3/10/2023 Ocean City Today

MARCH 10, 2023

ST. PADDY’S DAY IN OC

Resort festivities set for Saturday for first time in three years if weather holds out– Page 21

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Bus, tram fares slated to go up one dollar

Cost of all-day bus pass will increase to $4 with successful public hearing

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) An Ocean City Council majority advanced a request

fares $1 for the 2023 season.

At a meeting Monday, council members voted 5-1, with Councilman Peter Buas opposed and Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to raise all-day, year-round bus fares from $3 to $4 and Boardwalk tram fees from $4 to $5.

Members of the city’s Transporta-

mended the changes in hopes of increasing revenues for both divisions.

“Considering the increase in expenses in fuel and in drivers and in the cost of providing the service, we felt these recommendations were warranted,” said Mayor Rick Meehan, who serves as chairman of the Transportation Committee, at Mon-

Oceans Calling lineup to be revealed Tues.

Promoters slated to spend millions more this year on bringing in top performers

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) As the sting of the cancelation of last fall’s Oceans Calling Festival still lingers, organiz-

ers are laser focused on this year’s event, which is leaning toward featuring a more popular music lineup in a potentially bigger footprint.

The massive three-day event is planned for Sept. 29 through Oct. 1 downtown on the beach and inlet and will feature dozens of bands and artists playing for an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 attendees per day.

Ocean City Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo said this week that organizers C3 Presents are putting more money into this year’s entertainment lineup, which is set to be revealed Tuesday.

“They increased their budget significantly over the event last year and will invest millions into the produc-

been increased since 2011, which is 12 years. We figure we’ve held that rate as long as we could.”

He contended that even with the increase to $4, which is set to go into effect following a public hearing, the all-day bus fare is still the “the best deal in town.”

The change is expected to bring in

Wage talks divided by geography

Opinions on tip earnings shift based on location

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) The fight to end sub-minimum wages for tipped restaurant workers found its way in front of the Senate Finance Committee on March 2 with advocates — and restaurant servers — on both sides of the argument.

“This bill is essential, particularly during the recent covid pandemic, to support thousands and thousands of restaurant workers in Maryland and hundreds of thousands of restaurant owners who are raising wages to recruit staff in the worst staffing crisis in the history of this industry,” said Sen. Arthur Ellis (D-Charles). “We’re asking for support to end this crisis.”

Ellis went on to claim that the current business model disproportionately affects women and people of color and is rooted in the emancipation of slaves whose former owners created the system to take advantage of free slaves.

“A small subsection of tip-wage workers make a lot of tips,” Ellis said.

JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY

HMRA EXPO

Potential buyers from the area lodging and restaurant industries pack the convention center Monday during the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association’s annual vendor showcase. HMRA Executive Director Susan Jones said this year’s show was one of the best of all time.

Wage, tip bill goes to hearing

“They work in the white-table-cloth restaurants generally. You rarely see African-American men and women working there. The majority of people who are hurt by this slavery system are women and the majority are people of color — African Americans, Latinos, Asian American. I strongly believe this injustice must end in Maryland.”

A representative from One Fair Wage, a national nonprofit looking to bring all servers up to minimum wage, said that the workroom is “overwhelmingly women of color.”

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charge in order to cover the additional labor cost.”

Sierra Dacre, a 22-year-old server who has worked at Harbor Watch in Ocean City for years, said the current system has enabled her to pursue her education as a nursing student.

Dacre spoke about how the current system is an incentive to earn every last dollar of one’s wage and described the new bill as a “participation trophy wage.”

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‘Employers would likely have to add a service charge to the customer’s charge in order to cover the additional labor cost.’

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“We really need a law that will support great employers who are raising wages right now to recruit staff, create a level playing field and signal to millions of workers that it’s worth coming back to work in restaurants,” the representative said.

of the Restaurant Association of Maryland

“If I want to make more money, just climb the ladder,” Dacre said, “(The current system) was a path to better myself. Having a tip system in our industry offers the safety net of minimum wage if it’s a slow week and provides me an incentive to make on some nights a higher wage and top rate.”

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza has sided with those against the bill.

On the other side of the issue, Melvin Thompson, senior vice president of the Restaurant Association of Maryland, said the organization is “strongly opposed” to the bill and pointed out that restaurants must make up the difference if their tipped employees fail to reach minimum wage.

“The tip credit is a lawful acknowledgment that tips contribute to the wages of tipped employees and allows employers to lose that portion of those tips to apply to the employer’s obligation to meet the minimum wage,” Thompson said.

“Employers would likely have to add a service charge to the customer’s

“This would be detrimental to restaurant operators, which already run on razor-thin margins, who are still recovering from the covid-19 pandemic, and hurts restaurant employees, including food runners, bussers, servers and bartenders,” Carozza said in a statement.

“With tips, their hourly range is $17-50 an hour. If Maryland is moving away from a tipping industry as this bill suggests, these employees would have far less earning potential.”

The next steps for SB803 will be its second and third readings before crossing over to the House of Delegates.

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Festival footprint may expand further in ’23

Continued from Page 1

tion,” Perlozzo said in an email of C3.

Last year’s event was canceled as a massive nor’easter approached the coast two days before it was set to begin, but the lineup featured headliners Alanis Morissette, Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds and The Lumineers, with a mix of other bands of varying styles, genres and fame rounding out the performers’ list.

Speculations about this year’s lineup have run rampant since organizers announced on the Oceans Calling Facebook page on Monday that they would be publicizing the details next week. Reported rumors lended clues from C3 Presents’ other festivals and concerts planned around the same time, which feature headliners such as the Foo Fighters, The Killers, Green Day, Weezer, The Offspring, Eddie Vedder, Sheryl Crow, The Beach Boys, and more.

Perlozzo said the lineup for this year “is really good” but would not elaborate further.

Talk of changing the boundaries for Oceans Calling this year have been floating around as well.

While some downtown business

owners and stakeholders have been talking about and offering their opinions on some potential changes, Perlozzo said nothing has been formally proposed yet.

“We are working with C3 on details of the upcoming Oceans Calling Festival. We are hoping to expand the footprint further than last year’s planned event,” Perlozzo said in an email. “Unfortunately, nothing has been finalized and it would be too premature for me to comment further.”

City officials intricately planned the details for last year’s event, which consisted of three stages in the inlet parking lot and nearby beach with fencing set up around the area to ensure only paid attendees entered the setup. Vendor tents selling food, drinks and souvenirs were included in the footprint, which did not encompass the Boardwalk or any nearby streets.

City staff members also created a detailed transportation plan last year that included specialized city bus schedules, strict parking regulations, and specific access and egress plans.

Council to add $1 to fares for buses, trams

Continued from Page 1

more than $390,400 extra in revenue and is not expected to detrimentally affect ridership.

Buas, however, had a different take. He said after the meeting that he voted against the request to raise the bus rates because “$3 is a fair price.”

He said he did not have the same reservations about the tram fare increase, but voted against the measure

because they were presented together.

Meehan said the higher tram costs, which will go into effect May 1, are expected to increase revenues by more than $94,800 and will allow officials to raise staff salaries and run trams more consistently.

The tram division has struggled since the pandemic, with an inability to attract and retain drivers and conductors over the last two summers.

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MAP COURTESY OCEANS CALLING FESTIVAL VIA FACEBOOK

A map shows where the stages, vendors and more were slated for setup for the Oceans Calling Festival last year in the Ocean City inlet lot and surrounding area. No plans have been released yet for this year but there has been talk of expanding the footprint.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A Ocean City bus brakes for passengers at a stop near 118th Street. Fares for buses and Boardwalk trams will likely be going up by $1 on May 1 following council members’ support of the increases.

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OC Council supports balloon fest, new flag football event

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Two out of three new events floated for the coming months in and around Ocean City are coming to fruition with support from the City Council and resort tourism grants.

At a meeting Monday, council members voted to approve $5,000 in tourism development funds for a flag football tournament Fourth of July weekend and voiced support for a hot air balloon festival the last weekend in August.

Details of the events, along with a strong man contest proposed for the winter, were presented to the Tourism Commission last month for support. The commission responded with fa-

vorable recommendations and council members followed up Monday.

Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, said the world-renowned strong man contest, which was floated for the second weekend in December at the convention center, will not happen this year despite staff members’ best efforts.

“Unfortunately, with the time between the approval process and all, they decided to go somewhere else,” Perlozzo said of the organizers. “We’re back on the list for ’24, ’25 as we speak. So hopefully we can get them back.”

In response to the news of losing the international event, which is moving from Daytona this year due in large part to air travel costs, council members expressed disappointment.

“I was sorry to see strong man go,” said Councilman Frank Knight. “It was a great date and I hope to get it back in ’24.”

To help with those efforts, Councilman John Gehrig suggested pre-approving contracts for future events.

“It stings with the strong man, and we lost it because of our process,” he said.

Council members voted 6-0, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to pre-approve $15,000 in tourism development funds to support the strong man games for the next available date.

The flag football event, which will take place at the OC Elevate fields in West Ocean City, also spurred some questions from council members about the July date. Knight asked if there were any attempts to urge the organizers to pick a different time given how busy the resort gets on and around the July 4 holiday.

Perlozzo said staff members tried to move it but because the event is part of a national circuit there was not much wiggle room for the first year. However, he is optimistic about the future.

“They’re very receptive of working with us,” Perlozzo said of the organizers. “My hopes are to eventually create that as a state-of-play event and move that more toward the end of the summer.”

For the Ocean City Balloon Festival, as it is officially called, Perlozzo said staff members tried to find a location in city limits for the daytime events, which include flying hot air balloons, hosting vendor tents and more, but were not successful. Instead, the festival portion will take place Aug. 25, 26 and 27 at the OC Elevate fields, with a nighttime glow balloon show commencing all three nights over the beach downtown.

Formerly called the Chesapeake Balloon Festival, the event is moving to the coast this year from Talbot County.

PHOTO COURTESY CHESAPEAKE BAY BALLOON FESTIVAL

Glow balloons are pictured at a Talbot County vineyard during the 2021 Chesapeake Bay Balloon Festival. Council members issued support this week to hold the event locally at the end of August.

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OC councilman asks for Balt. Ave. cost breakdown for CIP

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Ocean City Councilman Peter Buas is not giving up on getting at least some Baltimore Avenue improvements funded in fiscal 2024 and convinced his colleagues this week to consider breaking up the project.

“I can’t emphasize enough how I think getting this project started in any capacity is of utmost importance,” Buas said Monday of long-running plans to bury utility lines, widen sidewalks and perform other upgrades to Baltimore Avenue from North Division to 15th streets.

“And if we have to do the undergrounding now and the postpone the streetscaping part to get it underway,

then that’s something I think we should seriously consider,” he continued.

Buas has been a consistent cheerleader for the project, which has been in the works for years, even after council members learned in the fall that cost estimates more than doubled from $20 million to $44 million.

The higher price tag convinced a majority of the council to shy away from including $18 million of the cost in a fiscal 2024 capital improvement plan bond issue, thus moving initial payments to fiscal 2025 or beyond.

Buas criticized the decision to remove it from this year’s CIP, and asked for staff to break down the specific costs to revisit at a future work session.

Council President Matt James, who has been staunchly against funding the project at the current price, said he would like to see the costs broken down and supported getting those details and discussing them before the council votes on the final CIP.

City Manager Terry McGean said it would not be difficult to get the information, since he has most of it on hand and just needs to organize it for presentation. He suggested including the details in weekly updates to council members, and they agreed. Council members ultimately decided to push the discussion on the project, and the vote on the CIP, to their March 28 work session.

Mayor Rick Meehan also said that he and Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C) recently had a productive meeting with the state’s lieutenant governor, the secretary of transportation and members of the Maryland Department of Transportation about the project. Meehan said staff members are following up with a letter and that he is “confident” the city will get some money from the state to fund improvements to Baltimore Avenue this year.

City to host glow balloons on BW

Continued from Page 6

The event has attracted large crowds annually at its former location and is expected to do the same locally.

Mayor Rick Meehan said he has attended the festival before in Talbot County and gave a positive review of the nighttime show.

“The balloon glow is unbelievable,” he said. “At night they light up the balloons and they’re all different figures, different animated characters … I’ve got pictures of it and it’s absolutely gorgeous. It’s something I think the families down there on the Boardwalk and all, they’re going to be in awe of this.”

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Baltimore Avenue in downtown Ocean City is shown between Eighth and Ninth streets. The area is part of the section from North Division to 15th streets slated for $44 million of upgrades, which Councilman Peter Buas is pushing to get at least some funding to start this year.

Upgrades underway at OC’s Northside Park playground

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Just in time for the sunny spring weather, the Northside Park playground is welcoming a new structure after 21 years of serious wear and tear.

“The removal of the old equipment has been completed, and the installation of the new equipment is currently in progress,” Ocean City Parks Superintendent Gary Collier said in an email this week of the grantfunded project that began earlier this year.

“The new playground is slated for completion by April 30,” he added.

The modular play structure that has been the centerpiece of the 5-to 12-year-old playground in the heart of uptown’s Northside Park for the past more than two decades will be replaced with a new, updated structure. Collier said the new equipment will feature “a variety of slides, bridges, climbers, and interactive play panels designed to encourage social play and enhance fine motor skills.”

Crews are also removing the rock-

climbing wall and replacing it with two stand-alone play features, including a Vista Tree Top 3 combination net spinner/climber designed for multiple users, and a surfboard play element geared toward children who want to balance, rock, and sway alone or as a group.

“These features will be based on a bonded rubber safety surface and will meet all current industry safety and accessibility standards,” Collier said.

Susan Petito, the city’s director of recreation and parks, has said the old equipment needed replaced after years of heavy play and exposure to the salty ocean air.

She has said the project is in the first of two phases. The second phase, replacement of an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramping system and play elements for 5-to-12year-olds that were added in 2005, is set for completion in 2025.

State grants help pay for upgrades to all of the seven playgrounds across the resort, but Petito said during a recent discussion about the fiscal 2024 capital improvement plan that com-

See PLAYGROUND Page 12

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Northside Park playground off of 125th Street awaits installation of a new pay modular for the 5-to-12-year-old section. Grants helped pay for the new equipment, which is set to arrive sometime before the end of April.

Hartman, Carozza focus on crime

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Armed with letters of support from the Eastern Shore’s other counties with an interest in room tax legislation, Del. Wayne Hartman is hoping that passage of legislation that enables Ocean City to raise its room tax from 5 percent to 6 percent is simply a matter of time.

The bill went through a hearing last week in which Mayor Rick Meehan came up to Annapolis to testify. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic was scheduled to testify but had to pull out.

“There was no one there in opposition (to the bill),” Hartman said. “Hopefully, with this being a local courtesy bill and with letters of support from the three other counties, this won’t be a problem.”

Hartman also found himself in front of the House Judiciary Committee last week for a bill he sponsors that would allow anyone who applied for a concealed carry permit and was unconstitutionally denied “for a good and substantial reason” to apply for a refund on their application.

“My bill was to refund anyone who applied in the last three years,” Hartman said. “The refund for that was just over $200,000 if everybody was denied with a reply for the refund. The crazy part of that is the (Office of) Legislative Services provided a fiscal note of over $300,000 to administer those refunds. They’re saying it would cost the state over $100 in labor and related expenses to issue a refund for $50 or $75. If that doesn’t prove the dysfunction of government, nothing does.”

The following day in the same committee, House Republicans held a press conference on anticrime bills. Hartman outlined a few pieces of legislation, one of which was the Juvenile Gun Offenders Accountability Act, which would make adjustments to juvenile justice reforms passed just last year and allow some juveniles to be charged with gun crimes.

Another was the Violent Firearms Offenders Act, which Hartman said closes a loophole where someone who is dealing drugs using a gun could be facing instead a lesser drug dealing charge. It would close the

loophole and increase the penalty to a felony with up to five years and a $10,000 fine.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, too, focused on crime last week, divulging in her weekly statement that the Joint Republican Caucus held a press conference to highlight related legislation.

One such bill was the same Violent Firearms Offenders Act, which additionally covers knowingly selling a firearm to someone who plans to use it in a crime.

“As the violent crime crisis continues to plague our state, we must continue to push for legislation that increases penalties against repeat, violent offenders,” Carozza said in the statement. “We still have several weeks to go with this year’s session, and we on both sides of the political aisle should make it a priority to pass these crime bills now.”

Carozza and the Republican caucus are also fighting to preserve and increase the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) program budget, which Gov. Wes Moore reduced by 20 percent in his FY24 budget.

The program awards scholarships to low-income and at-risk children that enable them to attend non-pub-

Wayne Hartman

Mary Beth Carozza

Carozza supports RV show bill

Continued from Page 11

lic schools which they otherwise would not have the opportunity to attend, but some opponents, including the Maryland State Education Association — the teacher’s union — argue that the program endangers existing public schools.

“This program provides low-income families the same choice that high-income families have in deciding how their children should be educated,” Carozza said. “Every child has a unique learning style, and while we need good public schools, we also need to give every child the chance to learn in their optimal environment, and the BOOST Program has been an effective option for many Maryland students.”

Carozza also testified last week in support of a bill that would allow out-of-state recreational vehicle

dealers to participate in vehicle shows for motor homes or recreational trailers that take place within Worcester County. They would not be allowed to conduct sales at the shows, however.

The bill is running into some opposition, namely from a business owner who runs the only two RV shows in the state over in Anne Arundel County. Carozza pointed out in her statement that the closest in-state RV dealership is 74 miles away, making some out-of-state dealers more accessible for locals.

“By allowing out-of-state RV dealers to display at Ocean City’s first RV show in the fall, more people would be interested in attending the show, which boosts tourism overall, and also boosts sales for those Maryland RV dealers who can sell RVs at the show,” said Carozza.

New running fest, bull riding, Cruisin’

and surf

events OK’d

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) A new running festival will join annual bull riding, classic car and surfing events this summer in Ocean City.

And this week, City Council members approved details of them all.

Running festival

A new running festival put on by Corrigan Sports Enterprises is set to commence Oct. 28 in and around Ocean City.

Council members signed off on a proposed event contract, which members of the tourism department and city solicitor will finalize. The document will run parallel to a sepa-

rate agreement between the organizer and convention center.

According to the details, several races will be held: a full marathon at 7:30 a.m., a 10K and a 5K at 8 a.m. and a half marathon at 8:30 a.m.

The full marathon course will run from the inlet parking lot to Assateague Island and back, the 10K and 5K will be in the inlet lot and on the Boardwalk, and the half marathon will run from Assateague Island to the inlet.

The organizer will pay $175 in private event fees, an estimated nearly $5,600 for inlet lot lost revenue, and an estimated $2,700 for police, for a total more than $8,400.

See PBR Page 13

Playground one of seven in city

Continued from Page 9

petition is fierce for the money and that staff may need to solicit the town for help in the future.

Along with Northside Park, the city has playgrounds at North Surf Park off 142nd Street, Gorman Park off 136th Street, Little Salisbury Park off 94th Street, Robin Park on Robin

Drive downtown, the Downtown Recreation Complex on Fourth Street, and on the Boardwalk at North Division Street.

All of the playgrounds have equipment for 5-to-12-year-olds, while Northside Park and the recreation complex have elements geared toward 2-to-5-year-olds.

PBR June 2-4, Cruisin’ in May

Continued from Page 12

PBR

The newly named Seacrets PBR Ocean City Classic is returning to the inlet the first weekend in June.

Early ticket sales began Feb. 23 for the Professional Bull Riding event, set June 2-4 in the inlet parking lot. Attendees could buy presale tickets until Feb. 26, with regular tickets listed for sale Feb. 27.

The event will feature professional bull-riding competitions and shows as well drinks, food and vendors. Last year’s inaugural event attracted thousands of attendees, and organizers expect similar success this year.

On Monday, council members signed off on a contract for the second annual event. According to a staff

report, the final contract will be developed by members of the tourism department and the city solicitor.

The organizer will pay a total $2,569 in private event and asset and support fees for the event, as well as just over $12,200 in inlet parking lot lost revenue for use of most of the spaces, for a grand total of more than $14,700 in payment to the town.

Cruisin’ Ocean City

The annual spring cruisin’ event is returning to the resort May 18-21 for its 32nd year.

Council members signed off on a proposed contract, which included details for this year’s event as well as date holds for May 16-19 in 2024 and

See SURF Page 14

Rider Kyle McDaniel tries not to get bucked off of a bull during the inaugural Professional Bull Riding event last year at the Ocean City inlet. Council members signed off on a contract for this year’s event, set for the first weekend in June.

Surf events set throughout summer, fall ’23

Continued from Page 13

May 15-18 in 2025, at their meeting Monday.

According to a staff report, the final document will be developed by members of the tourism department and the city solicitor. The contract is a separate document, not associated with a convention center contract for this year’s event.

The organizer will pay the town $1,175 in private event fees as well as 10 percent of participant registration, inlet lot vendor fees and ticket sales.The amount totaled more than $28,800 last year.

The report said the city will also pay for the trailer permit production, which is estimated at 65 cents each. The organizer will sell them to event participants for $50, with 100 percent of the revenue going to the town. Last

year, 135 permits were sold for $6,750.

Surfing championship

The Eastern Surfing Association’s 2023 Northeast Regional Surfing Championship will tentatively take place from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily May 12-14 on one of four midtown streets.

According to a staff report, the exact location of the event, which is held annually, will depend on the wave conditions and sandbars. The potential beach spots are between 24th and 25th, 35th and 36th, 29th and 30th or 47th and 48th streets. A final decision will be made closer to the event, but no later than May 8.

The amateur surfing event will bring more than 200 participants from the ESA’s northeast region, which runs from Maine though Maryland, and will have both youth and

adult divisions. The staff report said the event is a qualifier for all aged of surfers to compete in the ESA National event held every September in the Outer Banks in North Carolina.

The organizer asked the city for permission to place scaffolding onsite with banners and sponsor tents on the beach, and use a public address system to make announcements and play music. Professional photographers will also be on scene and the organizer asked to set up three port-o-lets on the street ends for attendee use.

The organizer also requested six parking spaces at the east end of each of the streets for logistics and event officials throughout the duration of the event.

The report said public works staff will post parking spaces and provide

Building DREAM HOMES

trash cans at the event site. Beach Patrol members expressed concerns about traffic on the beach, but because the event is set during the off season, they will not be able to provide assistance.

The organizer will pay the town a total more than $550 in private event and asset and support fees.

Surf series

A representative from the Delmarva Eastern Surfing Association asked council members to approve the group’s annual 2023 surf series for dates in May through October. According to a staff report, the tentative dates are May 27 or 28, June 17 or 18, July 8 or 9, Aug. 19 or 20, Sept. 2 or 3, and Oct. 14 or 15.

The locations will depend on the sandbars, and organizers will decide on them the Tuesday before the weekend each event is set to be held. The proposed locations are between 24th and 25th, 29th and 30th, 35th and 36th, and 47th and 48th streets. Each event offers both youth and adult divisions.

The organizer requested six parking spaces at the east end of the event streets, three port-o-lets at the street ends for use by the oragnizers, vehicular access to the beach for set-up and teardown of event elements, and ocean access a half-block north and south of the event site for surfers to use for warmups.

Members of the resort’s Beach Patrol expressed concerns with vehicular traffic on the beach during the series and asked that the organizers have all vehicles off the sand by 8 a.m. and not return until after 7 p.m. The staff members are also leery of how the events will affect the rotating surfing beach schedules.

The organizer will pay the town a total more than $940 in private event and asset and support fees.

Construction will temporarily close boat ramp, marina

(March 10, 2023) Installation of new gas docks at the Ocean Pines Marina is expected to have some impact on parking and boat travel in that area.

Public Works Director Eddie Wells said new equipment is scheduled to be delivered using the Mumford’s Landing boat ramp and marina parking lot on March 13 and March 20. Both areas will not be accessible during those times. Wells said installation of the new gas docks would take about one month, weather permitting.

For questions, email info@oceanpines.org or call 410-641-7717.

County Commissioners decry opt-out changes to sex ed. bill

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) As far as Worcester County government’s leadership is concerned, the state’s comprehensive health education framework bill just keeps getting worse.

The House bill found its way in front of the House of Delegates Ways and Means Committee on Monday and left with amended language that might make it harder for parents to keep their children away from a curriculum that will teach them aspects of sex education and sexual health that some parents are not comfortable with.

The amendments make … the bill even more horrible than it was in its original format,” Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino said at the end of the commissioners meeting on Tuesday. “Among other things, it takes out the parental oversight. It does not allow for parental opt-out of the program.”

The actual amendment to the bill, in part, requires “the state superintendent to provide notice to a county board if the state superintendent determines that the county board is not following the state board policy and

guidelines or is authorizing students to opt out of instruction in a manner that is not approved by the state board; requiring the state superintendent to direct the state comptroller to withhold certain funds from the county board if the county board does not resolve the discrepancy within certain periods of time.”

If a school board fails to adopt the curriculum in its entirety, the bill stipulates that the state comptroller withhold 10 percent of that district’s funding for that fiscal year.

The amended bill does not specify what would be considered “a manner that is not approved by the state board.”

“This yet again flashes a full light on what I believe is an assault on parental rights in this county and throughout the state,” Bertino said. “It’s very disappointing that the state legislature is moving forward with a bill that disrespects and disregards the parental right we all have to raise our children the way we want.”

Commissioner Caryn Abbott said the bill will further limit local control.

“We have an elected school board that we pick as taxpayers to represent us,” she said. “They’re strong-arming them into doing whatever they send down or they’re going to take part of their funding away. I hope that everybody in this room and listening (on-

Bertino town hall meeting to be held at OP library on Wed.

(March 10, 2023) Worcester

County Commissioner President Chip Bertino will hold a town meeting on Wednesday, March 15, at 6 p.m. at the Ocean Pines library.

Commissioner Bertino plans to give an update on what county government affairs and actions.

“This will be an informative meeting,” Bertino said. “There’s a lot going on in the county and I believe my two guests will have a lot to share.”

Bertino’s guests are Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young and Atlantic General Hospital President and CEO Don Owrey.

Young has served as county government’s top executive since August 2021, when he was promoted from assistant chief administrative officer.

He is a certified professional engineer, having graduated from the University of Maryland.

Prior to joining Worcester County,

he has worked for the City of Hampton, Virginia, Salisbury and Wicomico County, primarily in administration and public works.

Owrey has more than 30 years of health care experience and leading regional health care strategy.

Prior to joining Atlantic General in 2022, he spent 20 years in various leadership roles with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC).

Most recently, in addition to his role as president of UPMC Williamsport, he served as the COO for UPMC’s northern region, which comprised six rural and community hospitals, a 450-provider medical group and more than 5,000 employees.

He graduated from Thiel College, in Greenville, Pennsylvania, and earned a master’s degree in business administration from Robert Morris University, in Pittsburgh.

See SEX Page 16

Chip Bertino

Caryn Abbott

Ted Elder

Fire Marshal’s Office looking into cause of Pocomoke fire

(March 10, 2023) The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a house fire at 1936 Cedar Hall Road in Pocomoke City on Sunday.

When the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched for a house fire at 7:45 a.m., the company arrived to see smoke and fire coming from the second floor of the home. Crews were quickly able to assist the resident and a dog out of the residence and the fire was swiftly brought under control.

One firefighter was injured during

suppression operations and was taken by Pocomoke EMS to TidalHealth in Salisbury where he was treated and released.

Fire investigators determined the fire was accidental and originated from an appliance in the kitchen. Smoke alarms were present and operational at the time of the incident, the fire marshal said.

Pocomoke was assisted by Snow Hill, Stockton, Girdletree and New Church, Virginia Volunteer fire departments.

Sex ed. opt-out change draws ire

Continued from Page 15

line) will write letters not supporting this bill.”

Commissioner Ted Elder said the bill is an attack on families and family values.

“It’s a further attempt that’s been going on for quite some time now that the state is … trying to become

the parents,” he said. “No one will care as much about a child as their own parents. The fact that they’re even considering something like this, I mean 10 or 20 years ago it would have been unheard of.

“It’s something you’d hear about from some Communist country,” he said.

PHOTO COURTESY POCOMOKE CITY VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a residential structure fire which occurred at 1936 Cedar Hall Rd in Pocomoke City on March 5.

Recognizing 51-year OCVFC vet H. Stephen ‘Steve’ Price

By James L. Jester Contributing Writer

(March 10, 2023) This individual appearing in this week’s OCVFC Volunteer Spotlight is very special because the author of each column since its inception now becomes the subject. It is my honor and pleasure to introduce to you H. Stephen “Steve” Price.

Steve joined the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company on Feb. 8 1972 and continues to provide service to his community to this day. During that time, he amassed 40 years of active service and has taken on new responsibilities for 2023. Steve, who located to the area in 1971, said his reason for joining the volunteer fire company was because “I was seeking an opportunity to serve my community. I was told by many people that the true leaders of the community were members of the OCVFC.”

Steve is a retired Worcester County Board of Education assistant superintendent and chief safety officer. He was named the School Safety/Security Director of the Year for 2016/2017 by the Maryland Center for School Safety.

Steve is currently the public information officer for the volunteers and has held numerous ranks/officers over his five-decade-plus tenure, including president (1982-1984), member of the board of directors (1985-1996, 2000-2012), captain of Engine 717, as well as an engineer and a chief engineer.

He is the two-time recipient of the OCVFC President’s Award (2010, 2013) and was most recently awarded the 2022 Member of the Year by the CISM/Peer Support Team. He also served as president of the Worcester

County Volunteer Firemen’s Association in 1986.

As a volunteer, Steve recalls his most significant event as the structure fire at the St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Church, located at Third Street and Baltimore Avenue, which occurred on Nov. 26, 2013. This was an intentional fire that ultimately claimed the life of the pastor of the church, Rev. David A. Dingwall, as well as the firesetter himself.

Steve states the following as his greatest accomplishment in the fire service: “As a ‘Come Here,’ having the opportunity to serve in several leadership roles and earning the respect and trust of our OCVFC membership and our fellow Worcester County volunteer firefighters.”

We are proud of Steve and all our volunteers who continue to answer the noble calling. For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, please visit www.ocvfc.com.

OCPD to conduct more drive enforcement during holiday

(March 10, 2023) The Ocean City Police Department along with allied agencies will be conducting additional impaired driving enforcement during the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Ocean City.

Each year, the Ocean City Police Department receives a grant for additional impaired driving enforcement.

This year, a collective 84 hours of specialized enforcement will be conducted in Ocean City from March 912 and again from March 15-19. This will cover the St. Patrick’s Day Parade weekend and the actual holiday weekend.

Officers will be on patrol looking for drug and/or alcohol-impaired drivers.

Residents and visitors can expect to see additional Ocean City Police Department officers on patrol, along with Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police.

Looking back at the same time in 2022, OCPD officers made seven DUI arrests. Two of those arrests involved property damage crashes where the drivers were found to be almost double the legal limit.

The Ocean City Police strives to ensure the community and roadways are safe.

Those planning to celebrate the upcoming holiday festivities should make a plan ahead of time to ensure

H. Stephen “Steve” Price

Del. man caught in Berlin on murder charges

(March 10, 2023) A Delaware man want on murder charges was arrested in Berlin last week, according to a release issued by the Delaware State Police.

Police arrested Jaron Curtis, 24, of Dagsboro, Delaware, and Kevin Stone, 61, of Georgetown, Delaware, for murder and related charges following an incident on Feb. 27.

At approximately 8:28 p.m., the Georgetown Police Department went to the Dunbarton Apartments for a reported shooting.

When officers arrived in one of the apartments, they found a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was a visitor at the apartment at the time of the shooting.

According to police, a woman knocked on the apartment door and

the victim let her in but was soon followed by an unknown male who shot the victim several times. The suspects then reportedly fled on foot.

Emergency Medical Services took the victim to an area hospital, where he died from his injuries, police said.

Detectives soon determined that Curtis and Stone were the suspects in the homicide and obtained warrants for their arrest.

On March 3, a search warrant was conducted by members of the Maryland State Police and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force at a residence on Bethel Road, in Berlin.

During the execution of the search warrant, Curtis was taken into cus-

tody without incident.

Curtis was arrested on an out-ofstate fugitive warrant and is being held by the Department of Corrections pending extradition to Delaware on the charges of murder 1st degree, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and conspiracy 2nd degree. Also on March 3, Stone was charged while in custody at the Sussex Correctional Institution.

He was charged with murder 1st degree and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Stone was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and remained in the custody of the Sussex Correc-

tional Institution on a $1,060,000 cash bond.

Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective B. McDerby by calling 302-741-2821.

Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Or, email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.

Cops ramping up for St. Paddy’s Day

Continued from Page 16

a safe way home, a department statement said.

Bus drivers can take patrons down to the South Division Street Transit Center or the North end Transit Center or anywhere in between.

A $3 Ride-All-Day pass allows guests to ride from 6 a.m. until 1 a.m. the next morning. Buses are running approximately every 30 minutes. Taxis and rideshare options are also available.

The Ocean City Police Department statement said it is prepared and proactively handling criminal violations and citizen complaints of illegal activity to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

The department also reminded residents that concerns about possible criminal activity occurring in Ocean Cit can be directed to the Tip Line at 410-520-5136, or by email to crimetips@oceancitymd.gov or by contacting the department directly at 410-723-6610.

Jaron Curtis Kevin Stone

St. Pat’s parade, festival set Saturday in OC

Organizers hope weather holds out to host event for first time in three years

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) The last time Ocean City hosted its St. Patrick’s Day parade and festival, the world was a different place.

It was 2019. Donald Trump was still the president, the pandemic had not yet happened, and the end of the parade route at the 45th Street Village had a lot more space for spectators.

Now, as members of the Delmarva Irish American Club prepare to bring the event back this weekend, they’re expecting the festivities to be “bigger and better than ever” — assuming an early rain forecast doesn’t cancel it for the fourth consecutive year.

“We’re optimistic” Mayor Rick Meehan said Monday of the parade happening on Saturday despite early forecasts showing rain and wind throughout the day.

If it happens, this year’s free-admission festival is set from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the 45th Street Village along Coastal Highway. The parade procession, complete with high school marching bands and festively decorated floats sponsored by

local businesses, groups and organizations will begin at noon at 57th Street and march south to a judging stand and bleachers set up at 45th Street.

According to a news release from the promoters, former BJ’s on the Water owners Billy and Madlyn Carder will serve as the grand marshals of the parade, and former Gov. Larry Hogan will be an honorary grand marshal.

The release said trophies will be awarded for best marching band, best commercial and non-commercial floats, best motorized unit, and best

adult and youth marching units. Special committee, judges’ choice and best overall entry awards will also be granted.

Members of the Board of Zoning Appeals granted a special use exception on Feb. 23 to allow the Irish American Club to set up tents in the 45th Street Village for the festival. The elements include live music from the Pat O’Brennan Trio, with the sale of Irish apparel, souvenirs and a variety of food and drinks. The exception was needed because build-out in the area changed the dynamics.

Members of Ocean City Surf Club’s Youth Patrol wear green costumes while riding on a float in the 2019 St. Patrick’s Day parade

Larry Hogan, honorary parade grand marshal.

See FESTIVITIES Page 22

Festivities canceled 2020-22

Continued from Page 21

Meehan, who attended the BZA meeting as a representative of the Delmarva Irish American Club, said the request has the support of all the surrounding property owners and tenants, who are looking forward to the festivities because of the amount of business they bring to the area.

“It’s a great tradition. The St. Patrick’s Day parade has become the kick-off to the season and really creates the largest weekend of the year between Labor Day and Memorial Day,” Meehan said.

The Irish American Club’s release said the resort’s first St. Paddy’s Day parade was held in 1980, and over the years grew to be known as the largest of its kind in the state. The club, a social nonprofit organization, has donated more than $530,000 of the parade proceeds to local high school students, as well as other charities and organizations over the years.

As an outdoor event, the organizers will cancel the parade and festival for inclement weather, which forced last year’s cancelation just days before it was supposed to commence. In 2020 and 2021 the pandemic halted the festivities.

Meehan said the organizers will try to give as much notice as possible if they end up canceling this year. He added that the severity of any inclement weather will determine whether the parade and festvial are held. For example, he said a forecast of a nor’easter or other serious weather event with high winds and flooded streets would force a cancelation. However, if there is drizzly or intermittent rain, or other more mild weather, it could still go on.

“It’s unpleasant, but everyone wants to have a parade,” Meehan said.

St. Pat’s 5K planned for Saturday

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) As of Monday, around 800 runners had registered for the 11th annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K, hosted by OC Tri-Running Sports, this Saturday on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

“This time last year we had over 1,000 runners,” said OC Tri-Running Sports Owner Chris Klebe. “So, we’re about 700 off, I guess. I mean, 300 off from our pace at this moment.”

Registration for the race closed on Wednesday.

A percentage of the revenue will go

to the Ocean City Surf Club, Klebe said, a nonprofit group founded by local surfers dedicated to charity and service efforts for education, environment and communities around Delmarva, according to its website.

“It’s part of the festivities for the weekend and adds another event for family members and people who enjoy walking and running to be a part of, and enjoy the festivities at Shenanigan’s before they head to the parade,” Klebe said.

Participants can pick up their race packets at Shenanigan’s Pub on Fourth

Street and the Boardwalk from 5:30-8 p.m. on March 10, and from 7:30-8:40 a.m. on the morning of the race.

The packets will include a computer chip that can be attached to runners’ shoe laces to track their race time.

Participants will take off south down the Boardwalk from Fourth Street at 9 a.m.

From there, they will travel around the pier and pass through the tram station before turning around to head north up the Boardwalk.

Once competitors hit 16th Street,

See EARLY Page 24

Former BJ’s on the Water owners Billy and Madlyn Carder will serve as the grand marshals of the parade, and former Gov. Larry Hogan will march the route as an honorary grand marshal.

Early forecast shows some rain, cooler temps for event

Continued from Page 22

they will turn south again on the Boardwalk and head for the finish line at Fourth Street.

The runners and walkers will have to narrow down on areas of the Boardwalk that are under construction, Klebe said.

Every 5K participant will receive a wooden medallion made by local company Plak That, and all participants 21 and older will get one Guinness drink ticket that can be cashed in at Shenanigan’s.

The awards ceremony will begin at 10 a.m., where winners in each category can collect a wooden plaque, also made by Plak That, Klebe said.

Award categories include first and second place overall. Awards will also

be presented to the top three finishers in different age groups. There are male and female categories for the overall winners and for all age groups.

The race officially ends at noon.

In the fall of 2010, Klebe approached Shenanigan’s owner Greg Shockley with the idea of holding a St. Patrick’s Day race before the local parade and using the restaurant as a hub, Klebe said. They had the first 5K the following March.

“I’m a triathlete and (have) done many events myself personally, so I don’t just put them on because I do it for the heck of it,” Klebe said. “I put them on because it was something that was a passion of mine.”

In 2020, OCTRS canceled the race just days before it was set to go on due to covid concerns.

OCTRS brought the event back in 2022, but runners had to wait-out several lightning delays, Klebe said. After the strikes subsided, many of the runners still ran in the torrential downpour.

“Some of them enjoy it only because of the fact (that) when you’re completed you feel like you’ve really completed something,” Klebe said.

Websites like Accuweather and The Weather Channel are calling for some rain and temperatures below 50 degrees on Saturday in Ocean City.

“The fair-weather runners are watching that weather forecast, so we can have anywhere between 1,000 to 1,300 signed up and then, you know, I don’t know what will happen that day,” Klebe said. “Even if they’re calling for some rain – I don’t think they’re calling for nowhere near what we got last year with the storm – I think we had three seasons in one day [last year].”

The run will go on rain or shine, unless there is lightning, Klebe said.

“The runner safety is the most important,” Klebe said.

For more information, visit OC TriRunning Sports’ website, https://octrirunning.com.

“The event is not possible without all the volunteers who give up their day to help,” Klebe said.

Participants of the 2019 St. Patrick’s Day 5K run along the Fourth Street Boardwalk. This year’s event is set for this Saturday.

Air fryer coconut shrimp with spicy, sweet Thai sauce

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(March 10, 2023) The philosophy of possibility precludes existence and therefore is not a state of actuality.

However, chance is capable of coming into being if thought, experimentation, and execution are a continual occurrence.

A chef’s point of view must start from the moment of conception if perfection is to come to the forefront.

Creativity must be nurtured to the fullest degree. It is then, and only then, that one achieves uniqueness and ingenuity.

Every dish deserves the utmost consideration; it is the smallest details that separate a cook from their competitors.

Fried coconut shrimp with dipping sauce has earned its place on menus across the Eastern Shore. Inquisition is a must if conclusion is to reign supreme.

How one cooks the shrimp, the

exact breakdown of the dredging process, and what type of dipping sauce are just a sampling of the uncertainties that must be worked out before consumption takes place.

If you relish the thought of fried coconut shrimp and want to learn the intricate thought process behind this delicious dish, read on.

Fresh or frozen shrimp is your first consideration.

Fresh is always the best choice, but I find frozen shrimp is just as good

and much easier on one’s wallet. The frozen crustaceans are constantly on sale, and that makes them even more cost effective.

The size of the shrimp is another “food for thought.”

Large shrimp are the preferred choice. The larger protein will stand up to the batter and coconut and also be able to support the dipping sauce.

One cannot fry shrimp without contemplating what type of oil to use.

See SWEET Page 28

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

A development may have you feeling a bit down, Aries. That is only temporary, though, as your mood and circumstances will rebound in no time at all.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, people you encounter this week may be exceptionally stubborn, so you may need to avoid confrontations. Keep your emotions in check as best as you can.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, the weather may not be suitable for getting much done outdoors, but you can certainly stay busy inside the house with any projects you have been putting off.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

This is a great opportunity for getting rid of any clutter that has been holding you back, Cancer. Start sorting through the garage or cleaning out a desk at work.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, do not worry about the small stuff that you feel could be holding you back. If you step away from the situation, you may find that everything is working out.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, there are plenty of opportunities open to you, but you may not realize they are so close by. A friend may need to guide your way on this for the time being.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You may be feeling bad about something you did in the past, Libra, and now you want to make amends. It’s the little changes you implement that will make a difference.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you may be ready to give your life an overhaul. That may amount to you changing careers in the weeks to come. Do your research before you put in notice.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, stay focused and disciplined this week, especially as it pertains to a diet. You can maintain your commitment, especially with others cheering you on.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, rewards will not come without hard work and dedication. Now is the time to stick with the plan and keep moving forward. Save days off for later.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Do not go up against managers or superiors this week, Aquarius. Doing so likely won’t go in your favor. Just keep out of the spotlight for a little while longer.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

You may be building the blocks of a major life project, Pisces. Use all of the resources at your disposal in the days to come.

NOW PLAYING

COINS

28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City

410-289-3100 / www.coinspuboc.com

March 11: First O’Class, 2 to 7 p.m.

HOOTERS

5th Street and Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-213-1841 / www.hootersofoc.com

March 11: OC Pipes & Drums Surprise Appearance

OCEAN 13

13th Street on the Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-289-6213 / www.Ocean13ocmd.com

March 10: Danny Dolan, 3 p.m.

March 11: Side Project, live right after the parade PICKLE’S PUB

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

March 10: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

March 11: Beats by Styler, 1 to 5 p.m.; Beats by Casper, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.; Beats by Adam Dutch, 10 to close

March 12: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

March 13: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

March 14: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

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

March 16: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

RESIDENCE INN

300 Seabay Lane, Ocean City

1-888-236-2427 / www.residenceinnoc.com

March 11: OC Pipes & Drums Post-Parade Appearance, 4:30 p.m.; Lime Green Duo, 6 to 9 p.m.

SEACRETS

49th Street and the Bay, Ocean City

410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com

March 10: Jimi Milligan Duo, 5 to 9 p.m.; DJ

Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Kono Nation, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

March 11: DJ Magellan, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 2023

Irie-ish Music Fest: St. Patrick’s Party, 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.; Jimi Milligan Band, noon to 5 p.m.; Party

Kickoff, noon to 5 p.m.; John McNutt’s Keltic Rock

Warriors, 1 to 5 p.m.; DJ Davey, 1 to 6 p.m.; DJ

Bobby-O, 2 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Ocean City’s Pipes & Drums, 3 to 4 p.m.; Turning the Tide, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Kono Nation, 5 to 9 p.m.; Element K, 5:30 to

9:30 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.;

PIZZA

Sweet, spicy Thai dipping sauce for shrimp

Continued from Page 26

Coconut oil highlights the coconut theme and has a high smoking point but may not be the healthiest oil to choose.

Canola oil is the preferred choice. It also has a high smoking point, is flavorless, and is a healthier option.

A standard dredging setup for coconut shrimp includes an egg mixture, flour, panko and shredded coconut.

Another possible option is cornstarch, beaten egg whites, panko and shredded coconut. It will produce a crispier texture but is harder to work with and takes more time.

However, air frying is the latest craze and a great option for coconut shrimp. Simple, fast and the most beneficial choice.

The dipping sauce is matter of personal preference; but a fruity sauce is your best bet. The natural sweetness is a perfect pairing with the tropical coconut.

If you want to turn it up a notch, sweetness and spiciness go hand in hand. The level of heat will add depth of flavor and make for a more interesting and tastier dish.

If company is coming and one is in a state of dilemma, consider air fryer coconut shrimp with sweet, spicy Thai dipping sauce. It can be served as a passed hors d’oeuvre, appetizer, or main course.

The following recipe can be used for air frying or frying.

If you want to actually fry the shrimp, simply fill a sauté pan with enough canola oil to cover the

shrimp. Fry over medium-high heat until both sides are golden brown.

I tried both styles of cooking. The air frying was easier and produced a crispy exterior, but the shrimp fried in oil yielded the crispiest coating. Allow personal preference to be your guide, Enjoy!

Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp with a Sweet, Spicy Thai Dipping Sauce

Sweet, Spicy Thai Dipping Sauce

¼ cup apricot jam

¼ cup Thai chili sauce

zest of 1 lime

1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

2 pinches of black sesame seeds

1 teaspoon chopped cilantro

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl.

Coconut Shrimp

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails attached

¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons cold water

1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

½ cup unseasoned panko breadcrumbs

cooking spray

fresh cilantro as a garnish

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. When heated, spray the basket with cooking spray.

Ocean Pines Players set to perform ‘Four Old Broads’

(March 10, 2023) Riding the wave of a sold-out hit performance of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “A Grand Night for Singing” last November, the Ocean Pines Players is poised to get audience members rolling in the aisles with laughter with its upcoming show.

The next production, “Four Old Broads” by Leslie Kimbell and directed by Ed Guinan, is a hysterical mystery. Only a few weeks into rehearsal, the cast itself is still laughing from the quips and hijinks of these ladies.

A mystery unfolds with laughter as the denizens of Magnolia Place Assisted Living try to outsmart the evil Nurse Jones and make it to the Sassy Seniors Caribbean Cruise.

Performances are March 10, 11, 17, 18 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, in Ocean City.

Tickets are available at https://oceanpinesplayers.org. All tickets are reserved seating.

The 2022-2023 season is somewhat of a comeback for the Players.

Like many community groups, the recent pandemic limited any face-toface rehearsals and canceled more than one event.

Recovery has been slow but steadfast, and the current board of directors and roster of new members are energized and focused with a threeyear strategic plan.

Ocean Pines Players is a local allvolunteer 501-(c)(3) charitable organization. For general information about the group, visit oceanpinesplayers.org or follow oceanpinesplayers on Facebook.

“Four Old Broads” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc., www.concordtheatricals.com.

2. Combine flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a cake pan.

3. Whisk the eggs and water in a small bowl.

4. Combine shredded coconut and panko in a second cake pan.

5. Dip the shrimp into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dredge the shrimp into the egg mixture, again allowing any extra to drip off.

Lastly, gently press the shrimp into the coconut mixture, make sure

the entire surface is covered.

6. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket so they are not touching, and spray the top of the shrimp. Cook for 20 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sweet, spicy Thai dipping sauce.

Secret Ingredient – Hard Work. “No matter how hard you work, someone is working harder.”

– Elon

Musk

CROSSWORD

Artists Jim Coltellino, Mary Fishel showcased at WCAC

(March 10, 2023) During the month of March, the Worcester County Arts Council will present an exhibit featuring artwork by two Gallery Co-Op Artists: Jim Coltellino, mixed media, and Mary Fishel, photography.

The opening reception of this exhibit will be held on Friday, March 10, from 5-7 p.m. Come meet the artists and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Exhibit on display through March 31.

Selected pieces of artwork, donated by featured artists, are available for bidding during the silent auction to benefit the Arts Council’s Arts Scholarship program.

Visit the Arts Council’s Gallery, located at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin, Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to view the exhibits and place a bid.

In addition to the featured artists’ exhibit, artworks created by 30 artists

and members of the Co-Op Gallery are on display and available for purchase.

For more information about featured artists and Arts Council’s programs and services, visit www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org.

The Worcester County Arts Council is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support, promote, and encourage visual, performing, and literary arts in Worcester County.

As designated by the Maryland State Arts Council County official arts agency, the Worcester County Arts Council is committed to fostering the excellence, diversity, and vitality of arts, artists, and arts organizations and increasing access to the arts for all members of our community.

The Worcester County Arts Council is funded by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council and supported by memberships, donations, and local sponsorships.

Student artwork featured at Wor. County Arts Council

(March 10, 2023) In celebration of Youth Art Month, observed nationally in March, the Worcester County Arts Council will showcase a vibrant selection of artwork created by Worcester County Public Schools’ elementary students who participated in the Arts Camp program sponsored by the Arts Council.

“We are grateful for the continued partnership with the Worcester County Public School system that allows the Arts Council to make art experiences available to a more inclusive and diverse student population in Worcester County,” said Anna Mullis, Worcester County Arts Council executive director.

Youth Art Month celebrates exceptional arts education programs by highlighting the value of art education for all students and encouraging support for quality school art programs.

“The Arts in Education program, sponsored by the Arts Council, emphasizes lifelong learning, and supporting arts programs in our local schools is one of the Arts Council’s core priorities,” Mullis said. “Youth Art Month is a tribute to teachers that

inspire their students to explore new avenues of creative expression.”

The exhibit of students’ artwork is on display until the end of March at the Arts Council Gallery located at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about the Arts Council’s programs and services, visit www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org.

The Worcester County Arts Council is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support, promote, and encourage visual, performing, and literary arts in Worcester County.

As the official county arts agency, designated by the Maryland State Arts Council County, the Worcester County Arts Council is committed to fostering the excellence, diversity, and vitality of arts, artists, and arts organizations and increasing access to the arts for all members of our community.

The Worcester County Arts Council is funded by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council and supported by memberships, donations, and local sponsorships.

Burbage donates $100K to AGH for equipment

(March 10, 2023) John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. has been a member of the Atlantic General Hospital Board of Trustees since 2007. He has been an integral part of the board during this time and served as chairman from 2011 to 2014.

Burbage has been generous in sharing his time and expertise with Atlantic General Hospital.

Through the years, he has proven to be sincerely dedicated to AGH’s mission in providing accessible, high-quality care to residents and visitors of the Eastern Shore community.

He co-chaired the highly successful “Campaign for the Future,” which secured funding for multiple projects including the John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, named in his honor for his personal and philanthropic support for Atlantic General.

“The cancer center is something near and dear to me, as my mother died when

I was a young boy of breast cancer and it was really tough growing up because my dad worked all the time,” Burbage said during the opening of the center in July of 2018. “If I can do something that would help prevent another child in our community from having to go through that, it will be well worth it.”

He continues to support the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center and, most recently, presented a donation of $100,000 for equipment.

This equipment includes wire-free localization technology, which allows radiologists to mark lesions for removal, and an LF-DP portable tracheal intubation fiberscope that will be used for head and neck cancer patients, which is ideal for emergency procedures where intubation

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, www.captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COASTAL SALT

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

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out. Ordering online www.coinspuboc.com.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine with a Caribbean flare from a selection of house specialty entrees such as burgers, seafood, and

pastas! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring specialty rums; Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Happy hour drink specials and $10 eats, Everyday, 3 to 6 p.m.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaraunt.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Fresh seafood, award-winning raw bar, certified angus beef and home to the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island! Open all March, Thursday through Sunday; Happy Hour: Thursday and Sunday, all night long featuring $8 appetizers, $5 crushes, $5 house wine and $4 bottle beers! Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410289-4891, www.picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

of the trachea is required.

This will assure that the center has the necessary tools to maintain its standing as a state-of-the-art facility.

The Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center provides one centrally-located, convenient facility for the care and treatment of individuals with cancer and blood disorders.

In addition to medical oncology, chemotherapy infusion services and integrative therapies, the Berlin center also

32 Palm’s inviting decor fuses the perfect atmosphere with Eastern Shore favorites for an exceptional dining experience! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring a unique selection of bourbons. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss our on Happy hour, Every day, 3 to 6 p.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFE

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

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

■ MARLIN MOON

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

Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon offers a great selection of entrees, small plates, appetizers, and creatively crafted cocktails. Happy Hour, Monday through Friday, 3-6 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 1-6 p.m., featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m. Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dinner, 4-10 p.m.

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

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

Enjoy one of four restaurants in the Carousel.

Serving breakfast; The Bistro, Saturday through Sunday, 7 to 11 a.m. proudly serving Starbuck’s brand. Reef 118 Restaurant, Saturday through Sunday, 7 to 11 a.m. buffet or A la carte. Serving Dinner; Bamboo Lounge, Sunday through Thursday, 4 to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Bistro, Friday, 3 to 10 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reef 118 Restaurant, Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy cocktails in the Bamboo Lounge, Sunday through Thursday, 4 to 10 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. continues to support the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center and, most recently, presented a donation of $100,000 for equipment. Pictured, from left, are Steven Tyson, AGH donor relations officer; Toni Keiser, AGH vice president of public relations; Burbage, Jr., CEO of Blue Water Development; Don Owrey, AGH president/CEO; Steven Green, AGH Foundation board chair; and Charlotte Cathell, AGH Board of Trustees chair.

offers radiation oncology, PET/CT imaging, laboratory services, community education and support facilities. Telemedicine technology is also available, allowing patients and their physicians to consult with other cancer care experts at the University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, preventing unnecessary travel for consultation and follow up care for patients who may require more intensive cancer care services.

■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT PIZZERIA

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

$$ | Kids’ menu

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

■ S.Q.U.A.R.Z. PIZZA & RESTAURANT

In Montego Bay Shopping Center, 12825 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 443-664-8149, www.squarepizza.com,

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

New Ownership. Open 7 days a week at 4 PM. Serving soups, salads, build your own pizza, small plates, sandwiches, dinner entrees and desserts. Full bar and HH 7 days a week, 4 to 6 PM. Dine in special menu that changes weekly in addition to the regular menu. Wide variety of gluten free options. No fryers on premises, Dine in, carry out and delivery available. Check out the menu and order online. 10% of entire check excluding alcohol.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro 12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

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

■ PIZZA TUGOS

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

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

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

Fri., March 10

JON LAMPLEY JOINS MARC ROBERGE PERFORMANCE

Ocean City Performing Arts CenterRoland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 8 p.m. Marc Roberge, lead singer of O.A.R., will be joined by Jon Lampley, an established multi-instrumentalist. Tickets: https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com/ upcoming-events/Marc-Roberge.

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, rhymes and finger plays. For children aged up to 2 years and their caregivers. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT

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

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘THE ONLY WOMAN IN THE ROOM’ BY MARIE BENEDICT

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

SUPER POWERED STEM: LEPRECHAUN TRAPS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Using the materials provided, build your best trap to catch the famed Leprechaun. For ages 7 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. Cost is $14 for platter with one crab cake sandwich, $24 for platter with two crab cake sandwiches and $10 for crab cake sandwich only. Eat in or carry out. Bake table available.

WORCESTER COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER

Ocean Pines Yacht Club, 1 Mumford Landing Road. Doors open at 4:30, buffet dinner at 5:30 p.m. and show at 7 p.m. Cost is $70, cash bar. Single tickets and tables of 10. Checks may be sent to WCVMF, PO Box 1576, Ocean Pines,

MD 21811. 410-603-4777

‘FOUR OLD BROADS’ PERFORMANCE

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30 p.m. “Four Old Broads” is a hysterical mystery as these ladies try to outsmart the evil Nurse Jones to make it to the Sassy Seniors Caribbean Cruise. Tickets: https://oceanpinesplayers.org.

Sat., March 11

ST. PATRICK’S PARADE & FESTIVAL

At noon, the parade runs south on Coastal Highway from 57th Street to the 45th Street Shopping Center, where the viewing bleachers, judging stand and festival (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) will be located.

OCEAN PINES ASSOCIATION JOB FAIR

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m.-noon. Seasonal and year-round positions are available for all ages. Bring a completed application, available at ocean pines.org/we/pages/work-here or at the event. hr@oceanpines.org, 410-6417717, Ext. 3007

TINKER TIME: LEPRECHAUN TRAPS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Drop in anytime to build a leprechaun trap. Supplies provided. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9:30 a.m. Don Pino of “Hook Optics by An Optical Galleria” will speak on “Protecting Your Eyes On The Water.” Members will also be conducting a seminar on trout fishing. All welcome. Jack Barnes, 410-6417662

ARTIST’S TALK

Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 10 a.m.-noon. Patrick Henry will discuss his show, “Untold Stories: Chronicling our Delmarva History.” Space is limited. Reservations: germantownschool@gmail.com, 443-235-9803, 410-641-0638.

FAMILY LIBRARY: SPRING CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10 a.m.-noon. Featuring a variety of spring-related crafts for all ages. 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

SATURDAY MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. A showing of the New York Times Bestselling novel written by Delia Owens turned into a movie. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

‘FOUR OLD BROADS’ PERFORMANCE

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30 p.m. “Four Old Broads” is a hysterical mystery as these ladies try to outsmart the evil Nurse Jones to make it to the Sassy Seniors Caribbean Cruise. Tickets: https://oceanpinesplayers.org.

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., March 12

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR SHAMROCK SLAM PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

Two-day Shamrock Slam Pickleball Tournament at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill from March 18-19. Register: pickleballbrackets.com?ShamrockSlam. 410-632-2144, Ext. 2505.

A KIDS CARNIVAL - UNSTOPPABLE JOY

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 12-3 p.m. Carnival games, performances, DJ, face painting, art and raffles. Cost is $25 per family (up to 6 people), $5 per additional child. Pre-register: Berkleigh.UJC@gmail.com, www.unstoppablejoyco.org.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon. March 13

STORY TIME ‘ST. PATRICK’S DAY’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories about St. Patrick’s Day. For ages 2-5 years. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TODAY IN HISTORY: SPACE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. What happened today in 1781? Come find out and learn about his out of this world discovery. For ages 7 years and older. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychologi-

cal well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WOMEN’S HISTORY IN OCEAN CITY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Learn about Women’s History in Ocean City from the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169 Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

NOTABLE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN IN HISTORY

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. The African American Heritage Society of Snow Hill will present a talk about the many contributions of Black women in history. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

‘CRAFTS FOR A CAUSE’ BURLEY OAK FUNDRAISER

Burley Oak Brewing Company, 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 6-9 p.m. Guests bartenders, prizes, drawings, 50/50 raffle. Music by Stringbuzzards. Proceeds benefit ACT. Debbi Dean, 443-856-9309, outreach@actforbays.org

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

Tues., March 14

POP UP CRAFT: PIZZA PI DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Pizza-themed crafts and math activities will be available all day in the children’s area to celebrate 3.14, Pi Day. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, experimenting with instruments and rhythmic play. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

MONTHLY MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Catch a recent movie you might have missed in the theaters. Check for movie details at www.worcesterlibrary.org or call 410-208-4014.

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

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

IRISH HERITAGE FILM SCREENING

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m. Mike Healey hosts this screening with two shorts he created. Q&A to follow. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. The speaker will be Captain Eric Shoaff of the charter vessel, “Judith M.” Public cordially invited. Food and refreshments available at 6:15 p.m.

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.

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.

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

EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS

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

BACKGAMMON CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Drop in for a game of strategy that dates back 5,000 years to Mesopotamia and Persia, All skill levels welcome. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 1-2 p.m. For survivors and current patients battling breast cancer. Women Supporting Women, 410-548-7880

‘O’KEEFFE: SUNSET OF AN ARTIST’ BY MARTHA FUREY AND PERFORMED BY KELLY ROUSE

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Join independent, visionary artist, Georgia O’Keeffe, as she reflects on her life. Q&A to follow. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 3-4 p.m. For stroke survivors, family and friends. 410-641-4765, bglime@atlanticgeneral.org

WASHER NECKLACES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Learn how to make washer necklaces. It’s a perfect craft. For ages 10 years and older. Adults welcome too. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ART STUDIO: DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Showcasing several artists followed by activities that explore creating artwork in the artists’ manner. For ages 10 years and older. Registration required: 410-9570878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

BERTINO TO HOST TOWN MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6 p.m. Commissioner Chip Bertino will give an update on the county. Guest speakers are Worcester County CAO Weston Young and AGH President and CEO Don Owrey.

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - March 15 will be a pizza luncheon in the Ocean Pines Library at noon. Cost is $8. RSVP: Dick Clagett, 301-788-1517. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Thurs., March 16

CPAP MASK FITTING

Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. For patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Free service, but requires an appointment. Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726

2023 SEASON OPENING DAY AT DELAWARE BOTANIC GARDENS

Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek, 30220 Piney Neck Road, Dagsboro, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring more than 200,000 spring bulbs. Admission is free to members and $15 for non-members. Tour/class fee is $10. Free to children 16 years and younger. Tickets: delawaregardens.org.

STORY TIME: ‘HOW TO CATCH A LEPRECHAUN’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Fun, silly story and a great craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME ‘GRANDMA’S TINY HOUSE’

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

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Meet new friends and play some chess. Bring your boards. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GENEALOGY WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. The workshop starts with a 20-minute lesson on genealogy research followed by a Q&A session. Bring family information, if you can. Registration requested: 410208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org

MOBILE MENTOR

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Providing one-on-one assistance for those who want to make the most of their tablet or mobile device. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GROW IT, EAT IT!

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz will talk about gardening basics as gardeners prepare for the growing season. 410957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

SURVIVAL SPANISH: STUDENT EDITION: GEOGRAPHY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4 p.m. Join Miss Morgan for this introductory Spanish program. The group will be learning about geography. For ages 7-12 years. 410-208-4014,

www.worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join certified Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-6410650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

SLEEP APNEA SUPPORT GROUP

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Staff from TidalHealth will present on sleep apnea. Additionally, representatives from medical supply companies will be on site. Registration is required: 443-944-7647, susan.hamilton@persante.com.

BEACH SINGLES-55 PLUS

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

ONGOING EVENTS

LEPRECHAUN’S GOLD (ESCAPE ROOM)

Held at all branches of the Worcester County Library through March. Solve all the puzzles of this escape room. Teams of 4 or fewer may participate. At the end of the month, teams with the shortest time will win a special prize. For ages 1218 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

Free workshops dealing with hypertension, chronic pain self-management, chronic disease self-management, diabetes, fall prevention and a free 6-week workshop titled, “Building Better Caregivers.” If you would like to register for one of these workshops or you would like more information about bringing any of the workshops to your business or group, contact Jill at MAC, 410-7420505, Ext. 159 or jak@macinc.org.

‘SAVE OUR STORIES’

The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum is asking community members to send in their accounts as to how COVID19 has impacted them. The submissions can be a specific experience, direct answers to the prompt questions, or a combination. No story is too long or too short. To submit, visit www.ocmuseum.org. Info: Christine@ocmuseum.org.

Crossword answers from page 28

Work on the Beach in Ocean City, MD

Renting Umbrellas and Chairs to Beachgoers

• Now hiring students for over 80 positions

• Make friends & memories

• Earn valuable sales & customer service skills

• Energetic individuals wanted

• Hourly + commission + tips

Apply online at EightyFiveAndSunny.com/Employment

University

of Maryland Extension seeks 4-H Program Assistant

This position works under the direction of the 4-H Educator to support the Worcester County 4-H Educator with various programming efforts including 4-H outreach within the after-school and in-school settings, as well as community outreach programs and club development. This position will work within the office, schools, community events and outside locations. High School Diploma or GED AND five years experience performing a variety of duties in support of the teaching, demonstration, and advising work of Extension agents or in community outreach, health care, research, or social services programs.

All candidates MUST apply online. See the detailed position announcement at https://ejobs.umd.edu for position #128153.

Base salary of $37,418.

The University of Maryland offers an extensive benefits package, more information regarding employee benefits can be found by visiting https://uhr.umd.edu/benefits/.

Apply by March 10, 2023. EOE

Worcester Preparatory School is seeking

EXPERIENCED TEACHERS

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

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

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

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

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility

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

Hiring for the following positions

• Groundskeepers

• Houseman Housekeepers

• Front Desk Agents

• Lifeguards

• Part-Time Bartender/ Concession

Seasonal positions

Apply in person at 12806 Ocean Gateway or email: info@fskfamily.com

Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber, Housekeeper Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

For Rent

Year-Round in Delmar, Maryland - - - - - - - -2 bedroom, 1.5 bath with yard. Unfurnished. $1250 per month plus utilities. - - - - - - - - -

Fridge, gas stove, oven & dishwasher. (Hook up for washer dryer.)

RENTALS

WINTER WEEKLY RENTALS

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

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals

We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700

www.holidayoc.com

HERKER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Seeking full time FIELD MANAGER for full service landscaping & property maintenance company in Frankford & Delaware beach resort areas. Salary: $50K+, benefits include partial health, Simple IRA, holidays & vacation. Email resume to Gherker@comcast.net or call 610-459-5857

ENGLISH TEACHER

Worcester Preparatory School is located in beautiful Berlin, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The school is an independent, coeducational college preparatory day school serving over 5OO students in grades PK -12. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Upper School English Teacher for the 2023-2024 school year.

This vibrant individual will have a strong education background and be capable of teaching the highest levels of high school English. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college with a major in English, successful classroom experience, and the ability to participate in other areas of school life are requirements for this position. Advanced Placement experience and advanced degree would be desirable. Interested candidates should mail or email resume with cover letter to: Linda Watson, Director of Human Resources, 508 South Main Street, Berlin, MD 21811 or lwatson@worcesterprep.org

Free water (well & septic). Free trash pick-up. Landlord cuts grass and does yard work. No dogs. No groupssingle or family only. No applicants with prior evictions or criminal record.

First month, last month and security deposit required. $25 application fee required upfront. Contact Landlord Email: lnjurym21842@gmail.com Text 443-859-3808

Year-Round House to Share. Ocean City. XL Master bedroom w/private bath. Fully furnished. $800/month. Includes all utilities.

443-880-2486

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

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

Fully Furnished Room for Rent Ocean Pines. All Utilities Included. Full House Privileges. Year round or Seasonal. $600 per month 443-880-2486

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

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

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.

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

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

Labradoodle Puppies

Multigenerational $1200 - $1800 Call or text Cindy 443-239-6254

SERVICES

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

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

MISC. FOR SALE DISH Network. $64.99 for 190

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

PETS/PET SUPPLIES

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

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

WANTED TO BUY

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

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

(301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

6252 BASKET SWITCH RD. NEWARK, MD 21841

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated December 22, 2006, recorded in Liber 4842, Folio 91 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $199,998.81, 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 14, 2023 AT 4:05 PM

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

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $18,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such

amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. BIDDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO FOLLOW CDC GUIDANCE AND WEAR A COVER OVER BOTH NOSE AND MOUTH AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AT THE AUCTION. (Matter No. 351124-3)

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

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees OCD-2/23/3t

RONALD B. GREENE, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF RONALD B. GREENE, ESQUIRE 219 BANJO LANE CENTREVILLE, MD 21617

PAGNE whose address is 97 CLOVER RUN ABBOTTSTOWN, PA 17301 PHILLIP A. CHAMPAGNE WHOSE ADDRESS IS 308 DORCHESTER DRIVE LITITZ, PA 17543 as the EXECUTORS of the Estate of NORMAND CHAMPAGNE AKA: who died on MAY 28, 2022 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is RONALD B. GREENE, ESQ. who address is OFFICE OF RONALD B. GREENE, 219 BANJO LANE, CENTREVILLE, MD 21617. 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-2/23/3t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "A" BEERWINE License: 7 Day, By: Kenny Nguyen, 12522 Ocean Reef Drive, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Thu Tam Thi Pham, 12522 Ocean Reef Drive, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: O.C. Beer & Wine, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: OC Beer & Wine

8201 Coastal Highway Units 2 & 3 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: March 15, 2014 @ 1:10 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/2/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Lawrence Noccolino, 104 215th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: Maverickk, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Squarz Pizza and Restaurant

12825 Coastal Highway

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Squarz Pizza, LLC

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: March 15, 2014 @ 1:25 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/2/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Kristine Grigoryan, 11635 Maid At Arms Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Ocean Lanes, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Ocean Lanes 115 72nd Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Ocean Lanes, Inc.

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: March 15, 2014 @ 1:35 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/2/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC

BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR

License: 7 Day, By: Stefanie L. Franklin, 11896 Man O War Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Daniel Benjamin Levin, 232 Winifred Way, Lewes, Delaware 19958

For: Macky's Bayside MD, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Macky's Bayside Bar & Grill 5311 Coastal Highway

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Tio Gringo's, Inc.

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on:

March 15, 2014 @ 1:45 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/2/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a "B" B-W-L 7 Day license and Request to Designate as multiple license #1 for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7

Day, By: Francesco Fidanza, 2230 Route 17M, Middletown, New York 10942; Kevin Eugene Decker, 10308 Quarter Deck Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: 12849 Ocean Gateway, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

TIA: Lankford Hotel Restaurant

8th Street & Boardwalk

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on:

March 15, 2014

@ 2:00 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/2/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "D" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Norman Shawn A. Maness, 12612 Whisper Trace Dr., Ocean City, MD 21842; Spiros P. Buas, 13064 Riggin Ridge Road, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: Park Place DB, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Park Place Hotel

208 North Baltimore Avenue

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: March 15, 2014 @ 2:10 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-3/2/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC

BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to decrease the privacy wall 20 feet to 17 feet and a Request to relocate the outdoor bar to the beach area which was previously closer to the building for a Class: "B" BEER-WINELIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Jennifer Reda, 1103 Hunt Creek Lane, Sparks, Maryland 21152; Anne McFaul, 3026 Shepperd Road, Monkton, Maryland 21111; Adam Horn, 10312 Plantation Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Windward OC, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

TIA: Saltwater 75 115 75th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: March 15, 2014 @ 2:25 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.

The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

These three weeks of notification begins on March 9, 2023

All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.

AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19599 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KARL R. ESMARK

Notice is given that Elizabeth M. Esmark, 2803 Webb Road, LaFayette, NY 13084, was on February 22, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Karl R. Esmark who died on December 18, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of August, 2023.

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

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

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

Elizabeth M. Esmark

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:

March 02, 2023

OCD-3/2/3t _________________________________

Rosenburg & Associates, LLC

4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-907-8000

Maurice.obrian@rosenburg-assoc.com

Diane S. Rosenberg

Mark D. Meyer

Maurice O’Brien

Rosenberg & Associates, LLC

4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 Substitute Trustees Plaintiff(s)

v.

Paul J. Dipino, Sr.

Marlene T. Dipino

14104 Dukes Ave. Ocean City, MD 21842

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-22-000195

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 27th day of February, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of 14104 Dukes Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 3rd day of April, 2023, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in a weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 27th day of March, 2023. The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $394,000.00. Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

OCD-3/2/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LYLE HICKS LANIER JR. Estate No. 19609 Notice is given that ANN KING LANIER whose address is 3141 STOCKTON ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 was on MARCH 02, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LYLE HICKS LANIER JR. who died on FEBRUARY 11, 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 2nd day of SEPTEMBER, 2023.

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

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

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

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-3/9/3t

NOTICE

PROPOSED FARE CHANGE FOR OCEAN CITY MUNICIPAL BUS SERVICE

Notice is hereby given that Ocean City Transportation submitted a proposal at the March 6, 2023 Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council to increase the ride-all-day fare from $3 to $4 on municipal fixed route buses and complementary ADA para transit service. The proposal was submitted as a means to increase revenue and reduce the Town’s general fund contribution for municipal bus service in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

The purpose of this notice is to: (1) Advise the Public of the proposed fare change; (2) Offer an opportunity to the Public to inspect supporting documents; (3) Offer an opportunity to the Public to request a Public Hearing; (4) Offer an opportunity to the Public to submit written comments; (5) Advise the Public of the date for the Public Hearing should it be requested; and (6) Advise the Public of the date of implementation should the proposal be approved.

Proposed Fare Change: Increase the ride-all-day fare on Ocean City municipal fixed route buses and complementary ADA para transit service from $3 to $4.

Supporting Documents: Supporting documents are available on the Town of Ocean City website at http://oceancitymd.gov/publichearings.html or by calling Ocean City Transportation prior to 4 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2023 at 410-723-2174 to schedule appointment.

Public Hearing & Written Comments: A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Request for a Public Hearing must be in writing and received by prior to 4 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2023. Written Comments must also be received prior to 4 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2023. Request for a Public Hearing and submission of Written Comments should be delivered to the following address and clearly marked “Public Hearing” or “Public Comment”: Ocean City Transportation, 224 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. In the event a Public Hearing is requested, the date and location of the Public Hearing will be Monday, April 17, 2023, 6:00 p.m. during the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council, City Hall, Council Chambers, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. The location of the Public Hearing is accessible to persons with disabilities. Any individual who requires special assistance to participate in the Public Hearing must contact Ocean City Transportation at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2023 to advise of necessary arrangements.

Implementation Date: If, as a result of a 6 p.m. Public Meeting/Hearing on Monday, April 17, 2023 and upon consideration of comments received, the Mayor and City Council approve the proposed fare change, the effective time and date of implementation will be 6 a.m. Monday, May 1, 2023. Any form of media advertising a $3 ride-all-day fare after May 1, 2023 shall be considered invalid.

Ocean City Transportation (OCT) is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of its transit services on the basis of race, color or national origin, as protected by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you believe you have been subjected to discrimination based on your race, color, national origin, you may file a complaint up to 180 days from the date of the alleged incident.

To file a complaint or for additional information on OCT’s nondiscrimination policies and procedures, contact: Transit Manager, 224 65th Street, Ocean City, Md. 21842. Reasonable modifications of Ocean City Transportation policies, practices, and procedures may be permitted to avoid unnecessary exclusion of individuals with disabilities from transit related service or programs.

OCD-3/9/5t

oceancitymd.gov in the March 6, 2023, agenda packet. As per recent IAFF Collective Bargaining Agreement amendments, this ordinance increases the pension plan contribution amount from 8% to 9% for certain participants, provides a temporary Deferred Retirement Option Plan for certain participants and extends retiree healthcare benefits to IAFF members hired after 2013.

OCD-3/9/1t

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2023-06

RE: Critical Area Map

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2023-04

RE: Public Safety Employees’ Pension Plan

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2023-04 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of March 6, 2023. Second reading is scheduled for March 20, 2023. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2023-06 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of March 6, 2023. Second reading is scheduled for March 20, 2023. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the March 6, 2023, agenda packet. This ordinance adds reference to the Critical Area Statewide Base Map dated March 2022 as prepared by the Maryland Critical Area Commission and Department of Natural Resources. The entire Town is included in the Critical Area, thus there is no change to the map.

OCD-3/9/1t

DHCD gives renovation tax credit

and be able to show proper documentation of the repairs to qualify.

credit. Some examples of accessibility features include, but are not limited to:

By Lauren Bunting

Contributing Writer

(March 10, 2023) The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) administers a State of Maryland tax credit for residents who have renovated a home to be more accessible.

The tax credit may be up to 50 percent of the cost of the renovation up to $5,000, whether it’s your own home, the home of a family member, or a rental property.

To claim this credit, the renovations must have taken place during the prior tax year, and you must demonstrate the costs incurred with receipts, invoices, before and after pictures, etc.

Any approved accessibility features will be considered in the calculation for the tax credit amount.

You must be a Maryland resident

After you have completed your renovation, the following steps are necessary to claim your tax credit:

(1) File your taxes for the calendar tax year in which you completed the renovation.

2) Fill out the Independent Living Tax Credit Application (can be found online at DHCD’s website).

(3) Submit your application to DHCD by June 1 of the current calendar year.

DHCD will complete its review of your application by Aug. 1 of the current calendar year.

(4) Once your application is approved, you must complete and file an amended tax return (Form 502X) with the DHCD tax credit certification attached.

Any renovations that will assist a person in their home can qualify for a tax

• No-step entrance

• Doorways with a 32-inch wide (or wider) clear opening

• Grab bars and reinforced walls to support

• Handrails

• Rocker panel light switches

• Accessible route to no-step entrance inside and outside of home

• Accessible handles on doors, plumbing fixtures

• Chairlifts and elevators

• Roll-in shower/tub

• No-step route to accessible home entrance

• Railings for exterior or interior steps

• Railings for hallways

• Slip-resistant floors

• Accessible door hardware

• Creation of accessible parking space

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

OPA hosting job fair this Sat. at community center

(March 10, 2023) The Ocean Pines Association will hold a job fair on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Ocean Pines Community Center at 239 Ocean Parkway.

Openings are available in for seasonal and year-round positions in multiple Ocean Pines departments and amenities.

“Ocean Pines has vacancies in a variety of fields and for all ages. Whether you’re a 15-year-old looking for your first job, a retiree looking for part-time work or someone interested in a full-time, year-round career, we’d like to meet you,” said Ocean Pines Human Resources Manager Lisa Carson.

Individuals interested in serving as police officers, lifeguards, public works laborers, junior and senior camp counselors, racquet center attendants, golf cart attendants or seasonal front desk clerks are encouraged to attend.

See OPA Page 46

Option for those who redo homes, up to 50 percent

OP Restaurant Week begins Friday

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Whet your appetite for the second annual Ocean Pines Restaurant Week, which begins Friday and runs through next Thursday.

Seventeen Ocean Pines restaurants will offer food and drink specials throughout the promotion. In addition, prospective diners will be encouraged to pick up a restaurant week card at participating locations and then visit at least three participating restaurants to get the card stamped.

Completed cards would then be turned in at ERA Martin & Associates/Shamrock Division office at 11049 Racetrack Road no later than 10 a.m. on St. Patrick’s Day, Friday, March 17, to be entered into the raffle drawings.

Kelly MacPherson, Realtor at ERA Martin Associates Shamrock Division and Kerrie Bunting, president of the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring the event.

Ocean Pines Restaurant Week was initiated by MacPherson last year. She approached Bunting to see if she had an interest in helping organize it.

“I was surprised to see that this has not been an event coordinated before, since other towns like Berlin and Ocean City host a restaurant week.”

“Last year, after our first Restaurant Week, we asked the participating busi-

nesses if they saw an increase in business,” MacPherson said. The answer was yes.

“We were constantly busy with happy residents saying they loved the idea.” Diners dropped off their stamped cards at the ERA Martin Shamrock office at 11049 Racetrack Road. “Some dropped off cards more than once, meaning they dined in at least six places or more. We originally ordered 1,000 cards and had to order more throughout the week,” MacPherson said.

Many of the restaurants will be having daily specials. Southside Deli will be offering $2 off their Italian sub, the Southside Slam, the Rachel and Ruben sandwiches. Paradise Pizzeria will be offing a large cheese pizza with 10 wings for $22.99. Kaiju Sushi and Ramen Bar will be offering $5 off for orders of $35 or more for dine on only

The raffle will be broadcast live on the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce Facebook page at noon on St. Patrick’s Day. Three winners will be chosen to receive restaurant gift cards.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

POSEIDON’S PUB AT OCEAN DOWNS, 10218 Racetrack Rd

PAUL AND VINNY’S PIZZA, 11070 Cathell Road

SOUTHGATE GRILL, 11033 Nicholas Lane

SOUTHSIDE DELI, 11021 Nicholas Lane #7

PARADISE GRILL AND PIZZERIA, 11022 Nicholas Lane

KAIJU SUSHI AND RAMEN BAR, 11436 Samuel Bowen Blvd

DON’S SEAFOOD AND CHOPHOUSE, 11310 Manklin Creek Road

THE SNOWBALL STAND, 11065 Cathell Road #9307

PLAZA TAPATIA, 11007 Manklin Creek Road #9

ABI’S DINER, 10514 Racetrack Road

A BAGEL AND…, 11304 Manklin Creek Road

WINDMILL CREEK VINEYARD, 11206 Worcester Hwy

TAYLORS NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT, 11021 Nicholas Lane #1

CRABS TO GO, 11247 Ocean Gateway

SUE’S ASIAN CUISINE, 11007 Manklin Creek Road

OCEAN PINES GOLF CLUB, 100 Clubhouse Drive

OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB, 1 Mumford Landing Road

MONTEGO BAY

Newly renovated 3BR, 2BA home is located in this highly sought after community. Interior renovations include new bathrooms, new kitchen cabinets, new granite counters, new appliances, new washer/dryer, new subflooring, new vinyl plank flooring, new drywall, new 6-panel interior doors, new lighting/electrical, new plumbing and more. Exterior renovations include some new windows and new vinyl siding. Community amenities include 2 swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini-golf course, 8-acre wildlife sanctuary/park area, 5-acre pond with blacktop walking/jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $360.00 a year!

$332,500

117 CLAM SHELL ROAD

Beautiful nearly new home 3BR, 2BA was stick-built in 2022, located in this highly sought after community. Many interior upgrades including Samsung stainless steel appliances, Granite kitchen counters, 42" white shaker style kitchen cabinets, ceramic tile/glass backsplash, brushed nickel hardware throughout, 2-panel interior doors, 5-1/4" base trim, ceiling fans in all bedrooms and a 72" ceiling fan in living area, vaulted ceilings in living area, Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring throughout, matching Granite bathroom vanity tops, ceramic tile showers, and a full size Samsung washer and dryer (white). Exterior of the home has 5" lap Monogram vinyl siding in Weathered Wood color, GAF Architectural shingles, white Viwinco windows with grills, Trex maintenance free decking, white vinyl railings and white exterior lighting. Montego Bay community amenities: 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini-golf course, community fishing/crabbing area, 8-acre wildlife sanctuary/park area with large pond and a blacktop walking/jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low hoa fee of $360.00 a year! $570,000

Call Bill Rothstein

800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530

montegobayrealty@aol.com

12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com

Municipalities make budget requests for FY24

Numbers reflect inflation’s affect on local finances

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Across the board, Worcester County municipalities and the Ocean Pines Association want more money to keep up with the costs associated with inflation.

Each municipality plus the Ocean Pines Association made its FY24 budget requests to the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday and while there were no audible gasps in reaction to the requests, each one asked for more than what they received in FY23.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan took to the podium and requested a 5percent increase to the city’s undesig-

nated grants, which helps offset service costs that the city provides in lieu of the county doing so.

The overall request came to $9.13 million, about $290,000 more than in FY23.

Meehan requested changes in grants for tourism, recreation, the Ocean City Development Corporation, the Convention Center Bureau or Park and Ride services. Likewise, Ocean City asked to carry on with money supplied by a formula that allows the resort to provide fire and EMS to unincorporated West Ocean City.

“Public safety remains our number one priority,” Meehan said. “One of the things we’re doing in Ocean City is ex-

panding city watch program (cameras) (which help) reconstruct accidents, identify people who have left crime scenes.”

Those cameras, an $80,000 endeavor, helped mitigate the “H2O crisis,” as Meehan described the unofficial pop-up car rally that descended on the town every summer, causing plenty of headaches for local government and law enforcement. The unofficial rally hasn’t materialized in either of the last two summers.

Meehan also highlighted the downtown recreation project that’s redeveloping a property on 3rd and 4th streets at $5.5 million.

He also cited the redeveloping of the skate park, which he described as one of the oldest in the country and a consistent hotspot, with a request of $250,000 in open-space funding to “move forward with the project in a timely manner.”

He noted that the city has not requested open-space funds since 2017 when they asked for $20,000.

Berlin’s funding request by itself is actually less than what was approved in FY23 — $2.41 million this year compared to $2.6 million last year — but the town is also requesting $700,013 in grant funding.

In his formal letter explaining the request, Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall wrote, “In fiscal year 2022, the Worcester County Commissioners granted the Town of Berlin $39,875 for a Phase I grant application for the Rails and Trails program. Due to the timing of the grant application, we did not receive notification that our grant was

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Hiring event

unsuccessful until after we received funding from the Worcester County Commissioners in fiscal year 2023 for a Phase II grant application.”

This year’s grant application will combine the two phases, therefore Tyndall wrote that the town is asking that its funding be retained for $116,013.

The town is also still in the first phase of the Flower Street traffic mitigation project for which it received funding for $122,000 and is requesting to maintain that as well.

Finally, the town is requesting $465,000 to offset some of the public safety funding for police, fire and EMS. At the meeting, Tyndall noted this dollar figure is consistent with what the town has asked for in previous years.

“Our budget is taking shape and we’re seeing some of the impacts of inflationary pressure on business that we do day-to-day,” he said. “We’re asking for some assistance in helping divert this $122,000 in funding.”

“(In developing our budget) we’ve come to a significant deficit that we’re trying to overcome. We’re … pulling various levers to try and help keep things whole. We’re not adding new services or anything this year. We’re just trying to maintain the services that we do have. So we’re asking for your help and support in that process as well.”

Taking everything in, Commissioner Chip Bertino said that the town’s request is a “big ask” that shouldn’t fall on county taxpayers to shoulder.

“I just caution you that the likelihood of (having this approved), I would have a plan B if I were you,” Bertino said.

The Ocean Pines Association, on the

See QUESTIONS Page 48

HONESTY, DEPENDABILITY, PROFESSIONALISM, PRIDE, QUALITY

All too often business will use words like these in order to gain the trust of their customers. We would like to elaborate...

PHILOSOPHY

i.g. Burton Auto Group is preparing for the opening of its new Chevrolet showroom in Berlin with a hiring event on March 17-18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The company is looking to fill several positions in order to meet the demands of customers, including experienced sales and service managers, salespeople, service advisors and technicians.

For more information, call 302404-5213, or email to jparker@igburton.com.

In addition to their Chevrolet and Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat stores in Berlin, i.g. Burton has locations in Milford, Seaford, Lewes, Smyrna, and Newark, Delaware featuring Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Promaster, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Sprinter, Blue Bird Bus, and pre-owned vehicles. Visit igburton.com.

OPA job fair scheduled for Sat.

Continued from Page 44

Representatives from departments including Police, Aquatics, Public Works, Racquet Sports, Recreation and Parks, Golf and Administration will be on site to meet with potential candidates and discuss available job opportunities.

Job fair attendees are asked to

bring a completed employment application, available at oceanpines.org/we/pages/workhere. Applications will also be available at the event.

For more information, contact hr@oceanpines.org or call 410-6417717 ext. 3007.

Rick Meehan

Zach Tyndall

Lease not renewed for ’23 at OC’s 4th Street Taphouse

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 10, 2023) Plans to renovate and outfit a glass elevator into the 4th Street Taphouse on the Ocean City Boardwalk have been shattered as the owner prepares to close the restaurant’s doors instead.

But as a silver lining, owner Zev Sibony has sped up plans to open a fastcasual macaroni and cheese restaurant on 138th Street.

Sibony said in a March 1 Facebook post that the downtown Taphouse — which was one of three across the resort — was not renewing its lease for the 2023 season. The announcement was flooded with messages of disappointment and speculations about what could have forced the restaurant out of the prime Boardwalk space after eight years in operation.

Sibony said this week that the owners of the building simply voted to go a different direction with the property that did not include the Taphouse restaurant. Sibony’s father, Avi Sibony, and Avi’s three brothers are the owners, and Zev said that his father was the lone vote against changing the use of the building.

“Obviously, I was upset about

there’s things you don’t have control over,” Zev Sibony said. “Myself and Avi, we didn’t really have 100 percent control over the situation. That’s what happens when you have businesses sometimes. So, it just kind of is what it is.”

Sibony added he wanted to clarify that his father opposed the new plans but was outvoted by the other owners.

“I know the reputation — yes, he is my father — but I know the reputation that Avi Sibony gets around town,” Sibony said. “I want to make it very, very clear that this was not his decision and that it was his business partners’ decision.”

In the spring of 2021, members of the Board of Zoning Appeals approved a request from Zev Sibony to encroach 8 feet onto the Boardwalk in front of the 4th Street Taphouse to build a protruding glass elevator. The request was the first in a series of approvals needed to complete a host of renovations that included a new rooftop restaurant and bar. Last May, the appeals board extended the encroachment approval for two years but the project was still on — until Sibony learned the restaurant’s new fate a few weeks ago.

He said he mostly feels for the 40

See TO-GO Page 48

The 4th Street Taphouse is shown on the Ocean City Boardwalk. The restaurant will not open for the 2023 season after the owners of the building opted to go a different direction with the property.

it ... The problem is unfortunately there’s things you have control over and

This condo will knock your socks off when you see the view! End unit, 3rd floor, bayfront views are gorgeous and a big picture window facing south offers lots of natural light! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath unit is in Harbour Towne, which offers a bayfront outdoor pool and is located close to so many great restaurants and activities! Oh, and just 2 blocks off the ocean/boardwalk with an easy stoplight crossing over Coastal Highway! The open floor plan and vaulted ceilings really create a special feel in the main living/kitchen/dining area. Lots of closet space inside unit, washer/dryer located in unit and storage closet for your beach essentials on the wide balcony. The association does own some boat slips that are available for rent.

To-go mac and cheese spot plans expedited on 138th St.

Questions about OPPD hound

OPA during FY24 budget talks

Continued from Page 47Continued from Page 46

to 50 summer staffers, who will be out of jobs this season.

There may be opportunities for them to work at one of the Sibonys’ other restaurants, though.

Joining the 45th Street Taphouse, the neighboring Lookout Lounge and Taphouse Tavern on 138th Street, Sibony is preparing to open his newest restaurant, Holy Macaroni, next month.

“We’re really going to be focused more on pick-up, delivery that kind of thing,” Sibony said of the new mac and cheese to-go spot on 138th. “But we plan on making all of our pastas from

scratch in house, all fresh ingredients, mac and cheeses are going to get baked right in front of the customer.”

He compared the experience to Chipotle, where patrons come in, order their food, and see it assembled in three to four minutes.

“Basically, you pick what you want,” Sibony explained. “You pick your pasta, you pick your sauce, you pick your topping, you pick your cheese. It goes through the conveyor oven and you’re on your way.”

Holy Macaroni should open in mid- to late-April and may be the first of two coming to the resort.

other hand, requested $1.87 million, close to $200,000 more than its FY23 total.

The lion’s share of this increase could be found in a new $150,000 request for road and bridge repairs. Another increase of about $36,000 was requested for ambulance grants.

OPA President Doug Parks pointed out that the $550,000, the second-biggest line item on the request sheet, requested for police aid was “commensurate with last year.”

Bertino then asked Parks what is going on with the Ocean Pines Police Department in terms of whether everything is under control, presumably in light of Ocean Pines Police Chief Leo Ehrisman being placed on administrative leave in January, following the robbery of a police-owned shed in December.

“You’re putting me on the spot, Chip,” Parks replied. “It’s an ongoing situation, an ongoing issue that’s in progress. I’d be remiss to make any incorrect statements.”

Ocean Pines General Manager John

Viola said that the association “has been in the law enforcement business for 50 years” and has no plans to cease.

“There are some things going on,” he acknowledged. “We are looking at it and I’ve been to the (Ocean Pines Board of Directors) and gotten direction to go forward with being more competitive with everyone else. We’re not in LEOPS because we’re a homeowners association. We’re looking at comparable compensation packages to be competitive.”

Parks added that the board is “100 percent behind supporting the police department,” a proven commodity.

Pocomoke City’s budget request came in at $1.86 million, just $5,000 more than its FY23 allotment.

Mayor-elect Todd J. Nock, who assumes office in April, said the increase would help cover rising costs of support and materials. It will be used for public works, police, economic development and water and wastewater services.

Snow Hill requested $2.27 million, about $170,000 more than FY23. The request included $161,600 for a Byrd Park Grant which breaks down to about $98,000 to help address flooding issues and $62,000 to replace the “aging” basketball court at the park,

Doug Parks

OCEAN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARDS

CHAMBER AWARDS

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce presented its annual awards last Friday at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Award winners were:

Lifetime Achievement Award - John Fager, owner of Fager’s Island

Business Person of the Year - Glenn Irwin, executive director of Ocean City Development Corporation

Citizen of the Year - Robert A. Rothermel, Jr., owner of Tours, Entertainment, Amusements, Management (T.E.A.M. Productions)

First Responder of the YearParamedic Galen Curtis of the Ocean City Fire Department

Young Professional of the YearRush Stehley of the Taustin Group

Non-Profit of the Year - Joshua M. Freeman Foundation

Glenn Irwin, Business Person of the Year

Robert A. Rothermel, Jr., Citizen of the Year, with Chamber Executive Director Amy Thompson

Paramedic Galen Curtis, First Responder of the Year

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and Del. Wayne Hartman present citations to Lifetime Achievement Award winner John Fager

Rush Stehley, Young Professional of the Year, with Chamber Executive Director Amy Thompson

Patti Grimes, executive director of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, accepts the Non-Profit of the Year award for the group.

GIFT GIVING

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City advisor liaison to the Kiwanis Builders Club at Berlin Intermediate School, Sue Wineke, left, presents 4STEPS local Therapeutic Riding Program Founder and Director Sandy Winter, with wind chime ornaments made by the student members of the club.

RING CEREMONY

The annual Junior Ring Ceremony took place at Worcester Preparatory School on Feb. 8. It is tradition that seniors present the juniors with their rings along with a few insightful comments as to why the recipient is special to them. Pictured is the junior class.

CELEBRATION

Worcester Prep’s Lower School (PreK – Grade 5) celebrated Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, with parties, where students shared cards and treats with their classmates, or spent the time giving to a good cause. Worcester Prep’s fifth grade class, along with the help of homeroom moms, Jenna Hoch and Kim Kappes, spent their Valentine’s party building “Warrior Care Packages” by bundling infant blankets and books to be donated to Wyatt’s Warriors Foundation, created in honor of Wyatt Mercer Shipe who was born with congenital heart defects. The foundation was created in Wyatt’s memory to help families during a difficult time by providing comfort, support, education and encouragement. In doing so, “Warrior Care Packages” are provided to families who must leave local hospitals for infant care at larger specialized hospitals. For more information on Wyatt’s Warriors Foundation visit their website at www.wyattswarriors.org. Pictured is Camille Jenkin’s fifth grade class.

PROCLAMATION

At their Feb. 7 meeting, the commissioners presented a proclamation to Debra Stevens, director of community health nursing for the Worcester County Health Department, recognizing February as Children’s Dental Health Month and the Worcester County Dental Center in Berlin as a cornerstone of community health for its role in helping area children establish a lifetime pattern of positive oral health habits. The WCDC, which has provided dental services to 2,300 children since opening in 2011 and completes approximately 2,500 appointments annually, focuses on prevention and education by emphasizing the need for each child to see the dentist by “first tooth or first birthday.”

NEW MEMBERS

SENIOR BREAKFAST

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City inducted seven new members on Feb. 15. All were brought in by Club's President Bob Wolfing, from his contacts and friends from pickleball. Pictured, from left, are John Hanberry, Teri Westbrook, Jose and Mariana Alverez, Janet Wolfing, and Terri and James Ulman.

The Worcester Prep Alumni Association sponsored a breakfast to celebrate the last 100 days of school for the senior class on Feb. 10. Pictured are seniors Sajiv Satyal, Cayden Wallace, Ian Lewis, Luke Loeser, Rory Pugh and Jason Todorov.

(March 10, 2023) Trimper Rides welcomes guests back for its 130th season with the official Trimper Troupe new mascots.

The Trimper Troupe consists of two main characters, Murray the Octopus and Gali the Crab, who are the absolute best of friends.

The pals are joined by four more ocean critters, Trench the shark, Jetty the dolphin, Coral the seahorse and Buoy the marlin.

Guests will get to meet, take photos, and have a Trimperrific time with the characters during different occasions in the spring and summer.

The best opportunity to meet the Troupe will be on the grand re-opening weekend, April 8-9.

The weekend will be filled with

holiday-related activities that feature the Easter Bunny along with members of the Trimper Troupe.

“Our marketing department, headed by Jessica Bauer, has been toiling away far before last fall with this incredible story and cast of characters that is sure to impress visitors of all ages,” said Scott Savage, president of Trimper Rides. “I am so impressed with their efforts and excited to share it with the community. These characters are lovable, relatable and will be a welcome addition to our park.”

The Trimper Troupe will be showcased in social media, print ads, and throughout the park. These different avenues will give guests chances to find out more about the characters like their personalities, interests and back stories.

“We developed the Trimper Troupe for the guests we know and the ones we still have yet to welcome,” said Bauer, director of marketing at Trimper Rides. “We are on the Ocean City Boardwalk and steps from the beach, but if you haven’t been to Trimper Rides, how would you know about our amazing location? Making them sea creatures was intentional and we think giving them all different personalities makes them engaging.”

Look for the mascots to be attending events in and around Trimper Rides and Ocean City.

To find out more about the Trimper Troupe, go to www.trimperrides.com/uncategorized/thetrimper-troupe/ for pictures, origin stories, and downloadable pictures.

Guests can purchase wristbands at the park or online. Stay up to date on April weekend information and other upcoming events by visiting https://www.trimperrides.com/even ts/ and following on Facebook and Instagram.

Trimper Rides of Ocean City, a 129-year-old Maryland landmark enjoyed by generations, is affiliated with Windsor Resorts Inc., which also operates Marty’s Playland and the Inlet Village and employs 200 workers each year.

The board of directors includes Savage, Wendy Delamater, Wendy Dibuo, Bill Hopkins, Laura Minker and Chelsea Trimper.

Jump ropes and more for Guatemalan kids

(March 10, 2023) Volunteers from The Dress Ministry – Eastern Shore Maryland, met on Feb. 18 to make jump ropes for Guatemalan children in orphanages and schools.

The jump ropes are made out of 100 percent cotton T-shirts and will be distributed by Kelly and Rob Smith of Living Sent Ministry.

The Dress Ministry (formerly Pillowcase Ministry) began in 2011 after Barbara Entwistle made her first dress.

Since that time, thousands of items have been sent to the poor, both in the US and internationally.

Recently, 692 dignity pads, 112 hygiene bags, four cases of diapers, peanut butter, shower kits, flip flops and sleep mats were sent to Living Sent Ministry in Guatemala.

Anyone who would like to help with this project or contribute money for postage, should call Entwistle at 410-641-0415.

Foster grandparents needed at local Head Start centers

(March 10, 2023) Anyone 55 or older who is ready to make a difference in the lives of children, is invited to participate in the AmeriCorps Seniors’ Foster Grandparent Program sponsored by SHORE UP!, Inc.

Established in August 1965, the Foster Grandparent Program offers an opportunity for eligible individuals to serve as mentors for children with special or exceptional needs.

SHORE UP! foster grandparents are placed in Head Start centers and public schools, and typically work no more than 20 hours per week.

“AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers are role model mentors,” said Joyce Farrare, program director. “They enrich the lives of students by providing one-on-one support to help improve students’ academic, social and emotional development.”

In return for their time and serv-

ices, foster grandparents receive a small tax-exempt stipend and monthly training. Foster grandparents are also recognized during an awards program held annually.

Fifty-seven foster grandparents currently serve in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

For more information on how to apply for the program, contact Farrare at jfarrare@shoreup.org, or call 410-749-1142 ext. 10504.

SHORE UP! Inc.is a private, nonprofit Community Action Partnership.

Formed in 1965, SHORE UP! is an acronym for “Self-Help on Rural Economics and Urban Problems.” The agency’s main focus is to help low-income and disadvantaged individuals reach economic security and longterm independence.

Volunteers from The Dress Ministry – Eastern Shore Maryland, met on Feb. 18 to make jump ropes for Guatemalan children.

Commentary

County and towns play tax rate game

When Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino said one of the budget requests from the Town of Berlin on Tuesday shouldn’t fall on the shoulders of county taxpayers, he overlooked a significant point — Berlin taxpayers are county taxpayers too.

All taxpayers in Worcester’s municipalities are also county taxpayers, and they contribute a huge portion of the county’s tax revenue. Considering that, what Bertino should have said is that a portion of Berlin’s request should not fall on the shoulders of county taxpayers who live elsewhere.

But that really isn’t the point. In the game of tax rates, it isn’t a question of property owners having to pay taxes for things and services that don’t benefit them directly — there’s quite a bit of that — it’s a matter of whose tax rate gets blamed.

Obviously, the county’s elected officials want to be reelected, as do their counterparts in Berlin, Ocean City, Snow Hill and Pocomoke, so it’s in the interest of all these officials to try to shift the tax burden to another entity. Meanwhile, the taxpayer will still have to pay, assuming that the particular service or improvement to be funded is needed or wanted by residents.

In the meantime, the county has its own problems with tax burdens imposed by another entity over which it has no control. State-required education spending dominates the county’s budget and there’s not one thing the county can do about it.

The bottom line is all the municipalities and the Ocean Pines Association want to push the expense of something they desire onto the county’s books, while the county wants to keep as much as possible of the communities’ contributions to help cover its own to-do lists and obligations.

There just isn’t enough money to go around, not that there ever was, which reduces the whole business of tax rates and property assessments down to a matter of who can brag about holding the line and who can’t.

then he said ‘****’

I’ve been trying for a week to write a breezy summary of the one-man show by the self-proclaimed outrageously filthy filmmaker John Waters, who appeared at Ocean Downs Casino last Saturday courtesy of the Ocean City Film Festival.

Here’s what I’ve come up with so far: “I ... and ... what about ... then there’s ... but ... and ... thank you.”

That’s generally what he said in a family-friendly nutshell.

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

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

STAFF WRITERS Jack Chavez, Mallory Panuska, ............................................Cindy Hoffman, Hunter Hine

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

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin

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

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

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

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

(OK, make that everything) on the far side of untoward, I overheard someone nearby whisper to a companion, “I always knew he wasn’t quite right.”

The thing was, I had a fair idea of what to expect when I bought my ticket. Considering that one of the members of his early acting troupe was a 300-pound drag queen named Divine, I figured it was safe to assume that Mary Poppins would not be making a surprise guest appearance.

By Stewart Dobson

After all, when the star himself says in a promo for his show, “I’m the filthiest person you’ll ever meet,” you can take that as a clue that the artist will not be discussing the social impact of Tiny Toons.

Consequently, my summary omits a few things. That’s because I’d rather not end up standing in the unemployment line, or worse, being forcibly de-appendaged and stuffed in several envelopes that are labeled as and destined for “parts unknown.”

All I can say is if his monologue were to be incorporated in the state’s proposed sex education legislation, it would be named after the Oscar-nominated movie, “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

If I could offer one suggestion to the film festival folks it would be to issue paper bags for the audience to wear over their heads so their neighbors won’t know whether they’re laughing or, conversely, about to suffer a head explosion.

I know I could have used a cloak of invisibility, because after I laughed at something

Good thing too, because had Ms. Poppins been there, she would have erupted into a big ball of flame and taken half the room with her, leaving the rest of us trying to squint through the cloud of Poppins particles slowly descending from the ceiling.

As it was, I was prepared to duck and cover to protect myself from any instances of human combustion, head explosions, or some combination of the two from audience members who went in expecting artsy banter and instead got an A-bomb — and many, many other alphabetically designated bombs — dropped on them.

I’m not kidding. I’d say about 40 percent of the audience was looking around to see who among the other 40 percent was laughing so they could report them to the authorities.

As for that remaining 20 percent, people in that group were too busy asking, “What does that word mean?”

Well, let me tell you, it didn’t mean “lace doilies on your grandma’s sofa.” No siree.

And, by the way, I thought Waters was hilarious, even though I still don’t know what ***** or ——— means, although I’d bet big money that you’d never hear Dick Van Dyke’s character singing that to Mary Poppins ... except maybe in a John Water’s movie.

Slow Jan. leads to BBD’s first blood emergency of ’23

(March 10, 2023) Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) declared its first blood emergency of 2023 this week.

The blood emergency is due to several evolving factors, including school breaks, cold and flu season, and the lingering effects of covid-19.

In January, BBD received 1,000 fewer donations than the previous January.

The number of blood donations still are not back to pre-pandemic levels.

Compounding the problem is a continued lag in first-time and youth donors, which remain one-third below (33 percent) pre-pandemic levels.

This has caused a long-term ripple effect as BBD introduces its youngest donors to the importance of donations at high school and college blood drives.

In addition, office and community blood drives and visits to local centers and mobile drives are significantly down.

“Each winter, we struggle to get folks to donate blood and this year is no exception. We need more [people] to donate blood and platelets, host blood drives and spread the word about the need for donations this spring,” said Emily Cunningham, vice president, Blood Bank of Delmarva.

“We recently announced new donor guidelines from the FDA that expanded the pool of donors; we are growing in every way we can in order to reach new donors. This March, make a blood donation and bring a friend.”

In addition to whole blood donors, platelet donors are urgently needed. With a shelf life of just five days, BBD relies on dedicated platelet donors to help patients undergoing chemotherapy, those with bleeding disorders, new mothers, and more.

Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted eligibility restrictions for individuals who lived in Europe during certain periods of time.

The need for blood products is constant, but the supply is not. Visit www.DelmarvaBlood.org to schedule an appointment to donate, or call 1888-8-BLOOD-8.

Founded in 1954, Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) is a non-profit community service organization that provides blood and blood products to 19 hospitals on the Delmarva Peninsula.

More than 79,000 blood donations are needed in this area each year for about 20,000 patients across the Delmarva Peninsula.

Blood Bank of Delmarva merged with New York Blood Center in August 2019 and is a member of America’s Blood Centers, AABB and Blood Centers of America.

Letter to the editor

Film Festival success

Editor,

On behalf of the Art League of Ocean City, thank you to everyone who supported and made the seventh annual Ocean City Film Festival a huge success, including our generous sponsors, attendees, filmmakers, committee, volunteers, moderators, and staff.

A special shoutout to our headliner, the legendary John Waters, who performed to a sold-out crowd on Saturday night, and to our title sponsors — the Town of Ocean City, the Maryland Film Office, and Ocean Downs Casino — who helped make our festival happen.

The Film Festival was truly a citywide happening and a real boost to the off-season in Ocean City.

A big thank you to all of the venues that screened the films and made this year’s festival a success — Flagship Cinemas, Fox Gold Coast Theater,

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, Ocean Downs Casino, Seacrets Morley Hall, Residence Inn, and Nick’s. And also to the local businesses who supported us with the popular afterparties — Residence Inn by Marriott, the Princess Royale Hotel, Jay’s Café, Holiday Inn Coral Reef, Seacrets, and the Cambria Hotel.

Thank you to the diverse group of filmmakers from around the world, many who attended, who allowed us to share 70 compelling films to more than 1,000 attendees.

The festival showcased industry professionals as well as university students, young filmmakers, and local talent and gave them opportunities to network with others who share their passion.

Thank you to our additional supporting sponsors: OCMD Hotels, Atlantic Planning & Development, Good Clean Fun Life Productions, Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, WRDE, Bank of Ocean City, Blue

Fish, West O Bottle Shop, Shore United Bank, and Fager’s Island. Also, Papi’s Tacos, Coins Pub, Carousel Resort, Truist Bank, Taylor Bank, Town of Berlin, and Worcester County Tourism. And to our media sponsors: OC Today, Coastal Point, The Dispatch, Ocean 98.1, Ocean City.com, and Unscene Productions.

Finally, to our audiences who laughed, shed a tear, asked insightful questions, and enthusiastically applauded, we appreciate you choosing to spend your time with us.

We invite you to join us for our monthly film nights at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street, where you can experience independent film screenings year round.

Look for the next Ocean City Film Challenge in summer 2023.

Rina Thaler, Art League of Ocean City Executive Director B.L. Strang-Moya, Ocean City Film Festival Creative Director

Dean’s List

Several Worcester County residents earned Dean’s List honors for their academic performance at their respective schools for the fall semester.

Named to the Dean’s List at the College of William & Mary were: Myra Cropper, Maeve Donahue and Elsa Quillin of Berlin, and Mohammad Ali of Snow Hill.

In order to achieve Dean’s List status, a full-time degree seeking undergraduate student must take at least 12 credit hours and earn a 3.6 Quality Point Average during the semester.

College of Charleston Dean’s List honorees were: Miles Thompson (majoring in Geology) and Hayes Peterson (majoring in Political Science), both of Berlin.

Named to the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) Dean’s List were: Elizabeth Carter, Antonio Franco-Loosemore, Alexis Hearn, Sibel Lorentz, Blake Moore, Steven Pacobit, Matthew Reilly and Josephine Sidleck of Ocean City; Jennifer Hardester, Robin Higdon, Allison Hunter, Saphara Lambrinos, Alexis Million and Megan Runyon of Berlin; and Nina Tomaselli of Ocean Pines.

To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative

GPA of 3.5 at UMGC.

Margaret A. Mathews, of Berlin, earned a spot on the Clark University Dean’s List.

Students must have a GPA of 3.8 or above for first honors or a GPA between 3.50 and 3.79 for second honors.

The following students were named to the Dean’s List at Hood College: McKayla Stale of Berlin and Madison Knight of Pocomoke City.

The Dean’s List recognizes degreeseeking students who completed at least six semester hours of Hood work with at least a 3.5 semester GPA.

President’s List

College of Charleston students from Berlin named to the President’s List for the fall semester were: Samantha Repass of Berlin, who is majoring in Communications; and Elizabeth Mcguiness, a Political Science major.

Coastal Carolina University President’s List honorees included Sophia Edens, from Berlin. Students who made the President’s List have achieved a 4.0 grade point average during the semester.

Recognition

Parker Tingle, a graduating senior at Worcester Preparatory School, has

been named one of more than 5,000 candidates in the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

The candidates were selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in the year 2023.

Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

All selected candidates are invited to apply to the program by submitting essays, self-assessments, leadership and service activities, secondary school reports and transcripts. A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists in early April.

The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

Finalists

Two Worcester Preparatory School seniors are one step closer to earning a Merit Scholar title by being named finalists.

In September, Parker Tingle and Christopher Todorov were named 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists, and this month they have now been named finalists. The seniors qualified for the accolade by taking the 2021 PSAT. They are among 16,000 students selected as semifinalists, representing less than 1 percent of all U.S. high school seniors.

As finalists, they have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered in spring.

Continued on Page 57

– OPEN YEAR ROUND –March Hours

Saturdays and Sundays - 10:00 to 5:00

Parker Tingle

Casualties and shortage of supplies hampered troops

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(March 10, 2023) On this day, 80 years ago, Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, commander of the newly created Armeegruppe Afrika, flew from Rome to Hitler’s headquarters in Ukraine to advocate the evacuation of the Axis forces from Africa.

He was harshly chastised, by der Fu¨hrer, for leaving his post without permission, and suffering from jaundice, exhaustion, and demoralization, was placed on much needed medical leave.

Having achieved his last victory at Kasserine Pass, he would never return to Africa.

Catch a Lift charity benefits from Super Bowl Friday fun

(March 10, 2023) Worcester Preparatory School held “Super Bowl Friday” on Feb. 10, and for a $2 donation to Catch a Lift (CAL), students and staff were able to wear their favorite team’s jersey or colors.

CAL enables veterans to recover and rehab both physically and mentally through physical fitness programs.

It was founded in memory of Army Cpl. Chris Coffland, who lost his life in Afghanistan while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in November 2009.

CAL’s mission is rooted in Coffland’s lifelong belief that, through fitness, one can reach their highest potential both mentally and physically.

CAL believes fitness is a personal choice, as each member chooses how and where to work out. They offer options for coaching, and mentors assures that each veteran’s unique

needs are met.

The fund was started by the family of Army Cpl. Coffland, who lives near Worcester Prep.

His niece, Tony Phillips, graduated from Worcester in 2005.

Army Cpl. Coffland was also a teammate and roommate to Worcester Prep Head of School Dr. John McDonald, while attending Washington and Lee University.

For more information on CAL, visit www.catchalift.org.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Continued from Page 56

Approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholarship title.

Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

He had been given command of the newly created Armeegruppe Afrika, on Feb. 23, 1943. It consisted of the also newly created Fifth Panzerarmee, commanded by HansJu¨rgin von Arnim, and the Italian First Army, formerly Deutsch-Italiensche Panzerarmee, (Rommel’s old command) under the command of Giovanni Messe, who was the best Italian army commander.

The purpose of these new formations was an attempt to maintain an Axis toehold in North Africa.

On March 6, under orders from the Field Marshal Gen. Messe’s Italian First Army launched a spoiling attack against Gen. Bernard L. Montgomery’s Allied Eighth Army at Médénine.

Médénine, which today has a population of 60,000, is located in the southeastern part of Tunisia, 48 miles south of the port of Gabès, on the Gulf of Gabès.

The attack was launched, at 6 a.m., first by a feint on the Axis’ left, near the coast, by La Spezia Infantry Division, commanded by Gen. Gavino Pizzolato, and 90th Light Infantry Division, commanded by Gen. CarlHans Lungershausen.

After the feint, the Axis launched its main effort. The three Panzer divisions — 10th, 15th, and 21st, commanded by Baron Frederich von Broich, Willibald Borowitz, and Hans-George Hildebrandt — sent their 150 tanks against Eighth Army’s 500 anti-tank guns emplaced behind minefields.

The Desert Fox later said that the Axis’ only hope was to be able to strike with speed and surprise, before Montgomery was ready, or hope that

Continued on Page 58

Worcester Prep Head of School Dr. John McDonald is joined by fellow Miami Dolphin fans in support of his college roommate and teammate Army Cpl. Chris Coffland and the Catch a Lift foundation. Pictured with Dr. McDonald, from left, are Wesley Wisniewski, McKenna DePalma and Vivien Ruggerio. Worcester Preparatory School held “Super Bowl Friday” on Feb. 10, and for a $2 donation to Catch a Lift (CAL), students and staff were able to wear their favorite team’s jersey or colors.

Montgomery made a fatal mistake.

But Monty was ready. And he didn’t make fatal mistakes. He had been informed of the attack by information obtained through the folks at Bletchley Park, who had cracked the Germans’ Enigma code. With his right flank anchored on the Mediterranean Sea, he knew that the Axis would try to go around his left flank, as they had always done.

He had grouped his artillery to counter the German armor. As Monty told Gen. Sir Alan Brooke, the chief of the Imperial General Staff, “He is trying to attack me in daylight with tanks, followed by lorried infantry.

I have 500 6-pounder antitank guns dug in ... I have 400 tanks ... good infantry ... and a great weight of artillery. It is an absolute gift, and the man must be mad.”

That is what Gen. Messe’s tanks faced, and after a day, the Axis had lost 50 irreplaceable tanks and called it quits. Gen. Messe’s army then retired behind the Mareth Line, 20 miles in the rear.

Monty had been quite right. His army suffered just 130 casualties, lost six tanks, 49 vehicles, and 32 guns. In addition to the tanks lost, Gen. Messe’s army suffered 635 casualties.

The Mareth Line was a series of fortifications, which included 25 blockhouses, built by the French in the 1930s, to protect their colony of

Tunisia from invasion by the Italians in neighboring Libya. It was anchored in the east by the Gulf of Gabès, and stretched to Matmata Hills in the west.

The Mareth Line took its name from the town of Mareth, through which the Line ran, and which, today, has a population of 17,000. It is located south of Gabès, a city of 150,000, and north of Medenine, which is half the size of, and 50 miles from, Gabès.

After the execution of the armistice between the Republic of France and the Kingdom of Italy in June 1940, the Mareth Line was demilitarized.

Although some improvements had been made by March 1940, Field Marshal Rommel described it as, “... a line of antiquated French blockhouses, which in no way measured up to the standards required by modern warfare ...”

Field Marshal Rommel, who had been ordered to hold the Line to the last, noted, “This is the beginning of the end in Tunisia for the Axis forces.” He could see that the Allied First and Eighth Armies had supplies pouring in, while his Armeegruppe Afrika, dependent on supplies transported across a Mediterranean Sea ruled by the Allied navies, under skies controlled by Allied air forces, was in the clutch of a powerful boa constrictor, squeezing it ever tighter.

For example, the Axis calculated that the Armeegruppe needed 140,000 tons of supplies per month. In March it received just 29,000 tons! Meanwhile, the Americans alone received 400,000 tons that

$1,445.

month.

Once Hitler was made aware of the tenuous supply situation in Africa, he ordered the monthly tonnage increased to 150,000! Of course, just ordering it didn’t make it happen! At least 25 percent of Axis shipping to Tunisia was being sunk. As Gen. von Arnim noted, “... one cannot fire from guns the shells which lie at the bottom of the Mediterranean!”

On March 9, the field marshal flew to Rome and met with Gen. Vittorio Ambrosio, chief of Commando Supremo, and the Italian Duce, before meeting with Hitler the next day. Gen. von Arnim took command of Armeegruppe Afrika, and was informed by the Italian Commando Supremo that, “...t he task of the Armeegruppe is to hold its ground in Tunisia ... the Mareth Zone is to be defended to the last.”

Gen. von Arnim was succeeded as commander of Fifth Panzerarmee by Gustav von Värst. Gen. von Värst had been the commander of the 15th Panzerdivisione, with the Deutsches Afrikakorps, since Dec. 9, 1941.

Now, there was nothing to be done by Gen. Messe’s Italian First Army, except await Monty’s well-fed and well-equipped Eighth Army’s attack on the Mareth Line.

Next week: Allied Assault on the Mareth Line

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.

1943 mar 16 Commonwealth troops in Tunisia

Fifteen SD wrestlers compete in state meet

but I just felt like I was able to beat them, so I just wrestled confident. I knew I was going to make the finals.”

Collick earned a 5-3 victory in the finals.

By Lisa Capitelli

(March 10, 2023) Fifteen Stephen Decatur wrestlers – 11 boys and four girls – competed in the MPSSAA 2A-1A state meet, March 2-4, at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, and two came home with championship titles.

Freshman Elijah Collick won the 106-pound weight class division.

“I think I did pretty good. Overall I was happy,” he said. “At first it didn’t seem real [being at states] but then I just got used to it.”

Collick pinned his first opponent in 1:07, and his second in 2:30. He won his semifinals match 10-0.

“Those matches were pretty good. The kid I beat 10-0 I wrestled him last year, so I knew how he wrested and how to beat him,” Collick said. “The other two kids I didn’t know who they were,

“I wasn’t taking as many shots as I usually do. Since it was the finals I was wrestling more cautious,” he said. “I think it’s a huge accomplishment because usually the kids will be seniors and juniors at 106 and it’s hard to get to the finals, so I think it’s pretty huge to make it there. I’m excited.”

Collick had a very successful season. He became Bayside Conference and regional champion and finished with a 462 overall record.

“Overall, I did pretty good. The two kids I lost to they were close matches. I feel like if I wrestled them now it would be a different match,” he said.

The 14-year-old, who has been wrestling on and off since he was about 4 or 5, said he would like to be a fourtime state champion at the end of his high school career.

“But if it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen. I’m ranked first in the state. I

hope to be ranked in the country. I just have to work hard to get that,” he said.

Collick is looking forward to coming back next year.

“I like my team. They’re like family to me. It was fun this year,” he added.

“[The 106-pound weight class] was really tough, but Elijah really didn’t make it look tough,” Decatur Coach Josh August said. “He’s got ice in his veins. Nothing fazes him. He’s never nervous, he doesn’t get tired in matches. It’s kind of crazy for being 14 years old he has the composure he has … He’s the second [Decatur] freshman state champ. Noah Reho was our first one [in 2019].”

Senior captain Logan Intrieri became champion in the 132-pound division.

“I think I did extremely well. For me, the best thing was that I was able to overcome my nerves,” Intrieri said. “Usually, every time I’m at the state tournament in that environment my nerves overtake me. My body just feels weak and it’s hard for me to function, especially last year. I think for me I did really well, especially overcoming my

nerves and wrestling good.”

Intrieri earned a 17-1 technical fallvictory in the first round.

“The first match I kind of knew I was going to win, but in that environment I wanted to do as much as I could to get a bunch of points and get a sweat going so I was good until the next match,” he said.

Intrieri defeated his next opponent, 12-4.

“I got put on my back and I gave up two near-fall points. In the second period it was 4-0. I had to come back and win. I just kept wrestling,” he said.

Intrieri came out on top, 5-2, in the semifinal round.

“I was really nervous for the semis match,” he said. “I knew the kid was really good on neutral. I just had to wrestle. I just had to focus.”

Intrieri won his finals match, 5-2.

“I thought I’d be wrestling the No. 1 seed, Dom Ambrosino of Sparrows Point, but he ended up getting caught in a move and ended up getting pinned,” Intrieri said. “I ended up wrestling

PHOTO COURTESY STEPHEN DECATUR WRESTLING FACEBOOK

Fifteen Stephen Decatur wrestlers – 11 boys and four girls – competed in the MPSSAA 2A-1A state meet, March 2-4, at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, and two – senior captain Logan Intrieri and freshman Elijah Collick – won championship titles.

Managing Editor

Freshman Elijah Collick and senior capt. Logan Intrieri win championship titles

Decatur boys’ basketball team regional champs

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 10, 2023) The last three times the Stephen Decatur boys’ basketball team was the No. 1 seed in its bracket – 2016, 2017 and 2018 – the Seahawks won a regional title.

The Berlin squad was awarded the top seed in 2023, and again, Decatur captured the regional championship.

“That was our motto. We had one spot empty up there [on the banner hanging in the gym], so in the beginning of the year I pointed there and I told this team that they were good enough to fill this spot,” said Decatur Coach BJ Johnson. “Every championship prior to this we were the No. 1 seed. That’s what I told my guys, ‘we’re the No. 1 for a reason,’ and we did it. We filled that final spot.”

Decatur hosted the No. 2 Northeast Eagles last Thursday in Berlin for the 3A South Region II finals.

Decatur led 18-12 at the end of the first quarter. At halftime, the Seahawks were on top, 30-24.

After three quarters, the home team held a 49-37 advantage, and went on to win the game, 72-60.

“Anytime you’re in a championship both teams are going to play hard. You don’t make it this far not being good,” Johnson said. “These kids, they deserve it. They played hard, they played for each other and I thought they played great.”

Junior captain Brycen Coleman scored 18 points. He also had 14 rebounds, one assist and one block.

“It feels awesome [to win the regional championship]. We played as a team,” Coleman said. “In the first half we had a bunch of turnovers but we capitalized on the turnovers afterwards in the second half and we really started to run away with it. We tightened up on defense and just ran our offense, did our thing and it was successful.”

Sophomore Trybe Wise also scored 18 points. He tallied 12 rebounds, three blocks and an assist.

“We just executed real well. We had a lot of energy on defense, that’s what won us the game,” Wise said. “It feels great.”

Sophomore Davin Chandler contributed with 12 points, five rebounds, four assists, three steals and three blocks.

Junior captain Jayden Hudson had 12 points, seven rebounds, three assists and one steal.

Sophomore Zakhari Baker added 12 points, two steals, two assists and one rebound.

“I can’t emphasize enough how much they love each other and they stick together. No animosity, they don’t care who scores, all they care

about is who wins and that’s what I love about this team,” Johnson said.

“We had a little adversity in the beginning of the season, but these kids came together and they love each other and this is the result. They deserve every bit of this and I’m so happy for them.”

Decatur was on the road Saturday for the 3A state quarterfinals against the Damascus Hornets.

“It didn’t go to our plan, but with that being said, we faced a really good team,” Johnson said after the Seahawks lost, 82-52. “I don’t think we played bad, I just think they were better than us. They had a bunch of seniors.”

Hudson led Decatur with 16 points. He also had four rebounds, one assist and one steal.

Chandler chipped in with 12 points, six rebounds, one assist and one block.

Despite the loss, Johnson thought the competition was a great experience for his players.

“What we said to them after the game was that this is where we want to be next year and the year after … I told them, ‘remember this feeling because we don’t want that feeling again next year,’ and I believe the kind of kids we have they’re going to remember it …” Johnson said. “We got a lot of kids returning, and they’re a good example of how you want to play. I think they’re good enough to win the

state.”

Decatur wrapped up the regular season on a 12-game win streak, before picking up victories over Oxon Hill in the 3A South Region II semifinals (60-53) and Northeast in the finals.

The Seahawks finished the season with an 18-5 overall record.

“We had a great season. You couldn’t ask for anything better,” Johnson said. “We got off to a slow start due to injuries, but we came on strong. We won like 14 straight, so the season was awesome.”

The team will only graduate two players. Many of the main contributors this season were sophomores and juniors.

Johnson said he is already looking forward to next year.

“I wish we could get started tomorrow, that’s how excited I am,” he said. “We’ve got more than half of our team in the weight room getting stronger for next year. What more can you ask for? That’s what it’s all about. They’re going to get stronger, they’re going to be faster they’re going to be bigger.”

Johnson and the team also appre-

ciated the fan support this season.

“We just want to thank all the fans that come out to support us,” he said.

“We had a great following and we appreciate that and we look forward to next year.”

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Stephen Decatur boys’ basketball team captured the 3A South Region II championship title on its home court last Thursday, winning 72-60 over Northeast.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY “We had one spot empty up there [on the banner hanging in the gym], so in the beginning of the year I pointed there and I told this team that they were good enough to fill this spot … and we did it,” said Decatur Coach BJ Johnson.

Another successful season for Decatur team

Continued from Page 59

freshman Beau Schmidt from Northeast.

“A lot of people were hyping him up, but I was kind of underestimating him but when we locked up he felt pretty strong,” he continued. “He’s a lot better than I thought, but I just ended up getting the job done.”

This was Intrieri’s third time competing in the state tournament.

“I was happy. I’m glad I did it,” he said. “A lot of my friends came to watch, so it was good to do it in front of them.”

Intrieri won Bayside and regional titles and finished the season with a 47-1 record.

His only loss was during the Iron Horse Dual tournament to Gage Owen of South Carroll.

“I weighed in at 132 and the kid above me was ranked in country at 138, so I said why not bump up and wrestle him because I probably won’t wrestle him again. It didn’t go my way,” he said.

Intrieri was pleased with the season overall.

“Myself, I did really well, but I think the team from November to now developed definitely with a bond, but a lot of us got really good,” he said. “I think high school pretty much matured me, developed my wrestling abilities and my mental toughness. If I wasn’t in this environment with these coaches I don’t know what I’d be doing today.”

Intrieri has been wrestling for the Decatur program since he was a freshman.

“I feel really honored to be wrestling for the program. Before my freshman year they won states and they had a lot of good kids, so it was really cool to come in and work with all the really good guys,” he said.

He enjoyed his role as captain this season.

“It was really cool, especially because we’re a younger team. It was good to help the younger kids get better, and just

develop and mature,” he said.

Intrieri said he will miss wrestling for Decatur. He has narrowed down his top college choices and would like to wrestle at the next level.

He would also like to come back and coach at Decatur after college, he added.

“Logan never talked when he was younger, and he stepped up this year,” August said. “I’m really impressed with how he led the team and he did it his own way and it paid off and helped everyone out.”

Collick and Intrieri were the eighth and ninth state champions for the program, August said.

He was pleased with the Seahawks’ performance overall at states.

“Seven placers, four in the finals, including the first girl finalist. It went really good,” the coach said.

Junior captain Gavin Solito came in second place in the 152-pound weight class. Junior Parker Intrieri finished in third in the 170-pound division.

Junior Reid Caimi took fourth at 126 pounds, and junior Kole Kohut finished in fifth at 195 pounds.

Senior Evan Haworth placed sixth in the 160-pound weight class.

Sophomores Juan Hinojosa (113), Aaron August (120) and Nate McDaniel (182) and senior ZJ Lyons (145) also participated in the state championship meet.

Four Lady Seahawks also competed.

Sophomores Azariyah Johnson came in second place in the 170-pound weight class.

Sophomore Chaniah Bernier took fifth at 235 pounds, and senior Madeline Reed placed sixth at 110 pounds.

Senior Jenna Danner (115) also participated in the tournament.

“We’ve never had three girls place. We’ve only had two,” August said. “Jenna, who’s placed before, has been hurt all year but she went out there and gave it her all. She just came up a little bit short.”

Shamrock Slam Pickleball Tournament March 18-19

(March 10, 2023) The two-day Shamrock Slam Pickleball Tournament at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill will take placeMarch 18-19.

Saturday will be men’s and women’s doubles, and Sunday will be mixed doubles.

Doors will open and check-in will begin at 7:30 a.m. Games will start at 8 a.m.

The tournament is open to ages 18 and older.

The cost per person is $40, which includes a T-shirt. The price per event is $15.

The Shamrock Slam will be the fourth event in this six-part, stand-

alone Eastern Shore Pickleball Addicts Tournament series, which will pit the best against the best in the final championship in June.

Players will earn points for every event they enter based on their finishing places.

The registration deadline is Sunday, March 12. To register online, visit pickleballbrackets.com?ShamrockSlam.

For more information, contact Tyler Keiser at 410-632-2144 x2505 or email tkeiser@marylandscoast.org.

To view a full list of upcoming special events, visit www.playmarylandscoast.org.

Decatur had a successful season under first-year head coach August.

August, who was an assistant coach for six years, took over for Todd Martinek, who announced at the beginning of the 2021-22 season that after 29 years, it would be his last leading the Decatur wrestling team.

“There was a lot of expectations … You don’t want to go from a state championship team to like failing the next year,” August said. “A lot of people, I don’t think thought we would [be as successful as in the past because] we graduated two really good guys and a handful of other 100-win guys and state qualifiers and state placers, and when a new coach takes over, the team chemistry might change.”

Decatur went undefeated during the regular season.

The team then won its fourth consecutive regional dual title and captured its fourth straight state championship two days later.

The Berlin squad also eared another Bayside Conference championship team title.

The Seahawks added the award to its extensive collection as the program won the Bayside Conference championship 10 consecutive seasons (2002-2011), then again in 2017, 2019, 2020 and 2022. There was no wrestling season in 2021 because of covid.

August said many wrestlers com-

peted in more than one weight class. They had no problem sacrificing their individual record for the greater good of the team.

“You don’t see that a lot. I think some kids want to get wins and if they get a loss on their record they might not be OK with that, or if their team lost, [they’d say] ‘well at least I won,’” August said. “We haven’t had that in a long time. The team mantra is they wrestle for each other. At states, it’s hard but they motivate each other. They just said, ‘leave it all on the mat, wrestle your heart out,’ and I think they did that.”

The team will graduate three to four full-time starters, but there are talented wrestlers ready to take those spots.

“We still got a lot of good guys coming back. We’ve got good guys that didn’t even make it to the post season because of injuries or just the lineup didn’t really work out for them this year,” August said. “Some guys are going to get bigger, they’re still growing, some guys are going to come off JV and work hard over the offseason and show up and contribute.”

August enjoyed his first season as head coach.

“It was a good first year. I’ll remember this one,” he said. “Sometimes the years run together and you try to remember who was on the team each year and who the captains were, but I’ll remember this team.”

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