, including an unsanctioned pop-up car event. The special event zone - which included reduced speed limits, higher fines and altered traffic patterns - was later amended to include the infraction of exhibition driving.

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A vehicle is pictured spinning wheels in Ocean City in 2018 during the unsanctioned H2Oi event that took over resort roads.

Carozza provides weekly legislative update

Student Advocacy Day brings Wor-Wic Community College reps to Annapolis

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) Lawmakers in Annapolis prioritized bills related to education, public safety, and voter laws last week as the 2024 Maryland General Assembly trucks through the 90day session.

House Bill 785, Freedom to Read Act, was discussed at a Feb. 20

Worcester County Board of Education meeting. The legislation creates a standard for funding, which requires local and public school libraries to develop and adopt. It also maintains that books cannot be removed due to “partisan or doctrinal disapproval.”

The Maryland Association of Boards of Education took a position to support the legislation, provided that public school libraries are removed from the bill. WCPS, as a member of MABE, agrees with the proposed adjustments.

According to Sen. Mary Beth

Carozza (R-38C), the Senate Education, Energy, and Environment Committee heard 37 bills this week. The lawmaker is a member of the group.

One piece of legislation that was heard, which Carozza opposes, is Senate Bill 527, Community CollegesContraception-Access Requirements. If passed, the bill would require community colleges to provide students with over-the-counter birth control and will go into effect on August 1, 2025.

The senator’s primary reservation is that the proposal came shortly after

Governor Wes Moore’s (D) fiscal year 2025 budget cut $22 million from the Community College Cade funding formula, which allocates 29 cents to twoyear college for every $1 given to state institutions.

On Student Advocacy Day, Carozza met with students from Wor-Wic Community College. “They were focused on restoring the cuts,” she said. “None of them spoke up in support of Senate Bill 527, which imposes a costly mandate to community colleges as they fight to restore the devastating

See HARTMAN Page 15

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Hartman focuses on Wallops

Continued from Page 14

reduction.”

Also heard was Senate Bill 772, Elections-In-Person Voting-Proof of Identity. The law would stipulate that an individual wishing to vote must provide proof of identity in the form of a government-issued identification card, such as a license.

Carozza supports the legislation, calling it a “commonsense bill” necessary to give voters confidence in the democratic process. She also claimed that hundreds of her constituents signed a petition urging the Maryland General Assembly to pass Voter ID legislation.

On Feb. 13, Wicomico County State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes, Wicomico High School Principal Andrea “Nicki” Blake, retired Chief of Police for Cheverly in Prince George’s County, and Carozza addressed the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee in advocacy for Senate Bill 326, Juvenile Law-Questioning of a JuvenileCrime of Violence of Crime Involving a Firearm.

The law would amend the Child Interrogation Protection Act to allow law enforcement to question a minor sans attorney, provided there is probable cause a violent crime involving a

Meehan speaks for driving bill

Continued from Page 12

For his part, Meehan thanked the committee last week for working with resort officials to pass a law for Ocean City. He said the legislation had been effective in curbing illegal behavior associated with the pop-up car rally.

“We were faced with the reality that our entire town had been closed down, probably in excess of 50,000 cars in Ocean City to disrupt, disrespect, and really to cause terror throughout our community,” he said. “It was the only time that I, as mayor, sent out a notice to all 26,000 nonresident property owners and asked them not to visit Ocean City that week when we knew this event was coming.”

He said since a special event zone was enacted in Ocean City, the car rally had moved to Wildwood, N.J.

“Once the special event zone was established, this additional legislation was established, we were able to start enforcing that legislation,” he explained. “It took one year to drive that event out of Ocean City. And unfortunately, that event went to Wildwood, New Jersey. And our worst nightmare, which we had always feared would happen, two people were killed by a driver driving out of control, spinning tires, doing donuts and exhibition driving.”

He continued, “This legislation will help deter that from happening, just like it did in Ocean City.”

firearm was committed.

“It would help protect juveniles from adult criminals who often prey on and coerce juveniles into serious crime, and also would protect the community as a whole,” Carozza said.

Additionally, Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C) met with a NASA Wallops leader last week to discuss the difficulties they have recruiting enough talented employees for the Virginia rocket flight facility. The pair discussed possible remedies, such as preparing information on the benefits, quality of education, and available natural assets.

More local lawmaker-supported bills will be heard in the coming week, including the Carozza-sponsored Physician Assistant Modernization Act of 2024, which aims to address shortages in emergency room coverage.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR.

County seeks public input on Greenways master plan

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) Citizens still have time to weigh in on trails they’d like to see established locally, as comments will be accepted for the Worcester County Greenways Master Plan until the end of the month.

Area residents are encouraged to visit the county’s website to view proposed trails and share related ideas through Feb. 28. Consultants will review comments and incorporate them into the county’s draft plan before presenting it to local officials this summer.

“We want this to be an inclusive process,” said Allysha Lorber of Mead & Hunt, the consulting firm developing the plan.

About 30 people attended a public input session for the greenways plan at the Berlin library this week. Lorber said Mead & Hunt was tasked with looking at the county’s trail network and identifying ways it could be expanded. She said there weren’t currently many ways to get around Worcester County by walking or biking.

“What we’re trying to do is look at an overall countywide network,” she said.

Lorber highlighted ongoing projects, such as the Maryland State Highway Administration’s Route 90 bikeway study and its plans for a shared use path on Route 611, as well as the local Just Walk initiative and the Worcester County Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan. Nevertheless, she said the county wanted to increase the trail options for residents.

“You can do so many things with an investment in trails,” she said, adding that trails could increase access to destinations and would also be good for the economy.

Lorber acknowledged that establishing trails would not be an inexpensive process but stressed that grants were available. Melanie Pursel, the county’s director of tourism and economic development, said developing the greenways plan was the first step in applying for grants. Lorber agreed.

“This is part of the process to win the money,” she said.

Pursel added that with a plan in place the county would have something to show developers so that trails could be taken into account as projects were built. A plan will also sup-

SUBMITTED

County approves new Rural Legacy Area in north end

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) A conservation easement program proposed for the north end of the county could help preserve agricultural land near Bishopville and Showell.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week approved plans for a new 12,000-acre Rural Legacy Area for Bishopville-Showell. The state’s Rural Legacy program pays landowners for permanent conservation easements on their properties.

“Establishing this area is simply going to give landowners a new option, or choices not available to them before,” said Katherine Munson of Worcester County Environmental Programs.

Currently, Worcester County has two legacy areas through the Rural Legacy Area (RLA) program — the Dividing Creek RLA and the Coastal Bays RLA. Funding for the program comes from Program Open Space as well as general obligation bonds from the state’s capital budget, according to Bob Mitchell, the county’s director of environmental programs. He told the commissioners his department met with area landowners last August to share plans for a potential new Rural Legacy Area (RLA).

“We received overwhelming support from area landowners that they’re really interested in this additional conservation easement program for this area of Worcester County, to hold back the Sussex County hordes I guess,” he said.

Munson said Worcester County currently had about 23,000 acres protected through RLA and MALPF (Maryland Agricultural Land Protection Foundation). About 87,000 acres of the county is cropland.

“Worcester County is the third most productive agricultural economy in the state, with $249 million in annual value of agricultural products sold,” she said. “Our agricultural landscape as you know is what attracts many tourists to our county.”

Most of the protected land, however, is in the southern part of the county. The new RLA would put more focus on farmland protection in the northern part of the county.

“We have spoken with numerous farmers and landowners in this area,” she said. “They’re interested in land protection, and they’re concerned about impacts of adjacent incompatible land uses.”

Commissioner Ted Elder said he understood the development pressure in the Bishopville area.

“The north end of the county has been ignored on this for a long time,” he said. “We have some of the richest soil up there. I think some of that

A new Rural Legacy Area in the northern end of the county is marked by the dotted line in the image.

Summer cop program’s cut sign of times

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) Officials say changes are coming as the Ocean City Police Department looks to eliminate its seasonal officer program.

Last week, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) announced the potential end of its seasonal officer program following the 2024 summer season. Citing new police reforms and changes to Maryland’s police certification process, the agency has started the process of transitioning away from seasonal police officer positions.

“We are thankful for the continued support from the Mayor and City Council,” Police Chief Ross Buzzuro said in a news release. “With their full support, we are looking to add additional full-time police officer positions to ensure the Town of Ocean City re-

mains the safe and family-friendly destination it is known for.”

For years, the OCPD has bolstered its roster with seasonal officers and public safety aides during the town’s busy summer months. In recent years, however, officials have reported a decline in seasonal officer interest.

“The law enforcement career field used to be very competitive, with few vacancies,” the news release reads. “As interest in law enforcement has downshifted, most agencies are now competing against one another to fill their spots from a smaller applicant poll. This has led to most college students jumping straight into full-time police positions rather than starting as a seasonal police officer to bolster their resume and experience.”

Adding to the issue, the OCPD reports, is a change in the state’s police

certification process and the town’s transition into a more year-round destination. To that end, the department is looking to augment the force with fulltime officers and public safety aides.

“Our residents and visitors can still expect to see seasonal police officers and public safety aides out and about this summer,” the news release reads.

“The Training and Recruiting Section is wrapping up the summer of 2024 recruiting and hiring process.”

Each year, the OCPD visits high schools, colleges, universities and job fairs to recruit seasonal officers for its summer program. And for decades, that model had been successful in introducing thousands of law enforcement officials to the profession.

For Cpl. Harry Miller of the OCPD patrol division, he said his participation as a seasonal officer for two summers

paved the way for a successful policing career.

“I got thrown straight into traffic enforcement, car crashes, that kind of stuff, which really paved the way for what I do now,” he said. “I’m on the traffic safety unit, I do accident reconstructions. You know, traffic enforcement is my bread and butter, so getting put in that sector my first year really set me up to be the kind of cop I am today.”

The same could be said for Lt. James Runkles, assistant patrol commander with the OCPD. Following his discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps, he worked with Northrop Grumman for a few years before making his way to Ocean City to join the seasonal officer program in 2007.

“I was looking at police work and saw Ocean City had this program. I thought this would be a good stepping stone,” he said. “In 2007 I was hired for the seasonal program, went through the seasonal police academy, and was assigned to the midnight watch in the patrol division.”

For two months, Runkles gained first-hand experience in police work and assisted in calls that ranged from fire alarms to serious assaults in progress. By July, he had entered the

See SEASONAL Page 22

Continued from Page 18

needs to be protected.”

When he said he’d like to see an even larger RLA there, Munson said it could be expanded over time.

Commissioner Eric Fiori also expressed support for the new RLA.

“I want to thank you for all the work on this,” he said. “I think it’s really important.”

Once the new RLA is approved by the state, the county will be able to competitively apply for funds to purchase conservation easements from willing landowners within the designated area.

OC hosting job fair March 9 at convention center

(Feb. 23, 2024) The Town of Ocean City is hosting a job fair next month for anyone interested in working at the beach.

Set 9 a.m. to noon, March 9 at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, the event will provide attendees with access to supervisors seeking talented candidates in every discipline, from public safety to camp counselors, to bus drivers and lifeguards, and everything in between. Admission is free.

The following town departments will be present and taking applications; recreation and parks, convention center, Beach Patrol, police department, fire department/fire marshal, public works, water, construction, maintenance, solid waste, and transportation.

“This job fair is a great opportunity for anyone seeking employment in Ocean City and surrounding areas to pursue a new position or even a new career,” Human Resources Director Katie Callan said in a news release. “The job fair provides direct access to hiring managers from a wide variety of departments, who are seeking committed, hardworking, and enthusiastic employees to fill available positions.”

Attendees are asked to bring resumes. Computers will be on-site to apply to positions online during the fair. Those seeking employment and unable to attend the job fair are asked to visit jobs.oceancitymd.gov to view existing openings. For questions, call the human resources department t at 410-289-8970.

Questionnaire closes Feb. 28

Continued from Page 16

port existing events that are tied to hiking or biking, such as the Maryland Coast Bike Festival. She’s hoping the plan will lead to the establishment of more trails in Worcester County.

“We have minimal trails compared to a lot of other counties,” she said.

Lorber said the public had until Feb. 28 to complete the questionnaire on the county’s website and to share proposed trail routes on the website’s interactive map. Mead & Hunt will then review submissions to refine routes and develop basic cost estimates. A draft plan will be shared with the public and county officials in the summer.

To view the greenways plan and questionnaire, visit visitmarylandscoast.org/stories/post/worcestercounty-trails-and-greenways-masterplan.

Eastern Shore

Seasonal program provided start for many

police academy to become a full-time officer with the department.

“I never looked back,” he said.

PFC Kevin Flower, K-9 handler with the OCPD, said the seasonal officer program gave him a foot in the door to what at that time was considered a competitive profession.

“I was finishing up my last semester at community college and a recruiter from Ocean City came to my college and did a presentation about the summer program,” he recalled. “I was about to graduate and needed experience. It was competitive to get hired back in those days. You definitely had to know someone or put yourself through an academy. It was very difficult.”

That one encounter, he said, changed the trajectory of his life. Packing up his bags, he moved 500 miles

south and began the first year of what would turn out to be a two-plus decade career.

“I came down and worked one summer on the Boardwalk as a seasonal,” he said. “It was a good summer. I came back the second summer as a seasonal and that was the summer they hired me full time. That’s typical. That’s why the seasonal program has been important not only for people who go on to other departments, but for Ocean City.”

Today, most full-time officers within the Ocean City Police Department are former seasonal officers. For the OCPD, the seasonal program offered command staff an opportunity to evaluate the performance of seasonal officers. For seasonal officers, it offered a chance to learn about law enforcement and determine if it was a suitable career path for them.

“The recruitment pool for Ocean City was so good because we saw how well you worked with other cops …,” Flower said. “You didn’t know it, but it was almost like tryouts.”

For the former seasonal officers, last week’s announcement came as no surprise. And while they highlighted the advantages the seasonal officer program provided both the police department and new recruits, they said they viewed the transition as a positive development.

to do as much legally, you still get to experience everything from top to bottom. So I would say if someone is interested in seeing what it’s like, there’s still a perfect opportunity to do that here.”

“Fortunately, the town, the elected officials and the chief had some vision that this wasn’t going to last forever, and we’ve been slowly increasing our ranks, knowing that by either legislation or industry standards this was going to end at some point …,” Runkles said. “I think, overall, it is a positive thing. Based on the Police Accountability Act and legislation coming out of Annapolis, the town is moving in the right direction.”

Miller added that those interested in learning more about the law enforcement profession could continue to do so through the public safety aide program.

“They help out on car crash scenes with traffic direction, they can interview witnesses, be a liaison with the public, help out with lost children …,” he said. “Although you may not be able

Although details are limited at this time, the Town of Ocean City is currently working on the fiscal year 2025 budget to determine the fiscal impact additional recruitment efforts and fulltime personnel would have. OCPD Sgt. Mike Kelly, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 10, said the organization would also work with city officials to ensure the department remains competitive in terms of employment. He said he anticipates some growing pains as the department transitions away from seasonal officers.

“There are certain benefits that we are working towards to make sure we can still attract the very best officers that Ocean City has always strived to hire,” he said. “There is a shortage on how many people are entering this profession. Everyone is fighting over the same hiring pool and many agencies have vacancies they can’t fill. We are trying to stay ahead of this trend and advising the city officials what needs to happen to stay fully staffed. We will be active and do everything we can to give the best services to the community we care so much about.”

FRIDAY:

Clarification

In last week’s story, “Former SDHS teacher charged with child abuse,” there was important information left out of the official statement of charges in the court document. While the story reported all the information pertinent to the case, it should have been stated in the official statement of charges then-Stephen Decatur High School Vice Principal Lou Taylor reported the information about an inappropriate relationship between the teacher and student to his principal. The principal then relayed the information to the superintendent of schools at the time. Law enforcement officials have confirmed the detail was included in some court documents but not in the official statement of charges as reported in the story.

Trade expo to hit record numbers

Annual event set March 3 and 4 at Roland E. Powell Convention Center in OC

(Feb. 23, 2024) The countdown is on for the Ocean City Trade Show, deemed the largest hospitality gathering in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Launched 50 years ago, the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association-hosted event is set for March 3 and 4 at the Ocean City Convention Center.

According to a news release from the association, this year’s expo is slated to have the most exhibit booths ever in the history of the trade

show.

“We’ve worked diligently over the last 50 years to create a tradeshow that offers an affordable opportunity for the small and large vendors to connect directly with the hospitality industry owners and managers to showcase their products and serv-

See ATTENDEES Page 26

Attendees must be involved in hospitality

ices,” Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association Executive Director Susan Jones said in the release.

The event provides industry attendees the ability to sip, sample, and shop, during the two days, while providing an opportunity to network with colleagues face-to-face. Attendees of the expo will also be able to take advantage of “Show Specials,” offered by exhibitors. The latest industry trends and new products will be on display in two exhibit halls on the lower level, while the educational sessions will be on the second level.

The release said the hotel-motel restaurant association teamed up with the Maryland Tourism Coalition to Host educational workshops — Solutions Showcase Sessions — to deliver applicable business lessons and best practices. Participants will also engage in discussions, amplify their knowledge, and receive actionable agendas.

The keynote speaker is nationally known speaker, trainer, and author, Brian Blasko, who will deliver his “Recipe for Reinventing Your Workforce” speech before the opening of the trade expo exhibit floor at 9 a.m., March 4. During the session, atten-

dees and exhibitors will learn how to understand and adapt to organizational change effectively, discover ways to be more creative in their retention of clients and customers, and exit with leadership strategies that will increase their attitudinal potential.

The release said the expo’s combination of discovery, networking, collaboration, learning, and curated buying experiences aims to advance the industry.

The Dockside Hall will host a new Spotlight Stage, which will feature a beer garden, exhibits, and Maryland’s BEST Department of Agriculture and Seafood vendors.

The Spotlight Stage will feature “Ask the Expert” interactive discussions, culinary demonstrations and Behind the Brand to delve deeper into companies.

A new twist to the expo will be the Restaurant Association of Maryland’s “Surf & Earth” culinary competitions, which are official qualifying events for the World Food Championships held in Dallas. Chefs will compete in elimination rounds for two Maryland World Food Championship spots and winners receive golden tickets to compete on the world stage. The two categories are seafood and produce supplied by

Maryland’s BEST Department of Agriculture and Seafood. Seasoning bundles will be supplied by McCormick for Chef.

The expo is not open to the public, therefore to walk the show floor attendees must be a buyer or guest in the hospitality industry, which includes employment with a hotel, motel, restaurant, catering company, concession stand, bed and breakfast, condo/property management company, cafeteria, nursing home, school/college, hospital, church, ice cream store or nursing home.

CROSSWORD

The release said expo management reserves the right to determine if the registration fits “guest” parameters.

Expo hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 4. After Feb. 29, on-site registration is $25 per person with proof of industry involvement, such as a business card, business license, or letter from an employer on company letterhead. Pay stubs are not accepted as proof. For complete expo information , visit oceancitytradeexpo.com or call 410-289-6733.

HOROSCOPE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, a measure of controversy has found its way into your life, but you may want to avoid letting others know your feelings. Keep conversations to trivial topics this week.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Advice about how to handle a confusing financial matter may not be resonating right now, Taurus. You may need to review the data a few different times.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, consider another’s perspective more closely in the days to come. A different point of view may help you to more clearly define your own outlook.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Setting boundaries right now could be difficult for you, Cancer. You are always caring for others and that may affect how involved you get in another person’s issues.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Share your light and vitality with another person this week, Leo. You can boost this person’s mood or even change his or her perspective dramatically if you so desire.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, heated emotions between you and a family member could drive a wedge in your relationship for some time. It is best to carefully weigh your words before speaking.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, pursuing the truth about a situation may seem very important to you and even urgent. But will having all of the answers really change much right now?

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, be careful not to take everything that people say to you at face value right now. You need to vet all information for yourself before you make decisions about anything.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You may be feeling sorry for someone even if they didn’t ask you to weigh in on a situation, Sagittarius. You simply can’t help getting involved, but remember to listen.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, a quiet and practical approach is the way to sort through a confusing situation that arises this week. Your detailed-oriented nature will help you go through all the facts.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

You may not be happy with the direction a family member, friend or even your larger community is moving at the current moment, Aquarius. Consider ways you can help.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

You may be feeling pulled by the demands of a few different people in your life right now, Pisces. It’s probably best to give things more thought before making any decisions.

Freeman announces summer acts

Tickets go on sale this week, more performers to be announced later in year

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight and Cole Swindell are among the first performers announced for this year’s summer concert series at the Freeman Arts Pavilion.

On Monday, the Freeman Arts Pavilion announced the first set of performances of its 2024 summer concert series for the outdoor music venue in Selbyville, Delaware.

The lineup will include ADA Twist, Scientist & Friends on May 31; Kashmir featuring Jean Violet - The Spirit of Led Zeppelin Live on June 1; Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight on June 6; Eaglemania — The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band on June 8; Almost Queen: A Tribute to Queen on June 21; George Thorogood & The Destroyers on June 22; Michael Franti & Spearhead with special guests Trevor Hall & Bombargo on

June 26; 287th Army Band: “The Governor’s Own” on July 5; UB40: Red Red Wine Tour on July 7; Justin Hayward and Christopher Cross on July 10; Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles on July 12; Fitz and the Tantrums: Good Nights Tour on July 14; Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue on July 15; Joe Bonamassa on July 17; Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show on July 24; The Greatest Love of All — A Tribute To Whitney Houston Starring Belinda Davids on Aug. 3; Cole Swindell on Aug. 15; and Melissa Etheridge and Indigo Girls on Aug. 27.

Additional performances will be announced continually this spring as shows are confirmed.

“We are thrilled to share the first glimpse of our 17th season, which features a variety of genres and world-class artists,” said Patti Grimes, executive director of Freeman Arts Pavilion. “We are truly grateful to the community for embracing our vision to transform lives through the arts in the Delmarva region.”

Tickets for performances an-

nounced this week are on sale to the public beginning Feb. 22 at freemanarts.org. On-sale times will vary throughout the day, and interested attendees should check individual event pages for exact times.

Freeman Arts Pavilion is a program of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, with a purpose of creating experiences that elevate the human spirit. This program is made possible, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency dedicated to nurturing and supporting the arts in Delaware. Grant support is also provided by the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation, the Carl M. Freeman Foundation, the Sussex County Council, and the state of Delaware.

As an arts nonprofit, Freeman Arts offers performances for all ages to enjoy with the support of the local community, including its Season Sponsors, who include Sara Chase Carlson of Sodoka, Inc., Schell Brothers, The Armstrong Family and The Eugenio Family.

For more information, visit freemanarts.org.

(Feb. 23, 2024) The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comment on proposed changes to the 2024-2026 hunting and trapping seasons and the proposed 2024-2025 Migratory Game Bird Seasons and Bag Limits.

“We have been working diligently to develop these proposals with our staff and our stakeholders, who represent a diverse group of citizens,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said in a news release. “The current concepts, now available for public comment, are the results of that process and have been revised based on stakeholder input. We look forward to receiving com-

ments from the public to help us further refine and finalize our proposals.”

The public can view the proposed regulations and comment online, and view and comment on the proposed migratory game bird seasons and bag limits now through Feb. 26.

The department is also accepting feedback by phone at 410-260-8540; by fax to 410-260-8596; or in writing to: Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heritage Service, 580 Taylor Avenue, E-1, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401.

Questions should be directed to the Wildlife and Heritage Service at 410-260-8540.

Best Beats

Who’s Where When

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Saturday, Feb. 24:

DJ Giddy Up & First Class Duo

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE

Sunday, Feb. 25:

Rick & Regina

Wednesday, Feb. 28: Union Road

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, Feb. 23:

Josh Pryor & The Contraband

Saturday, Feb. 24: Schizophrenic Boogiemen

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, Feb. 23:

DJ Greg & DJ RobCee

Saturday, Feb. 24:

DJ Groove

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Saturday, March 2: Rogue Citizens

Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Friday, Feb. 23:

DJ Billy T & DJ Wax

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Feb. 23

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Friday, Feb. 23

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays BLAKE HALEY Greene Turtle West: Bingo Wednesdays

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Feb. 24

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Thursdays, & Fridays

DJ GIDDY UP Coins Pub: Saturday, Feb. 24

Who’s Where When

Saturday, Feb. 24: Rogue Citizens & DJ Billy T

Sunday, Feb. 25: Pickin’ Party

Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, Feb. 24: Black Dog Alley

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays:

Beats By Wood

Wednesdays: Beats By Styler

Thursdays:

Beats By DeoGee

PURPLE MOOSE

SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts.

On The Boards

Saturday, Feb. 24: Lithium & Candy

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, Feb. 23: Full Circle Duo, DJ Connair & Dear Zoe

Saturday, Feb. 24: The Big House Band & Mike Donato, DJ Cruz, Cellar Sessions & My Hero Zero

Thursday, Feb. 29: Opposite Directions

LITHIUM & CANDY

Purple Moose: Saturday, Feb. 24

BLACK DOG ALLEY Pickles Pub: Saturday, Feb. 24

THE BIG HOUSE BAND Seacrets: Saturday, Feb. 24

PICKIN’ PARTY Harborside: Sunday, Feb. 25

SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Feb. 24

FIRST CLASS DUO Coins: Saturday, Feb. 24

FULL CIRCLE DUO Seacrets: Friday, Feb. 23

RICK & REGINA Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Feb. 23

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Teens all dressed up for a dance

When change is a good thing

Lowering a monthly bill

Bunk Mann’s weekly Vanishing column

Looking forward to the Orioles

Tankless water heaters

Little kids playing lacrosse

Learning something from a movie Reading non-fiction Constructive feedback

Good news from a doctor’s appointment

Winners of ‘24 OC chamber annual awards announced

Recipients to be recognized March 1 during celebration at resort convention center

(Feb. 23, 2024) The recipients of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 annual awards have officially been announced.

The awards recognize individuals who have been deemed outstanding in the local community.

They will be recognized at the annual awards celebration, set 6-10 p.m., on March 1, at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center’s bayfront ballroom.

This year’s theme is garden party. Tickets are $100 per person, which includes two drinks, a three-course plated dinner, professional photos by Kyle Hughes and Dana Marie Photography, and music by DJ Wood. Visit OCCCAwards and click “Register Now” to buy tickets and view sponsorship opportunities, or contact events coordinator Colby Noble at 443-664-3052 or colby@oceancity.org. Tickets sales end Feb. 23.

The recipients are as follows:

Lifetime Achievement Award — Jim Motsko, White Marlin Open

Motsko's stewardship, ensures its lasting legacy as the "White Marlin Capital of the World."

Business Person of the Year — Sophia Christian, Nori Sushi Bar & Grill, Sophia's Italian Restaurant and Okiaya Fishing Gear

The business of the year is someone who is the founder, owner, CEO or president of a business that is a member in good standing with the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. The nominee exhibits business leadership and vision, displaying a significant commitment to the success of both business and the area.

The lifetime achievement award recognizes an individual for a lifetime of consistent community leadership and philanthropic endeavors that have made a lasting impact on their community.

Motsko initiated the White Marlin Open in 1974 with a modest 57 boats and a $20,000 prize pool. The event has evolved into the world's largest and richest billfish tournament and a premier annual event in Ocean City. In 2023, the tournament boasted 400 boats and awarded $10.5 million in prizes, with a world record payout for a single fish of $6.235 million. Motsko's passion for offshore fishing and determination, coupled with family support, propelled the tournament's growth, overcoming initial financial challenges. The Motsko family continues to manage the event, maintaining its "open" nature with no restrictions, allowing both novices and seasoned anglers to compete. Held in early August, the White Marlin Open attracts thousands of visitors, contributing over $30 million annually to the local economy. Beyond economic benefits, the tournament supports the Maryland Food Bank by donating caught fish. Rooted in Ocean City's fishing history since 1934, the White Marlin Open, under

Christian has left an indelible mark as both an entrepreneur and philanthropist over their last 30 years in the local community. The Christian family has steered the businesses toward consistent growth while actively contributing to the community. She is involved in St. George Greek Orthodox Church, where she has served on the board, as youth director, at the annual Greek Festival, and as president of the ladies group. She is a proud sponsor of the White Marlin Open and other fishing tournaments, has volunteered and substitute taught, coached sports teams, served as an Ocean City Ambassador and on Atlantic General Hospital’s Junior Auxiliary Group, and is a member of the American Cancer Society’s Holiday Wrappings Fashion Show committee. Christian has received the Regentrification Award, the 2022 Palmer Gillis Innovator of the Year Award, the 2023 Beauty Spot Award for Gold Coast Mall, Coastal Style Best New Restaurant for Nori in 2019 and Best Japanese & Sushi Restaurant in OC, and Metropolitan Best of Sushi Berlin/OC 2019-2023.

Citizen of the Year —

Anne Marie Conestabile

The citizen of the year is an individual who, through his or her unselfish commitment to the community, embodies the best characteristics of community citizenship and serves as an example to all.

United Work and Travel was Conestabile’s mission for 22 years. She has helped bring thousands of J1 students from various countries to Ocean City to supplement the workforce. She created the International Student Outreach Program with the

Jim Motsko

Sophia Christian

Volunteer, nonprofit, more honored

permission and blessing of the Rev. Father Klevence, which involves multiple churches and volunteers organizing lunches and dinners. The model has been duplicated in multiple cities around the country. Conestabile presented the model for the Ocean City J-1 program in the Senate, which they now use around the country and call the Ocean City model. She was an Ocean City Chamber ambassador for 20 years and volunteers for multiple events and charities. She has worked with local government to improve the safety and housing situation for rentals. Gov. Larry Hogan gave her a citation for her impact on Ocean City and the state. Sen. Mary Beth Carozza gave her a citation for her tireless dedication to Ocean City.

Chamber Volunteer of the Year— Billy Apostolou, Direct Mortgage Loans

The chamber volunteer award recognizes an individual who embodies what it is to be a chamber member. These individuals go above and beyond in their dedication of their time and effort on projects, organizations and events.

Commerce, and is the chair of the special events committee. He is also on the board of the OC Chamber of Commerce Foundation. He volunteers for the annual judging of the OC Chamber Lights competition and is a participant/donor in the annual Christmas Spirit Campaign. In 2023, Billy created the Apostolou/McQueeney Foundation, which provides an annual scholarship to a graduating senior from his alma mater. In his free time, Billy is the president of the HOA for the Sunset Bay Community on 54th Street.

Nonprofit of the Year — Art League of Ocean City

The nonprofit of the year is an active 501-C-3 organization that has made a notable impact on the quality of life for those who live and work in the area while adhering to their organization’s mission statement.

94th street since it opened in 2013, and the organization's growth has become a regional economic driver in the arts, with over 1,200 members and impacting over 30,000 people annually.

First Responder of the Year — Capt. Butch Arbin, Ocean City Beach Patrol

The first responder of the year awards recognizes a first responders from the 21842-area code for exemplary acts of valor, outstanding community service, and going above and beyond the call of duty.

Apostolou started his career running his family restaurants (after college at Towson University). He has worked in the legal and real estate industry for more than 14 years, focusing on business development and growth. He has served on the board of directors for Business Volunteers Maryland, a nonprofit organization with a focus on connecting companies and individuals to resultsfocused volunteerism. Currently, Apostolou sits on the Board of Directors of the Ocean City Chamber of

Ocean City's artistic heart beats within the Art League. Founded in 1963, and celebrating 60 years of service to the community, the art league ignites creativity with exhibits, classes, and cultural tourism events like the Artists Paint OC Plein Air festival, and the Ocean City Film Festival. Galleries feature local and regional artists showcasing their talents in an array of mediums, and aspiring creators can attend a variety of art classes and workshops. The art league also provides studio space and professional development and outreach programs for both children and adults. The organization’s programs impact all age groups, including children in summer art camp, teens exploring anime art, high school senior scholarship winners, millennial filmmakers, and retirees exploring their creative sides through art classes. Over 175,000 people have visited the Ocean City Center for the Arts on

Arbin has served on the Ocean City Beach Patrol for 51 seasons, beginning in 1973 as a rookie SRT, while attending Parkville High School in Baltimore. He moved through the ranks and served as lieutenant before he became captain in 1997. He attended the University of Maryland, where he received a bachelor of science in physical education with an emphasis on sports medicine. In the off-season, Butch has worked for Charles County Public Schools for 47 years as a teacher (physical education, technology and aerospace engineering) and computer network administrator. For the past 10 years he has worked at the James E. Richmond Science Center, where he sees 22,000 students each year in one of the world’s largest planetariums. Before taking on the additional responsibilities as Ocean City Beach Patrol Captain, he taught graduate courses for the University of Maryland. When he is not working, Arbin is very involved in church activities. He enjoys working as a memSee WINNERS Page 38

Billy Apostolou

Capt. Butch Arbin

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com

Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, eggrolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza. Both locations are famous for their sports atmospheres, especially all things Pittsburgh.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday through Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. Open daily for Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Monday. 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

17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ CRAWL STREET

19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-3732756, blackoutalley.com

Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-6811, Papistacojoint.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

With a family atmosphere you can enjoy building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

■ PIT & PUB

12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com

Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ FAGERS ISLAND

201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-5245500, fagers.com

$$ | Full bar

Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD’S CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch

and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:3011:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar CLOSED JAN. 21 AND REOPENING FEB. 1. 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.

UPTOWN

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

13117 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410250-2000, albertinosoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection. Winter hours Thursday-Sunday open at Noon.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA

120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com

Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. The Crabcake Factory started out as a breakfast house in 1996 and still serves one of the best and most creative breakfast menus in Ocean City. Try Eastern Shore favorites prepared daily by Chef-Owner John Brooks including a chipped beef, skil-

lets, omelettes and their famous lump crab creations. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.

■ ORIGINAL GREENE TURTLE

116th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 410723-2120, originalgreeneturtle.com

This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs! Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more! Join them for weekday lunch specials 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and happy hour 3-7 p.m. Popular features are game room, gift shop, carryout, party trays, nightly drink specials, MD Lottery-Keno, Powerball and DJs with dance floor. Open year-round.

■ TAILCHASERS RESTAURANT & DOCK BAR

12203 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-664-7075, tailchasersoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A coastal casual farm to table restaurant with a fun dockside family friendly atmosphere. Menu changes with the seasons and cocktails are handcrafted with care. Bring the whole family for lunch or dinner along the canal. Kids playground available to keep the littles entertained.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

13801 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, located on the 8th floor of the Fenwick Inn, 410390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Enjoy a wonderful dinner overlooking the ocean and the bay. Serving off season weekly specials. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to midnight. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to midnight. Happy Hour, 3-6 p.m. Check out the website for a full menu.

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-9885000, CCFBayside.com

Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu. visit us online at crabcakefactoryonline.com or on our Facebook page.

■ NANTUCKETS

Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com

Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. There’s the memorable steaks, fresh seafood, famous quahog chowder and the chef’s daily specials.

OCEAN PINES

■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE

100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar

Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open everyday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB

1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, www.OPYachtclub.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more.

Dining

Open Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. menu.

WEST OCEAN CITY

BREAKFAST CAFE

12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com

All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.

CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN

GRILL

12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

GREENE TURTLE WEST

Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-2131500

Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out. Something for everyone.

HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-213-1846, weocharborside.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

SELLO’S ITALIAN OVEN & BAR

9802 Golf Course Road, 410-390-3543, sellosoc.com

$$-$$$$ | Full bar

Located in the heart of West Ocean City. You may think you stepped off a city street and not just off the beach or boat. You will find a wide array of choices from a wood-fired oven individual pizza to our 8 oz. center-cut filet mignon. Join us at Sello’s, your new “happy place,” where “va tutto bene” … it’s all good … Open Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. until and Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. until.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Grace Center support

From 2-5 p.m., Feb. 25, Ocean Downs Casino is inviting members of the public to support the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health in Berlin by participating in the Reel Difference Charity Slot Tournament.

Players can participate for $20 a try. For each $20 donation, players will receive $20 in free play and get one play on the slots tournament machine. Spin to win a share of $1,000 in free play – first place is worth $650 in free play, second place is worth $250, and third place is worth $100.

The Grace Center supports women who are pregnant and/or parenting with medical testing, classes, support groups and more at no cost to the recipents.

Virtual poetry reading

Wor-Wic Community College is hosting a free virtual poetry reading by Ina Cariño at 7 p.m., Feb. 26, via Zoom.

Cariño is a 2022 Whiting Award winner for poetry. Her work appears in the American Poetry Review, Poetry Magazine, the Paris Review Daily, Waxwing, New England Review and more. Cariño is a Kundiman fellow and the winner of the 2021 Alice James Award for “Feast,” published in March 2023.

Visit the Events section of worwic.edu for more information.

Just Try It

Kids are invited to try a new sport without committing to an entire season at Wicomico Recreation & Parks’ free Just Try It event Feb. 27. Sports featured at the event include baseball, softball, lacrosse and golf.

The event is set to from 5-7 p.m., Feb. 27, at the Wicomico Civic Center

Continued on Page 38

Ina Cariño

Calendar

Fri., Feb. 23

HOMESCHOOL CREATIVE WRITING FOR TEENS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Creative writing program that helps with vocabulary, imaginative thinking, literary knowledge and social enrichment. This program is geared for upper elementary to middle school, but all are welcome.

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIDAY MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. American biographical war film that depicts the friendship between Tom Hudner and Jesse Brown, the first African American carrier pilot in the U.S. Navy. Light refreshments served. 410-957-0878

CREATIVE AGING WITH CARE: BOOK MAKING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Learn the fold and stitch version of making a book in this three-session class. Fill them with family stories, photos and artistic embellishments. Registration required: 410-208-4014.

Sat., Feb. 24

LOVE ON TAP CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

Seacrets, 117 49th St., Ocean City, 1-5 p.m. Featuring live music, unlimited beer tastings and a commemorative cup. General admission, VIP and Designated Driver tickets available. Tickets: https://www.shorecraftbeerfest.com/lov e-on-tap.html.

CREATIVE KIDS CRAFT TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Stop by anytime during the day to get crafty with the group as they create colorful rainbow art together. All ages. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CRAFTY SATURDAY: CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Celebrate Black History Month with some fun crafts. All ages are welcome. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIED/BAKED CHICKEN N DUMPLINGS PLATTERS TO GO

Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin. 10:30

a.m. Platters cost $15 and come with two sides and a roll. Sides: homemade potato salad, Mac n cheese, greens and string beans. Also: rice pudding, corn bread, drinks, bread pudding, pies, cakes and more.

BOOK SIGNING WITH AL ‘HONDO’ HANDY

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-noon. Meet local author Al “Hondo” Handy and learn about what it means to persevere. Books available for purchase. Free admission for book signing. Drawing for a free book before book signing. 410-289-4991

VETERANS UPWARD BOUND PROGRAM

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 11 a.m. Preparing veterans for success in college by bringing them up to speed on critical math and English skills. Assistance with VA education, disability benefits, college admissions and more. 410-957-0878

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - 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.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET

Whaleyville United Methodist Church, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, 7-10 a.m. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages.

Sun., Feb. 25

OCEAN DOWNS CASINO SUPPORTS THE GRACE CENTER

Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 2-6 p.m. Participate in the Reel Difference Charity Slot Tournament. Cost is $20 per try. For each $20 get $20 in free play and one play on the slots tournament machine. Spin to win. Benefits Grace Center.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Feb. 26

TOWN CATS FUNDRAISER

Burley Oak Brewing Company, 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 6-9 p.m. DJ, guest bartenders, mystery boxes and basket auction.

3-DAY WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP WITH MICK MCANDREWS

Art League of Ocean City - Center for the Arts, 502 94th St., 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

3-Day Sophisticated Simplicity in Watercolor. Held Feb. 26-28. Cost is $325

for members and $406 for non-members. Register: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/classes/1191 or 410-524-9433.

STORY TIME: BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories celebrating Black History Month. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CREATIVE AGING WITH CARE: BOOK MAKING

Berlin 50plus Center, 10129 Old Ocean City Blvd., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn the fold and stitch version of making a book in this three-session class held Feb. 26-28. Once completed, them with family stories and artistic embellishments. Limit 16. 443-783-6164

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

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

TO PRESERVE SLAVERY: HUMAN BONDAGE AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

This talk by University of Maryland historian Richard Bell examines the “1619 Project,” 6:30 p.m. Is it supportable? What’s the evidence? Registration required: 443-783-6164.

VIRTUAL POETRY READING

Wor-Wic Community College is inviting the public to a free virtual poetry reading by Ina Cariño via Zoom, 7 p.m. Visit the events section of www.worwic.edu for more information.

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues., Feb. 27

PLAY DAY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Socialize with friends and play with a variety to toys. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

FREE PLAY DAY AND CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Make new friends with play and improve language and motor skill development. 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. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BUILD AND EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS

Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, 1324 Belmont Ave., Suite. 401, Salisbury, 12-1 p.m. Discover the world of Merchant Services and understand their pivotal role in modern business operations. Bring your lunch. Also virtual. Register:

https://marylandcapital.org/education.

FREEDOM QUILT CRAFT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Celebrate Black History Month by learning about the codes hidden in Freedom Quilts and craft your own using construction paper. For ages 6-12 years. 410-957-0878

WOR-WIC HOSTS DUAL ENROLLMENT INFO SESSION

Wor-Wic Community College - Guerrieri Hall, 32000 Campus Drive, Salisbury, 6 p.m. Learn about how high school students can earn college credits while they are juniors and seniors in high school. Visit the events section of www.worwic.edu to register.

CHRISTIAN CONVERSATIONS

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6 p.m. Held Tuesday Feb. 20-March 26. A free moderated group discussion based on the works of C.S. Lewis. Everyone is welcome. Explore a great opportunity for Lenten reflection. 410-641-7052

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

Crossword answers from page 26

CALENDAR

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. 410289-4725

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.

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Wed., Feb. 28

STUFFED ANIMAL SLEEPOVER

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring your stuffed animal and blanket and listen to fun stories, songs and rhymes. Pajamas are encouraged. Leave your stuffed animal overnight and pick up Feb. 29, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818

HEART HEALTHY DIET SEMINAR WITH REGISTERED DIETITIAN KATIE DORSCH

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 1-2 p.m. Atlantic General registered dietitian Katie Dorsch will host a presentation and cooking demonstration on Heart Healthy Diets. Alyce Marzola, 410-641-9268

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY ON THE EASTERN SHORE

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. The Taylor House Museum will talk about African American heritage and culture on the Eastern Shore. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. The goal of the support group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Thurs., Feb. 29

STORY TIME ‘YOU ARE AWESOME!’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495

STORY TIME: ‘IF YOU GIVE A PIG A PANCAKE’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Join the group for another classic by Laura Numeroff. For children ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

AFRICAN AMERICAN ART

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. This brief introduction looks at some of the highlights of Black artists. The group will investigate an abbreviated history of people who were left out of the canons of art history. 410-957-0878

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. Featuring books participants have read and want to share. Come and find your next great read. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LOIS MAILOU JONES ART

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4 p.m. Celebrate Black History Month by creating art inspired by the work of Lois Mailou Jones. For ages 6-12 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5-6 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

WHEEL OF FORTUNE LIVE!

Ocean City Performing Arts CenterRoland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. America’s Game® Show comes to your hometown. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/6017148 8/wheel-of-fortune-live-ocean-city-ocperforming-arts-center.

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

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

ONGOING EVENTS

CRAFTERS & VENDORS NEEDED FOR FAIR

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, April 13. Requesting a $20 donation per table. Deadline to reserve a spot is March 8. Linda, 443-604-8068, p.grahe@comcast.net

in Salisbury.

The following sports and organizations will be a part of the event:

• Baseball — East Wicomico Little League

• Softball — Junior Girls Softball League

• Lacrosse — Falcons Youth Sports

• Golf — Rob Chase

Each organization will be running short clinics throughout the event to introduce multiple aspects of the sports. Participants must be between 3 and11 years old.

Music, free ice cream, information about Wicomico Recreation and Parks’ scholarship opportunities and staff from involved organizations will be on site.

Preregistration is recommended and can be found online at WicomicoRecandParks.org

Discover Your Watershed

The Maryland Coastal Bays Program is hosting its Discover Your Watershed event from 4-6 p.m., March 12.

Participants are invited to join or-

ganization representatives while they develop and define an existing trail that meanders through mature mixed fores at the 90-acre Showell Property. They will also spend time removing an area of wisteria on the south part of the property.

Registration is required. Partici

Continued from Page 31

ber of a work-and-witness team with his church, which travels to underprivileged countries to build churches, schools and medical facilities.

Young Professional of the Year — Ricky Pollitt, Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore

pants are asked to bring sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing, and gloves, if they prefer to use their own. Coastal Bays officials will have gloves, and all necessary trail equipment and wisteria removal tools on hand. Directions to the Showell Property will be provided at registration.

plifies leadership skills and exhibits exceptional vision that contributes to success in the workplace.

The young professional of the year is a person between the ages of 21 and 39 who is employed by or owns a business that is a member of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. Someone who has gone above and beyond to grow personally and professionally through community involvement, who exem-

Pollitt, the development manager for Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore, was the 2023 chair of the Ocean City Chamber Young Professionals. He has planned activities and fundraisers while leading the way in the 2023 YP Christmas Spirit Campaign, which benefited a recordbreaking 170 local families. Pollitt steps into leadership positions in every organization he is involved in, serving as a City of Salisbury Kindness Commissioner, immediate past chair of United Way Emerging Leaders, and member of Salisbury Jaycees and Allen Lions Club. He also serves on the local Youth Development Advisory Committee and holds a strong belief that we have the responsibility to give back and make our community better for the next generation.

Ricky Pollitt

40 OC Today-Dispatch

Ocean Aviation Flight Academy seeks Office Assistant

Growing Flight Academy with campuses in Berlin, Maryland and Georgetown, Delaware seeks Exceptional Candidate to join our team. Professional Friendly office environment. F/T Weekend availability is a plus. Year Around Position. Responsible for student interaction, dispatch and check in of flights, filing, retail sales and keeping our offices neat and clean. Must be customer oriented and be proficient in data entry and have good computer skills. Previous office or educational experience necessary. Please forward resume to mfreed@flyoceanaviation.com

We prefer initial contact be through e-mail only. Qualified applicants will be contacted for in person interviews.

Worcester County Health Department

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE - Full Time, State Benefits. This position will perform inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with environmental health laws and regulations in various programs, which include Public Swimming Pools/Spa Compliance, Food Service Facility Compliance, Rabies Prevention & Vector Borne Disease, Nuisance Complaint Investigations and Abatement.

At the time of hire, the selected applicant must possess a certificate of eligibility to be licensed as an Environmental Health Specialist from the Maryland Board of Environmental Health Specialists. Valid driver’s license and background check required.

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by February 28, 2024.

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.

Seeking Housekeeper F/T, YR. Seatime Condominiums, 135th St. Apply in person.

410-250-2262

AA/EOE

Smal Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047

BOOKKEEPER NEEDED

PART-TIME POSITIONS

SEASONAL POSITIONS

• Night Watch

• General Clerical

Apply online: DelawareStateJobs.com

Full time. Flexible hours available. Fruitland, MD. Excellent pay. Real Estate & Property Rental. Must have Degree in Accounting. Please email your resume/contact info to office@ fenzelinvestments.com

PoolGeneral Maintenance. Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required. Able to pass CPO test.

Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.

Now Hiring Year-Round GM Position

Great starting salary, paid vacation. Must have restaurant experience.

Apply in person at The Greene Turtle West OC on Route 611.

OFFICE MANAGER/SALES

Are you a team player? Someone who follows through? Need a chance to make your mark, and make a difference? We are looking to add a talented person to our high-energy team.

Candidates should have a customer-service background, and be extremely detail-oriented. This is a chance to shine with your multi-tasking tools, and to build and maintain a customer base. You must be proficient in Microsoft Office, have strong communication skills and a terrific work ethic. This is your golden opportunity to join a winning team.

E-mail resume with OFFICE MANAGER in the subject line to: AdSales@coastalpoint.com

YR Apartment, 3BR/2BA2 parking spots, Downtown Berlin, $1,550/month plus utilities, security deposit required. 410-375-1035

Summer Seasonal Rental 2BR/1 bath, Garage Apt., Bayside on 26th St. Occupancy six, $13,000 plus $1,000 security dep. Comes with A/C, parking for 1, free Wi-Fi and shared laundry facilities. Resort Rentals, 410-524-0295.

Looking for four months

Summer Rental in Ocean City. Gentleman works on beach full-time downtown for local business. Excellent references. Call or text Charles, 410-294-1028

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

Looking

Houseshare.

in South

Pines. All inclusive. $800 per month. Year-round. No smoking. No pets. Call 443-880-2317.

Continued on Page 43

Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker position available for our 87th St. Ocean City location and our Willards, MD location. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker position available for our 87th St. Ocean City, MD location and our Willards, MD location. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please email resume to kris.derickson@fbwbank.com

Application cut off is 3-1-2024

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

KITCHEN SUPERVISOR BAR SUPERVISOR

Coconuts at The Castle in the Sand Hotel is looking to add to our management team with one front of the house supervisor, one back of the house supervisor. MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE. Full-time seasonal positions starting at up to $19/hour, pay commensurate with experience.

Send resume to jeff@castleinthesand.com or apply in person at Castle in the Sand Hotel, 37th Street and Oceanfront, Ocean City.

For Sale: 2BR/2BA, Waterfront Condo with deeded boat slip. $424,900. Contact Rick, 1-610-751-5203.

COMMERCIAL

Office Space For Rent:

Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climate-controlled corner office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, well-maintained building, in prime Ocean City location.

Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.

Industrial Warehouse.

Space: 1500 sq. ft.

Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom.

Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

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

Sailboat

Best Offer. Call for details, 443-880-7453.

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

56 COASTAL DR. BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated February 28, 2007, recorded in Liber 4907, Folio 71 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $66,400.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

MARCH 12, 2024 AT 4:05 PM

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

The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. The property will be sold subject to 2 prior mortgages, the amounts to be announced at the time of sale, if made available to the Substitute Trustees.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $5,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsi-

ble for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 357188-1)

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees OCD-2/22/3t

COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC

1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301 LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090

www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

12386 BACK CREEK ROAD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813

By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated May 22, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4712, Folio 695, , among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $156,394.64, and an interest rate of 4.500%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on March 11, 2024 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling. Terms of Sale: The property will

be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $14,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

CGD File #: 459034 OCD-2/22/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-23-000273 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 3:30 p.m., at the front door of Oceana Condominium Unit No. P-8, Building 2, 8203 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceana Condominium Unit No. P-8, Building 2, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established by Declaration and Bylaws recorded among the land records of Worcester County in Liber No. 442, folio 354, et seq., as amended, and as further described in a deed recorded at Liber 4376, folio 372, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of

Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400.

OCD-2/22/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-23-000230 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 4:00 p.m., at the front door of Pin Tail Point Condominium Unit No. 316, 778 94th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Pin Tail Point Condominium Unit No. 316, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established by Declaration and Bylaws recorded among the land records of Worcester County in Liber No. 1048, folio 426, et seq., as amended, and as further described in a deed recorded at Liber 2507, folio 313, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by

FEBRUARY

the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400. OCD-2/22/3t

MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP POBOX 910 - 115 BROAD STREET

SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WALTER J MAXIMO Estate No. 20065 Notice is given that JOHN BATZIG whose address is 15 DORI CT ERIAL, NJ 08081-9539 was on FEBRUARY 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WALTER J MAXIMO who died on SEPTEMBER 25, 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 2nd day of AUGUST, 2024

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

(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-2/8/3t

ADAM S. ABRAMOWITZ ESQ.

STEIN SPERLING BENNETT DE JONG DRISCOLL PC

1101 WOOTTON PKWY STE 700 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-1074

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20058

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN

CHARLES E. MCGINNIS JR.

AKA: CHARLES ERNEST MCGINNIS JR.

Notice is given that Collin M. McGinnis, 61 Braddock Dr., Ohiopyle, PA 15470-1323, was on February 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles E. McGinnis Jr. who died on September 19, 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 2nd day of August, 2024.

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

(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.

Collin M. McGinnis

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 8, 2024

OCD-2/8/3t

REENA J PATELL ESQ

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20066

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BETTY HULCHER SIMPSON

Notice is given that Matthew Louis Simpson, 8700 Langmaid Rd., Newark, MD 21841-2122, was on February 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Betty Hulcher Simpson who died on December 19, 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

NOTICE

The Mayor and City Council, a public community transit service provider in Ocean City, Maryland, is offering the opportunity for a public hearing to provide citizens a forum to present views on the following proposals:

FY 2025 Annual Transportation Plan (ATP).

The ATP contains requests for operating funds from the following programs: Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act, which provides funds for general public transit service in rural areas; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) program, which provides funds for federally required para transit services for persons with disabilities.

In addition, capital funds will be requested for the following items:

ITEM

TOTAL

Two (2) Heavy Duty 60’ Articulating Buses $1,700,000

Transit Vehicle Preventative Maintenance $916,000 Transition Plan for Zero-Emission Vehicles $149,000

TOTAL $2,765,000

A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. Monday, March 4. Requests for a Public Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked “Public Hearing Comments”:

Ocean City Transportation

224 65th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Written comments can also be emailed to: Rob Shearman Jr. at rshearman@oceancitymd.gov

If requested, a Public Hearing will be held:

Monday, March 18, 2024

6:00 p.m.

City Hall Council Chambers

301 North Baltimore Avenue

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Monday, March 4, 2024.

OCD-2/1/5t

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 2nd day of August, 2024.

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

(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.

Matthew Louis Simpson 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 08, 2024

OCD-2/8/3t

19857

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GERALD D. TIMMONS SR.

Notice is given that Tammy Timmons, 8945 Ironshire Station Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2927, was on January 31, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gerald D. Timmons Sr. who died on July 07, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of July, 2024.

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

(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.

Tammy

Timmons 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 08, 2024 OCD-2/8/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN MARIE THOMPSON Estate No. 20060 Notice is given that CHRISTOPHER THOMAS WILSON whose address is 2945 NW 144TH TER NEWBERRY, FL 32669-2069 was on JANUARY 30, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN MARIE THOMPSON who died on JANUARY 06, 2024 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 30th day of JULY, 2024

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

(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-2/8/3t

CHARLES ROBERT MOORE

209 East Market Street

Suite 300

Salisbury, MD 21801 Plaintiff vs.

VIOLET H. CONCA

1214 Malbay Drive Lutherville, MD 21093 and ROBERT S. SHAW

1214 Ma!bay Drive Lutherville, MD 21093 and

WORCESTER COUNTY OFFICE OF TREASURER

Serve: Phillip G. Thompson

Treasurer for Worcester County One West Market Street Room1105

Snow Hill, MD 21863 and

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

(Pursuant to Maryland Annotated Code 14-1836(b)(1)(v))

Serve: Roscoe R. Leslie, Esq, County Attorney One West Market Street Room 1103

Snow Hill, MD 21863 and

All persons having or claiming to have any interest in that parcel of land described as LOT B-08-074, 9526 SQ FT Admiral Ave PL Ocean Pines Sec Eight; bearing County Tax Map No. 0016-0000-0045; Deed Reference 2546/308 assessed at $68,000; Account No. 03-061019; List No. 8.

Defendants

CIVIL ACTION NO. C-23-CV-23-000282 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESI'ER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following descnbed Real Property in the 3"' Election District, Worcester County, Maryland, sold by the Director of Finance for Worcester County and Collector of the Taxes for Worcester County, Maryland and the State of Maryland, to the Plaintiff in this proceeding and being a fee simple interest in and to the following descnbed Real Property:

All that lot or parcel of land situate and lying in Worcester County, Maryland in District 3 and more

particularly described as LOT B-08074 9526 SQ Fr Admiral Ave PL Ocean Pines Sec Eight; (Tax Account# 03-061019) and which is also described in a deed recorded in the Land Records in Worcester County at L!ber 7381, Folio 175.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid, although more than (6) months from the sale has expired

IT IS THERUPON ORDERED by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 7th of February, 2024 . that Notice is hereby given by the insertion of a copy of this Order Of Publication in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks warning all persons interested in the aforesaid Real Property to be and appear in this Court on or before the 8th of April, 2024 , and redeem the Real Property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final Judgment Foreclosing All Rights of Redemption in the Real Property described herein will be filed, vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley

JUDGE, Circuit Court for Worcester County

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-2/15/3t

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES

204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LOUISE H LITTLETON Estate No. 20062 Notice is given that GARY W HANCOCK whose address is 305 WINTER QUARTERS DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218511044, NANCY LYNN HANCOCK whose address is 305 WINTER QUARTERS DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-1044 were on JANUARY 31, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LOUISE H LITTLETON who died on JANUARY 13, 2024 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 31st day of JULY, 2024

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

(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-2/8/3t

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B

SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20076

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH VIRGINIA OLSHINSKY

Notice is given that Susan Johnson, 113 Dewey Ave., Lewes, DE 19958-1712, was on February 09, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elizabeth Virginia Olshinsky who died on January 04, 2024, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of August, 2024.

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

(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.

Susan Johnson 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 15, 2024

KHURRAM RIAZ

429 W. Market Street

Snow Hill, MD 21863 Plaintiff, v.

ROGER D. WATSON

OCD-2/15/3t

217 Cedar Street Pocomoke City, MD 21851, Defendant, And EMINE WATSON, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ESTATE OF ROGER D. WATSON

56 King Richard Road Berlin, MD 21811 Defendant, and

WORCESTER COUNTY

Attn: Phil Thompson

I West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant, and ALL PERSONS THAT HA VE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER CO, MD DESCRIBED AS: 4.21 Acres E Side Cedar Hall Road SW of Pocomoke, Tax Account # 01-003429, Defendant.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-24-000016

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No. 01-003429, Property description 4.2 Acres E Side Cedar Hill Road SW of Pocomoke, Deed Reference: 4456/76, Assessed to ROGER D. WATSON, owned by ROGER D. WATSON. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is, thereupon this 7th of February, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland,

ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th of April, 2024 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit

Worcester County MD OCD-2/15/3t

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LINDA JEAN HOPKINS Estate No. 20072 Notice is given that PAMELA H HAMPTON whose address is 105 SEA LN OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-4649 was on FEBRUARY 07, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LINDA JEAN HOPKINS who died on DECEMBER 13, 2023 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by 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, 2024

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

(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-2/15/3t

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 administrative matters will be reviewed by the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Town of Ocean City,

Maryland. The meeting will be held by teleconference via meeting link published on the Town’s website of oceancitymd.gov:

Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM

The following administrative items will be reviewed:

a. Minutes from the January 11, 2024 meeting

b. Findings of Fact for BZA Case 2668 (BK Merchandising, Inc.)

c. Findings of Fact for BZA Case 2673 (Olympic I Apartments, LLC c/o Vangjel Telo)

d. Findings of Fact for BZA Case 2671 (Nick’s Golf, LLC)

e. Findings of Fact for BZA Case 2672 (Kristina L. Watkowski for Jerry D. Ford)

f. Findings of Fact for BZA Case 2674 (Kristina L. Watkowski for the Mauck Family Trust)

g. Findings of Fact for BZA Case 2675 (Kristina L. Watkowski for the Sheila S. Withers Revocable Trust) Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-2/15/2t

Aleksejs Buinovskis 37494 Oliver Road Selbyville DE 19975 Plaintiff

v.

Lelia M. Rowe

Address Unknown

All Unknown owners of property and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property described as the "James B. Collins Tract", containing three (3) acres ofland, more or less, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James B. Collins by Deed dated February 17, 1918 and recorded among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Row and Lelia M. Rowe, his wife, the Unknown Owner's heirs, devisees, and personal Representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right title and interest

ORDERED, that the Clerk of this Court shall be caused to be published this Revised Order of Default in a newspaper of general circulation published in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, giving notice to the unknown testate and intestate successors of Leila M. Rowe (a/k/a "Lelia W. Rowe" a/k/a "Leila Ware Rowe"), deceased, and all person claiming by, through, or under the decedent, and all persons that have or claim to have any legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the property described in the Complaint and Cross Claim as the "James B. Collins Tract," containing three (3) acres of land, more or less, on the north side of Bunting Road, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James B. Collins by Deed dated February 19, 1918 and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Rowe and Leila Rowe, his wife, and being more particularly described in the Complaint filed in this matter, that this Revised Order of Default has been entered and that any interested person must request this Court to vacate the Revised Order of Default on or before March 16, 2024 by filing an appropriate motion with this Court, and, if no such motion is filed, a judgment by default shall be entered in favor of Plaintiff.

Beau H. Oglesby JUDGE

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/22/3t

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE

OF MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-23-000081

REVISED ORDER OF DEFAULT

Upon consideration of Plaintiff's Request for Entry of Order of Default, it is this 16th of February, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland,

ORDERED, that Plaintiff's Request for Order of Default against Defendants be, and the same is hereby, GRANTED. The Court enters an Order of Default against Defendant Lelia M. Rowe (a/k/a "Lelia W. Rowe" a/k/a "Leila Ware Rowe") and Defendant All Unknown Owners of Property and all personal that have or claim to have any interest in the property I described in the Complaint filed herein for failure to file a responsive pleading to Plaintiff's Complaint to Quiet Title; and it is further

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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/22/1t

TOWN OF BERLIN

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP # 2024 – 03

Audit Services for Existing Information Technology Contract and System

Due Date: Friday, March 15, 2024

Time: 3:00 P.M. EST

The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for Audit Services for the Town’s existing Information Technology Contract and System. Qualified firms are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/ or contact Town Administrator Mary Bohlen at 410-641-4314 / mbohlen@berlinmd.gov for official RFP.

Sealed proposals will be accepted until 3:00 PM on Friday, March 15, 2024. EEO.

OCD-2/22/2t

TOWN OF BERLIN

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

# 2024 – 01

Facilities Design and Build Services

Due Date: Friday, March 29, 2024

Time: 3:00 P.M. EST

The Town of Berlin is seeking RFQs for Design and Build Services for three (3) facilities owned and operated by the Town: 1) Partial Renovation of Town Hall; and 2) Complete Build of a new Public Works Facility; and 3) Complete Build of a new Community Center. Qualified firms are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/gov-

ernment/request-for-proposals/for the official RFQ or contact Town Administrator Mary Bohlen at 410641-4314 / mbohlen@berlinmd.gov for the official RFQ.

Sealed submissions will be accepted until 3:00 PM on Friday, March 29, 2024. EEO. OCD-2/22/2t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of VIVIAN PURNELL SMITH Estate No. 20082 Notice is given that SHALESHIA MILLER MUNFORD whose address is 1900 CHAPMAN AVE., APT. 513, ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-1991 was on FEBRUARY 14, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the estate of VIVIAN PURNELL SMITH who died on FEBRUARY 16, 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 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/22/1t

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE NO. 2024-01 MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 2024 SERIES A AN ORDINANCE OF THE

COUNCIL OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN (THE “TOWN”) PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE AND SALE TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT EXCEEDING $3,800,000.00 FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING ALL OR A PORTION OF THE FUNDS NECESSARY FOR (I) FINANCING, REIMBURSING AND/OR REFINANCING COSTS OF THE PROJECTS GENERALLY REFERRED TO AS (A) ELECTRIC AMI METER SYSTEM AND (B) PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING, (II) FUNDING A PORTION OF A CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND/OR OTHER RESERVES, AND/OR (III) PAYING OR REIMBURSING ISSUANCE AND OTHER COSTS RELATED TO THE BONDS, SUBJECT TO THE FURTHER PROVISIONS OF SUCH ORDINANCE.

The public hearing on the Ordinance will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, March 11, 2024. The Ordinance will be introduced at the Mayor and Council’s regular meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024 and may be considered for passage at the March 11, 2024 regular meeting. The public hearing and both meetings will be held at Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, 2nd Floor, Berlin, MD 21811, beginning at 7:00 PM.

The hearing is open to the public and public testimony is encouraged. Written comments may be submitted by no later than 12:00 PM (noon) on Monday, March 11, 2024 as described at https://berlinmd.gov/government/council-meetings.

The Ordinance is available for review at Berlin Town Hall during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM or on the Town website at www.berlinmd.gov.

Persons with questions regarding this matter may call 410-641-2770. OCD-2/22/2t

REENA J. PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20086

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN GULSHEN

Notice is given that Susan Luff, 13038 Riggin Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on February 16, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Gulshen who died on February 04, 2024, 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 16th day of August,

2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(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.

Susan Luff

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 22, 2024 OCD-2/22/3t

_________________________________

BID SOLICITATION

Berlin Health Department

Roof Coating

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for the Application of Uniflex Acrylic Roof Coating System at the Berlin Health Department Building in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

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.

A pre-bid meeting will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 10:30am at the Berlin Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, MD 21811. The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Thursday, March 14, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents will not be

accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Berlin Health Department Roof Coating " in the lower lefthand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of the solicitation.

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer

Worcester County, Maryland OCD-2/22/1t

KHURRAM RIAZ

429 W. Market Street

Snow Hill, MD 21863 Plaintiff, v.

HILBORN MANAGEMENT CORP.

Attn: Suzanne Hilborn

74 Padgett Drive Bluffton, SC 29909 Defendant, and

WORCESTER COUNTY

Attn: Phil Thompson

1 West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant, and

ALL PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER CO, MD

DESCRIBED AS:

U1S ST LOUIS AVE

WILLOW'S CM, Tax Account # 10209633, Defendant.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-24-000020

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No.10-209633, Property description U1S ST LOUIS AVE WILLOW'S CM, Deed Reference: 652/251, Assessed to HILBORN MANAGEMENT CORP, owned by HILBORN MANAGEMENT CORP.

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

It is, thereupon this 7th of February, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland,

ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th of April, 2024 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/22/3t

VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 20084

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS court of SUSSEX COUNTY, MARYLAND appointed M MARY E WILGUS whose address is 35828 WILD GANDER LN FRANKFORD, DE 19945-4537, MELISSA ANN EVANS whose address is 35839 WILD GANDER LN FRANKFORD, DE 19945-4537 as the C CO-EXECUTRICES of the Estate of C CONNIE L WILGUS who died on O OCTOBER 18, 2023 domiciled in D DELAWARE, UNITED STATES

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is V VICTORIA L. O'NEILL, ESQ whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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 two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/22/3t

AGH nursing doctorate

In December, Atlantic General Women’s Health provider Michelle G. Farlow earned a doctor of nursing practice degree — the highest level of education for registered nurses — from Wilmington University.

With the new curriculum focused on evidence-based practices, advanced practice nurses who attain a doctor of nursing practice degree are better equipped to manage the increasing complexity of day-to-day patient care.

Prior to obtaining the DNP degree, Farlow earned a master of science in

Nursing in 2008 and her post-master’s certificate in family nurse practitioner studies in 2012, both from Wilmington University.

She is an experienced nurse educator and taught nursing students in both clinical and classroom settings. She also served as a public health clinician for more than five years. Farlow has been providing care to patients of Atlantic General Health System since 2014.

Farlow is currently accepting new patients at Atlantic General Women’s

Health, in Selbyville, Delaware. The office can be reached at 302-524-5007.

Taylor Bank promotion

Taylor Bank recently announced the promotion of Andrea Adams to the position of senior vice president, chief retail banking officer.

In her new role, Adams will continue to lead Taylor Bank’s retail branch network and ensure the delivery of high-quality financial services to customers.

Adams has a proven track record of success during her tenure at Taylor Bank, where she previously held the

Understanding hazard insurance

By Lauren Bunting

Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) The National Association of Realtors recently released a report about the differences between hazard insurance and homeowners insurance.

As articulated, hazard insurance is specifically designed to offer financial security to homeowners in the event of unforeseen disasters. Whereas, homeowners insurance is a more broad-based form of coverage offering hazard protection, as well as protection for personal belongings, liability claims, theft and vandalism.

The scope of coverage provided by hazard insurance typically includes protection against hazards such as fire, wind, hail, lightning and other natural disasters. The association of Realtors listed the following top four reasons to obtain hazard insurance:

• Geographic Vulnerability: Properties in areas prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes or floods, may require hazard insurance to mitigate financial risks.

• Peace of Mind: Homeowners who seek reassurance against unexpected events may benefit from hazard insurance.

• Property Value Preservation:

Hazard insurance may help protect and preserve the value of a property by covering repair or replacement costs in case of damage.

• Customized Coverage: It may be possible to tailor hazard insurance policies to meet the specific needs of homeowners, ensuring they have adequate protection.

Most mortgage companies will require homeowners to obtain insurance coverage as a condition for securing a home loan.

The requirement often includes both hazard coverage and liability protection and is typically integrated into a homeowners insurance policy.

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

position of senior vice president, director of branch administration. Under her leadership, the bank experienced significant growth and innovation in its retail delivery channels, enhancing customer satisfaction and expanding reach.

New doctor and team

Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates recently announced that Dr. Wilson Choy, the founder of Premier Orthopaedic Bone & Joint Care in Lewes, Delaware, and his team will be joining the practice on April 1.

The team consists of Dr. Harriott, a sports medicine fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon, as well as three physician assistants, Jennifer Hazzard, Amanda Moore and Henry Mensack, and the rest of the employees from the office.

With the inclusion of Choy and his team, Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates will expand its service footprint in Lewes and Milford. Through the new office locations, the practice will offer sub-specialty care, encompassing hand and wrist, total joint, sports medicine, and spine orthopedic care. Choy and Harriott will continue to provide surgical services within Beebe Healthcare facilities.

Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates is a multi-specialty orthopaedic practice that has been offering communities across the region an expansive continuum of orthopaedic services since 1952 with offices in Ocean Pines, Salisbury, Millsboro and Seaford.

Andrea Adams

Michelle Farlow

Snow Hill grocery store reopens

Food Rite owner thanks community for support at rally Tuesday night

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) A Snow Hill grocery store reopened this week after a brief closure related to harassment. While it was bullying from some residents of the town that prompted the

sudden closure of Snow Hill Food Rite, the Market Street grocery store known for its cheap gas, support from the community prompted owner TJ Patel to announce Tuesday night that the store would be reopening by the middle of the week.

“I don’t want to close down,” Patel said. “A lot of people depend on us.”

After Food Rite closed up Sunday night, word quickly spread throughout Snow Hill that the store would not be re-

opening. The grocery store, gas pumps and adjacent liquor store all sat vacant Monday and Tuesday. Hugh Cropper, Patel’s attorney, said he was being harassed by some people within the community. Cropper said there were inappropriate comments made on social media about the store and the Patel family. Patel told Cropper he was even followed and photographed by a woman when he was shopping in Pocomoke.

CHARLENE

TJ

this week.

Residents seek support for summer academy

School system requesting funding for from county for programs in northern area

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) The Worcester

County Board of Education met in an open session on Feb. 20, discussing school improvement plans and hearing public comments.

Concerned parents and community members were invited to address the board, and the importance of maintaining summer academy was a

common theme. During the Feb. 13 budget work meeting, Coordinator of Instruction Tamara Mills addressed the program’s financial difficulties as COVID-19 relief money had essentially ended. This has forced WCPS to request $377,700 from the county commissioners to fund the northern schools’ summer academy programs.

Lauren Falotico, a Showell Elementary School (SES) mother and Parent Teacher Association member, reiterated the importance of the program and urged the board to fight for its support.

“My youngest attended summer academy last summer, and it was truly a transformational experience for her,” she said. “Summer academy is vital for education. It creates well-adjusted students for the upcoming school year. It provides a structured environment

and prevents academic slides. With summer academy, students can continue their education, services and social-emotional growth.”

According to Laura Scharle of Ocean Pines, WCPS special education staff confirmed that if SES and other northern schools are unable to host the summer program, per the monetary challenges, students in the area that qualify for Extended School Year (ESY) services will be bussed to grantfunded academies. This would include Snow Hill Elementary. However, the concerned parent maintains that this is not enough.

“Many students that qualify for ESY, including my son, thrive on routine and familiarity,” Scharle said. “Bussing these students to an unfamiliar school will be counterproduc-

TARA FISCHER/OC

Members of the Worcester County Board of Education are pictured at their meeting Tuesday with administration staff.

Parents call bussing to other schools counterproductive

Continued from Page 52

tive and cause more stress than success, making their summer academy experience a waste of time.”

Parent Donna Pellinger reiterated the necessity of the summer program. Transporting northern students to the southern schools, she said, would disrupt children’s routines. The mother also mentioned that kids moving on to high school must have the opportunity to learn in their home base and acquaint themselves with the building and staff for the upcoming year.

“I urge you to continue to think about how we can make summer academy happen,” she said.

Chief Academic Officer for grades PreK -8, Denise Shorts, gave an update on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the initiative to increase education funding by $3.8 billion annually over the next 10 years. The county is drafting its second implementation plan. The first portion is due to the Maryland Department of Education and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Accountability and Implementation Board on March 15. It will address five questions concerning the blueprint’s execution in

Worcester County and will be released for public viewing after it is completed and approved.

The five-pillar piece, which will use outcome data, is due May 1. The pillars, for example, look at the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment and Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) results.

At this week’s board meeting, Superintendent Lou Taylor also announced the 2024 Worcester County’s Teacher of the Year nominees. They include Lisa Ballance, Pocomoke Elementary School; Caitlin Evans, Worcester Technical High School; Susan Gray, Buckingham Elementary School; Zachary Johnson, Cedar Chapel Special School; Andrea Kominos, Showell Elementary School; Jason Konyar, Snow Hill High School; Amanda Krantz, Pocomoke High School; Lisa Kristick, Ocean City Elementary School; Carrie Moore, Snow Hill Middle School; Amy Jo Mulinos, Snow Hill Elementary School; Jenna Paul, Berlin Intermediate School; Gabrielle Remington, Stephen Decatur Middle School; Kim Snyder, Pocomoke Middle School; and Marie Stevenson, Stephen Decatur High School.

Closure ends after two days

Continued from Page 51

“He felt the safest and most prudent thing to do to protect his family and employees was to shut down,” the attorney said.

An outpouring of community support was highlighted by a rally on behalf of the store Tuesday night in front of the old fire house. Patel, surrounded by about two dozen community members, said his phone had been ringing nonstop since the closure was announced. Cards were even left on the store’s windows by residents. Patel said it was the level of care shown by the community that prompted him to change his mind about closing. He announced during

the rally that the store would reopen Wednesday.

“Tomorrow’s a new journey,” he said.

His wife Bijal Patel said they’d reconsidered after hearing from the people of Snow Hill and talking with their family members.

“We decided not to leave Snow Hill,” she said. “This is our home.”

The Patels are hopeful that people who have complaints about the store will come to them directly rather than go straight to social media.

“If anybody has any problems please come to us, to management,” Bijal Patel said. “Together we’ll try to solve the problem.”

CITY

Ethel Griffin Kelley (18981955) was one of the leading figures in Ocean City’s 20th century hospitality industry.

Like many women of her generation she did not graduate from high school but went to work at the age of 14. One of her jobs was in the kitchen of the Plimhimmon Hotel where she honed the skills that would make her later hotels so successful.

Along with her aunt Minnie Lynch and Minnie’s son John, Ethel built the Royalton Hotel on 11th Street in 1927. She became sole owner three years later when the Lynch family left to build the Commander on 14th Street. She made the Royalton famous for its wonderful meals and its sticky buns. By 1949 the Royalton boasted 98 rooms.

In 1953 Ethel and her son Harry (later one of the town’s legendary mayors) built the Beach Plaza Hotel on 13th Street; it would become the last great Boardwalk hotel of its era.

Ethel Griffin Kelley was killed in a car crash while returning from a Florida vacation in 1955 – a tragic loss of one of Ocean City’s most successful businesswomen.

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

Connie Kelley Collins

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Critical need for area foster homes

Social services wants to address misperceptions of involvement in program

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) Six homes.

That, according to Department of Social Services Director Roberta Baldwin, is the total number of active foster care facilities in all of Worcester County.

It’s also the biggest challenge the department faces as it seeks temporary placement for the 30 children who are currently in the local foster care system.

“It’s a national issue,” she said. “We struggled before the pandemic, but certainly the pandemic has impacted, and continues to impact, our ability to recruit and maintain a large pool of homes.”

While the goal of foster care is to place foster children in a permanent living arrangement, either with family members or adoptive parents, Baldwin said there is a great need for foster parents who can provide short-term care and support. She noted that more than half of children in Worcester County’s foster care system are currently living in other counties, away from their communities and the people they know.

“When children have to be sepa-

rated from their families, there’s trauma that’s associated with that,” she explained. “So if we can keep children in their communities and in their neighborhoods, connected with teachers or other important figures in their lives, it helps to reduce that trauma and create some normalcy for that child. And it helps them live a much healthier life.”

Baldwin said the foster care system is a temporary separation of children who are at risk of being hurt or maltreated in their homes. She said children who enter the system are often victims of abuse and neglect.

“In our county, we have a high incident rate of neglect,” she said.

Tess Waller, resource coordinator for the local foster care system, said anyone – whether they are single, married, or an empty-nester – can be a foster parent, so long as they can complete the necessary training program and background check and provide a safe home environment. But most importantly, Waller said, is that they must love children and provide emotional support and stability.

“These children aren’t asking for much,” she said. “They just want to be part of a family.”

Alison Tinker, a Worcester County foster parent, said that is exactly why she joined the foster care system more than 20 years ago. Since that time, her

family has housed countless foster children and adopted five.

“There’s always more love to go around …,” she said. “Children can never have too many people to love them.”

Tinker said she sees the need for additional foster families within the community. She added that while there may be challenges, being a foster parent is a rewarding experience.

“It’s worth getting into, even if you don’t want to be a full-time foster parent,” she said. “Being a respite provider is just as important. Who knows, you may fall in love with them and want to keep them. We did that five times ourselves.”

Waller said she will work with prospective foster parents to determine their goals and intentions, whether it be short-term respite care, long-term care or adoption. She said families can also specify age ranges and decline any potential placements.

“Not every child will fit in their home, and it’s OK to say no,” she said. “And we understand that because the children are a priority, and we want to make sure that they’re safe and happy.”

Baldwin added that the department will also offer assistance to foster care families, no matter the time or day.

“We really are here to help and that’s a big point that we need to get across,” she said. “If you are kind enough to open your heart and home and take a child in, you’re not doing it alone, that the department is here to support you, for whatever the need may be, whether it’s getting a youth to and from medical appointments or talking through a situation that a foster parent may be having.”

Officials said there are some misconceptions about the foster care system. Baldwin said that could be one reason Worcester County is experiencing a lack of foster homes.

“Some of it may be that in our county there’s this perception that children aren’t experiencing the issues that would warrant them to be separated from their families, so there isn’t a need. But there is …,” she said. “We do have issues where families are experiencing behavioral health or substance use disorders that prevent them from being the best parent that they need to be. Those types of things are happening, and it’s those types of situations that are probably most prevalent for the majority of the reasons as to why children are coming into foster care.”

Baldwin added that the COVID pandemic also played a significant role in the number of families needing the foster care system.

“I do think that the pandemic has created more issues within families that they’re struggling to deal with,” she explained. “So it’s creating a greater need for this temporary separation, which means we need a larger pool of families to join our team, to support the

efforts to help us work with both the child and the family that is challenged with some of these problems.”

As of Feb. 16, there were 3,804 children and older youth in Maryland’s foster care system, according to the Maryland Department of Human Services. And while the number of children entering foster care has declined by 30% in the last decade, Brian Schleter, spokesman for the state department, said officials continue to seek partners when temporary placement is necessary.

“Whenever possible, we want to

make sure children and youth can safely remain with loved ones, reduce unnecessary removals and prevent children from coming into foster care in the first place …,” he said. “When children cannot safely remain at home and must enter foster care, we work diligently to place them in family foster homes, including kinship care, whenever possible.”

To date, there are 1,309 licensed family foster homes in Maryland, along with 821 formal kinship providers, according to the Maryland Department of Human Services.

“In Maryland, we continuously seek to partner with people who choose to step forward to serve as foster parents,” Schleter said. “At the same time, we are actively shifting toward a kin-first culture that consistently promotes immediate kinship placements, helps children in foster care maintain connections with relatives, and tailors services and supports for kinship families. Providing stable and loving homes can make an immense difference in the lives of these children, offering them the support and nurturing environment they need to thrive.”

Officials say the Worcester County Department of Social Services is seeking families to care for children as young as four months to teens as old as 17. Waller said those interested in becoming a foster parent can call her at 410-422-9731. For additional information, contact the Worcester County Department of Social Services at 410677-6849.

“We really want to support the youth in our community and provide what is best for them,” Baldwin said. “And being in a family is what’s best for children.”

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Officials warn Blueprint challenges loom

State board, county reps discuss implementation of required education plan

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) State officials said the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future would require difficult decisions at the local level as officials will have to prioritize how they want to spend education funding.

In a virtual meeting Tuesday, the state’s Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB) met with the Worcester County Commissioners and the Worcester County Board of Education to discuss implementation of the Blueprint, the state’s comprehensive education reform plan. The Blueprint will require local school systems to increase teacher salaries and expand dual enrollment offerings, among a variety of other changes meant to improve education in Maryland.

“It’s not going to be business as usual,” AIB Chairman Ike Leggett said. “You’re not going to be able to fund all the things people have wanted in the past.”

Leggett told Worcester County officials that with Maryland students ranking 40th and 43rd nationwide in reading and math, state leaders felt the need to spent years developing a plan to overhaul the state’s education system. AIB Vice Chairman Dr. Brit Kirwan, who led that effort, said a massive change was needed.

“We’re going to have our challenges,” he said.

Rachel Hise, AIB’s executive director, outlined the pillars of the Blueprint and how it was to be funded. While the county allocated $100 million in Maintenance of Effort (MOE) funding for education last year, the

new local share for the Blueprint is only $73 million. Under the Blueprint, local jurisdictions must fund the local share or MOE, whichever amount is greater.

Hise stressed that some of what school systems funded now was not included in the Blueprint.

“There are things not in the Blueprint that communities may value,” she said.

Commissioner Chip Bertino asked if those figures indicated that $73 million should be sufficient to cover the needs of the Blueprint. She said that figure didn’t include transportation or things like band or athletics.

Bertino asked how county government would know if the board of education was meeting Blueprint mandates and whether there was a transparent way to know they were being met from a financial standpoint.

would start from ground zero and he would determine the most important priorities and allocate funding to them. If there isn’t enough funding for everything on the list, the decision has to be made to add more resources or to eliminate something on the list. Leggett said he found zero-based budgeting helpful but that budgeting decisions would have to be made at the local level.

Kirwan said local school systems could get assistance from the state during Blueprint implementation through consultants AIB would be providing.

‘We need to make a cut somewhere else to pay that. In order to implement the Blueprint with fidelity, we’re going to need more state dollars.’

Jon Andes, school board member

“You don’t have that now?” Leggett asked.

Bertino said the county didn’t have the level of detail that would effectively help officials understand what was going on.

“Other county governments are experiencing the same opportunities for improvement we are,” Bertino said.

Leggett said it was the AIB’s expectation that everything associated with the Blueprint was transparent.

“We’re talking here about tax dollars the public’s paying for,” he said.

Bertino asked about zero-based budgeting, the process of starting a budget from zero rather than with the budget figure from the previous year.

Leggett said the way he did it, a budget

“These are individuals who can bring strategic thinking to make the kind of adjustments you’re talking about,” he said.

According to Leggett, transparency and collaboration will be needed through the process.

“You should have access to and the ability to look at everything utilizing taxpayer dollars,” he said. “That transparency is a must.”

He acknowledged that putting the Blueprint initiatives in place would require big changes from school systems but that drastic change was needed to improve education statewide.

“The Blueprint will not do everything people may want to do at the local level,” he said. “There will be some difficult decisions.”

School board member Jon Andes, the county’s former superintendent, said Worcester County was considered a wealthy jurisdiction by the state and as a result didn’t receive sufficient funding. He said the county was set to receive $1.4 million—about $200 a

pupil—to implement the Blueprint.

“We need more state funding to get the job done,” he said, adding that things like the salary increase the Blueprint demanded for teachers with National Board Certification cost more than the state was providing. “We need to make a cut somewhere else to pay that. In order to implement the Blueprint with fidelity, we’re going to need more state dollars.”

Andes maintained that Worcester County already supported many of the Blueprint values and was the top performing school system in the state. He pointed out that the low-ranking stats Leggett shared at the beginning of the meeting were from the National Assessment of Education Progress, an assessment that isn’t based on results from individual students or schools.

“It’s a barometer not a census test,” he said.

Hise said that in counties where the local share was less than MOE, there would be funding challenges because the money was already being spent on certain things.

“It is a challenge to rethink how you’re using your resources,” she said, adding that the goal would be to have local officials agree on a set of priorities. “We are going to be providing targeted technical assistance to do that deeper dive. We really would encourage Worcester County to participate.”

Todd Ferrante, president of the school board, asked if the timeline for Blueprint implementation could be delayed.

“That’d be a question we’d have to take up with the General Assembly,” Leggett said.

At a board of education meeting later Tuesday afternoon, Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) officials said the support services the AIB referenced during the virtual meeting were not yet available.

“This is something brand new that’s getting ready to be offered,” said Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief safety and academic officer for grades 9-12. Other officials said the school system wouldn’t be able to apply for the assistance until July 1.

“Certainly, I’m going to reach out to that consultant,” Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert said.

Wallace also brought up the comments made about transparency. She said one of the entire pillars of the Blueprint was accountability and transparency.

“That seemed to be left out today when the question was asked very clearly,” she said. “I did want to make that clear to the board and public. I’m not sure why that was left out when the question was asked.”

She added that there was already accountability within WCPS.

“When we talk about accountability, Worcester County Public Schools now, thanks to the board’s leadership

School system to work with state support personnel

Continued from Page 56

and foresight, every expenditure that you all approve every single month is on our website,” she said. “To make any suggestion about a lack of transparency or accountability, if I go to the bathroom and it costs me 25 cents to go to the bathroom, like in Europe when you have to pay a quarter to go in, you’d see it. It would be a 25-cent expense and it would say restroom. Everything is there, everything is accounted for, everything is very transparent.”

School board member Katie Addis brought up Leggett’s comments about zero-based budgeting and asked if that was something the school system could explore. Tolbert indicated it would be difficult for a school system to do.

“For some companies it does make sense,” he said. “I don’t think it makes as much sense for a school system.”

Addis said maybe it was something the school system could do every five or 10 years.

“The fact you’d be doing that type of process would be beneficial to the financial department as well as the taxpayers that see things are being looked at,” she said.

OC native wins $12K opera award

Soprano Katerina Burton one of six to win in national foundation competition

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) Ocean City native and operatic soprano Katerina Burton is one of six to win $12,000 at the 52nd George and Nora London Foundation Competition in New York City on Feb. 16.

The award is named after Canadian American bass-baritone George London, a renowned opera singer of the 20th century whose later years were defined by fostering young talent. According to Burton, the late musician established the foundation in 1971 to reward up-and-coming talent. Prizes have been given to the opera and theater world staples throughout the organization’s existence, such as the recognized soprano Renée Fleming and tenor Neil Shicoff.

A total of $84,000 was given in awards. The semifinals lasted three days, and 12 performers were deemed finalists. Six artists, including Burton, were selected as the winners of the George London Awards and received $12,000. The remaining six were given George London Encouragement Awards and $2,000.

“To win the award is such an honor,” Burton said. “With everyone singing that night, I kept thinking, ‘Oh my goodness, how can they choose?’ I am over the moon.”

Burton, a 2012 graduate of Stephen Decatur, began her opera journey in high school when she studied with Evonne Lee, owner and teacher at Evonne Lee Music Studio, who has a background as a classical singer and a specialty in church music. The awardwinning performer confirmed that their relationship propelled her onto her current path.

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do,” Burton said. “I sang musical theater and wanted to be a Broadway star for a while. I always loved classical music because my mom used to figure skate to songs from Carmen and other operas, so I always had an ear for it. It wasn’t until I started working with Evonne that I realized it was something I wanted to do.”

The Ocean City-born vocalist recently graduated from the Cafritz Young Artist program at Washington National Opera. Here, she made a role debut as Micaëla in Francesca Zambello’s production of Carmen.

Burton will also participate in Puccini’s La bohème with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis as Mimi and the premiere of Adolphus Hailstork’s com-

missioned work JFK: The Last Speech with the National Symphony Orchestra in the 2023-2024 performance season.

To secure her win on Feb. 16, Burton sang “Tu che le Vanita” from Verdi’s Don Carlo. She was awarded the George London Award in Memory of Leonie Rysanek, which pays homage to the late Austrian dramatic soprano. An anonymous donor sponsored the monetary prize.

“It is such an honor to get this award in her name,” Burton said.

PHOTO COURTESY JENNIFER WADA Soprano Katerina Burton, an Ocean City native and Decatur High graduate, is pictured on stage.

Greene Turtle West marks 25th anniversary

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 23, 2024) A beloved neighborhood bar and restaurant is celebrating 25 years of business.

In January, the Greene Turtle West celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Route 611 establishment. And while owner Tommy Dickerson acknowledged the milestone as a testament to the dedication of his customers and employees, he said he has no plans of stopping.

“We’re 25 years old but we are getting better every day,” he said.

Dickerson got his start in the business in 1980, when he and business partner Steve Pappas purchased The Original Greene Turtle in north Ocean City. And by 1999, the sports bar had grown to include locations in Fells Point, Laurel, Edgewater and West Ocean City.

“In 1999 we built this location,” he recalled. “Those first couple of years were shaky. All my friends and family, and really anyone who knew me, said I was nuts because there was nothing out here. There really wasn’t.”

But Dickerson said he saw the potential for a successful establishment. While those in the community were initially skeptical, he said they were

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

soon proven wrong. By 2003, Greene Turtle West had found its footing, with customers coming in from Assateague Island and nearby golf courses.

“It really wasn’t a neighborhood back then,” he said. “It was more transient, mostly golfers. Then it became local.”

While business grew with time, Dickerson said it wasn’t always smooth sailing. He said competition from new eateries, and closures and staffing shortages brought on by the COVID pandemic, were some of the biggest challenges faced in his years of operation. He noted, however, that Greene Turtle West persevered.

“It was really tough for a couple of years,” he said.

After 25 years of business, Greene Turtle West has cemented itself as the neighborhood bar and restaurant along Route 611. Dickerson said customers can find sports, drinks and delicious food - including wings, burgers, crab cakes and salads - from one location.

“I believe our food is really good,” he said. “People who come in for the first time think we’re just a bar, but we have more than just pub food.”

Just as important, Dickerson said, is the service customers receive. He recognized long-time employees, including Kelly Rogers and Nina Williams, for making the Greene Turtle West what it is today.

“Anybody can serve wings, burgers, cold beer, drinks,” he said. “Anybody can do that, but it’s how you do it and who you do it with that keeps people coming back.”

Greene Turtle West is open daily from 11 a.m. till. For more information, visit the Greene Turtle West page on Facebook, or call 410-2131500.

“We appreciate all of our customers, the people who have stuck with us …,” he said. “The repeat business is how I gauge our business. If they come back, it’s a good thing. It’s been gratifying for us.”

Sloppy Joe sundaes can be casual or upscale

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) The philosophy of time has been a subject of much debate.

To this day, theorists continue to argue whether time is “real” or “unreal.”

The debate over time also touches on the subject of the “present.” Is it an instantaneous concept or a period of duration? There are logicians who even question whether the “past” and “future” really exist.

Certainty is not always an absolute, but most would agree that time is continuous and has an intrinsic direction.

With that thought in mind, we will delve into the subject of Sloppy Joes. As you will see, Sloppy Joes have come a long way and what was once “understood” may not be the norm at all.

For those who are not familiar with Sloppy Joe sandwiches, they are a mixture of ground beef, seasonings, and tomato sauce that is served on bread.

Its history is not written in stone, but a popular theory suggests that the original Sloppy Joe was invented by a cook named Joe in a café in Sioux City, Iowa in 1930. Joe added tomato sauce to the “loose meat” sandwich and from

that point on Sloppy Joes became a household name.

Sloppy Joe meals gained popularity for several reasons: the preparation is quite simple and the sandwich is easy on one’s budget. Sloppy Joes are also popular with children, so moms continually give the dish thumbs up.

Ground beef is the standard protein, but the addition of sweet and spicy Italian sausage adds to the taste and texture of the overall dish. Remember to remove the casings, so the sausage can be broken down into smaller pieces. The smaller pieces of protein are able to absorb the sauce better, which enhances the overall dish.

If one wants to cut down on the fat, replace the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground venison. Or you can use a combination of assorted proteins.

Sometimes subtlety can make a big difference. The addition of chicken broth will give the sandwich more depth of flavor and cut some of the acidity of the tomato taste.

Finely diced mushrooms, yellow squash, zucchini, bell peppers, celery, onions and garlic are a way to incorporate a medley of natural goodness which enhances the flavor and texture of the sandwich.

If one is cooking for children, you might want to use a food processor to

chop the veggies. Remember, if your children are picky, finely chopped veggies will have a better chance of being accepted if they are not visible.

You might be wondering what is the difference between Sloppy Joes and Manwich? Manwich, a portmanteau of man and sandwich, is the brand name of a canned sloppy joe sauce, produced by ConAgra Foods and Hunt’s, introduced in 1969. Manwich has a tendency to be a little more seasoned than your traditional Sloppy Joe sauce.

Sloppy Joes or Manwich sauce are usually served on hamburger buns. Slider or party rolls are smaller portions and perfect for children or buffets. Sloppy Joe perfectionists insist on

a lightly toasted bun, but the choice is up to the individual host.

Sloppy Joe sandwiches are soft by nature, so Kettle chips are a great pairing. The contrast in texture and saltiness of the chips pair well with the tomato-based sandwich.

If savory pies tickle your fancy, a Sloppy Joe pie with a mashed potato crust and Sloppy Joe filling is an innovative twist on the standard sandwich. We are not done on the subject of possibilities; consider Sloppy Joe sundaes. The spiced meat sauce smothered over scoops of creamy mashed potatoes is a great twist that will please adults and children alike.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

When it comes time to plate up your sloppy joe meal, it can be fun to add a little artistic flair to the presentation, as pictured above.

PHOTO BY BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Greene Turtle West owner Tom Dickerson is pictured with long-time manager Kelly Rogers.

NONPROFIT DONATION

SUBMITTED

AUTHOR STUDY

in Ocean City Elementary

OCFD DONATION

KIWANIS SPEAKER

Patti Stevens, an advocate, planner and connector for several Eastern Shore groups poses with Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Bob Wolfing at the club’s Jan. 31 meeting. Stevens, spoke about the needs of not only Ocean Pines and Worcester County, but all eight counties of the Eastern Shore.

IF I WERE MAYOR

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, center, poses with Worcester Preparatory School fourth grade students and their teachers after a discussion of this year’s “If I Were Mayor, I Would… ” essay contest. Each year, WPS students are asked to write an essay of no more than 275 words about what they would do if they were mayor. This year’s theme is “Inspiring Leadership in Your City/Town/Community.”

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY SURF CLUB

The Ocean City Surf Club recently donated $2,000 to the Rise Up Foundation to support local youth.

Pictured, from left, are Velda Henry, Rise Up Foundation executive director; Rusty Ruzsin, OC Surf Club vice president; Tommy Vach, the president of OC Surf Club; and Patrick Henry, Rise Up Foundation executive director.

PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Several students

School teacher Danielle Marshall's first grade class pose with a copy of “Julius, The Baby of the World,” and descriptions they wrote about the main character, Lucy, during an Author Study unit that focused on books written by Kevin Henkes.

PHOTO COURTESY OC ELKS #2645

Members of the OC Elks #2645 recently presented $5,000 to the Ocean City Fire Department. Pictured, from left, with the check are Jim Flaig, Elks treasurer; Fire Chief Richie Bowers; and members of the Elks’ charity committee, Susan Caldwell, Carolyn Kuhn, Chrm, Charlie Loane and Bruce Martinek.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVIS J. LANDIS SR.

A day in the life of a teacher

‘Each day we look forward to the excitement of teaching and learning new things.’

By Nyoka R. Mumford Contributing Writer

A teacher is defined as a person who helps others to acquire knowledge, competencies or values. I am proud to be a teacher in Worcester County Public Schools because this is the county system that I attended as a child.

It takes a lot to be able to have the correct balance of what is needed to be a good teacher. Every day I watch teachers within our county go above and beyond to meet the needs of our children. With juggling all the components of being a great teacher, things can be difficult.

One thing that makes our job rewarding is our students. Each day we look forward to the excitement of teaching and learning new things. Being able to see the growth that students make from day to day, month to month, and year to year is amazing.

Most students come to school to work hard and give their best. We work hard to provide a quality education for all students no matter their background or barriers. At times that comes with extensive planning and preparation.

The opportunities that our students have are endless. Teachers work

hard to provide many opportunities for our students. I have watched teachers put their students’ needs before their own family because they want to provide lifelong learners.

As elementary teachers, we want to provide experiences that students will remember forever. That’s what makes learning fun. This can also come at a price. To deliver and bring lessons to life, it may require extra materials or supplies being bought personally by teachers.

Over the years, the out-of-pocket cost has become extensive. The support of funding and salaries are very important to help teachers continue giving their best to their students.

Many of us walk around our schools every day and make this job look easy, but understanding the behind-the-scenes operation is very important. It takes many attributes to provide the learning environment that our students need to succeed.

This happens not just from the classroom teacher but from everyone that the student comes in contact with. We all must work together like a family to show up for our students.

(The writer is a teacher at Snow Hill Elementary School.)

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Tim Jerscheid likes teaching service to next generation

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) This week it is a pleasure to recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member Tim Jerscheid.

14. After moving to Ocean City with his son, he became acquainted with several fire company members at the 74th Street Station (Station #3). They encouraged him to join the Volunteer Fire Company and the “rest is history.”

Firefighting runs deep in the Jerscheid family. Tim’s grandfather, Charles H. Jerscheid Sr. was a firefighter with the Baltimore City Fire Department for over 12 years before tragically losing his life on the morning of Jan. 11, 1956, when his fire apparatus was involved in a motor vehicle accident while responding to a reported cellar fire. Tim’s father, Charles H. Jerscheid Jr., also served as a firefighter for the Baltimore City Fire Department. Charles Jerscheid retired from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department after 25 years of service and currently serves as the chief of the Stockton Volunteer Fire Company in Worcester County. His son, Timothy, served as a cadet and firefighter with the OCVFC.

Tim Jerscheid joined the Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department at the age of

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

During his 15 years of service with the OCVFC, Jerscheid served as lieutenant on Truck/Tower 706 and later served as a lieutenant with the North Battalion of the OCVFC. Along with serving as a volunteer in Ocean City, he also worked part-time for the Ocean City Fire/EMS division for 15 years. Lt. Jerscheid recalls two significant incidents during his time with the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. The first event occurred on Jan. 19, 2003, when two young boys fell through the ice on a frozen pond at Northside Park after chasing a ball. One of the boys was quickly recovered by an OCPD officer. Jerscheid was actively involved in the successful resuscitation of the young victim. Sadly, the second young man remained submerged for an extended period of time and did not survive. The two young boys were in the same grade and attended the same school as Tim’s son.

See BEST Page 61

Sloppy Joe sundae fun

Continued from Page 58

Homemade or instant mashed potatoes are perfectly acceptable for both of these options and provide a yummy foundation for the sauce.

Depending on the occasion, you might want to tap into your artistic side and plate the Sloppy Joe as a full course meal.

Casual or upscale, Sloppy Joe sundaes are “finger licking good.” Enjoy!

Sloppy Joe Sundaes

Mashed Potatoes

8 cups favorite mashed potatoes

Sloppy Joe Sauce

3 pounds ground beef

1 ½-pounds sweet and Italian sausage

8 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 large yellow onion

1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and stem removed

1 orange bell pepper, seeded and stem removed

1 poblano pepper, seeded and stem removed

1 small yellow squash, seeds removed

1 small zucchini, seeds removed

3 carrots, peeled

3 stalks celery, finely sliced

8 ounces baby portobellas, finely sliced

2 cups chicken broth

3 (24 ounce) cans Manwich sauce kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté ground beef until done. Break down any clumps. Place meat in a mesh strainer to remove any excess fat. Set meat aside.

2. Remove casings from sausage and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the same pot and sauté until fully cooked. Again, strain for excess fat and set aside.

3. Chop all of the vegetables.

4. Add remaining olive oil and sauté vegetables until soft, about 10 minutes in the pot.

5. Combine cooked meats, chicken stock, Manwich, salt, and pepper to the cooked vegetables. Simmer Sloppy Joe mixture for 20 minutes.

6. Serve over mashed potatoes.

* Sloppy Joe freezes well and can be frozen for future use.

Secret Ingredient – Small Pieces “It’s always the small pieces that make the big picture.”

— Denise Luntraru

Tim Jerscheid

Best, most rewarding job

Continued from Page 60

The second incident involved a fireworks mishap at Northside Park with Jerscheid in command of the incident. OCVFC units were answering the call for assistance when Chief David Cropper and additional responding southend units arrived on the scene of a pedestrian/traffic accident on Coastal Highway resulting in fatal injuries to a young child.

Jerscheid said his greatest accomplishment in the fire service was watching his son follow in the family legacy and receive his firefighter number upon entering the OCVFC as a full-time member after his involvement in the cadet program.

He also said, “teaching people about the fire service is the best thing I have ever done. So many of the kids I have taught have gone on to become awesome firefighters; Chiefs in this county; and career firefighters in multiple departments. I am proud to have passed on my knowledge to the next generation.”

Given the opportunity to pass on advice to the members of the cadet program or other young men and women with an interest in the fire service, Jerscheid said, “The Cadet Program in the OCVFC and in all fire companies is one of the greatest things ever. The Cadet Program has turned out so many great young men and women. I would say listen to everyone and take in all the knowledge you can in your beginning years. Enjoy the ride because you never know when it may come the time to hang it up. It is the best and most rewarding job you can ever do.”

We are grateful to Chief Jerscheid and his family for their many dedicated years in the fire service and their commitment to the safety and well-being of our neighbors and to the visitors to our communities.

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

by Steve Green

NThe Adventures of Fatherhood

othing prepares you for the vulnerability of driving with an inexperienced teen driver.

Beckett received his learner’s permit last Thursday afternoon. Earlier in the week, Pam and Beckett went to the MVA in Salisbury only to find out I had selected the wrong date for his appointment online. Therefore, we rescheduled it for Thursday, and I was fortunate to be able to take him.

Amidst the daily professional grind, I find peace and perspective in being with my family, particularly major things in life like my 15-year-old son getting his learner’s permit.

As we walked into the MVA, it was clear Beckett was nervous. The incessant cracking of his knuckles was an easy tell as was the nonstop questions and observations. At one point, during the eye exam, it appeared he was even shaking a bit. I found the nerves charming to a degree as teens seem to prefer hiding their feelings more often than not.

When it was time for him to go into the exam room, I wished him luck and started sweating. A few minutes later, he came strolling out confidently. It was clear he had passed, but he looked at me trying to keep a poker face. Giggling a bit, Beckett then started brushing off his shoulder with his hand as if to say it was no sweat whatsoever. The teen’s confidence had been restored.

As we were waiting for our number to be called for the next step of the process, I could see his entire mood swing. The relief he was feeling was palpable. When our number was called at the opposite end of the building, I couldn’t help but look over at him walking next to me.

Me: Feeling good?

Beckett: Yeah, I’m strutting in here now, aren’t I?

Me: No doubt.

Beckett: Like I’m something hot, all

I did was pass my learner’s permit.

Me: (Laughing) I get it, it’s a big deal. And it would have been an even bigger deal if it didn’t go well.

Beckett: Imagine if I didn’t pass? I would be in such a bad mood right now.

As we sat down for the next step in the appointment, Beckett was gone mentally. The woman behind the plexiglass was asking him questions and it was as if nobody was home. She quickly said, “okay buddy, how about you move over and let Dad handle this part?” He admitted he was distracted and told the lady he had just passed his learner’s permit test. She kindly said congratulations, as if she didn’t know this already. It was clear my boy was mentally exhausted after getting himself all worked up in the minutes before the test.

On the way home I assumed Beckett would want to do some driving with me. It turned out he was so relieved he was done for the day and wanted to push it off until the next day.

After school on Friday, we spent about 90 minutes driving around empty parking lots and town roads, getting familiar with all the aspects of the vehicle and gaining confidence. It was nice to see he was cautious and unsure of himself. About 30 minutes into driving around parking lots and practicing pulling into spots, Beckett was ready to drive on a road. He was all good until another vehicle came up behind him while another was coming toward him on the road. I talked him through it, and he did a solid job.

A few days later, after driving each day, he wanted to try out driving at night. I initially wondered if that was even allowed but read in the paperwork part of the learner’s permit process is getting familiar with driving in the dark. The kid immediately remarked how different it was before wondering how to turn on the lights. I reminded him to start the car first and get his left foot off the brake.

All in all, Beckett has thus far done a great job learning the rules of the road and boosting his familiarity with the car. He’s been asking questions and showing his vulnerability. It’s been nice to see.

Speaking of vulnerability, on a personal level, I don’t think I have ever felt more insecure and powerless than when he was driving, especially on Main Street in Berlin. At one point, I got a cramp in my foot from my toes digging into the bottom of my shoes while air braking. My foot is literally still sore for some reason.

It’s tough to judge speed when your 15-year-old is behind the wheel. Everything seems too fast and the vehicle always appears a little too far over to one side of the lane. For example, he was only going 22 mph on a neighborhood street, but it felt like 50 mph. Conversely, when he was driving 50 mph, it felt like 70 mph. At one point, Beckett said, “why aren’t you saying anything? Am I good?” I quickly remembered my role was to be coaching him and not freaking out.

As his comfort level grows, the next step will be driving on the highway. This will be a big step for both of us. Nowadays wherever we drive, I ask him to put away his phone and observe. It occurs to me from talking to other parents how unprepared kids these days are to drive because of electronics. When they get in the car, most kids jump right on their phones or tablets.

Beckett gave me some grief about this request but I told him I am not on my phone while you are driving. “That’s because you are scared to death,” he said, and I couldn’t argue with that at all.

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

Blueprint calls for togetherness

The state has spoken and, like it or not, the Worcester County Commissioners and the Board of Education have no choice but to find a way to pay for the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.

Political philosophies and opinions on how these county bodies conduct their business mean nothing these days, as does the prevailing belief locally that the state’s one-size-fits all Blueprint has placed them in a financial bind unfairly. The program’s Accountability and Implementation Board is not concerned about any of that.

Is essence, the board told county officials this week, “Our problem is getting the Blueprint going; how to pay for it is your problem, so you had better start figuring it out.”

No amount of venting about insufficient funding from the state is going to soften the board’s stance on what Worcester needs to do and when it needs to do it, as that really isn’t the board’s call.

It’s doing what it’s required to do by law, which leaves local officials with one option — find a way to cover these costs, gritted teeth and the desire to resist these mandates notwithstanding.

To accomplish that, the county commissioners and the school board will have to find a way to put aside their differences and work together to find a solution that doesn’t heap the full financial burden of the Blueprint’s implementation on other areas of school funding.

Simply draining one school account to finance another wouldn’t be fair to the affected parties and would be counterproductive to achieving a better school system. The county must look to its own spending as well, and perhaps cut back on some of its favored funding recipients to satisfy the Blueprint’s demands.

In the meantime, there’s nothing wrong with complaining about the state’s imposition of this public education overhaul, as long as everyone accepts that nothing will come of it.

OC Toda y/Disp atch

Stubbornly local, equally independent

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

ASSOCIATE EDITORS CHARLENE SHARPE, BETHANY HOOPER

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Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES

ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY

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PUBLIC EYE

We agree to agree

People keep asking me how the merger of Ocean City Today and The Dispatch is going as if they expect me to report that former Dispatch Editor and now OC Today-Dispatch Executive Editor Steve Green put thumbtacks in my chair.

By Stewart Dobson

He did not ... after the first day, anyway, but that was only because I coated part of his computer keyboard with STP, the super-slippery auto oil treatment that caused his fingers to slide off the “e” and hit the “f” instead.

That’s why his email accusing me of being responsible for this alphabetical affliction read like this:

“SD — I know it was you who causfd me this troublf with my kfyboard. Shamf on you ... I’ll gft you back, you’ll sff. SG”

Okay, so I didn’t do that, nor did he do anything to my chair because we’re getting along just fine, thank you very much.

Except, perhaps, for the comment he made about my epic article this week explaining what the state’s Constant Yield Tax Rate is and how it works.

Since we routinely give our stories for others to edit, I was delighted when he read mine and said, “I think this piece is fine ...” but then added, “I’m sure the seven people who will actually read it will think so, too.”

“Seriously?” I asked. “Just seven?”

“Well, maybe,” he replied. “It depends on how many people are trapped in an elevator for an hour with a copy of this week’s paper.”

Seriously, he didn’t say that, because I made it up to satisfy the numerous people

who can’t help but believe that it’s impossible for former competitors to work together without engaging in or fostering an atmosphere of heavy drama.

As it happens, the only drama we have experienced in the last three weeks is when we realized that time is running out on our search for something to argue about so we can meet expectations.

I even stole his lunch the other day just to start something, but then he said that was fine because he took mine as well.

And that’s the problem, we’re so agreeable that it’s almost disagreeable.

Just the other day, we got into it over this agreeableness in a big way.

“I agree with you,” he said to me about something of little consequence.

“Well, I agree with you more,” I countered. “Oh no,” he replied. “I agree with you more!”

“No, no, no!” I exclaimed. “I doubleagree!”

“Oh yeah?” He shot back, “I agree to the power of ten.”

With that I slumped off to my office knowing that I’d be better off agreeing with him in solitude.

It wasn’t long thereafter, of course, that he sent an email suggesting that we agreed with each other in equal amounts, and that our disagreement on how much we agreed was the product of 30 years of competing against each other.

“I agree,” I replied. “In fact, I couldn’t agree more.”

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

The email subject line, “Ocean City Is Not For Sale,” was successful in catching attention as did the email minutes before from a company selling advertising on Ocean City’s buses and trams. Nonetheless, the email from the city did answer an ongoing question on whether US Wind proposed a community benefits package to Ocean City like it did communities in Delaware last year. The deal offered is $2 million over a 20-year period paid in $100,000 annual increments. The payments are intended to help the towns’ budgets as well as mute any public statements of opposition to offshore wind. When it came to light Fenwick Island and Lewes had rejected the money, the immediate question was whether Ocean City had been presented with the same financial deal.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan confirmed this week the resort had also turned the cash down, referring to an email from last December. “I find it unconscionable that any local officials would consider payment to silence their voice on any issue that directly effects their constituents or their community,” said Meehan. “…. the future of the Town of Ocean City cannot be bought, and we intend to continue to do what is necessary to protect the interests of our residents, property owners and future generations.”

The only surprise with Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan filing for a U.S. Senate seat was the timing. It’s been known the Republican had further public service aspirations after two terms as Maryland’s governor, but it was the fact he filed just hours before the deadline on Feb. 9 that caught folks off guard.

Aside from the last-minute filing, it’s a favorable spot for Hogan, who will not have to unseat an incumbent, as Democrat Ben Cardin is retiring after 17 years. What he will have to overcome is a heavily Democratic state and voter turnout should be strong for the blue in the population-rich counties because it’s a presidential election.

Though the May primary will decide Hogan’s opponent in the general election, the odds are Rep. David Trone of Montgomery County will represent the Democratic Party. For what it’s worth – not much considering it’s just February – an Emerson College Polling/The Hill/DC News Now survey found Hogan and Trone tied at 42% support with 16% undecided. Hogan already appears to be using the same blueprint to success he used winning the governor’s seat. He considers himself a political outsider who is looking to seek office because of his love for public service, one he learned from his father, a former state congressman. “I’m running for the United States Senate – not to serve one party – but to fix our nation’s broken politics and fight for Maryland. It’s what I did as your governor, and it’s exactly how I’ll serve you,” he said in a message eerily familiar.

On the local note, Hogan has enjoyed strong shore support during his career. In fact, a fundraiser for Hogan’s campaign is being hosted by Rebecca and Leighton Moore on March 16 at Seacrets Area 51 during the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Ocean City. ***

Wicomico County joined Somerset County this month in filing suit against Meta, Google, ByteDance, Snap Inc. and TikTok in an attempt to hold the social media giants accountable for the youth mental health crisis. The fact school systems here – and elsewhere – are going the litigious route fascinates me. I tend to think it’s up to parents to regulate, or not, their kids’ tech uses.

In Wicomico’s case, the school system has contracted on a contingency basis with a law firm to represent the students. Superintendent Dr. Micah Stauffer said in a statement, “… These social media companies have profited off our student body, and now we are simply working to recoup the resources we’ve invested in pushing back against the decline in mental health we’re seeing across our student body.”

Attorney Phil Federico, representing the school district, added, “… These companies are extremely successful in developing algorithms that keep our kids engaged and online for as long as possible to profit as much as possible. That needs to stop, and these companies need to be held accountable for the impact of their products.”

There is no indication if other school systems will join the effort, which on the surface seems a long shot for corrective action or punitive damages. Back in December, Worcester County Public Schools said no discussions had taken place on the matter.

(Feb. 23, 2024) The Ocean CityBerlin Rotary Club recently used a district grant to buy blankets and hygiene kits for people at two local nonprofits.

Every year, rotary clubs have the ability to apply for district grants. The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club’s president recommends a grant, and if agreed upon by club members and approved by the district, the grant is funded in the year following the president’s term.

According to a news release, clubs can request a maximum of $5,000 and can receive up to 80% of funds requested. Following strict guidelines, the requests are submitted to the district grant chairman and a committee of various district rotary members.

The release said this year’s district grant chairman is the Ocean CityBerlin Rotary Club’s past president, Margaret Mudron, who abstained from the review and approval of the club’s grant application

Mudron presented her idea to club

members and they agreed. Members chose two recipients for their grant — The Cricket Center in Berlin and Diakonia in West Ocean City.

Club members made 120 fleece blankets, both adult and children sizes. They also made 200 hygiene kits, which were filled with name brand products for men, women and children. Club members delivered the blankets and hygiene kits to the groups.

The release said Mudron chose blankets hoping that the children would have “blankies” of their own during stressful times in their lives and that the adults would have something that they could take with them when they move on from Diakonia. The club members also wanted to keep their donations local.

The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club meets at 6 p.m., the first and third Wednesdays of the month, at Don’s Seafood & Chop House at the South Gate of Ocean Pines. For more information, email the club at ocberlinrotary@gmail.com.

American pilots fly needed supplies to China

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) This week, 80 years ago, American pilots flying unarmed American cargo planes from India across the Himalaya Mountains to China were delivering sorely needed supplies to Generalissimo Chaing Kaishek’s China.

Prior to spring 1942, the generalissimo had received supplies by way of the Burma Road. Supplies would be shipped from Los Angeles to Rangoon (now Yangon), Burma (now Myanmar) and then by rail to Myitkyina.

Yangon is located at the convergence of the Yangon and Bago Rivers about 19 miles from the Gulf of Martaban, which is part of the Andaman Sea. At the time, the city had a population of 500,000. Myitkyina has a current population of 200,000 and lies 1,000 miles from Yangon.

From Myitkyina, the goods would be transported by truck over the Burma Road to the wartime Nationalist capital of Chongqing, a distance of 1,717 miles. The Burma Road had been built by 200,000 Burmese and Chinese laborers after the Japanese attacked China in 1937.

The airlift became necessary when, in May of 1942, as American Gen.

“Vinegar” Joe Stilwell put it, the Allies “...got run out of Burma....” The Americans had to create an airlift from scratch.

The airlift was initially begun by 10 former Pan-American World Airways DC3’s. The DC3 was a propeller-driven airliner designed and manufactured by the Douglas Aircraft Company. It was powered by Pratt and Whitney R-1830 twin-wasp engines. It had a cruising speed of 207 miles per hour and a capacity of 6,000 pounds of cargo.

However, by 1942, there was excess demand on military goods such as air transport, because of military crisis around the world. The Allies’ “Arsenal of Democracy” had yet to ramp up to full production.

The route for supplies was a twomonth sailing from Los Angeles to Karachi, India (now Pakistan). From Karachi, theoretically, the goods would be shipped by rail to Dinjan in Assam, India, which was a 1,000 mile trip. From Dinjan, the goods would be flown to Kunming, and from there, transported by truck to Chongqing. However, the Indian rail system was so decrepit that, quite often, the material had to be flown from Karachi to Assam.

Lt. Col. William D. Old trans-

ported 8,000 gallons of aviation fuel from the British Air Force base at Dinjan to China for the first flight “over the hump.” Finally, the Allies were able to establish regular flights to China with 26 DC3’s. However, since Dinjan was within range of Japanese Zeros flying from Myitkyina, flights had to depart at night, flying over the Himalayas, which counted more than 100 peaks exceeding heights of 23,600 feet.

In order to get the lift necessary to cross the highest mountain range in the world, the planes could not carry defensive weapons, so if they were caught by the Japanese, they were sitting ducks. During the first two months of the airlift, only 812 tons were transported to China. Then came the monsoon season, cutting the tonnage further. In July, 306 tons were delivered. In April of 1943, the airlift operation began to be supplied with Curtis C46 Commandos. This was a twin-engine aircraft. Although the plane was an improvement over the DC3, it was a maintenance nightmare.

At the Trident Conference in Washington, D.C., in May 1943, President Roosevelt ordered the following schedule: 5,000 tons delivered to China by July; 7,500 tons by August;

and 10,000 tons by September of 1943. These totals weren’t quite met, but by November 13,000 tons were delivered, with 12,500 tons in December of 1943. By now, there were 142 aircraft flying the Hump.

With the capture of Myitkyina, in August 1944, the threat posed by Japanese fighters was eliminated. This meant that the route was much safer. Deliveries jumped from 18,000 tons in June 1944 to 39,000 in November 1944. In July 1945, 662 aircraft delivered 71,042 tons to China. In August, another 50,000 tons were delivered.

The Chinese were occupying more than 1,000,000 Japanese soldiers. That was 1,000,000 enemy soldiers with whom the Amaricans didn’t have to deal.

In addition to the cold and the high altitude, the pilots had to contend with winds of 125 to 200 miles an hour. In all, a total of 685,304 gross tons of supplies were delivered by air to the Chinese government. More than 60% of that total was delivered in 1945.

At least 1,000 men and 600 planes were lost delivering these goods to China. By the end of 1943, the Allies had 142 transports and five crews for

Continued on Page 65

JOHN WILLIAM (BILLY) ROPER

Ocean City

John William (Billy) Roper, 90, from Ocean City, died Feb.17, 2024.

A native Washingtonian, he graduated from St. John’s College High School in 1952.

He was the loving son of the late Catherine S. Roper and late Edwin A. Roper Jr.

He was predeceased by brothers Edwin A. Roper III and Stanley S. Roper.

He was the beloved uncle of the late Edwin F. Roper, Jeanne Roper Fanning, Karen M. Roper, John M.Roper, Stephen D. Roper and Stanley S. Roper, and the great uncle of Courtney Roper Fanning, Jade Roper Fanning, Ely D. Roper and Lauren M.Roper.

Services and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, send donations to Little Sisters of the Poor, 4200 Harewood Road NE, Washington D.C. 20017.

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 64

each plane. That number eventually swelled to 700 planes supported by 84,000 military personnel. One of those personnel was local resident Charles Elliot, who helped maintain the planes, and occasionally flew with them across “the Hump.”

After the Burma Road was cut, Gen. Stilwell had been given the job of building a new road— The Ledo Road — from Ledo, in Assam to Kunming. The Ledo Road stretched for more than 1,000 miles over three countries. Building the road were 15,000 Americans and 35,000 locals. Because of the number of lives lost in the construction, it was said the cost was, “a man a mile.”

Fourteenth Air Force commander Gen. Claire Lee Chennault opined that the tonnage delivered by The Ledo Road would not equal that of the airlift. The Ledo Road became operational in February 1945. In the next six months, 129,000 tons were transported from India to China. Gen. Chennault had been correct.

Of the many brave men who risked their lives “Flying the Hump” were, in addition to Mr. Elliot: future United States Senators Barry Goldwater and Theodore F. Stevens; Doolittle Raiders Richard E. Cole and Edgar E. McElroy; future Rhode Island governor Bruce Sundlun and the singing cowboy, Gene Autry.

Next week: Battle of Narva

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

JOHN WILLIAM HRESHKO

Berlin

John William Hreshko (Pop), 92, a 44-year resident of Ocean Pines, passed at his home on Feb. 2, 2024 (Groundhog Day), as he referred to every day since losing the love of his life, Donna, in 2022.

He was born to the late Daniel and Catherine (Yurinko) Hreshko in Frackville, Pennsylvania.

He was preceded in death by his three siblings, Marie (Hreshko) Mellon, Daniel Hreshko, and Ted Hreshko; his only son, John W Hreshko Jr.; and his loving wife of 61 years, Donna V Hreshko.

Pop is survived by his daughter Dana Marie Ward (Nelson), four grandchildren, Kelsie Bowen

(William), Jonathan Ward (Kelsey), Blaine Ward (girlfriend Brooke), and Rachel Hreshko. He is also survived by five great-grandchildren, Jackson Ward, Everleigh Bowen, Ryder Ward, Lincoln Bowen, and Scarlett Ward; and several nieces, nephews and brothers and sisters-in-law.

Pop was the patriarch of the family, a proud Navy veteran. He loved reminiscing about his days on the submarines and loved his days stationed in Key West.

After his retirement from the Navy, he migrated to the Eastern Shore to continue his love of the water and fondness of the sea.

He was a true family man who loved spending time with his crew and never let any of them go hungry. He was also an award-winning poet, accomplished chef and an all-around amazing human. His wit and sense of humor will be missed by friends, fam-

ily and neighbors.

Be free and fly with the gulls until we meet once again.

Pop’s wishes were for a private family celebration of life be held in his honor as opposed to traditional funeral services. Details for friends and family will be provided at a later date.

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

KATHLEEN MURRAY SIMPSON

Selbyville, Delaware

Kathleen Murray Simpson, 59, and beloved daughter, mother, wife, sister, aunt, and friend, of Selbyville, Delaware, passed away on Thursday, Feb.15, 2024, in the company of loved ones.

Born Oct. 26, 1964, to Carolyn

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John Hreshko

DlFill

Botox

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Murray Hudson and Donald Hudson, Kathleen grew up on the Eastern Shore with four siblings. She graduated from Salisbury State University with both her undergraduate and masters degrees in education and taught at Showell Elementary and Berlin Intermediate schools. She met Jay Simpson at Stephen Decatur High School, and they married in 1989 at Salem United Methodist Church in Selbyville. They had two children, Joshua Donald and Abigail Kathleen. Kathleen homeschooled her children and did so well that they’re now pursuing masters and doctorate degrees.

Kathleen served her church, Coastal Community Church in Berlin, and various local churches through teaching Vacation Bible School, leading kids’ groups, participating in Bible studies, and in many other behind-the-scenes ways.

Kathleen loved the outdoors. She grew berries in her backyard, could tell you the name of any flower or plant, loved spending time in Fenwick Island, and was a member of the Delaware Beekeepers Association. Her loved ones remember her as the one who always added a spark to family gatherings, made the best desserts, put on a fresh pot of coffee for visitors who dropped by, and was always in the middle of a new craft, project or recipe.

Kathleen is survived by her mother, Carolyn Hudson; her husband, Jay; her children, Joshua and Abigail; her siblings, David Hudson, Mark Hudson, Cynthia Turner and Susan Zimm; and many nieces and nephews. She loved her family and her Lord.

A funeral service will be held at

noon on Saturday, Feb. 24, at Coastal Community Church (10900 Ocean Gateway, Berlin, MD 21811). A visitation will be held earlier from 10 a.m. to noon. The burial service will follow at Redmen’s Cemetery (59-65 Cemetery Road, Selbyville, DE 19975). The reception, following the burial, will be at the Selbyville Fire Department (30 N Main Street, Selbyville, DE 19975).

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathleen’s memory may be made to Coastal Community Church or Living Stones Church in Salisbury. Condolences may be sent to the family or by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

Kathleen, called “Kat,” “Bean,” and “KK,” will be missed greatly by her family and friends.

JOAN MARIE (HALE) HAFFER

Ocean Pines

Joan Marie (Hale) Haffer died peacefully on Feb. 20, 2024, at the Stansell House in Ocean Pines.

She was the first born to John and Alice Hale at Columbia Hospital on Feb. 22, 1939, in Washington, D.C., where she grew up.

She graduated from Suitland High School in 1957, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Robert Haffer, in 1958. Together they raised four children, Wendy Fitzgerald (Kevin), Lori Tazelaar (deceased), Steve Haffer (Terri), Donna Haffer (Jeff).

She was the oldest of seven children, survived by Hazel Allen, Robert Hale (Barbara), Neil Hale (Linda), Jackie Hale, Tina VanBrakle (Bryant), and John Hale Jr. (deceased). She so enjoyed spending time with her 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Joan was adventurous, fun-loving, and maintained a childlike joy and al-

ways sought out new experiences. In short, she had guts and was a true inspiration to many. She embraced life fully, even bungee jumping off of a bridge in West Virginia in her 60s.

Joan lived life to the fullest and did it all, first having four children as a stay-at-home mom. Later, she began a career as a flight scheduler for the secretary of Navy Joint Andrews Air Force Base, where she retired.

Later in life, she traveled the world with her devoted husband Bobby of 65 years. She often took her children on her traveling adventures.

She was the heart and soul of her family, which at times was like Grand Central Station at her home on the Indian River. There she enjoyed watching daily sunsets from her deck, cocktails with friends, boating, jet skiing and kayaking. She valued her friends and loved dancing with them. She was a member of the Red Hat Society, multiple bowling leagues, and Ocean City Line Dancers, who performed opening acts for Springfest and Sunfest in Ocean City. Joan will be loved and missed by all that knew her.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 1, at The Burbage Funeral Home, 108 Williams St. in Berlin. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family at burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

CHARLON ELIZABETH MOORE PRUITT

Berlin

Charlon Elizabeth Moore Pruitt passed away on Feb. 20th, 2024, at home with family by her side.

She lived 86 years in “The Coolest Small Town in America.” Charlon loved Berlin, and the friends and neighbors that meant so much to her.

Born on June 22, 1937, she was the only child of Milton Eli and Irene

Workman Moore, growing up just steps from where she started her own family and lived the rest of her life.

Married to John Q. “Jack” Pruitt, her devotion was steadfast to the man she loved and respected so much for some 48 years. Her children, Melissa (Mark Cockerill) and John (Denise Pruitt) were the pride of her life.

Grandmother to Daniel, Steven, David, and Anna, “Nanny” cherished the days they were gathered together. She was a great-grandmother to John “Henry” (Lowery), whose precious face brought a smile to her own.

Charlon Pruitt attended Buckingham Elementary School and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1955. As a young girl, she worked summers at Bunting’s Gift Shop downtown in what is now the lobby of the Atlantic Hotel. From 1955-57, she was a teller at Calvin B. Taylor Bank on Main Street in Berlin. Following her husband, Jack, to St. Johns Newfoundland as he served in the U.S. Army, Charlon worked as a secretary at Pepperell AFB for a year before returning back home. After raising a family, it was back to work for 28 years at Ocean City Golf & Yacht Club before her retirement in 2017.

Those that knew Charlon, knew of her servant’s heart. She delivered homemade crab cakes and chocolate chip cookies to those in need, and sent cards and notes, all thoughtfully written, to thank those for helping her out. She was the first to say yes and the last one to leave when there was a job to be done. She was always full of encouragement. Her words were the truth and her promises kept. These were the lessons left to us by a life well lived. “Others First” is how God says we should live our lives, and she did.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, at Buckingham Presbyterian Church on South Main Street in Berlin, with a visitation beginning at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family at burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Donations in her honor can be made to Coastal Hospice and Buckingham Presbyterian Church.

K. Simpson

Joan Haffer

Charlon Pruitt

Senior to represent Ocean Pines Decatur

Local student-athlete began swimming with Hammerheads at 10

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) Stephen Decatur senior Daniel Karcheuski has a few more laps of his high school swimming career left, as he will be representing the Ocean Pines Swim Team Hammerheads in the Eastern Zone Speedo Sectional Meet in Christiansburg, Virginia, this March.

“Daniel is one of the most dedicated swimmers on our team and has worked hard for every accomplishment,” OPST head coach Tosh Zeller said. “He knows what it takes to reach a goal and goes the distance to succeed. It has been an honor to coach Daniel over the past couple of years and to watch him overcome and rise above any obstacles that came his way.”

According to Zeller, Karcheuski qualified for the four-day competition that offers elite-level racing for

collegiate hopefuls in Dec. 2021 for the 200-butterfly event. However, he waited to attend until he qualified for additional contests in Feb. 2023 at the Maryland State Senior Championship. He will participate in the 200-yard butterfly, the 100-yard butterfly, and the 100-yard breaststroke. The high school senior will swim in a few bonus races, including the 100-freestyle, 200-freestyle, 50freestyle, and 200-meter individual medley.

The sectional meet is the first tier in the USA Swimming’s National Championship Series and it is challenging to make the cut. “The highest level meets our swimmers have attended in the past have been Maryland State Championship,” the head coach said. “This is a whole new level for Daniel and our team.”

The dedicated swimmer joined the Hammerheads at 10 years old. Throughout his time with the group, Zeller said he had been selected as the Team Athlete Representative and served as a junior coach. He was also on the SDHS swim team for four

years. Here, he received Rookie of the Year and served as a team captain. He also holds a Bayside Conference record for 1:03.05 in the 100-yard breaststroke.

Outside the water, Karcheuski is a top AP Scholar with Honors and a National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Student. He has received the Presidential Service Award three years in a row, which recognizes students who volunteer over 100 hours.

Zeller said that Karcheuski plans to major in government and politics at the University of Maryland at College Park in the fall and will be a member of the Honor College program. He hopes to attend law school after receiving his bachelor’s degree. He expects to join the club group, but he will not compete on UMD’s varsity swim team.

“Daniel knows how to stay determined while still having fun with his teammates,” Zeller said. “He knows how to keep things light and fun, but also when it’s time to put in the work. I am so proud of him.”

wrestlers capture Bayside individual titles

Conference event serves as prep for state tourney

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) Last Saturday’s Bayside Conference wrestling tournament was rescheduled because of predicted weather. The invitational championship event was instead held last Monday at Stephen Decatur’s gym in Berlin.

Stephen Decatur grapplers captured most of the hardware handed out starting with junior Juan Hinojosa, who scored the 106-pound win 33-3 over Gavin Lindner of Kent Island High school 27-10, Fr. (fall 1:47).

“We worked hard in the room last week,” Hinojosa said. “Just getting out there every single day. It feels great to win this championship my next challenge will be the State. It’s a mindset. I keep working harder and

PHOTO COURTESY TOSH ZELLER

Ocean Pines Swim Team member Daniel Karcheuski, above and right, will be representing the Hammerheads this March when he competes in the Eastern Zone Speedo Sectional Meet in Christiansburg, Virginia. The athlete will swim three events, four bonus events and two time-trials.

Wrestling team members earn Bayside wins

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harder every day.”

In the 113-pound division, Seahawk Elijah Collick was 35-2 win over Alan McDonald of Queen Anne’s County.

Seahawk junior Liam Hugues handled 120-pound class over Wicomico High School’s Tavenon Outlaw.

Seahawk junior Amarian Manuel won the 150-pound weight class 34-8 over Parkside’s Xavier Moorman 1913. In 157-pound class, it was senior Gavin Solito over Brandon Adler, of Kent Island, 22-12 for another first place finish.

Decatur’s Parker Intrieri won the 165-poud weight 28-2 over Col. Richardson’s Derrick Mitchell.

“I was actually going to look at a college today, but because the tournament got canceled on Saturday, I had to be here,” Parker said. “I’ve looked

SURF REPORT

at a few Division 2 schools. I’ve wrestled since I was 5 or 6. I thought it was like WWE at first but I just stuck with it. I’ve won five state championships with the team. I am close to winning the individual state championship. I was picked to win it at the beginning of the year. I had a little hiccup at the beginning of the year, I dislocated my elbow in the first match so I was not able to wrestle some of the best kids. After that, I got a really bad flu and lost 20 pounds …. Once I got back into the room and started sweating a lot, I never put the weight back on.”

Kole Kohut of Stephen Decatur beat out Nick Morey of Kent Island 32-5 in the 190-poud class.

“I prepared for today by watching several of my previous matches, making sure I tried to perfect everything I messed up on and trying to get better every day,” Kohut said. “For the

state finals my plan is to just keep winning. I am actually going to college for golf on a scholarship, everyone jokes about how much I wrestle but am going for golf. It's great working with Coach August — it’s hard to make him smile but I did a couple of times, he’s funny.”

Second place Stephen Decatur finishes were Aaron August and Reid Caimi.

“This is pretty awesome. Every year I’ve wrestled with the team we won,” Caimi said. “Going to individual state championships just puts the cherry on top. I’ve wrestled every year in high school except for COVID, which really sucked because we could not. I contribute my success to my dad; he made me practice and work hard sticking to it all these years.”

Regionals are coming up next for Decatur’s individual wrestlers.

Winter travel for surfers also offers culture

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) I thought I’d continue on the travel theme to add to last week’s column.

Seeking different locales to surf is fairly typical in the life of many a devoted surfer. In fact, surfing is very much an incentive to travel whether to seek out better wave conditions, a warmer climate, different surroundings or simply to get out of town for a while. Experiencing other cultures can also be a worthwhile extra in searching out other waves.

To sight another typical situation most Delmarva surfers would most probably prefer to head south to an area with warmer water and air. But how about a bit of reverse psychology? How about a trip north? That way, upon returning home, our local conditions regarding water and air, might seem at least a bit better in comparison.

In my own travels north it was during a time of the year, winter and spring, when it was certainly colder than back home. I recall phoning a friend of mine in Florida and describing New Hampshire as just like California. His response was, “It’s better than California!”

Obviously my friend was favoring a New England area over California. By the way, it was Southern California that we were talking about. Disregarding warmth, or lack of it, it was quality that was being spoken of, regarding surf conditions of course.

So to get back to the most likely scenario, if one wants to head out of town, now’s the time unless it’s already been done. Winter is about three-quarters over with and spring is just around the corner. Baseball spring training has started with pitchers and catchers reporting about a week ago. The groundhog reported an early spring by not showing a shadow so I guess the famous Febru-

ary second was a cloudy day.

Assuming that some area restaurants have been closed during the winter season they’re most probably going to re-open in another month or so. This will have bearing on many of these restaurants due to employees getting back to work. Travel now and return to work later.

Longer days and shorter nights are also helpful in, what would probably be noted as, warmer temperatures. Granted it’s still winter but warmer days are imminent as time moves on.

So there you have it. Is travel as much a part of surfing as any other? In my opinion, I would tend to think so.

PHOTO COURTESY KRISTY INTRIERI

Members of Stephen Decatur’s wrestling team pose with their coaches after the Bayside Conference tournament Feb. 19.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Decatur’s Liam Hughes lifts an opponent and pulls him toward the mat during the Bayside Conference championship tournament Feb. 19.

Decatur gets upset in Bayside championship

Seahawks dominated in second half by Vikings; state competition next

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(Feb. 23, 2024) Bayside basketball fans packed both floors of the Wicomico Civic Center last Tuesday night to watch their Stephen Decatur

High School boys’ basketball team destroy their rival team from Cambridge-South Dorchester High School. It didn’t happen.

After a successful 16-10 first quarter, the Seahawks just fell apart. The deeper they dug in the worse it got. At the end of the first half, Stephen Decatur was down one point, 29-30.

At the beginning of the third quarter a better Seahawk outcome was ex-

pected but they started to lose their feathers and were down 49-43. The fourth was worse with Stephen Decatur only scoring 14 to Cambridge’s 21 points.

Decatur’s Brycen Coleman was the Seahawks’ high scorer, with 20 points, eight baskets, and four for four free throws. Davin Chandler contributed another 15 points. Trybe Wise also scored 9, Careen Bolden

had 8 and Brogan Eastlack scored 5, leaving the score at 57-70 in favor of Cambridge High School.

“We didn’t play well tonight,” Seahawks’ head coach B.J. Johnson said after the game. “They beat us to every loose ball and every rebound. They deserved the win. We didn’t play very well tonight.”

Decatur will now move on to play in the Class 2A state playoffs.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Decatur’s Davin Chandler passes the ball during the Seahawks’ game against Cambridge-South Dorchester Feb. 20.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS Decatur’s Careen Bolden shoots one of three baskets he made during the Seahawks’ game against Cambridge-South Dorchester Feb. 20 for a total of 8 game points.