3/31/2023 Ocean City Today

MARCH 31, 2023

HELD UP IN SENATE

Political arguments stall a state bill that would allow the county to raise lodging fees – Page 7

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Baltimore Ave. talk gets testy

Gehrig, Meehan exchange sharp remarks about how to fund planned upgrades

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) A request to look into funding a portion of planned upgrades to Baltimore Avenue in the fiscal 2024 capital improvement plan got heated Tuesday before a City Council majority decided to stick with original plans to hold off on the project for another year.

Councilman Peter Buas, a staunch advocate for the long-running plans to bury utility lines, widen sidewalks

and perform other updates to Baltimore Avenue from North Division to 15th streets, asked staff members earlier this month to determine the cost of burying the utility lines without the other upgrades.

The request came after a council majority agreed to pull the project from a fiscal 2024 bond issue to give staff more time to find money for the estimated roughly $44 million price tag.

City Manager Terry McGean and City Engineer Paul Mauser presented a potential alternative on Tuesday that would allocate $26.2 million, phased out over the next three fiscal years, for only undergrounding the

utilities. The scenario would include widening the east side sidewalks, as the west side would no longer be feasible, in fiscal 2028.

While Buas was intrigued by the idea, the rest of the council members were not. They ultimately voted, with Buas opposed, to stick to the original plan of delaying any improvements on Baltimore Avenue until fiscal 2025.

Before the vote, however, Councilman John Gehrig argued passionately against the alternative plan.

He began by challenging claims that the project would increase property values and spur development

See ARGUMENTS Page 4

New station gets symbolic shovel salute

(March 31, 2023) With loud banging and beeping from nearby road construction in the background, Ocean City officials and fire department personnel gathered in the parking lot of the public safety building early this week to mark construction of a new midtown station.

“I wish that was our construction starting,” International Association of Firefighters President Ryan Whitting-

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer See STATION Page 4

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Members of the Ocean City career and volunteer fire departments pose on Monday behind dirt and shovels set up for a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Fire Station 3 in front of the public safety building on 65th Street.

Resort unveils fiscal 2024 budget with focus on staff

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) With a heavy focus on staffing and a concerted shift toward more room tax-funded revenues, Ocean City’s proposed fiscal 2024 budget looks relatively similar to the one set to end on June 30.

City Manager Terry McGean presented the first draft of the $155.6 million package to City Council members on March 23. Over the following days, department officials summarized the details in a series of hearings with City Council members, who will approve the final document in the coming weeks.

According to the draft, the city is projecting an increase of a little more than $3.3 million from last fiscal year in the general fund, from more than $101.5 million to nearly $104.9 million. The total budget, including the capital improvement plan and other funds, came out just below last year’s total at just over $155.6 million.

McGean said one of the biggest focuses in the fiscal 2024 budget, similar to last year, is employees.

“In my opinion the greatest challenge that the city has faced over the past 24 months has been the decreasing availability of part-time employees,” he said. “The shortage has hit almost every department and we have implemented different strategies to address it, including increased pay, signing bonuses, retention bonuses, referral bonuses and housing stipends, and all of those things are continued in the proposed budget.”

McGean said the staffing shortages began when covid hit and have not let up since, with public safety the most

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affected. To remedy the situation, the budget includes funds to hire eight to 12 full-time firefighter/emergency medical technicians and four new fulltime police officers.

“We really have no choice but to continue the transition from a seasonal to a more full-time, year-round workforce in order to maintain the high levels of service that our residents and visitors demand,” he said.

The budget draft also adds four part-time positions in public works, finance and the convention center, and includes 3 percent step increases for general employees as well as cost-ofliving boosts for police and firefighters, as detailed in their union contracts.

Overall, Budget Manager Jennie Knapp said the pay bumps, as presented, constitute more than $910,500 of the general fund.

Fire department staffing Council members discussed the public safety budgets in detail at a work session Monday.

During the discussion on the fire department’s budget, Chief Richard Bowers reported the concerning numbers that led officials to the decision to transition to more full-time staff.

“It’s gone from … when I first arrived here, almost four years ago, from 82 part-time personnel to now under 45 personnel, roughly … That really affects day-to-day operations,” he said.

Ideally, department officials told McGean, they need 12 full-time firefighter/EMTs to adequately cover shifts.

McGean allocated enough money in the budget for eight, with the other

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Arguments aside, street project still delayed

Continued from Page 1

along the corridor. He even suggested that Buas, who lives and owns a home along the street, recuse himself from voting on and discussing the project.

“I guess the point here is if you’re saying that the value, property values, are going to increase — which I disagree with by the way but if you think that — then you probably shouldn’t discuss it. Certainly not vote, but even discuss,” Gehrig said.

Gehrig challenged Buas’ business and personal property connections along the corridor, to which Buas said he has no affiliation with the businesses, and spat back in defense.

“That’s so ludicrous I’m not even going to comment on it.” he said. “ … An increased property value would be beneficial for the whole town, not one person. If I was even a beneficiary, which I’m not, that concept is crazy.”

Gehrig later backtracked the statement, explaining that he does not believe Buas has an ulterior motive in supporting the project.

The digs did not stop there, though.

Gehrig later took shots at both Buas and Mayor Rick Meehan when they tried to liken Gehrig’s suggestion to

have the nearby property owners pay for the undergrounding to street paving throughout the city.

Gehrig accused them of “lying to the people” in comparing the matters, as street paving is performed in every neighborhood and no citywide plan exists to bury utility lines. The comment set Meehan off.

“Lying is not acceptable. Nobody is lying up here,” he said firmly as Gehrig continued to argue his point. “… You use that term frequently. Nobody up here is lying. We may disagree with what we think the ultimate goal is …”

The exchange got more heated before leveling off as Gehrig argued that the utility burying is a “pet project” that benefits the residents in the area more than anyone else, among other points.

The argument turned out to be moot, as only Buas supported the alternative plan, but the points were made and could come back during future project discussions.

In the meantime, McGean said he will pursue grants for the project and, at Gehrig’s request, pull data on development that has occurred along the corridor with the utility lines in place and sidewalks unwidened.

The final vote on the $30 millionplus capital improvement plan also moved a working sports complex to fiscal 2025. The total CIP is more than

half of what it would have been if the sports complex and Baltimore Avenue expenses were included in the bond issue.

Station called ‘Crown jewel for public safety’

Continued from Page 1

ton jokingly said of the background noise to the modest crowd who attended the groundbreaking of the new Fire Station 3 Monday at the 65th Street site.

The 23,500 square-foot building will replace the existing, smaller station at 74th Street. In summarizing the current station’s age, size and setup at a City Council work session last month, Fire Chief Richard Bowers called the working and living conditions “deplorable”

for the paid and volunteer firefighters and other staff who use it.

He also said that having a bigger station with more storage and living space would be an obvious benefit, and added that response time to midtown streets is also expected to improve.

And while Bowers’ reasoning was not enough to convince three council members — Council President Matt James and Councilmen John Gehrig and Peter Buas — to spend more than

$10 million on the project, a four-member majority agreed the facility is needed and now is the time to build it.

The project carries a $10.6 million price tag, should take 12 months to complete, and will be paid for with bonds issued last year.

At Monday’s groundbreaking, Whittington shared details of the project, including increased storage, larger living areas, and driver apparatus bays on the first floor, which are independently

ventilated with turnout gear storage and a decontamination suite.

“The turnout gear storage and decontamination suite are particularly important as we focus on preventing cancer in our firefighters,” he explained.

Bowers called the new facility “a crown jewel for public safety” and thanked Mayor Rick Meehan, members of the City Council, and staff members for their support in making the project a reality.

“The new midtown fire house will immediately better serve the community, the residents, visitors and the department, now and for many decades to come in the future,” he said.

Meehan contended that after years of planning and discussions, now is the right time for the project.

“It will provide the infrastructure and really will provide a type of building that’s essential for all of our city employees and all of our firefighters who are serving,” he said. “It’s a step forward.”

Councilwoman Carol Proctor and Councilmen Frank Knight, Tony DeLuca and Will Savage, who is a volunteer firefighter, all attended Monday’s groundbreaking along with Meehan, multiple career and volunteer firefighters and staff, as well as other officials and dignitaries. Proctor, Knight, Savage and DeLuca were the four council members who voted in favor of the construction contract last month. The council members who voted against it did not attend the groundbreaking.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Utility lines and poles are shown along the east side of Baltimore Avenue between Ninth and 10th streets. City Council members discussed an alternative plan on March 28 that would fund some of the costs of burying utility lines from North Division to 15th streets this fiscal year but ended up going with a previous decision to hold off on the entire project until fiscal 2025.

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City getting increased funds from room tax, other charges

Continued from Page 3

four set to come from reimbursements for Medicaid patient transports. Bowers said the new program, which will issue recurring funds once state officials give the final approval, will provide $400,000 to $500,000 annually to the department. McGean said he expects to receive approval for the program in the next couple of months, at which time the four remaining department employees can be hired.

The plan was not good enough for Councilman Tony DeLuca, though, who pushed to put the money for all 12 staff members in the budget now. He received some support from other council members, and McGean agreed to look at the numbers and come back with a more detailed assessment at the budget wrap-up hearing set Thursday.

The council members were expected then to make a final decision on the positions.

Revenue breakdown

As for revenues, McGean said 57 percent of projected funds in next year’s budget are coming from room taxes, service charges and funding from other agencies, while 43 percent are set to derive from property taxes.

The shift to getting more revenue from room taxes and other sources has been brewing, McGean said, and has helped officials balance budgets and add services and programs over the last decade.

“Although this is a positive development, since it means that the cost of our services is more equitably distributed among those who use them, these fees can be much more volatile compared to property tax,” McGean explained.

The budget also contains $1 increases to the bus and tram fares, although it does not project any jumps in room tax rates, amusements or parking rates.

“This budget assumes room tax revenue will remain at projected FY 23 levels,” McGean said. “As required by code, it sets aside 42 percent of room tax revenue for advertising, sponsorships and related uses.”

The city’s fund balance also “continues to be healthy,” McGean said, with $1.5 million set for transfer to the capital maintenance fund. Another $1.86 million will be used for other one-time equipment costs such as variable message sign replacements, playground equipment and cardiac monitors.

“We are still exceeding a minimum 17 percent reserve and leaving additional funds set aside for potential pension impacts,” McGean added.

Budget wrap

Council members were expected to wrap up discussion on the budget at the end of this week, with full approval later.

The hearings began with the city clerk, mayor and council, human resources, planning, outside agencies and several more on March 23 and continued with public works March 24. They picked back up March 27 with public safety, which included fire, police and Beach Patrol, and wrapped up with rec and parks, tourism and advertising March 29.

On Thursday, council members were set to finalize the details discussed and tie up loose ends, with a final vote on the budget set later.

Once approved, the fiscal 2024 budget will go into effect July 1.

OC set to keep same tax rate

for FY24, earn $478K

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Ocean City is poised to keep its current tax rate for fiscal 2024, resulting in a revenue increase that will cover 12 new full-time public safety positions.

“The additional revenue, $478,005, from assessment increases above the constant yield is what is needed to cover the gap to fund the eight firefighter EMT positions and the four new full-time police officers,” City Manager Terry McGean said of the proposed tax rate at a budget hearing last week.

Each year, City Council members set the property tax rate and decide whether to leave it as is or raise or lower it to the constant

yield.

The constant yield is the tax rate that would produce the same revenues as the prior year based on assessment estimates. For fiscal 2024, McGean said the constant yield is 44.76 cents per $100 of assessed value, which is down from the existing rate of 45.26 cents per $100.

Therefore, if council members go with staff members’ proposal and keep the existing rate, property owners whose holdings have not changed in value since last year won’t see a difference. The additional real estate tax revenue projected in the fiscal 2024 budget would derive from growth in the tax base driven by new development.

‘Political’ opposition to room tax bill chided

Lawmakers distressed over Democrats’ opposition to local, enabling

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) A bill that would authorize the Worcester County Commissioners to raise room tax rates by 1 percent is on thin ice as local lawmakers fight what they have deemed politically charged opposition.

“This is a local bill representing the four code counties on the Eastern

Shore that currently have a room tax at 5 percent,” Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan said this week of the proposed legislation that would allow Worcester, Caroline, Kent and Queen Anne’s counties to raise room tax rates from 5 to 6 percent.

“It’s enabling legislation only to enable it to be raised to 6 percent. Worcester County would still need the unanimous approval of the county commissioners,” Meehan continued.

“It’s become a political issue, or so based on the votes, and I think that’s unfortunate because it is a local issue.

We’re trying to work our way through it and hopefully move it to the floor for a vote.”

With support from all of the Eastern Shore counties, the bill passed the House 109-23 on March 20 and made it through a Senate committee hearing and two readings with no issues. But it ran into a snag on the Senate floor on March 22, which prompted supporters to send it back to a committee in an attempt to salvage it.

Del. Wayne Harman (R-38C) said several Democratic senators spoke against the bill, arguing that they do

not want to support tax-enabling legislation spearheaded by Republicans that does not seem to have support from the entire party.

“On the Senate side, the bill was referred back to committee. It seemed like even the Republicans were resistant to it and I believe talking to the Democrat, Sen. [Benjamin] Kramer, who really led the strongest revolt against it, he felt that more of the Senate Republicans needed to support the bill,” Hartman said of the opposition. “In essence, the Democrats

See BILL Page 8

Bill currently stalled in Md. Senate

Continued from Page 7

would ‘do the dirty work’ and support this. At least that was the reasoning I heard as for the resistance to the bill.”

According to a Maryland Matters story, Kramer, a Montgomery County Democrat, argued during a hearing that the percentage bump would place a $5 million tax burden on Maryland residents, and push would-be vacationers to neighboring Delaware or New Jersey beaches.

Kramer’s Montgomery County district has a 7 percent room tax.

Hartman and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), who are the lead sponsors on the bills in each chamber, said this week that roughly 65 percent, or two-thirds, of people who vacation in Ocean City come from out of state.

“The hotel rental tax rate is a dedicated source of funding for tourism and tourism-related activities,” Carozza said in an email. “It is necessary to fund tourism-related expenses with a $5.4 million increase of Ocean City’s public safety budget between 2020 and fiscal year 2023.”

Hartman contended that those who come and use the services in Ocean City should help contribute to the expense so the entire burden is not on the much lower number of residential county taxpayers.

“The reason I support this legisla-

tion is it allows tourist-related expenses to be paid by the tourists,” Hartman said. “Being a tourist town, we certainly need more public safety and it’s costing more to keep the town clean and so forth.”

He said the plan is “the fairest way” to adequately divide expenses for services.

Both lawmakers pointed out that Worcester County currently has a

Meehan

lower room tax than more than half of the counties in Maryland. According to data from Carozza, Baltimore City and Baltimore County’s room taxes are both set at 9.5 percent; Montgomery, Howard, Anne Arundel and Prince George’s are 7 percent; Allegany and Garrett counties charge 8 percent; and Cecil, Hartford, Washington and Wicomico counties charge 6 percent.

Meehan also pointed out that even if the measure passes, it would not take effect until at least January, as it would require approval from the county commissioners. He added that

the fiscal 2024 budget projects revenues from the existing 5 percent room tax rate.

“We’re not looking to raise the room tax right away,” he said. “We’re looking to make sure we have that enabling legislation in place … Because the state passes bills in July. And if we’re going to raise the room tax we would need to request the county raise it on Jan. 1 at the beginning of the year. So, we want to get that authority.”

Meehan said he has a call in to the Senate president and hopes to work out a solution to pass the bill this session.

“I’m disappointed,” Meehan said of the situation. “It is again a local issue and hopefully you would see local courtesy involved in things like this. Some of the concerns expressed by other senators seem political in nature and a bit of a reach.”

If the bill passes, it would not require any jurisdictions to raise the room tax to 6 percent, but give officials in the Eastern Shore counties ability to increase it if they desire.

To view the bills and their progress, visit https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/ and search for either HB 931 or SB 612.

Staff writer Jack Chavez contributed to this report.

Site plan approved for Lankford Hotel renovation on BW

(March 31, 2023) A full renovation of the Lankford Hotel on the Ocean City Boardwalk, complete with a restaurant and bar on the first floor, is officially ready for groundbreaking.

At a meeting on March 21, members of the resort’s planning commission unanimously approved a site plan for the property between Eighth and Ninth streets that includes remodeling portions of the exterior façade and replacing a portion of the all-retail bottom floor with indoor and outdoor dining and a tiki bar.

The restaurant and bar will take up a 2,750 square-foot portion – which the Salty Yarn shop currently occupies — of the total 7,455 square foot space.

Constructed in the 1920s, the family-run Lankford Hotel operated for decades with both lodging and retail from its oceanfront Boardwalk location. The owners listed the 41,000 square-foot property for sale in 2018 and sold it to a developer who submitted plans in 2020 to raze the original structure and replace it with a 76-room, two-suite hotel.

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer See BAR Page 10

“We’re not looking to raise the room tax right away.”

Ocean City Mayor Rick

Bar, restaurant added to plans

Continued from Page 8

After two years with no construction, those plans expired and were replaced with a new proposal that no longer includes razing the original structure, but renovating it. The plans call for hotel rooms, some retail space and the new restaurant and bar.

Local attorney Joe Moore, who represented the developer at the planning commission meeting, said the changes will make the property “an upscale, full-service hotel.”

“The old Lankford had no dining,”

Planning comm. approves Crab Bag addition extension

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Planned renovations to the Crab Bag restaurant on 130th Street are taking a little longer than expected but are still set to happen following recent approval of a site plan extension.

At a planning commission meeting March 21, local attorney Regan Smith asked for more time to break ground

See SUMMER Page 11

he said. “It had no amenities that would keep people on the property.”

The developer also recently obtained approval to waive some parking spaces for the change of use. Moore contended at the time that most of the people who patronize the restaurant and bar will either be staying at the hotel or walking in from the Boardwalk.

Moore also said members of the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners recently granted a seven-day beer, wine and full-service liquor license for the property.

A rendering shows the proposed look of the renovated Lankford Hotel between Eight and Ninth streets on the Boardwalk downtown. Planning commissioners recently approved a site plan that includes a restaurant and tiki bar replacing a portion of the allretail bottom floor.

An architectural rendering shows a proposed more than 7,800 square-foot addition to the Crab Bag restaurant on 130th Street. Plans for the new two-story restaurant and covered rooftop deck, which will replace an existing shopping center and dining area, were recently extended to give the owner more time to complete the renovation.

Ocean City accepting grant apps for pollinator gardens

(March 31, 2023) The Town of Ocean City is accepting grant applications for Pollinator Garden Plants.

A pollinator garden is specifically designed to attract pollinating bees, birds, butterflies, bats and other small mammals, as well as habitat enhancement, water quality improvement and erosion control.

The Ocean City’s Green Team is committed to promoting pollinator gardens as a Sustainable Maryland Action Item.

These gardens are a unique way to contribute to protecting the environment in Ocean City and they play an important role in keeping our com-

munity clean.

The pollinator gardens are offered to residential property owners and are required to be planted within the corporate limits of the Town of Ocean City.

It’s important to avoid the use of pesticides and plant flowers close to one another.

Apply online at, https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/planningcommunity-development. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 14.

For more information, contact Joann Landon at JLandon@oceancitymd.gov or 410-289-8887.

Summer 2024 completion eyed

Continued from Page 10

on the project on behalf of owner Nolen Graves.

A letter from Smith, which Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy read into the record, said Graves is wrapping up several other projects and plans to begin the work on the north end restaurant in the fall.

“We’ll hopefully keep it open while we’re doing this and hopefully have it opened up by next summer,” Smith said.

The site plan, which was approved in September 2021, calls for a new two-story, 7,800-square-foot addition and covered rooftop deck at the 130th Street restaurant.

Architects with The Design Group out of Warren, Vermont, prepared the plans and provided the renderings, which show the new addition attached to the west side of the existing

restaurant. According to the details, the appearances of the buildings will match and will be surrounded by shrubbery and parking to accommodate the larger space.

The space where the addition is planned currently contains a shopping center and dining area that will be demolished.

The project is set to expand the restaurant’s dining area by about 100 seats and includes plans to add 32 parking spaces on the southeast corner of 132nd Street, parallel to the restaurant.

Smith said Graves ran into some challenges with labor and supply chains and did not want to close the restaurant during the renovation, all of which pushed back the project timeline.

Members of the planning commission voted unanimously to grant the extension.

Major staffing struggles in OCBP

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) With a lack of qualified local applicants and neighboring departments paying significantly more, the Ocean City Beach Patrol is struggling more this year than ever before to hire lifeguards for the coming season.

“Recruiting is going great — recruiting — but hiring is a crisis,” Beach Patrol Capt. Butch Arbin said of the staffing forecast during a City Council budget work session Mon-

day.

Arbin and Emergency Services Director Joe Theobold painted a grim picture that showed departments in Delaware and Assateague Island are offering $1 to $1.50 more an hour and more attractive incentives for jobs with less strain and responsibility.

Upon learning about the pay discrepancy, which Theobold said was not the case when department officials began developing their budget, several council members and City Manager Terry McGean were per-

plexed.

“To be honest, I’m pretty shocked to hear this now … And a little disappointed,” McGean said.

Councilman Tony DeLuca also expressed concerns about the noticeable difference in wages between the departments, and pushed to do something in the fiscal 2024 budget.

“Why don’t we fix this?,” he said.

Council President Matt James said officials tried to fix it with recent pay bumps and incentives, but that the

See PAY Page 14

Members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol are shown training last year for the 2022 season. Officials say they are having trouble hiring guards for the coming season due to housing availability, pay discrepancies with neighboring departments, and fitness and work ethic issues.

Pay, work ethics pose challenges

Continued from Page 12

competition jumped out ahead.

Pay for Ocean City’s surf rescue technicians, as guards are officially known, recently went up to $18.44 an hour. Department officials also added incentives, including fee gym memberships, high-quality sunglasses, cost-of-living stipends, and recruitment and retention bonuses.

With direction from council members, McGean agreed to look into what else could be done to bring the OCBP’s pay closer to the neighboring departments.

“We will look into this and get back to you with a recommendation if we believe one is warranted,” he said. “It’s everyone’s desire here to have a guarded beach and to be competitive with our surrounding areas.”

Arbin added that he saw this coming and suggested a larger increase for guards at the end of last summer.

“I recommended that we needed to be at $20 an hour in Ocean City to fill the Beach Patrols this coming summer,” he said. “Based on what I knew was happening in the other areas, based on what I knew our people needed.”

Arbin and Theobold also pointed out that pay is not the only hurdle, though.

Unlike the Delaware departments, Arbin said the majority of Ocean City’s guards are not local.

“Eight-five percent of the people who work for us, 85 of our probably 200 target, 85 percent relocate, which means housing. That comes into their pay,” Arbin said. “Whereas many other beach patrols in Delmarva, especially in Delaware, they’re local kids.”

To try and remedy the situation, staff members are heavily recruiting students at Stephen Decatur High School and are offering help toward housing costs for non-local applicants.

“I really believe we’re doing everything we can to let people know about the job, and how to get the job and all that,” Arbin said. “Getting them to actually test for the job, pass the test and get hired is the real issue.”

They also pointed out that part of the reason people flock to Delaware, besides the pay, is because the job is easier.

“[They] have a harder job to do here. Our guards right now, if you think about the end of season, they’re spread out. That’s hard,” Arbin said. “Whereas the Delaware beaches they just pull their flags in and say we’re only guarding this piece of beach. It’s harder to be a lifeguard [here]. We set one per stand. Other beach patrols do two per stand [with] more breaks.”

Theobold blamed the mentality of many of the current youth.

“It’s a different generation today,”

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Saltwater 75 developers and residents at odds

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Ocean City residents on 75th Street and developers of the property where BJ’s On The Water once stood appear to be poised for another face-off at the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners next month.

Some neighborhood residents say the developers, who plan to open an indoor-outdoor restaurant on the site now called Saltwater 75, violated the liquor board’s rules and restrictions with unforeseen changes to their

once more

plans, most notably concerning the size and placement of a privacy wall intended to shield the residents from much of the noise expected to emanate from the property, as well as an outdoor tiki bar.

Real estate agent and Saltwater 75 developer Chris Reda, who also helps manage Ropewalk Ocean City on 82nd Street, said that everything they’ve done so far has been by the book. Marc McFaul owns both restaurants.

“We had approval through the

See RESIDENTS Page 18

Time still left to hire new guards

Continued from Page 14

he said. “They don’t want to work 50, 60 hours a week. They want to come to Ocean City as much to be able to enjoy as they do work. So, it’s going to be constant challenges.”

Aside from the applicants’ mentality and work ethic, not everyone who applies passes the necessary fitness tests.

“Yesterday, 20 people signed up to test. Eight showed up, two passed,” Arbin said. “They have to swim to be

a lifeguard. We are having people that can’t even complete the swim or the run. So that’s why it’s difficult.”

But even with the challenges, there are still several weeks left to recruit new guards, and Theobold and Arbin hope that the staffing pool will grow over that time.

“It has been tough year,” Theobold said. “We have two more tests before Memorial Day and one right after that. Hopefully, we will be where we need to be. It’s still early.”

JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Residents on 75th Street say that the developers for Saltwater 75 are once again pursuing plans that will make the property a nuisance for the local neighborhood. Developer Chris Reda said every measure taken has been by the book and approved by Ocean City.

Residents disapprove of Saltwater 75 plans

Town (of Ocean City) for the bars, one of the biggest concerns for residents,” Reda said. “We went through zoning and the town to move it 10 feet to the east. By my mistake, I didn’t notify the neighbors but there was no change in size. We just moved it 10 to 12 feet to the east.”

Reda said his team has experienced “a lot of pushback” on that issue, leading to the decision to put the bar where it originally was going on the site plan.

He added that they didn’t have their elevation to the beach area when they applied for the privacy wall and the elevation ended up being higher than they thought, which is why there’s a discrepancy in the size of the wall.

“There were neighbors sayings the

wall is hideous looking,” Reda said.

“Rather than add to the three feet, we wanted to see what they thought, and still, the jury’s out. We figured we would go with what we originally told everybody and stay with that. Some people hate it, some people love it. So, we’re just trying to please as many people as we can without ruffling any feathers or as little as we can.”

Reda acknowledged that it was a mistake to not let the liquor board know about the changes.

Residents say the plans are not what was approved back in September 2021, when the property was called Atlantic Beach House.

Back then, the liquor board ruled to allow acoustic live music outside until 8 p.m., with musical acts consisting of no more than three pieces, ensuring the beach is cleared of pa-

trons by midnight and the construction of a privacy wall.

One of the concerns brought up by residents at that meeting was that sound carries on water, which the proposed sound walls wouldn’t be able to mitigate and might even funnel noise to the Thee Christina C condominiums, which jut out further into Assawoman Bay than the restaurant.

Other condominiums in the area include Bay One, Hoop’s Coop, Sea Bay Manor, Sea Bay Vista and Tobin’s Quarters.

Fast forward to today, some residents are raising concerns all over again that the liquor board must stop the property from devolving into a party beach.

“The sound barrier walls the board required, no matter what height, are barriers to nothing,” resident Ruth J. Vernet wrote to the liquor board on March 19. “One can see daylight through the cracks between the boards. The north wall was not built as depicted to you; the licensee altered its location to create pedestrian access between 75th Street and the outdoor premises. The ‘tiki bar’ is still standing — in fact, the licensees continue to add to the structure. These substantial (and highly visible) exterior alterations constitute a significant deviation from the licensee’s original application and are prohibited by the Rules.”

Vernet’s letter goes on to request that the liquor board limit Saltwater 75’s operations to the interior of the facility only.

The reasoning that residents hope will lead to action by the liquor board can be found in Maryland Code sections 4-604(a) and 4-603(a)(4), which state that “a local licensing board may revoke or suspend a license … for any reason to promote the peace or safety of the community in which the premises are located” and that the “revocation or suspension procedures may be started … on the written complaint of at least 10 residents, real estate owners, or voters of the precinct in which the licensed premises are located.”

Reda said he thinks the residents are fearful of the unknown, especially considering what it was like when BJ’s was still around.

“I can assure you when it was BJ’s, their deck parties were a heck of a lot closer than we’re going to be,” Reda said. “That’s not our intention at all, to have DJs … and five-piece bands there. That’s not our intention. I think it’s more of them being nervous about not knowing, but we’re confident that once we’re there, they’re going to be our biggest fans.”

Reda also isn’t sure just how many residents are against letting the property open as-is, but one resident claimed at least 20 people have written the liquor board concerning the property.

He invited residents via email to come to the property on March 11 to allay concerns that Saltwater 75 was going to function more as a nightclub. Reda said only two people showed and both were very positive about the restaurant and “didn’t understand what all the fuss was about.

Another person, Reda said, had concerns that didn’t address the bar or the wall.

“I’ve been in touch with Thee Christina C and the neighbors and they’ve asked me a million questions and I’ve yet to have a question about the bar location or the fence,” he said.

He added that he told residents they’re welcome to get in touch with him to come and see the property at a more convenient time, but no one has taken him up.

“We’ve been accessible. If they had a concern, they should have come to us but for whatever reason, they want to make this more a liquor board issue than a neighborly issue to work out and answer any questions they had,” Reda said.

“It’s terrible I need to go through a third party to talk to my neighbor, but I guess that’s the way they want to do it.”

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners is scheduled to meet next on April 15.

Worcester starts with $11.59 million deficit

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Another fiscal cycle, another pre-budget deficit.

The Worcester County Commissioners started the lengthy process of working through the FY24 budget on Tuesday and from the jump, they found themselves in familiar territory, staring down a deficit that guarantees some of the county’s needs will have to wait for brighter days.

General fund revenues, based on current tax rates, are forecasted at $230.17 million and requested general fund operating expenditures total $241.76 million, leaving the county with an $11.59 million difference between requests and financial reality.

The variance is nearly identical to the FY23 shortfall that the county

commissioners faced last year.

The estimated FY24 revenues represent a 1.4 percent increase from the current fiscal year, driven in part by property tax revenues increasing by about $6.2 million from the 84.5-cent property tax rate.

Income tax revenue is projected to “remain flat,” according to a memo from Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young, at $38 million, based on the 2.25 percent piggyback tax rate.

“I was disappointed that the deficit came in at what it was,” Commissioner President Chip Bertino said. “But there were a number of factors that can’t be ignored. We’re facing much higher energy costs, chemical costs for water and sewage plants, higher fuel costs. That’s having an impact.”

Bertino added that transfer and recordation fees and a slow real estate market contribute to the issues.

“We do have our work cut out for us, no two ways about that, to bring it down,” he said. “I’m very confident that we will, but we’re going to very much have to scrutinize the budget.”

Several departments and services are forecasting what Young’s memo calls major requested general fund expenditures, none higher than an increase of $4 million in salary, insurance and benefits.

That figure breaks down to $2.5 million in increasing salaries for county employees and personnel requests — which includes 4 percent step and COLA increases — $684,890 for retirement insurance and $489,287 in health insurance.

Other heavy hitters for expendi-

tures include the circuit court asking for $173,613 for courtroom equipment and security, $448,461 from the State’s Attorney’s Office for increased salaries and vehicle replacements, Environmental Programs asking for $1.6 million for the Coastal Zone and Greys Creek grants, although those expenses are offset by grant revenue, and the Sheriff’s Office asking for $1.2 million for salary increases, capital equipment and maintenance and services.

The fire company grant totals $2.6 million, which includes $250,000 in funding and $10,905 requested supplement for each fire company.

The ambulance grants increased by nearly $800,000, up to $7.3 million.

Other major expenditure increases include $301,106 from the health department, $692,867 from the parks department, $565,405 from grants to towns and $1.2 million in debt services.

Despite requests totaling eight figures above projected income, Bertino said that many department heads deserve credit for limiting their requests as much as they could.

“Had they not, the deficit we’d be facing would be much higher but they did an absolutely wonderful job in scrutinizing their own budget before presenting to our staff (and) the finance team before it came to the commissioners,” he said.

Nonprofit launches fundraising effort to raise $16,000

(March 31, 2023) Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity), a nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial assistance to low-income county residents, has launched a campaign to raise $16,000.

According to GOLD’s findings, many Worcester residents are living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to make ends meet.

Unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs, can push these individuals into financial hardship, making it difficult to afford basic necessities like food, rent, and utilities.

“We see firsthand the relief that even a small donation can offer,” said GOLD’s Executive Director Nicholas Cranford. “Our Emergency Financial Assistance Program is designed to help those with a verified need live a decent life with dignity and avoid falling into a cycle of poverty.”

GOLD works with eight local agencies to provide immediate assistance for their clients facing potentially tragic outcomes like homelessness

Senate passes $62.5 billion budget, search for funding

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) It’s budget season everywhere in Maryland, including Annapolis, where the State Senate passed its version of the $62.5 billion FY24 budget on March 23.

The House of Delegates worked on Gov. Wes Moore’s first budget proposal before the Senate.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza released a statement on March 24 saying that the budget shifts more money to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education initiative and less to future mass transit projects. The budget includes no new tax increases, a “solid investment” in the state’s rainy day fund and tax credits for veterans.

“Passing a balanced budget is the only constitutional responsibility of the General Assembly, and it must be passed by the 83rd day of Session which is April 3rd this year,” Carozza said. “The budget has been sent back to the House where the differences between the House and Senate versions still need to be worked out in the next 10 days.”

The budget that the Senate passed includes $2 million for the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Program, an initiative that Carozza supports that provides funding for low-income students to attend private schools.

Del. Wayne Hartman said that, ultimately, he supported the budget, but he found it hard to swallow seeing Eastern Shore initiatives passed by.

“The state budget has thousands of initiatives or line items,” Hartman said. “For the most part, most of them I’m agreeable to. The budget actually had less spending than last year’s budget but we’re being faced with write downs as far as what the state expects for income because of fear of the economy turning. There’s actually been three write downs as far as the projections as far as money coming in. It’s frustrating for me when I see in the budget funding to

help illegal immigrants as far as giving them money for housing and meals and so forth and seeing additional funding to fund abortion care when I’m fighting to get funding for some of our local bond initiatives on the shore.”

There were four local funding requests Hartman was working on, including Diakonia’s project for campus on Stephen Decatur Highway, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department requesting funding for firehouse funding, the Salisbury School requesting funding for an amphitheater project and the Ocean City post of the American Legion requesting funding for its property.

Of those four, only the OPVFD had been approved as of Wednesday, but Hartman said he’s working on securing funding for the other three.

In the Senate Education, Energy and Environment Committee, Carozza participated in a hearing for HB343, which would establish statutory requirements for public school athletic schedules for basketball. It would enable participating schools to allow basketball players to attend showcases each year.

Carozza’s statement said that the legislation intends to allow those basketball players to have as much scholarship access as possible, but it would prioritize basketball above all other sports.

Two Wicomico County Public School officials testified against the bill.

“Our local high school coaches and athletic directors have the educational interest of our student-athletes at the forefront,” Carozza said. “We don’t need to be legislating and micromanaging our high school coaches and athletic directors when they already are putting the best interest of our student-athletes first.”

This week, several Carozza-sponsored bills were scheduled for House hearings, including SB252, which would require a person charged with negligent driving involving a fatal accident to appear in court.

Fundraiser aiming for $16,000

Continued from Page 20

and hunger.

“We know our community is incredibly generous, and we believe we can reach our fundraising goal,” said Cranford. “People should donate to GOLD if they want to maximize the local impact of their charitable contributions.”

To donate to the campaign or to

learn more about Worcester County GOLD’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program, visit WorcesterGOLD.org.

Founded in 1997, GOLD is committed to helping individuals and families facing financial crises relieve stress and achieve self-sufficiency. For more information, visit www.WorcesterGOLD.org.

Mary B. Carozza Wayne Hartman

Lt. Richard Moreck retires from OC’s finest

graduated from the 224h Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy, an elite law enforcement leadership academy.

(March 31, 2023) After 42 and half years of service to the citizens of Ocean City, Lt. Richard Moreck will retire from the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) on April 1.

Moreck began his career with the OCPD as a seasonal police officer in the summer 1980. Moreck was then hired as a full-time police officer with OCPD that fall.

He currently serves as the special events coordinator. During his career, he has served in all three divisions of Support Services, Patrol, and Criminal Investigations.

He was promoted to lieutenant in the spring 2004. The following year, he

One of his most notable achievements is serving as the commander of the Quick Response Team and a team member since 1982.

The Quick Response Team is comprised of officers who have received advanced training in specialized weapons and response tactics. They are deployed for various situations such as search warrants and hostage incidents.

Moreck has also served as the Firearms Unit commander, instructor, and armorer for the department. His extensive knowledge of firearms has been passed along to generations of full-time and seasonal police officers.

“Now in his fifth decade of service, Lt. Rick Moreck has served the Ocean

City community with honor and distinction,” said Chief Ross Buzzuro. “Throughout his accomplished career, his professionalism, passion, and abilities have shined through. As chief, I have been extremely fortunate to have his level of knowledge and experience as a member of the command staff. He truly is the epitome of Ocean City’s finest.”

After his retirement, Moreck plans to spend more time with his family, especially his three grandsons. He is looking forward to traveling and working on his family cabin located in Pennsylvania.

Between family time and traveling, Moreck will continue to work part-time as a reserve officer with the OCPD, passing along his expertise and knowledge in firearms and the firing range.

“I am thankful for the opportunity I’ve had to serve with the police department. It has been a rewarding experience serving the citizens of Ocean City since 1980,” Moreck said. “A special thanks to past and present members of the Quick Response Team for their commitment, dedication, and loyalty during the countless high-risk situations handled over the years.

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wishes for future success and health,” he continued. “I have truly enjoyed working with the members of the department throughout the years and will reflect often on the memories, relationships, and challenges we’ve faced together.”

OCVFC VOLUNTEER

SPOTLIGHT James L. Jester recognized

(March 31, 2023) It is my privilege to recognize current Deputy Chief/Volunteer Fire Chief James L. “Jay” Jester in this week’s OCVFC Spotlight.

As with many members recognized in previous “Spotlight” articles, Jay has family ties to early members of the OCVFC.

His grandfather, Lloyd E. Jester Sr. was a member of the OCVFC in the

1920s and was the treasurer when the OCVFC was incorporated in 1926.

His uncle, James M. Jester, was a “runner” in the early years of the OCVFC. “Runners” of that era were the forerunners of the Cadets/Junior Firemen of today’s fire service.

Jay is currently the deputy chief/volunteer fire chief for the OCVFC as well as a career assistant chief with the Salisbury Fire Department.

He has been an instructor for the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute since 1999, specializing in firefighter survival and the rescue technician disciplines.

He has written articles published in numerous fire service periodicals and has presented lectures for the Maryland

See OC Page 23

Two injured in multi-vehicle accident, suspect arrested

(March 31, 2023) Maryland State Police are investigating a multi-vehicle suspected impaired driving crash in Worcester County shortly before 11:30 p.m. last Friday.

Police said troopers from the Berlin Barrack were called to a multi-vehicle accident on Route 589 at Adkins Spur Road in Berlin.

According to a preliminary investigation, a 2011 Honda CRV, driven by Shannon Handy, 43, of Selbyville, Delaware, was traveling south on Route 589.

A 2008 Ford F-150 truck, driven by Antonio Aguilar, 42, of Berlin, was attempting to make a left turn onto northbound Route 589 from Adkins Spur Road.

While attempting the turn, the Ford truck crashed into the Honda CRV in the southbound lane of Route 589.

Handy was flown by Maryland State Police helicopter to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center for treatment of her injuries.

A 41-year-old female passenger was taken to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Hospital in Salsibury for treatment of her injuries.

Aguilar was arrested for suspected driving under the influence of alcohol. Aguilar was taken to the Berlin Barrack for processing.

The Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office has been notified of the details of the investigation and additional charges are pending in this case.

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation into this case.

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration, along with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, assisted with road closures and traffic control following the crash.

Route 589 was closed for approximately for approximately four hours following the crash.

Vehicle fire claims life of one person, identity unknown

(March 31, 2023) Ocean City Police and Fire Departments responded to 200 125th Street at 11:56 p.m. on Tuesday, for a report of a vehicle on fire in the east parking lot.

Ocean City Firefighters extinguished the fire, and emergency personnel located a deceased person in the vehicle.

The victim has been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for identification and an autopsy.

The Ocean City Police Department Criminal Investigation Division and the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating.

OC chief followed in path of grandfather, uncle to service

Continued from Page 22

State Firemen’s Association, the Firehouse Expo, and the Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC).

Chief Jester joined the OCVFC on Nov. 13, 1990. Jay saved two lives prior to joining the VFC – saving his mother from drowning in a rip current in California in the 1980s and rescuing a lady from a smoky fire in Ocean City on Labor Day 1990.

He states: “Those events made me realize that God had a purpose for me, and I thought where better to save lives than in the fire service.”

During his 32-plus years of active service, Jay has held the ranks of lieutenant, captain, 2nd assistant chief, 1st assistant chief and has now risen to his current position.

He has also held several administrative positions in the OCVFC, including secretary, treasurer, and 16 years as president of the organization.

Chief Jester has received several awards during his tenure with the OCVFC including “Member of the

Year,” Distinguished Service Award; an Incident Citation and the Training Award (3X).

Jay recalls the most significant event of his service to the OCVFC as being with Leroy J. Cropper Jr. when he suffered a cardiac event while battling a fire on April 24, 1995, at the Plim Plaza Hotel.

Leroy advised Jay he was not feeling well and went to speak with the incident commander. A few days later (April 28, 1995) Firefighter Cropper suffered a fatal heart attack – a Line of Duty Death.

Chief Jester says his greatest accomplishment in the fire service is “being able to call myself a public servant. The work I am asked and required to do is the reward for my membership in this outstanding organization.”

We thank Chief Jester for his years of service and commitment to the safety of our neighbors and the visitors to our community. For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, please visit www.ocvfc.com.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Requests from friends, associates and family this week can have your nerves on end, Aries. You may have to escape the crowds to recharge. Plan a getaway in the next few days.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

You are awesome at staying on track when you need to be, Taurus. That is what makes you a potentially ideal fitness guide. Try to inspire others to be regimented as well.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

There is nothing wrong with putting rose-colored glasses on from time to time and looking at the world in a more positive way. A more positive outlook can be helpful, Gemini.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, be sure that your generous nature does not come at the expense of your own well-being. You tend to put other people’s needs before your own quite often.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, for some reason you are having problems finding balance in your life right now. You may have to experiment a little bit to see if new strategies might work.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Let others in on some of your secrets, Virgo. You can’t hold everything in all of the time, and you have been shouldering a lot of responsibility for some time.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, the personalized touches you put on any project will showcase your personality and passion. Think about embracing a crafty task to really showcase your talents.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, friends are lining up to be quite helpful of late. When you figure out how much you’re getting done with the assistance of others, you may be more welcoming of it in the future.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Overcome resistance to listening to another person’s side of the story, Sagittarius. Embrace this person’s desire take the lead on something at work or in your home life.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

A changing environment has you figuring out how to adapt your schedule and your skills, Capricorn. With a support team in your corner, you can achieve quite a bit.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Spending is a tad out of control this week, Aquarius. Money is flying out of your wallet at a rapid rate. You may need to be a bit more choosy with your spending moving forward.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Wait a few more days before making major decisions as your emotions are high right now, Pisces. You want a level head to prevail.

Walker provides tips for ‘perfect scrambled eggs’

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(March 31, 2023) Has one ever taken a moment to consider the fascinating occurrences that encompass our daily lives?

Nothing is by chance; every occasion has purpose and should be utilized to the fullest degree.

The kitchen follows suit and is a sanctuary of culinary lore.

Shedding light on conundrums that confound chefs not only raises our level of awareness but also enlightens us to a wonderful world of glorious food.

Intention takes us to the theme of the day.

Eggs are one of the most versatile and popular ingredients. M.F.K. Fisher brilliantly describes an egg as “probably one of the most private things in the world until it is broken.”

Mastery comes in many flavors. It has been said that when Leonardo da Vinci came to study with Verrocchio, one of the leading artists of the late

15th-century Florence, he was instructed to draw eggs.

Day after day, da Vinci drew eggs, but in the interim questioned the objective. Finally, his instructor told him drawing the same egg is not a simple task.

If you change the observation angle, the lighting and shape of the egg will also change. This fundamental philosophy shows the details and intricacy involved in the pursuit of perfection.

Verrocchio’s observation of an egg was quite prolific. The unassuming egg is complexity in its infantile state.

Let us take a closer look at an egg’s intricate interior for further comprehension.

Cooking a hard-boiled egg may seem trivial, but it is not as easy as one thinks.

There are a number of variables that affect the cooking process: altitude, the age of the eggs, the size of the pot that the eggs are cooked in, and the protein bonding temperature. In high altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower than at sea level.

Above 2,000 feet, water boils at a lower temperature (208 F vs 212 F). This means that it also simmers at a lower temperature.

For about every 500 feet of ascent, the boiling point is lowered 1 degree F.

As a result, expect to add a bit of additional cooking time to ensure the eggs reach the desired internal consistency.

The age of the egg is another factor. Believe it or not, but fresh farm eggs are good for frying but not boiling. The inner membrane of the egg

See SCRAMBLED Page 26

Scrambled egg cooking process explained

Continued

sticks to the white, making them difficult to boil accurately.

However, this adherence breaks down after a few days and makes them acceptable for cooking in hot water.

Choosing the right size pot to cook your eggs in is probably the most overlooked step in boiling eggs.

The first step is to bring your eggs to room temperature, they are less likely to crack in hot water.

Eggs should not be stacked but be placed in one layer; positioning eggs on top of each other can result in uneven cooking.

In addition, add enough cold water to cover them completely by one inch of water. Too much water will take too long for it to come to a boil, which can throw off the timing and produce rubbery eggs.

Protein bonding temperature is important for understanding the transformation of egg whites and yolks.

Under 140 degrees F – the whites protein unfurls, but at 150 degrees F, the protein in egg whites coagulates and the protein in egg yolks congeals at 158 degrees F.

The longer one heats the proteins, the tighter they will bond with each other. The tightness of these bonds determines whether the eggs are cooked just right or overcooked.

Scrambled eggs are the most common way to prepare eggs. What can be easier than the mixing of egg whites and yolks?

You might want to rethink that thought, allow me to explain.

When mixing egg white and yolks, some form of liquid needs to be added for a creamier consistency. Otherwise, you will end up with a dense scramble.

Milk or cream are your best options. One teaspoon per egg will do the trick.

The mixing of egg whites and yolks not only blends the ingredients together but also incorporates air into the mixture.

If you desire a souffle texture, place

egg whites, yolks, and milk into a blender before you add your other ingredients. This technique will yield a texture that is velvety smooth.

Scrambled eggs should be cooked in nonstick pans. While I love my cast iron skillet, some of the egg mixture will stick to the pan.

Always mix the eggs in a small bowl before placing them in the pan. Cracking the eggs directly into the pan and using a spoon or spatula will result in a streaky scramble.

Scrambled eggs should be cooked slowly over medium-low heat. If you rush the dish, the eggs will be dry.

Just before the eggs are fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat, and continue to cook. This is another way to prevent overcooking.

Scrambled egg-eaters fall into one of two categories: big curd lovers and small curd enthusiasts.

For large, creamy curds, use a sweeping motion with the spatula, covering as much surface area as possible as you cook the eggs. For a smaller, finer curd, use small, rapid circles.

Add-ins are assumed when scrambling eggs. If your heart’s desire is cheese, use shredded or crumbled. Chunks of cheese do not have time to melt properly.

Fresh herbs, veggies and meats are also popular choices. A touch of crème fraiche and caviar puts this humble dish over the top.

As you can see, there are many choices when it comes to scrambled eggs. And it is the pursuit for the perfect scrambled egg that makes it a delicious feat. Enjoy!

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Ingredients

4 large eggs

4 teaspoons half-n-half

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

fresh herbs or freshly ground black pepper as a garnish

1. In a medium bowl, aggressively

whisk the eggs, cream and salt until well blended.

2. Melt butter in a small nonstick pan over medium heat, make sure to coat the entire pan with butter.

3. Add eggs to the center of the pan and immediately reduce heat to medium-low.

4. Wait for the edges to barely set. Using a rubber spatula, gently push the eggs toward the center.

5. When the eggs are almost done, remove the pan from the heat and stir

until done.

6. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with freshly black pepper or herbs.

* Egg shell openers are the latest trend. In the picture, you will see where the top section of the shell has been removed. These openers can be purchased online for under $10.

Secret Ingredient – Choice. “We make our choices, then our choices make us.”

— Anonymous

CROSSWORD

Copy Central owners honor daughter through fundraiser

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Colorectal cancer, or CRC, is the second deadliest cancer in the United States.

This issue hits close to home for Linda Dearing and her husband, Michael, owners of Copy Central on Cathell Road in Ocean Pines. They lost their daughter, Gina to the disease in 2014 at age 37.

To honor their daughter, they created Gina’s Warriors Comfort Fund, an effort that helps patients undergoing chemotherapy to afford wigs, cover the cost of pain therapy or acupuncture treatments, along with expenses related to nourishment, transportation, housekeeping and childcare.

“The money goes directly to colon cancer patients,” Dearing said.

During March, which is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the Dearing’s decorate their store to raise awareness for colon cancer and raise money for Gina’s Warriors. The month is almost over, but residents can still help by dropping off a donation at the shop.

NOW PLAYING

The Dearings have raised about $500 this month for Gina’s Warriors and about $15,000 since the launch of the foundation. Those who donate $5 or more by March 31, will be entered into a drawing for a painting by local artist Shirley Eppard.

The money goes to colon cancer patients at Carroll Hospital Center (CHC), where Gina was treated. CHC manages the distribution to patients at no charge.

“My mission is to help someone else not go through what we went through,” Dearing said. “Gina was a mother of three and she worked. She did not take the time to take care of herself. By the time she did, she had stage 4 colon cancer.”

Knowing that the foundation is giving back and helping others gives her peace.

“If I could win the lotto or the Powerball, I would have a whole wing added to the hospital for colon cancer patients.”

In addition to the March fundraising campaign, the foundation hosts other

See GINA’S Page 28

FUNK SHUE

Pizza Tugos: Fri, March 31, 9 p.m. to midnight

COINS

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

April 1: Jack & T7, 7 p.m

April 2: Bingo, noon to 3 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

March 31: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m

April 1: Dunehounds, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 2: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 3: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

April 4: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

April 5: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

April 6: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m to 1:30 a.m.

SEACRETS

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

March 31: Jason Dumm Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-

O, 6 p.m to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Late Last Night, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m

April 1: The Big Band, noon to 4 p.m.; Craft Mac & Cheers Pig Roast & Beerfest, noon to 4 p.m.; The Beverlees, 5-9 p.m.; Dj Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Feel Free, 9 p.m to 1:30 a.m.; Crash the Party, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

April 6: Opposite Direction, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Sip On That Thursdays!, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Lunasea Full Moon Glow Party, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m

April 7: High Five Swan Dive Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; The Way Outs, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m

PIZZA TUGOS

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

March 31: Funk Shue, 9 p.m. to midnight

April 5: Every Wed. Karaoke w/DJ Chuck D, 8 p.m. to midnight

Gina’s Warriors Comfort Fund helps colon cancer patients

Continued from Page 27

fundraisers including a golf tournament, which this year will be in Littlestown,Pennsylvania.

• • •

Facts about Colorectal Cancer

• Colorectal cancer (cancer in the colon or rectum) first develops with few, if any, symptoms. Be proactive and talk to your doctor.

• The incidence rate of colorectal cancer is rising by about 2 percent annually in young people. By 2030, researchers predict that colorectal cancer will be the leading cause of cancer deaths in people ages 20-49.

• If you’re in the high-risk group or have a family history of colorectal can-

cer, you should be getting screened earlier than age 50.

• In the U.S. approximately 10 percent of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals under age 50.

• New guidelines state that all average-risk people aged 45 and above should begin screening for colorectal cancer.

Information provided by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance at www.ccalliance.org

CINDY HOFFMAN /OCEAN CITY TODAY

Linda Dearing, owner of Copy Central in Ocean Pines, lost her daughter, Gina, to colorectal cancer at age 37. She created Gina’s Warriors Comfort Fund to help patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

15th Street and Baltimore Ave in the Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City | 410-289-7192 | captainstableoc.com

You’re the Captain now. Take the ship’s helm and fix yourself a plate from our Easter Buffet, serving from 2-7pm, and featuring appetizers, sides, entrees, as well as a carving station and dessert station.

Adults $49, Children 6-12 $18, and kids under 5 eat free! Visit Captain’s Table yearround for seafood, steaks, lobster specials, and martinis. Open for breakfast and dinner every day, and serving smiles for Happy Hour daily from 4-6pm.

■ 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

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

Join us for a special evening on Easter Sun-

day from 4pm to close, featuring a full dining menu of shareable, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts! Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner year-round, Sunday-Thursday 11:30-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11:3010pm, with $10 eats and Happy Hour drink specials every day from 3-6pm.

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

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

It’s Easter Sunday, go ‘head and put all your eggs in one basket. We’re serving an Easter Buffet from 11am to 4pm, featuring soups, prime rib, seafood, and desserts. Adults $39.99, Children 6-12 $17.95, and kids under 5 eat free! Open all through April, Thursday-Sunday, with Happy Hour Thursdays and Sundays featuring $8 appetizers, $5 crushes, $5 house wines and $4 bottled beers. Check out our Easter Buffet menu online!

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PICKLES PUB

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

What’s Easter Sunday without a feast?

Serving an appetizing buffet from 11am to 3pm, featuring an omelet station, carving station, and more! 32 Palm’s inviting decor fuses the perfect atmosphere with Eastern shore favorites for an exceptional dining experience you’ll talk about for weeks to come. Easter Buffet: Adults $59, Children 6-12 $25, and kids under 5 eat free! Routinely updates menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year. Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, every day from 3-6pm.

■ LONGBOARD CAFE

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

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

■ MARLIN MOON

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

Don’t worry, be hoppy this Easter at Marlin Moon! From 11am-5pm, enjoy an Easter Buffet featuring carved meats, seafood, hot and cold stations, assorted artisanal breads, and desserts! Easter Buffet: Adults $49, Children 6-12 $18, and kids under 5 eat free! Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon offers a great selection of entrees, small plates, appetizers, and creatively crafted cocktails yearround. Enjoy Happy Hour Monday-Saturday 3-6pm, and Sunday 1pm-6pm featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters.

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

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

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

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

■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

PIZZERIA

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

$$ | Kids’ menu

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

■ 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) 410-801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

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

■ PIZZA TUGOS

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

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

Nick’s Mini Golf giving away ’23 passes for good grades

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) As the final quarter of school approaches, Nick’s Mini Golf is offering a promotion encouraging local students to excel academically.

Middle school students who make honor roll or headmaster’s list for the third quarter of school will receive a free season pass to Nick’s Mini Golf.

The pass gives free admission for all of 2023 to any of the eight Nick’s Mini Golf courses, said Dean Geracimos, who assists with company marketing. He is also the father of owner Nick Geracimos.

Participating schools include Stephen Decatur Middle, Berlin Intermediate, Snow Hill Middle, Pocomoke Middle, Seaside Christian Academy and Worcester Preparatory School.

“He (Nick) wanted to do something to give back to the kids, to the community, and we thought that this middle school promotion would do the best,” Geracimos said. “While it is the first year, we hope to make this a mainstay for the future.”

The schools will create spreadsheets naming all the students who made the headmaster’s list or honor roll and send them to Nick’s Mini Golf for season passes to be created in each student’s name, Geracimos said.

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s 10 people or 1,000 people. Nick’s made

a commitment and he will make sure that every single student that deserves it will get the season pass,” Geracimos said.

Nick’s Mini Golf will drop off the passes at each school, but some schools are requesting Nick himself make an appearance to present the passes to students, Geracimos said.

Nick’s 45th Street Beach Ball Golf, 125th Dino Golf and Mining Company, and Bethany Beach Dinoland Golf are now open on weekends, weather permitting.

More locations will be opening throughout April, and all locations will be fully open beginning May 1.

“I think Nick hopes that with there being a month and a half left of the semester, hopefully the kids will push to do the best that they can,” Geracimos said.

Nick’s Mini Golf is currently moving the Jurassic Golf course from 18th Street to 19th Street, which Geracimos hopes they can begin construction for soon.

“We are very grateful for the support of our community partners, like Nick’s Mini Golf, for encouraging our students to focus on their academic success,” said Superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools Lou Taylor. “I hope that many of our middle school students work hard to achieve honor roll status, not only for this promotion, but for their own pride in their achievement.”

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Local middle school students who make honor roll or headmaster’s list for the third quarter will receive a free season pass to any of Nick’s Mini Golf’s eight courses. Pictured is Maui Golf at 57th Street.

Calendar

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 31

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Time just for you and your teeny tiny. Stay after to socialize with other families. For children younger than 2 years and their caregivers. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., April 1

TINKER TIME: BLACKOUT POETRY

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Drop in anytime, use the library’s supplies and your imagination to create. This month, explore blackout poetry. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PET TREAT TASTING EVENT

Tractor Supply Co., 1701 Market St., Unit 109, Pocomoke City, 10 a.m.-noon. Giving pets the chance to sample a variety of pet treats available at Tractor Supply Company. Also enjoy Pet Adoption, Pet Photos, Animal Training and Pet Care 101. Open to the public. 410-9573491

GENEALOGY HELP

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10 a.m.noon. The library’s Local History librarian will be on hand to help participants with finding their roots. Appointment only: 410-632-3495. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRST SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop in welcome. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CRAFTY SATURDAY: SILLY CRAFTS FOR SILLY FRIENDS!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Happy April Fool’s Day. Silly crafts perfect for all of our silly friends. For ages 4 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

EASTER EGG HUNT

Stephen Decatur High School - Softball Field, 9913 Seahawk Road, Berlin, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Hunts held every 30 min-

utes, photos with Easter Bunny, bake sale, face painting, egg decorating and games. Burgers, hot dogs and drinks for sale. Suggested donation is $10. Benefiting softball team.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET

Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mount Pleasant Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Vegetables, beverages and dessert included. Carry outs and bake table available. Cost is $15 for adults, $7.50 for children and free to those 5 years and younger. 410-835-8340

9TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN POCOMOKE SPRING FESTIVAL

Downtown Pocomoke City, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring Easter Bunny, live entertainment, vendors, fishing, children activities and Cruise-In. Kids bring Easter baskets for Easter Egg Loop. Rain date April 8. https://www.downtownpocomoke.com

QUARTER AUCTION

Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Headquarters, 1409 Philadelphia Ave., 5-10 p.m. A chance to win big baskets, prizes on the Dalmation Draw Big Boards, 50/50 and more. Tickets are $5 in advance $7 at the door. Admission gives you 1 paddle and a door prize ticket. Family friendly.

LEWIS BLACK - OFF THE RAILS

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 8 p.m., Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $57. Tickets: https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com/upcomingevents/LewisBlack. Handicap accessible seating: 410-289-2800.

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., April 2

PALM SUNDAY SERVCIES

Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, Three service with communion held at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. https://www.ccaop.org

PALM SUNDAY St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. Two services, 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. https://stpaulsberlin.org.

‘YOU CAN FACE THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE’ PRESENTATION

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 W. St., Berlin, 10-10:30 a.m. The global program is designed to give all those who attend tangible reasons to face the future with confidence. Admission is free and no registration is required. jw.org

PALM SUNDAY SERVICE

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 10 a.m. For more information, call 410641-2186 or email Bethany21811@gmail.com or visit bethanyberlin.org.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., April 3

ACT, SWAP CLOTHING DROP OFF Assateague Coastal Trust, 10959 Worcester Highway, Berlin. Please contact Debbi Dean, 443-856-9309 or outreach@actforbays.org to coordinate a time to drop off clothing. https://www.actforbays.org/actclothingswap.

STORY TIME ‘EGGS’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.Listen to eggs-quisite stories, sing songs and create an egg craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

POET SPOTLIGHT: SHEL SILVERSTEIN

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. During National Poetry Month the group will be diving into the world of poetry and highlighting some great poets. For ages 7 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Examine the poems of Richard Wilber and others in the anthology “America’s Favorite Poems,” edited by Robert Pinsky. This group meets twice a month. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

YOUR NOSE KNOWS: THE SCIENCE OF SMELL

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. First of a three-part series about senses. Learn all about the anatomy of a nose and experiment with smelly things. For ages 6 years and older. 410-957-0878, 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

VINTAGE SEED PACKET PAPIER-MÂCHÉ BOXES

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Boxes are great for holding seed packets. The box tops will be decorated with vintage seed packet covers. Limit 10. Registration required: 410-6323495. www.worcesterlibrary.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, 302-2427062.

Tues., April 4

STORY TIME: LET’S EAT

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

STORY TIME ‘ELEPHANTS’

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

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

MASTER GARDENER PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Join Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz as she talks about all things plants. Bring questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 2 years and younger. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

POLLINATORS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. The Lower Shore Land Trust will talk to the group about the benefits of creating gardens that attract pollinators. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ANIME & MANGA CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3 p.m. Monthly themes include trivia games, Japanese snacks and art exploration. For ages 13-16 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Open collaborative led by Mikel Campbell. All genres welcome. Present works in progress or talk through composition issues with other songwriters. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MEMORIAL OF JESUS’ DEATH

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 W. St., Berlin. 7:15-8:15 p.m. A solemn commemoration of Jesus’ death. There will be singing, prayer and a talk about the importance of Jesus’ death and how we can benefit from what God and Christ have done for us. jw.org

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

Wed., April 5

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Held via Zoom the first Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatrics Center, 410-641-9568

SUPER POWERED STEM LAB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Come join the group for some fun, hands-on STEM experiments. For ages 6 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMEGROWN: TOMATOES, PEPPERS, STRAWBERRIES

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Learn

about growing tomato, pepper and strawberry crops with Master Gardener Trevor Pusey. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GROW IT, EAT IT!

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz will talk about gardening basics as people are preparing for the growing season. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5-6 p.m. Providing discussion, education and a speaker on the topic of diabetes. Darlene Jameson, 410-208-9761, djameson@atlanticgeneral.org

SERVICE LEARNING INFO NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. High school students attend this session to learn about volunteer opportunities at the library. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SING-ALONG WITH SHIRLEY

St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Community Center

- MacMullin Hall, 10959 Worcester Highway, Berlin, 6-9 p.m. Sing along with Shirley Toms Hailey. Known for her piano playing at the Dunes Manor. Song books and light refreshments will be available. Open to the public. A free will offering will be collected.

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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

Thurs., April 6

CPAP MASK FITTING

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

STORY TIME: LIBRARIAN’S CHOICE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Come and hear Harry Burkett’s favorite story: “Arthur’s Eyes” by Marc Brown. Stick around after for a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014

STORY TIME ‘CHICKA CHICKA BOOM BOOM’

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

MERRY MAKERS: WASHCLOTH BUNNIES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. The group will repurpose washcloths

into cute little bunnies. Limit 10. Registration required: 410-208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHESS CLUB

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

BOOK TASTING

Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Come “taste” a selection of books. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MAUNDY THURSDAY

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin. Celebrate “A Meal in the Upper Room,” a special Lenten service. Held at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Reservations: 410-641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com, bethanyberlin.org.

‘LAND PRESERVATION, PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN’ PUBLIC HEARING

Worcester County Government CenterBoard Room, 1 W. Market St., Snow Hill, 1:05-11:59 p.m. Visit https://www.co.worcester.md.us/commissioners/hearings to view the draft LPPRP. Written/oral comments accepted at hearing. Comments: kmunson@co.worcester.md.us or Wor. Co. Environmental Programs.

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘THE TRUTH OF YOU’ BY IAIN

S. THOMAS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the library’s front desk. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STEAM BIRDS NEST (ENGINEERING CHALLENGE)

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3:30 p.m. Use the materials provided to hold as many (plastic) eggs as possible. For ages 6-11 years. 410-632-3495, 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

ACT, ‘SIP AND SCIENCE SERIES’ Assateague Coastal Trust, 10959 Worcester Highway, Berlin, 5:30 p.m. Vermicomposting (worm) Workshop & The Importance of Organic Farming and Gardening. Cost is $10. BYOB. Pre-Registration required: https://www.actforbays.org/calendar.

MAUNDY THURSDAY

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. 6 p.m. Dinner and service in Neville Hall. Soup will be provided.

Bring salad if you wish. https://stpaulsberlin.org

MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE

Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, 7 p.m. Held in the sanctuary with communion. https://www.ccaop.org

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

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Celebrate National Library Week by submitting a photo of your community between April 1-14. Voting begins on April 19. The winner from each Worcester County Libraray branch will win a novelty card catalog box containing Library of Congress catalog-style cards. Submit photos to your local branch or upload them via the Worcester County Library’s events page. 443-783-6164

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 26

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

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

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

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video

Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber, Housekeeper, Boat Mates

Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

Call 410-723-6397

by Monday 5 p.m.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Thunderbird Beach Motel

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility

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

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

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.

Now Hiring ALL POSITIONS. Apply in person MondayFriday, 9am-2pm. 32nd Street & Baltimore Ave., Thunderbird Beach Motel. Cleaners - Vacation rentals needed for OC and the Pines. Experience preferred but not required. OC Purifiers. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email karen@ocpurifiers.com.

PAPA JOHN'S MANAGERS, DRIVERS INSIDERS Ocean City 302-541-8081

Advanced Marina 66th St. Ocean City Advancedmarina.com

Now Hiring: Mechanics Boat Yard Crew Cleaners Painters

Dock Hands

To Apply: Call 410-723-2124 or Email advancedmarina@aol.com

WORLD FRESH SEAFOOD

JOB OPPORTUNITY!

Ocean City Florist Now Hiring PT Floral Designer 2-3 days a week. Some Saturdays will be required. Experience necessary. Call 410-250-1636 or apply within.

PGN Crab House 29th Street & Coastal Hwy. Now Hiring for • Waitstaff • Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am Barn 34 Hiring Kitchen Help Apply in person Thurs. & Fri. between 9am - 12pm 3400 Coastal Hwy.

Maintenance Person Flexible hours. Full time or part time. 3-4 days a week. Contact Jimmer Gardiner with Harbour Island at 14th St. on the Bay 240-298-0365

Warehouse Associate

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.

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

Pest Control Technician

Will train

Requirements: Must have a valid driver’s license and GOOD driving record. Requires background check and drug testing. High School Graduate or GED. Must have reliable transportation to and from work. Good oral and written communication skills. Ability to work in adverse weather conditions. Ability to work in confined spaces such as crawl spaces, etc.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $16.00 - $23.00 per hour Benefits:

Please apply through our website: bennetttermite.com

(Select Careers in the dropdown and apply) Or apply direct at: https://www.bennetttermite.com/careers/

We are hiring 4 Drivers and 5 Receptionists for Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Chicago and Florida.

Interested please call or send a message to: 240-994-7845

Drivers need a commercial driver's license

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

The T-Shirt Factory in Ocean City seeking a full-time, year-round Warehouse Associate Candidates must have a minimum of 6 months warehouse experience, valid drivers without points, ability to drive a box truck and lift up to 50 lbs. or more. Benefits and pay depends on experience.

To apply send resumes to bkmoira@yahoo.com or call the Corporate Office at (410) 213-9650

HELP WANTED ROOMMATES PETS AUCTIONS

Maintenance. FT, YR. Perfect job for jack of all trades handyman. Company provided vehicle. Looking for dependable, quality worker. Call 410-250-1111 or email resume to Fred@paradiseoc.com.

Maintenance Positions available in local high-rise condominium. Part time and full time available. Good starting pay w/salary increase and bonuses available annually. Send resume to apurnell@legumnorman.com

Landscaper Needed. Why pay to workout when you can work OUTSIDE?! Low stress, get fit, sleep great. Competitive pay. Must have active driver’s license and be available to work M-F. Call 410-251-4649.

Small Engine Mechanic. Year-round.

Competitive wages.

443-754-1047

RENTALS

Seeking YR & Seasonal

Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

WINTER WEEKLY RENTALS Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com

410-289-8581

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals

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

Room To Share. Full house privileges. $2400 for the Summer (May-Sept.).

Three payments of $800.

All utilities included.

No smoking, no pets. 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

COMMERCIAL

Industrial Warehouse

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

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

Beautiful Sheepadoodle, family raised with lots of love and interaction.

Parents are both young, healthy, smart and loving.

Parents are both AKC registered. Mother is Old English Sheepdog and Father is Silver Standard Poodle.

We have males and females some primarily black and we have black and white. Puppies will be ready to go to their new home March 24th. Puppies will be dewormed and vaccinated.

SERVICES

302.259.1469

Info@AbsoluteFirstResponse.com

Residential & Commercial Cleaning

• Carpet

• Tile & Grout • Upholstery

• General Cleaning

• Beach Vacation Rental Cleanings www.AbsoluteFirstResponse.com

Run your business card in our SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!

The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned; B77O29-O115-O46-O128O170-S13-S739. Units are being sold due to non-payment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Friday, March 31st, 2023

Time: 10:00 am

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

DONATIONS

Price is $1200.

Please email jasjas123@gmail.com text 843-455-3517

DONATIONS Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm www.baysideoc.com www.oceancitytoday.com

SERVICES

MOVERS

443-664-5797 LOCAL

Maryland,

and the District of Columbia since 1908.

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK FOR SALE

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

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

MISC. FOR SALE

DISH Network. $64.99 for 190

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

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

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

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397

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.

PUBLIC NOTICES

JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ.

108

8th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

FORECLOSURE SALE

300 ROBIN DRIVE, #104 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

By virtue of a Statement of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to an Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland in Case No. C-23-CV-23000037, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the condominium building located at 300 Robin Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, on

FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2023

AT 9:00 AM

ALL that property lying and being situate in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, more particularly designated and distinguished as U Unit No. 104 in the K KEY WEST VILLAS CONDOMINIUM, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and ByLaws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber No. 1298, folio 337, et seq., and pursuant also to the plats described in said Declaration, and

ROOFING

Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989

ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS

Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 10545 Friendship Road,Unit3,Berlin,Maryland 21811 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com

recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 111, folio 13, et seq., and pursuant to all subsequently recorded Amendments.

The property will be sold in an AS IS condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, with no warranties or guarantees, and will be sold subject to

1) a Deed of Trust recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber No. 7350, folio 312, said Deed of Trust having had an original principal balance of $87,300.00 on January 3, 2019 and

2) a Deed of Trust recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber No. 7350, folio 332, said Deed of Trust having had an original principal balance of $5,000.00 on January 3, 2019 . The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in a cashier=s or bank check, with the balance to be paid in cash at time of settlement. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

*Licenced in MD, DE &VA

The undersigned reserves the right to waive the deposit requirements as to the purchaser representing the interest of the party secured by the Statement of Lien. Real property taxes, wastewater charges, and condominium dues will be adjusted to the date of sale and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All costs of conveyancing, including transfer and recordation taxes, shall be paid by the purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining possession of the property. Purchaser agrees to pay to the Seller an Attorney=s fee of $350.00 for review of any motion which may be filed with the Court to substitute a purchaser herein. In the event the undersigned is unable to convey marketable title, the sale will be null and void and the purchaser=s sole remedy will be the return of the deposit without interest.

For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr. Trustee 410-289-2323

OCD-3/30/3t

Huesman, Jones and Miles, LLC 11350 McCormick Road Executive Plaza III, Suite 905 Hunt Valley, MD 21031 (443) 541-8507

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEE’S SALE

OF REAL PROPERTY KNOWN AS 8821 BAY RIDGE DR., BERLIN, MD 21811 CASE NUMBER c23cv22000240

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust from 8821 Bay Ridge LLC, recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County in Liber 7557, Folio 349, and Substitution of Trustee recorded among the aforementioned Land Records substituting Gerard F. Miles, Jr, as Substitute Trustee, the Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at public auction, at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Courthouse Door, 1 W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863 on April 17, 2023 at 11:00 AM:

SHERIFF’S SALE

Orleans Court Condominium, Unit 35 (a/k/a 222)

On A April 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. on the front steps of the Circuit Courthouse in Snow Hill, MD. the above unit at 14001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD. will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder. For the complete notice of sale, call Vie Parsons or Maureen Howarth at 410 7231400.

All that lot of ground and the improvements thereon situate in Worcester County, State of Maryland, as described in the Deed of Trust recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, in Liber 7557 Folio 349. The property being known as 8821 Bay Ridge Dr., Berlin, MD 21811. The improvements thereon consist of a dwelling.

The property will be sold in “AS IS” condition, subject to any existing building violations, restrictions and agreements of record. The purchaser assumes all risks of loss for the property as of the date of sale. Neither the Substitute Trustees nor their respective agents, successors or assigns make any representations or warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to the property. The Substitute Trustees shall convey insurable title.

The property is being sold fee simple. The original principal balance of the loan was $60,000.00

TERMS OF THE SALE: A deposit in a form acceptable to the Substituted Trustee in the amount of $10,000 will be required of the purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, at the time and place of sale. Any amount tendered at sale in excess of the required deposit will be refunded and not applied to the purchase price. Unless the purchaser is the Holder of the Note or its assigns, the balance of the purchase price shall be paid immediately with available funds within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City. Time is of the essence. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, shall pay interest at the rate of 13.00% per annum on the unpaid portion of the purchase price from the date of sale to date of settlement. Real property taxes and assessments shall be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Ground rent, HOA assessments, Condominium assessments, water and/or sewer charges public or private, if any, shall be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps and transfer taxes shall be paid by the purchaser. Purchaser shall have the responsibility of obtaining possession of the property.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. If the purchaser defaults, the entire deposit is forfeited. The Substitute Trustee shall resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser. The defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of both sales, attorney fees, all other charges due, and incidental and consequential damages.

In the event the Substitute Trustee does not convey title for any reason, purchaser’s sole remedy is return of the deposit. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Trustee or Mortgagee. The Substitute Trustee shall have the right to terminate this contract in the event the Holder has entered into any agree-

ment with, or accepted funds from, the mortgagor. Upon termination of the contract, Purchaser’s sole remedy shall be return of the deposit.

Gerard F. Miles, Jr.,

Substitute Trustee

Tidewater Auctions, LLC

(410) 825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

Ad #75679

OCD-3/30/3t

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A.

1966 Greenspring Drive, Suite LL2 Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland 21093

(410) 238-2840

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

703 141st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Purchase Money Deed of Trust from Telma Yuman and Adolfo Yuman, dated October 27, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4809, Folio 624 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $280,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Courthouse for Worcester County, Courthouse Door, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

Monday, April 10th, 2023 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Purchase Money Deed of Trust. The real property is known as 703 141st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, Tax ID #10178576. Tax Map 0118, Grid 0014, Parcel 9404A.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $22,000.00 in the form of cash, cashier’s check, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustees determine acceptable, is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the rate of 4.625% per annum from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. All due

and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, or front foot benefit payments, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction an assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and 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 his deposit without interest.

NOTE: The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. Neither the auctioneer, the beneficiary of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustee nor his agents or attorneys make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of information.

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN

ERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the Substitute Trustees.

Mark H. Wittstadt and Justin T. Hoy, Substitute Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC

305 West Chesapeake Avenue, Suite 105

Towson, Maryland 21204

410-825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

Ad #75676

OCD-3/23/3t

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 Cham-

bers, 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

ERICA M WITZ ESQ

WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, DOUSE, MATHERS & ILLUMIN

115 BROAD STREET, P.O. BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RAYMOND DANIEL WHEALIN Estate No. 19623 Notice is given that LINDA C. WHEALIN whose address is 648 NE 25TH STREET, GRESHAM, OR 97030 was on MARCH 13, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RAYMOND DANIEL WHEALIN who died on FEBRUARY 10, 2023 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th 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 ear-

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 began on March 23, 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

OCD-3/9/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

lier 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-3/16/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ROBERT LEE HILL Estate No. 19618 Notice is given that LISA FRITTS whose address is 27050 CROOKED OAK LANE, HEBRON, MD 21830 and WAYNE JESTER whose address is 3023 JOHNSON ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 were on MARCH 07, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBERT LEE HILL who died on FEBRUARY 28, 2023 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of 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-3/16/3t

REGAN J.R. SMITH ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19625

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CAROL JOHNSTON CADOGAN

Notice is given that Julie M. Tuck, 501 S. Center Street, Ashland, VA 23005, was on March 10, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carol Johnston Cadogan who died on April 24, 2022, without a will.

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

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

ber, 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.

Julie M. Tuck

Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

March 16, 2023

OCD-3/16/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19619

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BERNARD J. JONES

Notice is given that Nicholas J. Jones, 405 Holly Road, Edgewater, MD 21037, was on March 08, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bernard J. Jones who died on February 20, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be ob-

tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th 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.

Nicholas J. Jones Personal Representative True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

March 16, 2023

OCD-3/16/3t

Stephanie Scales-Sherrin Scales Law Group

11032 NICHOLAS LANE SUITE A202 BERLIN, MD 21811

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of SANDRA C. MITCHELL Estate No. 19620 Notice is given that KIMBERLEIGH ANN MITCHELL whose address is 402 PARK AVENUE, SALISBURY, MD 21801 was on MARCH 13, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SANDRA C. MITCHELL who died on JANUARY 12, 2023 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th 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-3/16/3t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF A RESIDENTIAL PLANNED COMMUNITY (RPC) FLOATING ZONE

THE REFUGE AT WINDMILL CREEK RPC NORTHWESTERLY SIDE OF BEAUCHAMP ROAD NORTH OF MD ROUTE 589

THIRD TAX DISTRICT WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to Sections 1-114 and 1315 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, application has been filed with the Worcester County Commissioners by The Refuge at Windmill Creek, LLC to establish a Residential Planned Community (RPC) on property located on the northwesterly side of Beauchamp Road, north of MD Route 589 (Racetrack Road). Located in the Third Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, the property is designated on Tax Map 15 as Parcels 127 and 259. The Worcester County Planning Commission reviewed the RPC application at its meeting of February 2, 2023 and has given a favorable recommendation.

Pursuant to Sections 1-114 and 1315 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, the County Commissioners will hold a

PUBLIC HEARING ON

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

AT 10:30AM

IN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM

WORCESTER COUNTY

GOVERNMENT CENTER –ROOM 1101

ONE WEST MARKET STREET

SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863

At said public hearing the County Commissioners will consider the Residential Planned Community and the recommendation of the Planning Commission, any proposed restrictions, conditions or limitations as may be deemed by them to be appropriate to preserve, improve, or

protect the general character and design of the lands and improvements being developed, and the advisability of reserving the power and authority to approve or disapprove the design of building, construction, landscaping or other improvements, alterations and changes made or to be made on the subject land or lands to assure conformity with the intent and purpose of applicable State laws and regulations and the County Zoning Ordinance.

A map of the proposed area, the staff file on the Residential Planned Community application and the Planning Commission’s file, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are on file and available for inspection at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, Government CenterRoom 1201, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday (except holidays). Interested parties may also call (410) 632-1200.

Anthony W. Bertino, Jr., President OCD-3/23/2t

DANIELS & DANIELS, L.L.C.

RICHARD C. DANIELS, ESQ.

4509 BEECHWOOD ROAD COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19640

Notice is given that the Circuit Court of Hillsborough County, FL appointed Patrick Higgins, 14007 Wolcott Drive, Tampa, FL 33624 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Maureen T. Higgins who died on October 16, 2022 domiciled in Florida, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Richard C. Daniels whose address is 4509 Beechwood Road, College Park, MD 20740.

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 other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Patrick Higgins

Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication:

NOTICE

BID SOLICITATION

Hands Free Batting Cage System

Worcester County, Maryland

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to provide and install a hands-free batting cage system at our Recreation and Parks facility in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

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

The last day for questions will be noon on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 2:30pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. If the proposal is sent by mail, the sealed envelope will be enclosed in a separate mailing envelope with the notation “SEALED BID ENCLOSED –Hands Free Batting Cage System”, in the bottom left-hand corner of the sealed envelope Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

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

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

Worcester County, Maryland THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-3/30/1t

NOTICE

BID SOLICITATION

Board of Zoning Appeals Legal Services

Worcester County, Maryland

Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified attorneys and law firms to provide legal services to the Board of Zoning Appeals in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s

website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their Proposals. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

The last day for questions will be noon on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 2:30pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. If the proposal is sent by mail, the sealed envelope will be enclosed in a separate mailing envelope with the notation “SEALED BID ENCLOSED – Board of Zoning Appeals Legal Services”, in the bottom left-hand corner of the sealed envelope.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

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

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

Worcester County, Maryland

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-3/30/1t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19624 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RUTH ELAINE HOFFMAN

Notice is given that Mary Hall, 12 Columbia Ave., Crisfield, MD 21817, was on March 23, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Ruth Elaine Hoffman who died on January 11, 2023, with a will.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mary Hall

Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

March 30, 2023

OCD-3/30/1t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY APRIL 13, 2023

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 p.m. Case 23-19, on the lands of John Willett, requesting an afterthe-fact variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 28.6 feet (to encroach 1.4 feet) for an open deck in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) & ZS 1305 located at 3 Knight Terrace, Tax Map 21, Parcel 224, Section 10, Lot 1262, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case 23-34, on the lands of Brett Costello, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 12.8 feet (to encroach 17.2 feet) for an extension of an existing deck in the R-3 Multifamily Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305 located at 86 Lookout Point, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lot 85, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case 23-35, on the lands of Leslie Steele, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 50 feet to 30 feet (to encroach 20 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-205(b)(2) and ZS 1305 located on Mason Road, about 2,461 feet south of the intersection with Orchard Road, Tax Map 41, Parcel 58, Block B, Lot 9, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case 23-32, on the lands of Charles Shorley, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 50 feet to 28 feet (to encroach 22 feet) for a proposed deck addition in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305 located at 10128 Silver Point

NOTICE

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

FY 2024 Annual Transportation Plan (ATP).

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

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

Five (5) Heavy Duty 60’ Articulating Buses $4,125,000

Transit Vehicle Preventative Maintenance $785,000

Three (3) ADA Accessible Supervisor Vans $201,000

TOTAL $4,910,201

A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. on Monday, May 1, 2023. Requests for a Public Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked “Public Hearing Comments”:

Ocean City Transportation

224 65th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

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

If requested, a Public Hearing will be held:

Monday, May 15, 2023

6:00 p.m.

City Hall Council Chambers

301 North Baltimore Avenue

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Monday, May 1, 2023.

OCD-3/30/4t

Lane, Tax Map 26, Parcel 234, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case 23-31, on the lands of Julie Langan, requesting an afterthe-fact special exception to allow an 8 foot tall fence in a rear yard in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305(k)(3)B, located at 10651 Piney Island Drive, Tax Map 15, Parcel 218, Lot 25, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case 23-33, on the lands of Franklin Berterman, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 40 feet to the property line to 29.25 feet (to encroach 10.75 feet) for a proposed front covered porch in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305 located at 12290 Dixie Drive, Tax Map 10, Parcel 177, Lot 31, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case 23-18, on the application of Dylan Drew, on the lands of Robert Miller, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet

to 23.26 feet (to encroach 6.74 feet) for a proposed deck extension in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1305 located at 177 Teal Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lot 276, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:05 p.m. Case 23-37, on the application of Charles Holland, on the lands of Berlin Land, LLC, requesting a special exception to allow an 8 foot tall fence around a dumpster in a front yard setback in the C-3 Highway Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325 located at 11407 Samuel Bowen Blvd, Tax Map 26, Parcel 455, Lot 3B, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland

7:10 p.m. Case 23-8, on the lands of Robert Bradley, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area buffer from 100 feet to 35 feet (to encroach 65 feet), associated with a proposed fence, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(c)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 12422 Collins

Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 275, Lot 2, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:15 p.m. Case 23-9, on the lands of Stephanie Shockley, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area buffer from 100 feet to 72.5 feet (to encroach 27.5 feet), associated with the construction of a single-family dwelling, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m)(1) and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(c)(4) and NR 3-111, located on Pheasant Road, about 1,140 feet south of Assateague Road, Tax Map 32, Parcel 353, Lot 2, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:20 p.m. Case 23-20, on the application of Eric Jones, on the lands of John Houk, requesting a modification to extend a waterfront structure in excess of the quarter distance of the water body width of 18.5 feet by 2 feet for a proposed platform and boatlift extending 20.5 feet channelward, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m)(1) and Natural Resources Code §§ NR 2-102(e)(1), located at 2 Drake Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 42, Section 5, Lots 154 & 155, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

WEDNESDAY APRIL 19, 2023

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 p.m. Case 23-16, on the application of Mark Cropper, on the lands of Gregory Tate, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area regulations to exceed the allowable 100 foot tidal wetland crossing by 495 feet for a proposed 3 foot by 595 foot walkway over tidal wetlands and a modification to extend a waterfront structure in excess of 125 feet by 85 feet for a proposed pier and platform extending a total of 210 feet channelward, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(3), Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3125(b)(1) and NR 2-102(e)(1), located on Riggin Ridge Road about 560 feet north of Center Drive, Tax Map 22, Parcel 397, Block 8, Lot 15B, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case 23-36, on the application of Mark Cropper, on the lands of Cynthia Shoemaker, requesting a special exception to allow a mosque in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-202(c)(29), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325 located at 12262 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 118, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland

6:40 p.m. Case 23-10, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of Peter Souritzidis, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic

Coastal Bays Critical Area buffer from 100 feet to 25 feet (to encroach 75 feet), associated with the construction of a single-family dwelling, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(n)(3) and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(c)(4) and NR 3-111, located on Savanna Court about 396 feet north west of Heathland Drive, Tax Map 17, Parcel 1, Lot 78, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case 23-38, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, on the lands of Sea Squared, LLC, requesting a special exception to allow a storage yard and buildings for storage of watercraft and recreational vehicles in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-202(c)(12), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325 located at 11206 FiveL Drive, Tax Map 21, Parcel 261, Lot 7, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case 23-22, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 4 feet (to encroach 6 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1.8 feet (to encroach 3.2 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318. Located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 309, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:52 p.m. Case 23-23, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1.2 feet (to encroach 3.8 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(18), ZS 1305 and ZS 1-318. Located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 310, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:54 p.m. Case 23-24, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 7 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 2.5 feet (to encroach 2.5 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318. Located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 311, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:56 p.m. Case 23-25, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 7 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 2.1 feet (to encroach 2.9 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318.

Located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road,

Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 312 Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:58 p.m. Case 23-26, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 7 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1.8 feet (to encroach 3.2 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318. Located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 313, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case 23-27, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 7 feet) and a rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1.5 feet (to encroach 3.5 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(18), ZS 1305 and ZS 1-318. located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 314, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:02 p.m. Case 23-28, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 7 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1.2 feet (to encroach 3.8 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318. located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 315, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:04 p.m. Case 23-29, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, on the lands of SunTRS Castaways, LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 7 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1 foot (to encroach 4 feet) for a proposed replacement park model in a rental campground in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318. located at 12550 Eagles Nest Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 33, Site 316, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS REAL ESTATE WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland propose to quitclaim a 3-story commercial structure comprised of wood framed roof and floors supported on unreinforced brick masonry walls, foundations and steel/iron columns located

at 100 Pearl Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. The property consists of a 1,518 +/- square foot site presently improved with a 4,554 +/- square foot building to Garibay Construction LLC for $280,000 cash.

The PUBLIC HEARING on this disposal of surplus real estate will be held on TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023 at 10:35 A.M.

in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 –Government Center

One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

Questions may be directed to Weston S. Young, Chief Administrative Officer, by calling 410-632-1194, or by email at weston.young@co.worcester.md.us.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS REAL ESTATE WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland propose to quitclaim a warehouse property and office space building situated along the southwest side of Snow Hill Road west of the town of Snow Hill, Maryland. The property is located at 5363 Snow Hill Road, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 and consists of a 7.96 +/- acre commercial site presently improved with a 47,575 +/square foot warehouse building with a partial office fit-out to Talkie Communications, Inc. for $380,000.

The PUBLIC HEARING on this disposal of surplus real estate will be held on TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023 at 10:35 A.M.

in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center

One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

Questions may be directed to Weston S. Young, Chief Administrative Officer, by calling 410-632-1194, or by email at weston.young@co.worcester.md.us.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-3/30/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

Disposal of Surplus Vehicles and Equipment

To be Auctioned on GovDeals.com

“Disposition of County Personal Property no Longer Used by the County”

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

The following described personal property, including vehicles, furniture and equipment, have been determined to be no longer required for County use by the County Commissioners of Worcester County, Mary-

land and deemed to be surplus property:

SURPLUS VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT

Surplus vehicles, listed by make and model (with model year), as follows: Chevrolet 1500 2WD (2005); Dodge Journey (2009); Ford 150 2WD (2009); Ford F450 Utility (2001); Ford Transit Van (2016); Chevrolet 1500 2WD (2006); Chevrolet Malibu (2004); Ford Edge (2007);

Chevrolet 1500 2WD (2006); Chevrolet 1500 2WD (2004); Chevrolet Trailblazer (2006); Dodge Stratus (2005); Dodge Stratus (2005); Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD (2013); Ford Ranger (2001); Ford Expedition (2011); Ford Explorer (2004);

Chevrolet 2500 4WD (2005); New Holland TS100A Tractor (2004); Chevrolet 3500 Utility (1998); International Roll Off (1989); International Roll Off (1991); Chevrolet Tahoe (2012).

Surplus equipment, including: Kubota F3080 Diesel Mowers (2); Toro Z Masters (3); Jacobsen 548-100 5ft Seeder; John Deere 660 Tiller 5ft; Hole Tawg 7ft Plug Aerator; Gandy 7ft Seeder; Various Trailers (7); Industrial Pump; Marathon Compactors (2); Mobark Shredder.

Surplus furniture and miscellaneous equipment, including: Box Fans; Shop Heaters; Filing Cabinets; Tool Boxes; Rolling Jack; A/C Units; Headlight Adjuster; Wheel Weights; Water Valves; Air Compressors; Transfer Switch; Chainsaw; HP Designjet Printer; Computer Monitors (6); Laptops (44); Computers (57); Commercial Stove; Commercial Food Preparation Station; Commercial Ice Cream Freezer; Glass Display Case; Concrete Saw; Corrugated Metal Pipe; Stackable Chairs; Tractor Wheels; Small Compressor Tanks.

ers Meeting Room, Room 1101 - Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-3/30/3t

NOTICE of a Public Hearing of the Berlin Board of Zoning Appeals

Pursuant to Berlin Town Code Section 108-165, The Berlin Board of Zoning appeals will hear an appeal received from Megan and Brett Hines for a Special Exception from building setback lines for the proposed construction of a mixed use building to be built at 21 Jefferson Street, Berlin, MD.

The Public Hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 5:30 PM in the second floor Council Chambers of Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Berlin, MD.

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Ocean City, Maryland.

Owner: S & S Properties

Applicant: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 23-038 A request has been submitted to install a 6’ x 12’ pier extension to an existing pier for overall length of 26’ and to install one boat lift with all associated poles, maximum channelward extension of 30’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 618 OYSTER LN Parcel # 8020A-in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: George & Theresa Perantonakis

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 23-039 A request has been submitted to install 152’ of vinyl replacement bulkhead in front of existing bulkhead, maximum channelward 18”; to construct a 5’ x 22’ parallel dock and install one boatlift with four associated pilings maximum channelward extension 13’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 701 LAUREL AVE LOT 16 Parcel # 0053B-16 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Bryan Gorczyk

APPLICANT: Bayshore Marine

Construction

PW 23-040 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with four associated pilings maximum channelward extension 19’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 201 S HERON DR UNIT 15B Parcel # 5311A-15 – Slip 23 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

isting pier, maximum channelward extension of 32’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2209 PHILADELPHIA AVE UNIT 104 Parcel # 3205 -104 – Slip #2 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Todd Fisher

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

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

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

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs.

HENRY J. WISE, SR. 6252 Basket Switch Road Newark, MD 21841

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-22-000101

NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

OWNER: Timothy McGowan

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

TERMS AND

CONDITIONS

OF SALE AND CONVEYANCE: The County Commissioners propose to solicit competitive bids via an Internet-based auction system operated by GovDeals, Inc. for which the winning bidder pays a buyer's premium of twelve and one-half percent (12.5%) of the winning bid for each transaction so that there is no net cost to the County. All of the above referenced surplus property will be offered for sale "AS IS, WHERE IS." The County Commissioners make no warranty, guaranty or representation of any kind, expressed or implied, as to the merchantability or fitness for any purpose of the property offered for sale. The County Commissioners warrant to the buyer that the property offered for sale will conform to it description. The County Commissioners reserve the right to reject any and all bids as they see fit and to withdraw from sale any of the items listed. Payment in full by successful bidders shall be made to Worcester County Commissioners.

OPPORTUNITY FOR OBJEC-

TIONS: Anyone objecting to the proposed conveyance of the above surplus vehicles and equipment shall do so in writing prior to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 13, 2023, or in person at the regularly scheduled meeting of the County Commissioners to be held at 10:35 a.m. on April 18, 2023 in the County Commission-

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106, ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, April 13, 2023 At 2:00 p.m.

PW 23-041 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift on four existing pilings not to exceed existing pier, maximum channelward extension of 32’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2209 PHILADELPHIA AVE UNIT 307 Parcel # 3205 -307 – Slip #3 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Annette Keller

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 23-042 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift on four existing pilings not to exceed ex-

Notice is hereby given this 27th day of March, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 6252 Basket Switch Road, Newark, MD 21841, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 24th day of March, 2023, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 17th day of March, 2023. The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $225,000.00.

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

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-3/30/3t

PW 23-005

A request has been submitted to install seven temporary mooring buoys a maximum channelward extension of 50’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 4501 COASTAL HWY Parcel # 7011 -4-0 -0113768957 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Aloft Hotel t/a Hotel at 45 LLC

APPLICANT: Kristina L. Watkowski

PW 23-025 A request has been submitted to install a 200 square foot platform parallel with concrete bulkhead not to exceed 6’ channelward; and to permit an existing 400 square foot platform sitting area over water, maximum channelward extension of 16’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 4507 COASTAL HWY Parcel # 7015 - in the Town of

Crew commended for inlet rescue

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) The crew of the Ocean City headboat Ocean Princess, Capt. Victor Bunting of Berlin and mates Jeff Nottingham and Matthew Moran of West Ocean City, were honored Monday night by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for helping to rescue a group of personal watercraft operators on Aug. 30 last year.

“We were coming back into the Ocean City Inlet from a day of fishing. The inlet just happened to be rough that day. The tide was going out, and an east wind was blowing, causing the seas to stand up more than they normally would.” Bunting said.

“Two Jet Skis with three people each on them got into a rough patch of water. The tide was coming out and one Jet Ski flipped over. One person got back on the Jet Ski, but the other two could not.

“I was watching them and tried to give them a second to get back on ... I immediately told my crew to stand by,” said Bunting.

“We got our man overboard ladder and life rings and we were ready to assist,” Jeff Nottingham said.

“We are a Coast Guard-certified vessel. I called the Coast Guard on the radio and told them of the situation,”

Bunting said.

“Luckily, one of the MD DNR boats heard me call for assistance. As I pulled up to the victims in the water, DNR pulled up at the same time.”

Bunting blocked boat traffic with his boat while DNR performed the rescue.

“The inlet was rough that day and DNR was having problems getting them out of the water. The Jet Ski ended up sinking, but everyone made it out OK,” Bunting said.

“It’s fairly unusual for us to have to help on the water. But we are always willing to help when we can,” Nottingham said.

Bunting, Nottingham and Moran received a Superintendent’s Letter of Appreciation signed by Acting Lt. Col. Kelley Johnson. The letter states, “The Natural Resources Police commends their actions and is thankful for their keen observation and quick action. Without their help, the incident could have easily turned tragic.”

CAINE WOODS COMMUNITY

PRICE REDUCED!

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! $325,000

Call Bill Rothstein

800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com

117 CLAM SHELL ROAD

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

Located in the desirable community of Caine Woods in North OC w/NO HOA DUES! This 3BR/2BA home has been very well cared for by the original owners. Home features an open floor plan w/split bedroom layout, a freshly painted interior, new laminate flooring, natural gas heating, a lg rear deck w/electric awning, an enclosed outside shower, and a 1-car garage. Sold fully furnished. Close to the beach, busline, shopping and dining. Don't miss out, call now to schedule your private showing. $459,000

Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com

SOLD!

13904 SAND DUNE ROAD

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

PHOTO COURTESY HEATHER NOTTINGHAM

The Ocean Princess crew was recently commended for their rescue efforts of Jet Skiers in August. Pictured, from left, are Acting Lt. Col. Kelley Johnson, Ocean Princess mate Jeff Nottingham, captain Victor Bunting, Shirley Moran (accepting on behalf of her son, Matthew, a mate on the boat) and DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz

Art league deadline for scholarship April 8

(March 31, 2023) The Art League of Ocean City reminds high school seniors the deadline to apply for college art scholarships is April 8.

The nonprofit will award several scholarships to students seeking a degree in art, continuing a tradition that began in 1991.

To date, the Art League has awarded 75 college scholarships to Worcester County students.

Students must be graduating high school seniors who are residents of Worcester County, including public and private school students and homeschoolers.

The scholarship recipient must be pursuing a higher education in the creative arts from an accredited institution. Previous Art League scholarship winners may also reapply.

The Art League will consider applicants for the Sidney M. Beckstead $5,000 scholarship; the multiple Katherine Ellen Brown $1,000 scholarships; and the Eva Fox $1,000 scholarship.

The Art League is also offering a

new $1,000 scholarship in memory of Inga Tuvesson. Scholarship winners will receive a one-year membership to the Art League.

Applications are available online at OCart.org/scholarship, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th Street, or through high school guidance offices.

With the one application, the Art League will consider students for both the $5,000 and the $1,000 scholarships. Questions on applications may be sent to katie@artleagueofoceancity.org or 410-524-9433.

The scholarships are funded by contributions from the Art League as well as from the Katherine Ellen Brown Fund administered by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and from private donors.

The Art League scholarship programs adhere to a nondiscrimination policy, in both principle and practice, and will not discriminate against candidates on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or physical

Transitioning

challenge.

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

Funding for this event is in part provided by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.

Residential rental properties must comply with lead act

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(March 31, 2023) As of Jan. 1, 2015, all residential rental properties constructed prior to 1978 must comply with Maryland’s Lead Risk Reduction in Housing Act.

This law replaces Maryland’s requirement to register properties built before 1950.

The Act requires rental property owners to register all their rental dwelling units every year with the Maryland Department of the Environment. The annual cost of registering each property is $30.

In addition to registering their property online annually, owners are required to have lead paint “inspections” prior to changes in tenancy and distribute specific lead risk educational materials.

Rental property owners can also choose to have their properties inspected by a qualified inspector who can issue what is called a “One-Time Only” lead free certification certificate.

These inspections range in price

from $350-500, but if the property passes this interior/exterior inspection, the owner is not required to annually register their rental property, and instead they submit the MDE Form E for a $10 one-time fee.

The change in Maryland’s lead law aims to reduce lead poisoning cases linked to homes built before 1978 and to help eliminate childhood lead poisoning in Maryland.

The use of lead paint was prohibited in 1978, however, reports in recent years have shown that a significant percentage of new childhood lead poisoning cases are linked to homes built from 1950-1978. Without certification and by not following approved practices, property owners can face fines and potential lawsuits.

To register or renew your property, visit www.mde.maryland.gov/LeadRegistration. Any questions on registering your property can be directed to mde.leadreg@maryland.gov or by calling 410-537-4199.

— Lauren Bunting is a licensed realtor with Bunting Realty, Inc. serving Worcester and Wicomico counties.

Scholarships available to T1 diabetics on Eastern Shore

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) The Eastern Shore T1 Diabetic Support Foundation is awarding scholarships to students battling the disease for the third year.

EST1DSF is a non-medical family support group focused on children with Type 1 diabetes. It covers affected families across Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Sussex counties, said Foundation Founder Katie Rimel.

Students have until April 15 to submit an application, which includes a high school transcript, a resume or list of activities, a letter of recommendation, a letter of acceptance to a college, university or trade school, and a 500 word essay about what Type 1 diabetes has taught the student about perseverance.

Application materials can be submitted on the foundation’s website at est1d.org.

As of March 23, no students have submitted applications, but EST1DSF sent reminder letters to school nurses and guidance counselors, Rimel said.

“We just want to get the word out that this is available and it’s really not a hard scholarship to get if the people

know about it,” Rimel said. “Because of HIPAA laws, we can’t call the school and say, ‘So how many diabetics do you have at your school? Get them to apply.’ That’s why we have to get the word out about it.”

The foundation pays the scholarship directly to schools to cover textbooks or tuition, and it’s only awarded once per student.

In 2021, three students were each awarded a $1,000 scholarship, but last year Mardela High School student Daniel Ashcraft, the sole winner, was presented $2,500 to put toward trade school.

“These kids, they fight hard every day just to be themselves and we just want them to know that we’re there for them and we want to reward them for their success,” Rimel said.

Flora Glasgow, CRNP, who is part of the Pediatric Specialty Clinic in Endocrinology at TidalHealth in Salisbury, said she serves just over 100 Type 1 diabetics age 22 and younger who live across the middle and lower Eastern Shore.

Glasgow estimates there is about 100 other children facing Type 1 dia-

See

Lois James d.d.s.

PHOTO COURTESY KATIE RIMEL

The Eastern Shore Type One Diabetes Support Foundation presented a scholarship to Daniel Ashcraft of Mardela High School last year. Pictured, from left, are Deanna and Daniel Ashcraft, with Katie, Eric and Corey Rimel representing the Eastern Shore Type One Diabetes Support Foundation.

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

March 31, 2023) The Worcester County Public Schools Board of Education discussed the following during its March 21 meeting:

Kindergarten Readiness Assessment results

The Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA) results showed that 73 percent of Worcester County’s incoming kindergarteners were primed for the classroom, with the rest of the state trailing behind that figure, said Early Childhood Education Coordinator Diane Shorts.

The KRA, which is based on an assessment kindergartener’s take in the first two months of school, evaluates children’s skills, knowledge and behaviors as part of Maryland’s Early Childhoods Comprehensive assessment system, according to the BOE meeting agenda.

The average percentage of kindergarten-ready children throughout the state was 42 percent in 2022, which WCPS topped by 31 percentage points, according to data presented by Shorts. Worcester County had the highest score in the state of Maryland.

“So we’re significantly above. Do we have some more to go? Absolutely. Seventy-three is not all of our students, so we need to figure out what we need to do to get 100 percent,” Shorts said.

The KRA began in 2014 by census

testing, or testing every kindergartener entering school, according to the slides.

From 2016-2022 schools could choose to evaluate based on a sample group of children or continue census testing, but for the 2022-2023 school year, all kindergarteners were required to participate.

“The research out there shows that, the assessment here, if we do not intervene, it is what they will kinda look like in high school,” Shorts said. “And so this is valuable, valuable information for us to have so early in their career so that we can help out in any way.”

Blueprint for Maryland’s Future submitted to AIB

Denise Shorts, chief academic officer for grades PK-8 said that on March 15, the board submitted its initial plan for implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future to the Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB).

The AIB is partnered with the Maryland State Department of Education, and it was created to oversee the Blueprint’s implementation in state and local education, according to the MSDE website.

The AIB will provide feedback for the initial plan between April and May, rating the 164 questions presented in the plan as “met,” “partially met” or “not met.” For full approval, no question can be “partially met” or “not met.” Then the AIB will send it back to WCPS for a second

draft.

By July the board is expected to resubmit the implementation plan for final approval, Shorts said.

Security cameras, HVAC updates for local schools

The board approved a $1.26 million upgrade of security cameras in Snow Hill High School, Pocomoke High School, Worcester Technical High School and Ocean City Elementary School, after a presentation from Maintenance and Operations Manager Sam Slacum and Coordinator of Safety and Security Shawn Goddard.

ARK Systems, a Maryland-based company specializing in data communications, video, security alarm systems and more, is contracted to complete the upgrade.

The project is mostly funded by money

set aside by the County Commissioners which amounts to about $1.5 million, of which $975,000 is going to the camera upgrades, said Chief Financial Officer Vincent Tolbert.

Directly after the camera project approval, the board also approved rooftop HVAC unit replacements at Pocomoke and Snow Hill middle schools through a $548,295 contract with Wilfre, Co, a mechanical contractor from Hebron, Maryland.

Funds from the County Commissioners will also cover the project, Tolbert said, along with local funding and Delmarva Power Rebate dollars, Slacum said.

FY24 proposed budget approved

The board approved the proposed Continued on Page 47

Diabetic scholarships available

Continued from Page 45

betes in the same region who seek treatment from other hospitals and practices.

The CDC National Diabetes Statistics Report estimated that in 2019 about 244,000 adolescents under the age of 20 had diagnosed type one diabetes.

Most of the EST1DSF’s fundraising comes through events like its annual Spaghetti Dinner and ticket drop auction in October, as well as the 31 Days of 31 Raffle.

Rimel said the foundation has raised over $100,000 since it was created.

“They deserve these awards because they’ve had a battle,” Rimel said. “For a kid to deal with diabetes, and to keep up in school and sports and everything, can sometimes be tough.”

Since its inception, the foundation has helped families pay for summer camps for children with Type 1 diabetes, Rimel said. A popular destination for locals is Camp Possibilities in Harford County, the closest diabetes camp to the region, Rimel said.

The foundation also holds family events at no charge or reduced rates.

On May 21, it is hosting a bowling get-together at Southbound Alleys in Salisbury, and on Aug. 6 families with the foundation will pay the non-profit rate of $25 per person at Jolly Roger Amusements, rather than the normal $45 ticket fee, Rimel said.

“Being that the Eastern Shore is more rural, I think kids are by themselves,” Rimel said. “They don’t know other diabetics, so by having Eastern Shore T1 Diabetic Support Foundation, we’re bringing families together to get to know each other, and so they know they’re not alone in this battle.”

Rimel founded EST1DSF after her son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2009.

Rimel said that the foundation focuses on just Type 1 diabetes because it is more common in children compared to Type 2, which is much more common in adults.

“Not many people see it like they see other diseases, so we want awareness of the disease,” Rimel said. “Kids can live a great life with this disease as long as they take care of themselves.”

utility bills. The insulated/finished two-car garage has great storage space, epoxied floor, full sized standing freezer, garage refrigerator, and workbench. Exterior features are lawn irrigation system, trash enclosure, front porch, back 3-season room offering screens and 3-season curtain system plus a coated concrete floor done by Pinnacle. Outside the enclosed porch you’ll find a wonderful deck that the sellers had built complete with auto/mechanical lighted awning with wind sensor closure feature. This sought after, amenity rich community offers outdoor pool with poolside pavilion bar, firepit, tennis, pickleball, a putting green, tot lot play area, kayak rentals, RV/Boat storage lot rentals, and four recreation lakes for rowing or fishing and lawn maintenance included in the homeowners dues! The well-appointed clubhouse has a fireplace, lounge, table tennis, game area, fitness center and even a yoga studio! Schedule to see this one today!

Area schools ranked in Dept. Ed report card

(March 31, 2023) The Maryland State Department of Education released its first update since 2019 to the Maryland Report Card website last week, containing performance data for every school in the state, including 10 schools in Worcester County.

In Worcester County, 90 percent of eligible schools earned a rating of four or five stars.

For comparison, only 48 percent of all school types in Maryland reached four- or five-star status.

Worcester’s concentration of fourand five-star schools is the third highest in the state, following Garrett and Queen Anne’s counties respectively.

In this year’s data release, Ocean City Elementary School’s rating increased from four- to five-star status, and Showell Elementary School, which was previously not eligible for stars, joins Buckingham Elementary at the four-star level.

All middle schools across the county reached four-star status, as well as both Pocomoke and Snow Hill high schools.

Stephen Decatur High School also fell just 0.7 percentage points shy from reaching four-star status.

To receive a star rating, a school must have 45 or more possible points. Some schools may not have possible points for every measure or indicator.

In Worcester County, Pocomoke Elementary and Snow Hill Elementary Schools did not reach this possible point threshold, which is why the schools were not issued a star rating.

Additionally, Worcester Technical High School and Cedar Chapel Special Schools do not meet the qualifications for a star rating.

These scores reflect school performance on multiple components. For elementary and middle schools, the system includes academic achievement, academic progress, progress in achieving English language proficiency, and measures of school quality and student success.

For high schools, the system includes academic achievement, graduation rate, progress in English language proficiency, readiness for postsecondary success, and measures of school quality and student success.

All schools’ calculations incorporate school composite scores on a statewide

Teacher of the Year Jaimie Ridgely of Decatur Middle

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Jaimie Ridgely, a 7th and 8th grade literacy and tech ed teacher at Stephen Decatur Middle School, has been named Teacher of the Year by Worcester County Board of Education.

“There are so many amazing educators across our county and cohort,” Ridgely said. “This is humbling, amazing, exciting. I really have not wrapped my brain around everything yet. I feel privileged to do it [teach].”

“Jaimie will be a fantastic representative not only for her school, but our entire school system as she progresses to the state-level program. Her passionate advocacy for building student literacy is to be commended,” Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said.

Ridgely’s teacher genes kicked in at a young age.

“I am the oldest in my family. When I was young, my parents bought me a chalkboard, and I forced my siblings to play school with me. I did not realize I wanted to be a

teacher; it was just something I liked to do.”

Mrs. Dominga Joyce, her 5th grade teacher in El Paso, Texas, talked about going to college. “No one had ever talked to me about going to college,” Ridgely said. “I remember being absolutely taken. I wanted to go to college and be a teacher.

“I tried to fight the urge. I wanted to make money. I was going to be a lawyer. But after the first semester, I switched to education.”

She graduated from Salisbury University with a degree in literacy. Ridgely earned her masters and doctoral degrees at Salisbury, where she also serves as an adjunct professor. She was the first person in her immediate family to attend college.

“There’s so much I love about teaching. My days are full of joy and excitement. I learn more from my students than they learn from me. It is amazing to see how they transform as they discover and develop their own literate lives.”

Ridgely prioritizes writerly identity exploration, joy, and agency in her

School Survey, which is based on input related to safety, community, environment, and relationships.

“I am very proud to report that our schools continue to perform well in Maryland’s accountability system,” said Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor. “This report card release is the first since before the covid-19 pandemic, and it is clear that while we certainly have much to celebrate, there is a lot of work ahead of us.”

Maryland introduced school report cards in 2018 for students, parents, educators and community members could better understand how their schools are performing, just as report cards help parents understand how their kids are doing.

The goal of the school report card is

to bring together school data in an easyto-understand and usable format to help us ask questions, find answers, make decisions, and act.

The school report cards can be found on the Maryland Report Card website, as well as more information and data about schools and districts.

This information can be found at MdReportCard.org.

An update on the latest release of the Maryland School Report Card was made to the State Board of Education on Feb. 28.

The presentation materials for the meeting, which provide statewide context to Worcester County’s performance, can be found at https://marylandpublicschools.org/stateboard/Pages/meetingagendas/2023/2023-02-28.aspx.

BOARD OF ED BRIEFS

Continued from Page 46

FY24 Operating budget with numerous increases in expenditures and revenue after a presentation by Tolbert.

The proposed total revenue for the budget is almost $132 million, about 80 percent of which will come from county appropriations.

Just over 19 percent of the revenue will come from state aid, a $2.86 million increase in state funding compared to last year.

Expenditure increases will include an over $4.25 million increase for salaries, a $1.1 million, or 9.49 percent, increase in health insurance and $403,742 in bus contractor increases, raising the hourly wage from $25 to $28.

Enrichment and Technology Education classes. She believes community, voice, choice, and reflections are the cornerstones of building a studentcentered classroom.

“Many students lament not having the freedom to write. They don’t like writing in school.

“But they have a writerly identity. They see themselves as writers. They have self-selected genres that pull them into writing. Even if that iden-

tity is not what they are in school, they have rich writing lives at home.”

Ridgely cultivates that.

“I want them to know that when life requires them to write, they can write and do it competently and confidently.”

She gives them the encouragement and support to do that.

“Opening up space for them to explore writing processes, preferences, genres they want to write; they can

The Maryland State Department of Education released its first update since 2019 to the Maryland Report Card website last week, containing performance data for every school in the state, including 10 schools in Worcester County.

COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Worcester County Public Schools named Jaimie Ridgely of Stephen Decatur Middle School Teacher of the Year.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

FINALISTS

Worcester Preparatory School seniors Christopher Todorov, left, and Parker Tingle have been named 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program finalists.

DONATION

Executive Director Brandon O'Brien spoke to the Ocean City Lions Club about the Hope4Recovery House in Berlin. Certified by CARF International, H4R now provides substance use disorder treatment within a structured and supervised living environment. Pictured, from left, are Lion Greg Burgan, Second Vice President Mike Hooper, O'Brien, and Lion Joe

GOODBYE

Outgoing Worcester County Garden Club

President Deborah Young receives a floral arrangement from Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland District 1 Director Jeanne Bernard.

TEAM SUPPORT

Worcester Prep fourth graders, from left, Remy Hertrich, Olivia Mason, Camille Leslie and Allie Kuon show their love for the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens. Worcester Prep 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.

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. Senior Harrison Humes presented junior Carson Rayne with his class ring.

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 www.wyattswarriors.org. Pictured are Kindergartners Tenley Brittingham, Savannah Baker, Romie Crevecoeur and Rosie Lane.

Myles.

BREAKFAST

The Worcester Prep Alumni Association sponsored a breakfast to celebrate the last 100 days of school for the senior class on Feb. 10. Seniors gather with their parents, from left, are Anna Bushnell ’96 with her son, Brody; Parker Tingle with his mom, WPS Director of Development Amy Tingle; Head of Middle School Megan Wallace with her son, Cayden; and Alumni Association President Chris Hoen ’90 with his daughter, Caitlyn.

PROCLAMATION

The commissioners presented a proclamation on Feb. 7 to Worcester County NAACP President Ivory Smith recognizing February as Black History Month. The commissioners also paid tribute to a number of historic figures whose contributions helped to shape Worcester County.

AARP MEETING

AARP Ocean City Chapter 1917 President Bob McCluskey attended the organization’s luncheon at Blue Fish restaurant on Feb, 8 with over 50 members.

The AARP Ocean City Chapter 1917 meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the Ocean City Senior Center on 41st Street, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

GIFT

SUPPLY RUN

NEW MEMBERS

The Coastal Association of Realtors welcomed 18 new members during New Member Orientation on Feb. 16. Pictured, in back, from left, are Wesley Rogers with Long and Foster, Joe Martenson with Keller Williams, Kevin Brittingham with eXp Realty, Erin Failaev with ERA Martin, Jesse Thompson with Compass, Charles Riccio with Redfin, Michael Payan with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s, and Austin Connick with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s; middle row, Cortney Dayton with Keller Williams, Zlatica Koscina with Coldwell Banker, Michele Steele with eXp Realty, Rachel Shapiro with Coldwell Banker, Haley Jackson with Compass, and Anisa Impastato with Century 21; and on front, Haille Spicer with Long and Foster, Sarah McGee with Keller Williams, Robyn Kaspersky with Vision Realty and Eden Cavich with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s.

The Ocean City Jeep Club held its seventh annual Worcester County Animal Shelter Supply Run with over 57 Jeeps in attendance. The group is pictured on Feb. 18 in front of the Worcester County Humane Society, a no-kill shelter in Berlin.

A portrait of Commodore Stephen Decatur Jr. was gifted to the Worcester County Historical Society by Catherine Spence. It will be displayed in the Maryland Room of the Berlin Branch Library. Pictured are Jennifer Ranck, Worcester County Library director, and Newt Weaver, Worcester County Historical Society president.

Jaimie Ridgely encourages student to live literate lives

Continued from Page 47

figure out for themselves what they enjoy bringing to the page. And learning what it takes to be successful writers.”

She cultivates their interests from graphic novels, to YouTube scripts, to manuals on how to beat a video game.

“Writing is hard. I help them to see what they can be successful with. They grow from there.”

“Some of them still don’t like to write. I help them get ideas from their heads to words on the page.”

“The future is writing. The more people write, the more they read,” Ridgely said. “They will be judged by their writing before people have the pleasure of meeting them.”

“It’s important that the things we are doing in the classroom really prioritize the development of literate lives. Preparing kids not for more school, but what happens after school. We need to use our time wisely,” Ridgley said.

If Ridgely had it her way, “we would have more books! Books everywhere, in every classroom,” she said. “I would have teacher libraries, graphic novels, access to literacy and field trips to experience the world.”

With over 21 years of teaching experience, Ridgely also serves on her

United Way’s Lower Shore Addiction Awareness comp

school improvement team, is a peer mentor and professional learning facilitator, and Worcester LEAD teacher. She also dedicates time after school to stoking the interests of her students through programs like her Book Club, Dungeons & Dragons, and tutoring sessions.

Ridgely was one of four finalists announced during the program, who were in the running for the prestigious title. The other outstanding finalists were Michelle Bradley of Pocomoke High School, Silviya Gallo of Worcester Technical High School, and Wendy Macrides of Ocean City Elementary School.

Ridgely was selected by a panel of judges representing experts in the field of education, community leaders, and the current reigning 2022 Worcester County Teacher of the Year.

All candidates were judged based on a rigorous set of criteria in alignment with both the state and national level Teacher of the Year programs, which include instructional abilities, collaboration, building connections with the community, leadership and innovation both in and out of the classroom, and the ability to articulate their education beliefs and advocate for how to better this field.

Newark house fire kills 20 animals, 3 people displaced

(March 31, 2023) The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a residential structure fire which occurred at 9252 Croppers Island Road in Newark on Wednesday.

The Newark Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for a reported house fire at 11:12 a.m.

Upon arrival, crews experienced significant fire conditions throughout the two-story single-family home.

Early into the incident, an evacuation of interior crews was ordered after a firefighter fell through the second floor and the building partially collapsed.

Assistance was requested from Ocean City, Showell, Berlin, Stockton, Powellville and Willards fire departments. Firefighters spent 4.5 hours on scene bringing the

fire under control and estimate they flowed over 50,000 gallons of water during the event.

The American Red Cross aided three adults who lived in the home. Over 20 animals were believed to have perished in the fire.

The cause of the fire is considered accidental, believed to be due to a portable heating appliance. No injuries were reported.

(March 31, 2023) United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES) is once again hosting the Lower Shore Addiction Awareness Visual Arts Competition.

The competition is open to any public, private or home school high school student in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

Students may submit one piece of fine art in any media including painting, drawing, collage, mixed media, photography, sculpture or video.

Works must have opioid or other drug and/or alcohol addiction awareness as the subject matter. An emphasis on hope for/maintaining recovery is encouraged.

Submissions must be no larger than 28x28 inches and weigh no more than 10 pounds. Video submissions must be provided on a USB drive.

Prizes will be awarded to winners in each of the four counties, along with a top “Best in Show” award across all counties.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 6 and should be delivered to United Way at 803 N. Salisbury Blvd., Suite 2100, Salisbury.

All submissions must include a completed entry and release form which can be found, along with the full list of rules, at www.uwles.org/art.

This competition is made possible by support from the Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester County Health Departments, Salisbury Elks #817, Gannett Foundation and UWLES.

Submissions from past competitions can be seen online at www.uwles.org/art and are available for display at community events. For more information, contact Martin Hutchison at Martin@uwles.org or call 410-202-0375.

United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES), now in its 78th year of local service, harnesses the power of community to advance health, education and financial stability for all neighbors in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

UWLES and its community partners help empower Lower Shore residents by addressing barriers for better health, supporting educational success for learners of all ages, and strengthening economic security for local households.

UWLES provides direct services, collaborates with stakeholders, and supports dozens of local nonprofits to strengthen the entire community, impacting one in every three neighbors annually.

Through the Get Connected Volunteer Center, UWLES connects over

SHHS students protest over racist post on social media

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) The Snow Hill High School baseball team found itself in hot water at the beginning of its season last week when classmates protested after the team allegedly circulated a racially insensitive picture and video on Snapchat.

The students held their protest on the school’s football field following a staged walkout on March 23. County Schools Superintendent Lou Taylor and Snow Hill Principal Dr. Kimberly Purvis attended the protest.

Earlier this month, members of the baseball team allegedly posted a picture to the popular social media website in which several teammates posed in black masks with the text “We them (racial epithet)” superimposed on it, accompanied by darkskinned ninja emojis.

The ninja emoji is often used online as a substitute for a notorious and highly offensive racial epithet for a Black person, according to multiple internet culture websites.

Another Snapchat post, a video, al-

legedly shows a white student writing a racial slur.

County school system spokesperson Carrie Sterrs said in an email that the school system does not comment specifically on what disciplinary action it took beyond that it was taken “in accordance with our established code of conduct.”

The school system learned of the incident on March 8, she said.

“It is Worcester County Public Schools’ primary goal that every student and staff member feel safe and welcome in our schools,” she wrote.

“It is only through an emphasis on empathy and understanding that a culture of belonging can exist, enabling learning to occur. We strive to build these environments in all of our schools, so when an incident happens that impacts that culture, we work to engage resources and support to repair any division that has happened as a result.”

Sterrs added that WCPS is providing support for students who need it in light of the recent events.

“It is our hope that these supports

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY FIRE OFFICE

A house fire on Croppers Island Road in Newark kills at least 20 animals and displaced three people. A firefighter fell through the second floor when it partially collapsed.

First Presbyterian provides showers and food

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Spring is here and with the warmer weather comes more people and a greater need for the resources provided by the First Presbyterian Church in Ocean City.

“We have a small church but everyone is involved in our mission,” the Rev. Dan McKenty said. “When spring hits, we kick into a different gear.”

The church has a food bank that is open Wednesdays from 9-11:30 am.

First Presbyterian works with the Maryland Food Bank. Other donations of food and supplies comes from congregants and patrons of Full Moon Restaurant in West Ocean City.

“Full Moon advertises our needs on their electronic board, and we have two postal boxes that sit in the window. Bartenders remind patrons to bring in donations. We are well into our second year with Full Moon,” McKenty said.

“We would love to see other restaurants and businesses support the food bank too.”

Once summer hits, the international student workers, who hold J1 work/travel visas, will arrive.

“These young people breathe joy into our congregation. We feed the J1 workers every Wednesday and provide them access to the food pantry. They love our food pantry. We had to limit them to one bag of food or they would wipe us out,” McKenty said.

People with families can get more than one bag of groceries from the pantry weekly.

The church also hears about needy

families through social media and word of mouth. McKenty’s wife, Tina, was in communication with a couple recently, and she packed up two weeks of food and other items and brought it to them.

Starting April 4, “Beyond Your Walls” will bring their mobile showers to the church parking lot on Tuesdays. The hours are 9:30- 11 a.m. Showers may be cancelled due to rain.

“This is a fabulous mobile shower with a dressing room and mirror. We pump the water from the pastor’s house,” McKenty said.

“The church provides a place for neighbors to help neighbors,” McKenty said. “The community would miss this church badly if it was not here.”

OP holds ‘vote’ sign contest

(March 31, 2023) The Ocean Pines Communications Committee is sponsoring a design a “vote” sign contest to help spread the word for the 2023 Ocean Pines Board of Directors election.

Homeowners and residents in all age groupds are asked to design an 18 x 24-inch lawn sign.

The winning sign or signs will be announced by the committee on June 2. The winners will receive a $100 Yacht Club gift card.

Winning signs will be displayed around the community as part of the voter turnout effort.

UWLES visualizes addiction with art

Continued from Page 50

140 nonprofits with community members who want to get involved.

For more information on United Way or to help make a difference visit: www.uwles.org, www.ShoreGetConnected.org.

“We hope our homeowners and residents will show off their artistic talents and send us their best work,” Committee Chairperson Cheryl Jacobs said. “The committee feels strongly about increasing voter turnout in Ocean Pines, and we believe this is a fun and, hopefully, effective way to help spread the word for the upcoming board election.”

Sign submissions may be sent to Jenny Cropper-Rines at jcrines@gmail.com. All submissions must be received by May 15. Submissions must be in either jpg, png, or pdf formats.

Continued from Page 50

will assist all students in taking ownership of their words and actions and build a consensus around how best to restore the relationships that were impacted by recent events,” she wrote.

PHOTO CURTESY OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Beyond Your Walls will be providing showers for those in need on Tuesdays starting April 4 from 9:30-11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Ocean City.

Politics stall bill on OC room tax

People who follow politics closely must appreciate the irony (but not the insult to their intelligence) when one politician or political party forcefully asserts that an action by their opposites is — gasp — politically motivated. Of course it is, as is the accusation itself.

Not all members of the public get that, which may be why that political motivation charge is routinely trotted out whenever one politically motivated side wants to create doubt about what the other politically motivated side is doing.

Generally speaking, and not to put too fine a point on it, a politician without political motivation is like a raindrop without water. It’s just how things work and, unfortunately, it’s why legislation authorizing an Ocean City room tax increase from 5 to 6 percent was yanked off the Maryland Senate floor last week rather than risk its defeat.

There’s nothing controversial about this measure, especially considering that room taxes in many other counties are higher than the rate Ocean City government wishes to impose next January.

This bill’s problem is not its contents, but is its path to approval, which forces it to cross the ground Republicans and Democrats have staked out for themselves at the national, state and regional levels.

As a Republican-sponsored bill, Democrats are eager to label it a Republican tax increase for propaganda purposes, even though it has nothing to do with party politics. Republicans, meanwhile, wouldn’t mind being able to point the finger at “tax-happy Democrats” should they pass the measure more or less on their own.

It is also possible that the Democrat-controlled Senate is sending Worcester County voters yet another not-so-subtle message that local courtesy doesn’t apply when there’s still a price to pay for replacing Democrat Jim Mathias with Republican Mary Beth Carozza in the 2018 election.

The fate of this legislation, which has cleared the House of Delegates, doesn’t hang on its merits, but on whether the parties are willing to set aside their political motivations just long enough to achieve a bipartisan vote in its favor.

Ocean City Today

11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842

Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.

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

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

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

Hoffman, Hunter Hine

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

Kelly

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin

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

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

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

Printing your dinner

With all the concern being expressed about the rapid growth of artificial intelligence technology, I fear that we’re overlooking something even more worrisome than robot-written articles supported by deep fake photos that purport to show, “The president spends a quiet evening at home in his toeshoes and tutu.”

By Stewart Dobson

material, if you will, in the lab from cells extracted from an actual animal. That means, of course, that somewhere there are herds of black angus that are missing a bunch of little meat divots, courtesy of, I guess, a cow poker.

What this means is that the day will come when we say goodbye to grass-fed beef at the supermarket counter, and hello to glass-fed beef.

Copyright

An even greater threat, I believe, is the burgeoning fake food business, which has gone far, far beyond the days when “a delicious shake for breakfast” didn’t scare anyone but me.

To be clear, I’m fond of eating whatever’s available (except for a delicious shake for breakfast, feta cheese, green bean casserole and anything that might be found sliming its way across my sidewalk, no matter what it’s called in France), but I do have my limits.

This would include one of the newer marvels of modern technology — the 3D printed rib-eye steak. As food production goes, it’s the equivalent of a moon shot, except that it’s a moo shot, I suppose.

I’m not kidding. An Israeli company has been doing that for a couple of years now, actually using a 3D printer to produce a ribeye from a liquidy solution of cow cells. At least, I assume it’s a liquidy solution, as I can’t imagine any other way the printer could squirt out the layers of gristle-free, perfectly marbled whatever ready for grilling.

According to the outfit that invented the process, its scientists are able to grow steak

You can imagine what this could lead to: lab coat-wearing scientists sitting around the campfire at night, eating beans and biscuits, and singing cowboy songs while guarding their beakers of beef from rustlers.

As would be expected, proponents of this approach contend that printing your rib-less rib-eye is a much more humane way of meeting the consumer demand for red meat than sending hapless herds of hearty Herefords to the House of No Return.

What they fail to recognize, of course, are the millions of little cow cells, looking down through the nozzle of that 3D printer with their little cow cell eyes and going, “NOOOooooooo!

Still, I’m less inclined to think of the final product as prime rib when it’s fashioned from something that’s more ooze than moos. I also suspect there may be a marketing problem with the latter, considering that “Half-price Slime Rib Night” just doesn’t sound that attractive.

On the other hand, if this approach catches on, there might be a point in the future where we’ll be able to slip over to Staples, go to the printer section, and order dinner.

We’ll have RGB cartridges, CMYK cartridges, and, for the beef lovers, the Yippee Ki Yay cartridge.

Harden our schools with armed guards

Editor,

When will the Worcester County Board of Education harden our schools?

All federal facilities are hardened, having armed security as well as the Supreme Court, Capital Building, airports, the TSA sporting events, local police stations, etc. etc. etc.

Even the recent board of education meeting had armed police stationed in the hallway. How is it that our children are not secured with armed personnel?

I believe that an armed, uniformed person will be taken out first by a deranged shooter allowing him/her to proceed, freely in the carnage.

Volunteer school staff members can be trained in the proper, safe use of a firearm and be permitted to conceal carry in our schools.

This would be the greatest deterrence to an assassin for he/she will not know where return fire will come from. The National Rifle Association has a program specifically designed to train school personnel and a program called “School Shield” which will help defray the cost of this security.

Many schools throughout the country have signed on to this program.

Some shallow thinkers claim that this would lead to a shootout. Yes, of course, but the difference is that the bullets will be going the other way greatly shortening the carnage.

These shallow thinkers don’t and will not understand that a bad man with a gun is always stopped by a good man with a gun.

They cannot get past the emotion and thought of guns in our schools will make them safer for our children. They are also consumed with the optics of gun toting staff members.

Hey, how does the optics of our children’s blood all over a classroom and children hysterically crying appeal to you?

Trained staff members in our schools will be able to save lives by saving the precious minutes it will take for the police to arrive, carrying guns, to stop the killing.

How is it that it is OK for the police to arrive with guns in the “gun free zone” but it is not OK for school staff volunteers to already be at ground zero ready to save lives?

The other suggestion I have is to take down those maniac-attracting signs that read: “This is a gun free zone.” More gun violence has taken place in gun free zones then in any other areas of our country. They are danger zones!

Again, shallow thinking people feel good about these signs. Now, think

deeper and try to get into the mind of a psychotic would-be mass murderer.

Do you really “think” that a nut will be persuaded in any way shape or form not to kill a dozen or so of our beloved children because he or she read this sign?

The people that are persuaded are the very people that could shoot back and stop the mayhem. These signs give the assassin a secure feeling that they will not be shot.

Let’s do this now before it becomes our turn to cry. Let us learn from others’ horrible misfortunes!! Keep in mind the Boy Scout’s motto, “Be Prepared!” because right now we are not!

Dennis W. Evans Berlin

Worcester County’s big poop problem

Editor,

Worcester County’s planners have a poop problem, but their solution may make us look more like Sussex County than the family vacation destination we claim to be.

Frontier Town and Sea Oaks Village gobbled up much of the Mystic Harbor sewage treatment system’s capacity to dispose of treated wastewater, leaving little capacity to continue developing the Route 611 corridor and elsewhere.

According to the county’s staff, options for expanding Mystic Harbor’s disposal capacity are limited.

Spray irrigation on local golf courses is seasonal.

Underground injection of wastewater has been problematical and suffers from public perception: where we use wells and drink groundwater, using injection wells for disposal of wastewater isn’t considered a long-term solution.

Finally, there are caps limiting how much wastewater the county can send through the West Ocean City sewer system to the Ocean City treatment plant for ocean disposal.

One solution now gaining traction is to build a new wastewater pipeline from Mystic Harbor to the Riddle Farm treatment/storage facility, where there is excess capacity — sufficient capacity for the thousands of new homes and businesses developers are dreaming of building on the western side of Route 611.

The County Commissioners are listening to the dreamers.

Tuesday (March 21) the commissioners agreed to hire consultants to evaluate new wastewater pipeline routes, each of which was selected to stimulate development along Route. 611.

Building any new wastewater pipelines would be a dream fulfilled for the bankers and developers who see the swamps, farms and trees west

of Route 611 as an unproductive and underutilized use of prime real estate.

Each proposed route could open a vast area extending west of Route 611 to the Holly Grove Road intersection with Route 50.

The land in between would be ripe for draining and scraping bare so cookie-cutter houses could be planted as they have done in Sussex County.

Some speculate as many as 5,000 new homes could be built.

Responsible development is important for Worcester County.

To a planner or engineer, an interconnection might make engineering sense if the goal is primarily to support growth along Route. 611.

But what about the taxpayer cost or the ecological impact of repurposing the swamps, forests and farmland that serve as an important environmental buffer helping to protect our struggling coastal bays?

Instead of building upon any of the existing arrangements serving the Route 50 corridor, a new pipeline will ultimately lead to more public spending on roads, water and wastewater services, police and fire services and schools.

That means more taxes. The bankers and developers want the public to pay for this infrastructure, not the investors looking to maximize their profit.

Taking a broad look at our investment in water and wastewater services in Worcester County is long overdue. But the process should not be driven by bankers, real estate developers, planners or engineers.

Years ago, the prevailing view in the wastewater treatment business was “the solution to pollution is dilution.” That is a philosophy that created nutrient-rich, oxygen-starved dead zones in the Chesapeake Bay.

We shouldn’t let that discredited philosophy justify the growth this interconnection initiative is intended to support.

Down the road we will hear proposals for connecting this new pipeline to the treatment plants discharging into the St. Martin River and off our Atlantic beaches.

When that day comes maybe our politicians will object as loudly as they do now to building wind farms far off the Ocean City shore.

Stephen Katsanos South Point

Strong Schools Maryland support Editor,

An article in Friday’s [March 24] Ocean City Today about last week’s school board meeting incorrectly identified those wearing red shirts as being a “Pro-bill group” and quoted only the slogan from the back of our shirts.

The journalist did not mention that the front says, “Strong Schools Maryland” and that we have been regularly attending board meetings

supporting The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.

Although some of us are in favor of HB 119, that is not what the red stands for and not the point of our testimony. The “time is now” means that it is time to fully implement the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the path for Maryland to have World Class schools.

A major problem with the discussion on HB 119 is that the bill does not do what the opponents say. It does not change the current heath curriculum.

It only codifies that school systems are expected to follow the current curriculum and Worcester County does.

It does not say that kindergartners should be asked if they want to change their sex.

It does not teach pornography or smut as some say.

It teaches age-appropriate information on health that gives students the skills and information they need to stay safe and make good choices.

The Blueprint is a plan to expand early childhood, create a professional career ladder for teachers with commensurate pay, make sure all students leave high school ready for college or a career, and make sure there are sufficient community supports for all students and families to help them succeed K-12.

Those of us wearing red shirts

Continued on Page 54

JOIN US

33119

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stand for the implementation of the blueprint.

Joan Roache Ocean City Strong Schools Worcester County, Team Leader

Pharmacy nightmare Editor,

My wife had a stroke in the middle of October 2021, was taken to TidalHealth in Salisbury, then admitted to Encompass rehab in Salisbury, and then Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

After three months she came home in a wheelchair, she could get in and out of bed on her own, she could take care of herself.

I was told to pick up her prescriptions at (a local pharmacy0. I picked up eight prescriptions and was never told that the blood thinner Eliquis was not given to me, even though it was prescribed.

In the past, when the prescription was not right, they would let me know.

Six days later she had another stroke, this time very serious. She was admitted to TidalHealth in serious condition.

The doctor in the emergency room wanted to know if he could do whatever necessary to keep her alive. We both have living wills, so I told him to stick to the living will.

A priest was called in to give her last rites.

Then she was moved to a room, she was doing just a little better. I asked the doctor what could have caused the stroke, and he said he wasn’t sure, but it was likely that she wasn’t given her Eliquis blood thinner.

When I went home, I checked the prescriptions I was given ... and the

blood thinner was missing.

When my son brought it up to the manager at [the pharmacy], he just shrugged it off and said that people make mistakes.

Starting with Memorial Day I was demonstrating outside [the building]. When I first started, a retired nurse stopped to talk to me and said the only way I will find peace is to forgive the pharmacist — and I told her I would never do that.

A few people that stopped to talk to me said that the pharmacist must be a real bonehead to make that mistake like that.

Then in August the manager came out and said he was nice enough to let me stay but I should stop talking to customers — but I said I would keep demonstrating and talking to the customers. I asked him how he would like it if it happened to his wife.

I was very upset, my blood pressure went up to 180, and they gave me medication in the ER to deal with it.

In September a customer who likes the pharmacist tried to get me into a fight with him.

I’m 88 years old, he is about 20 years younger than me and 20 pounds heavier, so that makes two boneheads.

On Nov. 7 they called the police, so I had to stop.

By the way, if you go online to the Maryland Better Business Bureau, and also to other review sites, this [pharmacy] gets mostly one-star reviews, which certainly tells you something about them.

And the Maryland Board of Pharmacy found the pharmacist who forgot to give me the Eliquis prescription at fault, they said the case was very serious, and it will remain in her file. But they didn’t go any further than that — and I thought she should have been fired, or at least suspended for one year.

My wife is still in Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation, I don’t think she will ever be able to come home. We have been through hell and are still going through it and I don’t want anyone else to go through this like I have.

Check your prescriptions when you get them.

John Scudato Ocean Pines

Must ensure ability to handle all situations Editor,

For those who watched the board [of education]meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, there was a recurring theme, up until the very end of the night.

That theme was the fact that I couldn’t even get a second for my motions to initiate a discussion amongst board members for the issues that were at hand.

https://www.youtube.com/live/uYRCYM6bZx0?feature=share.

My first topic of discussion for my motion had to do with safety (2 hours, 22 minutes). I made a motion to develop a policy in which board members are notified of incidents involving law enforcement, ambulance calls, or student/personnel altercations. Motion denied as I couldn’t get a second.

The board of education is a team and we all need to work together with each other as well as the superintendent and administration of the board.

When citizens of this county (our supervisors) contact me in regards to an incident, I want to be able to ensure the situation is being handled, not be hearing of the incident for the first time through potentially unreliable sources or hearsay.

My second topic of discussion for my motion had to do with the education budget (2 hours, 45 minutes).

The budget was given to board members three days before our initial work session in early February.

The “work session” was quick moving and as stated in the meeting minutes from Feb. 7, Mr. Tolbert “provided an overview of the proposed FY24 expenditures by category.”

During the budget overview, Dr. Andes (District 3) asked one question in regards to the cost of energy and Mr. Ferrante (District 7) asked one question in regards to health insurance costs.

I asked two questions in regards to the cost on updating iPads and about the bus contractors’ requests and when they would be finalized.

For a budget that encompasses over half of the overall county budget, just under $132 million, there should have been more than five minutes of questions from the board members in February.

On Tuesday, I presented a motion

that stated we table the vote on this budget for one to two weeks at which point we would have an emergency open work session to discuss all aspects of the budget in its entirety.

I made clear that we owe it to the taxpayers of this county to be prudent with our decisions and to be fiscally responsible with their money.

This was not supported by the board as I could not get a second for this motion either. Board members indicated Mr. Tolbert has spent a lot of time preparing this budget.

They stated I had over a month to get any questions answered and coming from the superintendent, what I was proposing was a “waste of time.”

1. Demanding transparency and asking for additional time to make an educated, prudent decision is not a waste of time.

In fact, I would argue that it would be the best time spent as a board to truly understand the inner workings of the most expensive budget in the county.

2. I have no doubt Mr. Tolbert spent a lot of time preparing this budget … that is, in fact, his job. I would hope that he spent a lot of time preparing this budget.

3. As stated at the board meeting, I easily could have sent emails or called Mr. Tolbert to answer my stack of questions, but then that would have taken a very important aspect out of this behind-the-scenes approach …

My questions would not have been heard or answered in a public forum where the public (my supervisors) could digest for themselves what is being heard. It is imperative to not only say we as a board are for full transparency, but to actually display and act on that stance.

4. Arguably the most important point: The board of education members ridiculed me for not doing my homework, and simultaneously voted on a budget that did not have all questions answered.

The role of the board of education is to be the checks and balances to the superintendent and to ensure he is executing his directions from the board, via motions, made to his staff members.

We are not to simply take what the administrators have to say at face value. Our job is to scrutinize the school system on behalf of the citizens of Worcester County.

The final motion made by myself the evening of March 21 had to do with sending a second letter of opposition to the state for HB119/SB199 (3 hours, 27 minutes).

Many counties across the state have written opposition letters for HB119 to the state.

For those of you not following the bill, instead of listening to the constituents on how this bill tramples on the rights of Maryland citizens and local control, the legislators in the

Fundraiser for Heiner’s new lungs, April 14

Association, or COTA, an organization that provides fundraising assistance to children in need of organ transplants, is helping to run and organize Heiner’s fundraising.

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(March 31, 2023) Emily Sachs

Heiner needs a $1.2 million doublelung transplant surgery, and insurance will only cover 80 percent of the costs of the procedure and medications that will be needed for years after.

She and her family are trying to raise funds to help cover the out-ofpocket costs, and they have planned a fundraiser on Friday, April 14 at T.C. Studios on 15th Street in Ocean City, from 6-8 p.m.

As of Wednesday, there were only eight tickets left for Emily’s Paint Night Fundraiser for New Lungs, which features painting over presketched designs on cheese boards and wine glasses, a three-course meal from Roadie Joe’s, live music and a silent auction.

Tickets cost $45 and are available on T.C. Studios’ website.

The silent auction items includes gift cards, merchandise and prizes from businesses like Decatur Diner, OC Jewelers and Shotti’s Point Cafe. As of Monday, Heiner was still seeking additional items for the auction.

Heiner and her husband, Scott, along with the help of their family friends, Sanford and Karen Abrams, are hoping to raise money before and beyond the fundraiser to cover ongoing medical costs.

The Children’s Organ Transplant

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 54

House led by Del. Atterbeary decided to amend the bill and make it notably worse.

Instead of this bill forcing each county to follow a health framework, they have amended the bill to control and punish counties that don’t comply with the demands of the state.

Forcing local school boards to surrender their authority to the state, this bill enables the state superintendent to punish local boards by taking away up to 20 percent of their funding from the state. This threat would only harm the students.

Never has the legislature or the appointed superintendent demanded elected school boards what to teach, which comes down to curriculum and courses of study.

The opt-out was also nullified in the amendment, as an opt-out must now meet the requirements and definition of the state (which could be anything).

The votes of the citizens are undermined, which removes the rights for locals to determine the curriculum

COTA assists people of any age for certain diseases like Cystic Fibrosis, the disease responsible for Heiner’s need of a lung transplant.

COTA created a fundraising page for Heiner that went live on Tuesday. She received over $3,000 in donations in the first day and a half.

Heiner, 34, set her fundraising goal at $65,000, as an homage to “65 Roses,” a term used to help children pronounce the disease’s name, Heiner said.

COTA grants $1,500 to anyone enrolled in its assistance, which goes to surgery-related expenses like medical, food and travel costs and when a patient raises $26,000 in the first sixth months of fundraising, COTA grants them an additional $2,600.

COTA will also train the Abrams to help run some fundraising operations, Heiner said.

One-hundred percent of every contribution made through COTA goes to the patient’s transplant-related expenses. Donations made through COTA go to pay medical bills directly for the patient, Heiner said.

Heiner was born in Baltimore and moved to Ocean City when she was 10 years old.

Her husband is the kitchen manager at Shenanigan’s Pub, and has worked there for 26 years.

At 2 years old, Heiner was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disease that affects people’s lungs and

other organs, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF). The pancreas is often affected, so Heiner also has cystic fibrosis-related diabetes.

In people with CF, gene mutations cause a protein that moves chloride in cells to become dysfunctional, leading to mucus in certain organs to become overly thick and sticky, according to the CFF.

Mucus build-up in the lungs blocks airways and traps germs, which can cause inflammation and infection.

“Basically, CF feels like, the best way I can describe it, is like breathing through a straw all the time,” Heiner said.

When she was young, doctors told her parents she wouldn’t make it past her teenage years. Even with that

prognosis, Heiner went on to run track in high school.

“It (CF) didn’t get bad until I was about 19, but 19 to 34 is a lot of years of in and out of the hospital,” Heiner said.

The life expectancy for people born with CF between 2015 and 2019 is 46 years, which has risen from an expected 38 years for people born between 2005 and 2009, and 32 years for those born between 1995 and 1999, according to 2019 patient registry data from the CFF.

In March of 2022, Heiner was working her job at TJ Maxx when her right lung collapsed.

“I was able to feel like a normal functioning member of society. And I

See FAMILY Page 56

and courses of study. This is best left up to each local county who understands the needs of their communities.

I made a motion to send a strong second letter to the state, to not only oppose HB119/SB199, but to reject this bill in its entirety and to allow input and approval from board members before sending the letter to the state. And shockingly, I received a second.

Dr. Andes seconded my motion because of the stance MABE (Maryland Association for Boards of Education) has on the bill. MABE opposes this bill as well.

Ms. Elena McComas (District 5) couldn’t understand why I wanted to write a second letter of opposition for the same bill when we already wrote once, and the majority of the state seemed to oppose the bill as well. She didn’t believe it would pass.

I explained, because the bill has been amended, which has changed the verbiage of the bill in its entirety; it is virtually a brand new bill with the same bill number.

The bill has passed in the house and is now in the Senate. Now, more than ever, we need to keep the pressure on our state senators and make sure this bill is not supported by local boards of education.

The motion was made, and the motion passed 6-1 with Elena McComas voting no to writing a second let-

ter.

Third motion was the charm. Small wins are happening every day. Thank you to all citizens who are staying involved with our local education system.

Katie Addis,

Worcester County Board of Education member

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

T.C. Studios is hosting a fundraiser on April 14 for Emily Sachs Heiner’s double-lung $1.2 million transplant surgery. She is pictured with her husband, Scott, in their Ocean City home.

Family intending to raise money to make up for what insurance does not cover

Family raising money for surgery

say well, it’s (working at TJ Maxx) customer service,” Heiner said. “It’s what we do in this town, and I love doing it because I get to meet people and make their day brighter than it was before they got there.”

Doctors re-inflated her lung, but on April 23, her 34th birthday, her lung collapsed once again, but slower than before. Heiner went to Johns Hopkins to have a procedure called pleurodesis, where the lung is “glued” to the inside wall of the chest.

The lung held for six months. Heiner had started working out with a trainer and was days away from a big promotion at TJ Maxx when, three days into a vacation in Boston, she felt the tell-tale shoulder pain that comes with a collapsed lung.

“Sometimes I get annoyed. I’m human. I’m like are you kidding me? Like, I just want my life back,” Heiner said.

Heiner immediately headed back home, sought treatment at Johns Hopkins, eventually making the lung transplant list.

Heiner was told it could be a twoto three-month wait, but they got the first call for surgery just over two weeks later, her husband said.

“I was very lucky that I got a call that soon,” Heiner said.

On March 21, Heiner heard her first call for possible lungs and drove to Johns Hopkins, but it fell through. Before they made the trip back to Ocean City, Heiner got another call for a possible transplant within 24 hours, but this also didn’t work out.

On Tuesday morning, Johns Hopkins called Heiner for the third time with possible lungs.

“I literally felt like I won the lottery. No money can match that,” Heiner said on Tuesday.

The surgery fell through once again. Heiner continues to await the

next call.

Double-lung transplant surgery takes about 12 hours. Afterwards, patients wake up intubated and sedated so doctors can make sure the lungs are functioning properly, Heiner said. Then comes the recovery period.

“You get four tubes, like chest tube kind of things, in the front. They put nerve blocks in your back, so that you don’t feel the pain as bad, but after like the third or fourth day, they take them out. It’s really painful,” Heiner said. “It’s like boot camp in there from what I hear.”

Heiner said her doctor expects her to remain under hospital care for about 12-20 days once she receives a transplant, then Heiner will stay with family in York, Pennsylvania, where someone can provide her care at all times, and where she can remain relatively close to Johns Hopkins.

“Emily has the best PMA, positive mental attitude. She is not a ‘woe-isme,’ person,” said Sandy Abrams. “I’ve never known her to be a ‘woe-isme,’ person. She’s always been forward, even though she’s had this basically all her life.”

To find out more about the fundraiser, visit www.tcstudios.org/events/emilysfun draiser. To learn more about Emily and her continuous fundraising efforts, visit cota.org/campaigns/COTAforEmilys Lungs/blog/our-story.

“I want to affect change. I want to get a transplant, so I can be healthy enough to stand up for people with CF and help them, the next person that needs help, you know. I’m very passionate about CF and getting the word out there about it,” Heiner said.

“My mom used to teach me that, I have CF but CF isn’t who I am. Like, ‘my name is Emily. Hi, how you doin?’ And that your disease doesn’t have to control your life.”

US bombs Naples with Lady Be Good Liberator aircraft

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(March 31, 2023) This week 80 years ago, the United States Army Air Force’s Ninth Air Force, commanded by Maj.-Gen. Lewis H. Brereton, launched a bombing raid on Naples, Italy from its base at Soluch Air Field in Libya, now known as Benina International Airport, located in a suburb of Benghazi.

Lady Be Good was a brand new, B-24D Liberator bomber with a brand-new crew of nine.

The Lady Be Good, captained by 1LT. William J. Hatton was a part of the 514th Bomb Squadron, which was a part of the 376 Bombardment Group, commanded by Col. Keith K. Compton.

The raid was undertaken by 25 B24 Liberators in two waves. The first wave counted 12 planes, and the second wave of 13 planes included the Lady Be Good.

Leaving at 2:15 p.m. on April 4, 1943, Lady Be Good was one of the last planes to depart Benghazi.

However, at the time of its departure, a sandstorm had arisen causing eight of the B-24s to return to their base.

The Lady Be Good arrived over Naples at 7:50 p.m., but, due to poor visibility, was unable to complete its mission and, as it returned to base, dumped its bombs into the Mediterranean Sea.

At 12:12 a.m., on April 5, 1943, Lt. Hatton radioed base to report that his automatic direction finder was not working and requested guidance. For the next two hours, the Lady Be Good continued south.

The Lady Be Good took its name from a Broadway musical of the same name, which opened on Dec. 1, 1924, starring Fred Astair and his sister Adele. It was the first successful musical for brothers George and Ira Gershwin.

Built by the Consolidated Aircraft Company at its factory in San Diego, the Lady Be Good was powered by Four Pratt & Whitney R-1830-43 14cycle, turbo-charged, radial engines.

The Lady Be Good was armed with ten 50-caliber Browning M2 machine guns. The Liberator carried a bombload of 2.5 tons.

When the Lady Be Good did not return to base as scheduled, it was assumed that it had gone down in the Mediterranean Sea.

However, it wasn’t the Mediterranean Sea, where the plane went down, but rather the Calanshio Sand Sea, which is located in Cyrenaica, in

the eastern part of Libya.

The Lady Be Good was discovered 120 miles north of Kufra Oasis, and 420 miles south of the Mediterranean. Kufra is a group of oases in the Kufra District of southeastern Cyrenaica, in Libya.

The Lady Be Good was not the first Allied plane to be swallowed up by the Calanshio Sand Sea, near Kufra.

In May 1942, three Bristol Blenheim Mark IV aircraft of No. 15 Squadron of the South African Air Force, lost their way, and 11 of the 12 airmen died in the desert.

It was not until Nov. 9, 1958, that the Lady Be Good was finally located by British geologists, working for D’Arcy Oil Company. It was 440 miles southeast of Soluch.

When they contacted Wheelus Air Force Base, outside of Tripoli, the Americans there were of no help, as they had no record of any plane being located in the area.

On Feb. 27 of the next year, D’Arcy dispatched a team, including surveyor, Gordon Bowerman, and British geologists Donald Sheridan and John Martin.

After visiting the site, Bowerman wrote to Lt. Col. Walter B. Kolbus, commander of Wheelus Air Base, and explained that this was an American plane, and supplied the crew’s names.

This finally got the government moving. On May 26, 1959, a team was dispatched from Wheelus. However, despite numerous and extensive searches, no remains of the crew were found.

Finally, on Feb. 11, 1960, employees of the D’Arcy Oil Company, now owned by British Petroleum, located the remains of the following crew members: Lt. Hatton, copilot 2LT Robert F. Toner; navigator, 2LT D.P. Hays; gunner, SSG Samuel E. Adams; and radio operator, TSgt. Robert E. LaMotte.

Later that year, the Army and Air Force made another effort and located the remains of Gunner/Asst. Flight Engineer, SSgt. Guy E. Shelley, 21 miles northwest of the first five crewmen.

Flight Engineer TSgt. Harold J. Ripslinger, was found 26 miles north of Sgt. Shelley, on May 17, 1960. In August 1960, B. P. employees found Bombardier, 2LT John S.Woravka. Evidence at the site indicated that Lt. Woravka did not survive his descent from the plane. Despite a search covering approximately 6300 square miles, Gunner/Assistant Radio Operator, SSgt. Vernon L. Moore, has never been found.

So, what happened? Authorities believe that the plane was running out of fuel, and that the crew thought

Lewis Brereton

DOROTHY MARTHA ROSS

Ocean Pines

Dorothy Martha Ross, age 102, passed away at her home at the Woodlands in Ocean Pines, Maryland, on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Skledar and Rose Lippold Skledar. She was the oldest of six children.

Dorothy graduated from Perry High School in Pittsburgh in 1938. She met the love of her life, Chester Ross, in 1937 and married on Dec. 6, 1941, the day before Pearl Harbor.

Dorothy and Chester raised four children, all of whom were able to attend college thanks to their encouragement. In 1969, Dorothy and Chester moved to Salisbury, Maryland.

Dorothy loved children. She served for 15 years as a teacher at the Salisbury Co-op Nursery School, where she was affectionately known as “Miss Dot.”

She also served several terms as a Deacon at Wicomico Presbyterian Church, where she was known for her colorful bulletin board designs and was vice president of the Wicomico Bird Club in the 1970s.

Moving to Ocean Pines in 1997, she became a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, where she served in Women of Worship.

Well into her 90’s, Dorothy gave rides to church from the Pines. Dorothy was also active in Red Hats.

She is survived by her brother, William Skledar, and his wife, Rose, of Ocean Pines; and four children, David Ross (Martha) of Jamesville, New York, Linda Cashman (Greg) of

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 56

that they were over the Mediterranean Sea — not the Calanshio Sand Sea — so they decided to bail out.

They landed about 15 miles from where the plane ultimately crashed.

Between them, they had a halfcanteen of water. If they had landed the plane in the desert, or had, somehow, managed to get back to it, they might have survived, as it was well stocked with food and water and the radio worked.

The wreckage was removed from the desert in August 1994.

Next week: Battle of Wadi Akarit

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.

Fort Collins Colorado, Diane Turner of Honeoye Falls, New York, and Robert Ross (Sonja) of Dover, Delaware; nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, followed by a memorial service at the First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City.

An internment service for family was at the Springhill Memory Gardens near Hebron, Maryland.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of the deceased to the First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; or the Maryland Ornithological Society Sanctuary Fund, c/o MOS Treasurer,11925 Oden Ct., Rockville, Maryland 20852.

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

THOMAS IRVING MCCABE

Ocean City

Thomas Irving McCabe lived with chronic heart disease and passed from this world to the next on Thursday, March 27, 2023.

He was born in Ocean City, Maryland, on April 20, 1948 to Irving John and Gennette McCabe.

As a child in Berlin, Maryland, he often stayed at the farm of his grandparents, Wash and Myrtle McCabe. It was there that Myrtle instilled in him the qualities of kindness and a love of others.

When he was 13, his parents moved the family to Ocean City where Irv ran a full-service Sinclair gas station and Gennette ran a small boarding house for beach clients.

Tom loved the beach and was an avid surfer. He attended Stephen Decatur High School while renting beach umbrellas each summer and eventually having his own vending machine business.

After graduating from Chesapeake College he opened a shop featuring beach clothing, bicycles, skateboards and surf boards. He sponsored popular BMX races that drew competitors from around the nation.

As a married man he had three children with Diana (Dobby) Engh.

She ran their Old Town Inn, a Bed and Breakfast in Ocean City, while Tom went into the real estate business full time, which he enjoyed.

He spearheaded several commercial renovations and built several condominium projects. He became president of the Downtown Associa-

tion and was active in local and state politics and was on the Maryland State Republican Central Committee.

He was divorced in 1987.

He worked at managing shops and restaurants such as The Tavern by the Sea on the Ocean City Boardwalk and as a mortgage loan officer.

In 2003 he moved to Adamstown, Maryland, to be with his beloved partner, Patricia Lasko, where he continued as a loan officer for BB&T and M&T Banks.

The couple spent the next 20 years caring for rescue horses, buying and selling antiques, traveling and watching their children from previous marriages grow and prosper.

In addition to Patricia, Tom is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Lyn Stillwell and her sons, Ethan, Brian and Daniel Alexander; his son, First Sgt. John Thomas McCabe and his wife, Ashley, and their daughter, Emma; and his daughter, Jessica Diane Engh.

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E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net

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Dorothy Ross

Thomas McCabe

Decatur boys’ lax team wins 20-19 over Worcester Prep

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 31, 2023) A total of 39 goals were scored during the Stephen Decatur-Worcester Prep boys’ lacrosse game on Tuesday.

Worcester’s Mallards made a push at the end, but the Decatur Seahawks held on for a 20-19 victory on the road.

“Thirty-nine goals, that’s a lot. It didn’t hit me until this morning,” Decatur Coach “Hoffy” Hoffman said the next day. “We won, but we didn’t win the way I wanted to. We shouldn’t of had that many goals against us … It’s an in-town rivalry. It’s probably the biggest rivalry we’ve got. Both teams left it all out there.”

Prep Coach Drew Haugh agreed.

“In over 35 years of coaching high school lacrosse, I have never seen a score of 20-19. Seen plenty of scores of a team scoring 20 or more goals in a blowout win, but to see two teams put up 20 and 19 goals in the same game, crazy stuff,” he said. “Credit Coach Hoffy and his Decatur squad. They played a heck of a game, and so did the Mallards.”

Decatur led 5-3 at the end of the first quarter. At halftime, the visiting Seahawks held a 10-7 advantage. After three quarters, Decatur was on top, 16-13.

Prep senior captain Jack Gardner cut the lead to one with 2:03 left in the

game, but the home team was unable to tie it up before time ran out.

“Offense looked good most of the game. We had some issues on defense,” Hoffman said. “We just couldn’t get good matchups and when we did we got penalties. We talked before the game who would cover who, but defense just came out flat. We’re not used to that, but we’re such a new, young team, so maybe I need to alter my expectations.”

Hoffman said winning the game came down to “the fact they don’t quit.”

“They just have that no-quit mentality and they just kept driving,” he added.

Freshman Ashton March led Decatur with five goals and four assists.

“Number 23 had a heck of a day,” Hoffman said of March.

Sophomore Luke Popielaski and freshman John Fohner chipped in with three goals and two assists each.

Freshman Parker Mason scored three, and sophomore Graham Geiser tallied two goals and two assists.

Senior captain Gabe Geiser had two goals and junior Evan Oglesby netted one.

Freshman Brody Lynch won 17 face-offs and sophomore Declan Horan recorded seven saves in goal for Decatur.

Decatur girls’ lacrosse tops

Worcester Prep team, 14-7

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 31, 2023) When the Worcester Prep and Stephen Decatur girls’ lacrosse teams play each other there is anticipation, excitement and some nervousness.

The two teams meet on Worcester’s field in Berlin on Tuesday for the annual matchup.

“I feel like there’s always nerves playing a rival school, which is a good thing, but they were able to convert that nervous energy into hard playing and just really putting it all out there,” Decatur Coach Lindsay Owens said after her team’s 14-7 victory. “They were pumped for the game. Worcester Prep is a great school. They always give us really good competition.”

Prep Coach Chris Williams agreed.

“A lot of these girls play club ball together, they’re friends, they’ve been playing rec lacrosse together. I know their coach really well, I’ve coached about half of their team at one point, so we know them, they know us, we just put a little bit of extra pressure on ourselves when you’re playing girls you’ve grown up with and I think we just came out a little nervous,” Williams said. “I thought the first half we were tight … We were dropping ball, we said we could see the whites

of their knuckles when they were grabbing their stick, they were just dropping the ball because we were just so nervous just because of playing a solid team across town.”

Decatur outscored Worcester 6-1 in the first half.

“I thought they came out really hard,” Owens said.

The second half was much closer as Worcester’s Lady Mallards chipped away at the Seahawks’ lead. Decatur scored eight goals in the second half, while Worcester netted six.

“We played a much better game in the second half. They loosened up, they started to have some fun. Decatur is fast, they’re talented, they’ve got a very deep bench, they were just throwing a lot of players at us,” Williams said. “I was happy with how we finished. I think our second half was really good, our defense came up big, we were putting the ball on cage, we were taking better shots, our goalie came up big in the second half. When you give up 14 to Stephen Decatur, it’s not too bad. They’re an offensive powerhouse, they’ve got a lot of great goal scorers. I’d like to see us score a little more than seven, but that first half we put ourselves in a hole.”

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Worcester Prep junior Madilyn Nechay sprints with the ball while guarded by Stephen Decatur senior captains Alina Bernal-Clark, back, and Mia Kemp during Tuesday’s game in Berlin. Decatur won, 14-7.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur sophomore goalie Declan Horan and freshman Jack Brady put pressure on Worcester Prep sophomore Ryan Mann during Tuesday’s game. Playing on Worcester’s field in Berlin, Decatur won, 20-19. Mann scored three goals and had two assists.

Decatur dominates first half, WP comes on strong in 2nd

Continued

Senior Audrey Mumford led Decatur with five goals and one assist.

Junior Sadie Kauffman chipped in with four goals and one assist. She also won five draws.

Senior captains Mia Kemp and Alina Bernal-Clark, seniors Kayla Brady and Tatum Vorsteg and sophomore Mariabella Morse scored one goal each.

Junior Addison McDaniel stopped four Worcester shots.

“I think they battled until the end. It got a little closer the second half for our liking, but I think again they battled back and they played together, which is what our focus is,” Owens said. “I think we finished on attack really well. We used each other, we spread out, our cuts were there, we connected and we were able to finish.”

Senior captain Caitlyn Hoen scored two goals for Worcester and had an assist. She won seven draws

and picked up four ground balls.

Junior Madilyn Nechay (one assist) and freshman Caitlin Shimko (four ground balls) chipped in with two goals each.

Sophomore Emma Zajdel netted one shot and scooped up three ground balls.

Junior goalie Caitlin Williams recorded 11 saves.

“I think we can build off this. We’ve got some tough games coming up and what they just showed us is what we’re going to see in some of these games,” Williams said. “So, we’re going to learn from this, we’re going to move forward and try to be better.”

Decatur will host the Saints Peter Paul Sabres today, Friday, at 6 p.m. Worcester will take on the Cambridge Vikings today, Friday, at 4 p.m. in Berlin. The next day, Fellowship of Christian Athletes will come to Berlin for a 1 p.m. game against Worcester.

Worcester Prep and Decatur teams battle to end of game

“The game showed us some obvious areas where we need to be more disciplined in,” Hoffman said. “We played really undisciplined. I get it’s a rivalry and emotions run high, but we had a lot of stupid penalties.”

Decatur committed 10 fouls racking up nine penalty minutes. Worcester players were sidelined for 11 minutes committing eight penalties.

Gardner scored eight goals for Worcester. Senior captain Griffin Jones tallied eight goals and one assist.

Sophomore Ryan Mann, who Haugh said played one of his best games in his career at Worcester Prep, chipped in with three goals and two assists.

Junior goalie Connor Ferguson recorded 12 saves.

“It was a heavyweight fight. Could

have gone either way,” Haugh said. “On-field injuries and penalties hurt. Losing our best close defenseman, Baylor Hoen, early in the game with a knee injury, and one of our middies, Abott Browne to a broken wrist, certainly changed the complexity of the game.

“In spite of that, the boys kept to our team theme of, ‘Don’t Give Up… Don’t Ever Give Up,’ a theme adopted from Jimmy Valvano’s ESPYS Award speech back in 1993,” he continued. “Down by four goals two times and up by one goal two times, the team followed the theme and refused to give up. [It was] a game of inches.”

Worcester’s next game is today, Friday, at home against Cambridge at 4 p.m.

Decatur will host Saints Peter and Paul today at 4 p.m.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur senior Audrey Mumford looks for an open teammate to pass to during Tuesday’s game while defended by Worcester Prep junior Claire Windrow. Mumford scored five goals and had one assist in the 14-7 victory on Worcester’s field.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur junior Evan Oglesby controls the ball during Tuesday’s game against Worcester Prep. Oglesby scored one goal in the 20-19 victory.

Continued from Page 58

DECATUR TENNIS

First meet learning experience for athletes

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 31, 2023) The Stephen Decatur outdoor track program is made up of numerous first-time participants this year, so the early-season meets will be learning experiences for the athletes.

“Overall, we did OK in the first meet. We’re a very young team. Times in the time trials the week before they did as well if not better in the meet,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel. “It’s going to be a few meets before things start coming together. We’re still shifting people around a bit to see where everyone performs best.”

Four teams participated in the season opener last Tuesday in Salisbury.

Parkside won the girls’ competition, scoring 118 points. James M. Bennett came in second with 61.5 points, followed by Snow Hill (44.5) and Decatur (42).

Decatur Lady Seahawks who placed top eight in their events were: freshmen Lotus Wise (200-meter run, fourth, 28.9 seconds; long jump, third, 13 feet 4 inches), Ellie Cheynet (800-meter run, third, 2:45), Paityn Tyre (shot put, sixth, 24 feet 8.5 inches) and Mackenzie Purnell (shot put, eighth, 23 feet 7 inches), sophomore Nevaeh Horton (800-meter run, fifth, 3 minutes), Amber Marshall (3,200-meter run, fourth, 14:29; 1,600-meter run, fifth, 6:42) and Clarice Piela (3,200-meter run, fifth, 14:41; 1,600-meter run, eighth, 7:10), junior Tiara McDonald (400-meter run, first, 1:05), Macy Woroniecki (3,200-meter run, first, 12:44; 1,600meter run, second, 5:54), Daniela Carrasco Gonzalez (3,200-meter run,

sixth, 16 minutes), Sauna Vick (300meter hurdles, second, 56.5 seconds; 100-meter hurdles, fourth, 21.2 seconds), Adelaide Weber (shot put, seventh, 24 feet 1 inch; discus, fifth, 64 feet 4 inches) and Lexi Kliphouse (discus, eighth, 55 feet 3 inches), and senior Breanne Ferguson (triple jump, sixth, 26 feet 3.5 inches).

Cheynet, Marshall, Woroniecki and Horton won the 3,200-meter relay race (11:09.9).

Wise, McDonald, Vick and sophomore Peyton Redmond came in fourth place in the 400-meter relay race (56.4 seconds).

Cheynet, McDonald, Redmond and Wise took fourth in the 800meter relay race (1:59).

Horton, Cheynet, McDonald and Woroniecki placed fourth in the 1,600-meter relay event (4:52).

Parkside came in first place in the boys’ competition, tallying 83 points. Bennett was runner-up with 76 points, followed by Snow Hill (68.5) and Decatur (44.5).

Decatur athletes finishing eighth or better in their individual events were: freshmen Collin Pennington (800-meter run, third, 2:19; 1,600meter run, third, 5:21) and Braydon Bell (800-meter run, fourth (tie), 2:21; 1,600-meter run, fourth, 5:34), sophomores Zakhari Baker (100meter run, sixth, 11.8 seconds), Ethan Cowder (400-meter run, fifth (tie), 58 seconds), Alex Ward (400-meter run, seventh, 59 seconds), James Uebel (400-meter run, eighth, 1 minute; long jump, fifth, 17 feet 2 inches), Joseph Cipollone (1,600meter run, sixth, 5:39), Michael Hoos (3,200-meter run, fourth, 13:10), Brian Herbert (3,200-meter run,

sixth, 14:20), Zarek Coyman (110meter hurdles, fourth, 19.9 seconds), Edward Quick III (300-meter hurdles, sixth, 51.2 seconds; 110-meter hurdles, seventh, 21. 7 seconds), Zarek Coyman (300-meter hurdles, eighth, 52.6 seconds) and Brandon Fitzgerald (high jump, second, 5 feet), juniors Ethan Justice (3,200meter run, third, 11:19), Patrick Haines (110-meter hurdles, third, 19.8 seconds), Ke’nai Floyd (long jump, first, 18 feet 9 inches) and Gavin Solito (long jump, sixth, 17 feet 1 inch), and seniors Logan Bradshaw (100-meter run, eighth (tie), 12 seconds), Nick Moreno (800-meter run, sixth, 2:22), Bryce Solomon (shot put, sixth, 31 feet 11 inches; discus,

third, 92. 5 feet) and Curtez Schoolfield (triple jump, fifth, 33 feet).

Cowder, Ward, Uebel and Fitzgerald came in second place in the 1,600-meter relay race (3:56).

Pennington, Justice, Bell and Moreno took seconds in the 3,200meter relay race (9:22).

Sophomores Evan Copeland and Ethan Bradshaw, Logan Bradshaw, and senior Jaden Holland took fourth in the 400-meter relay race (48.2 seconds).

Floyd, Logan Bradshaw, Copeland and Holland placed fourth in the 800-meter relay event (1:42).

The next track meet is Tuesday in Salisbury beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Decatur softball team earns wins over Wicomico, Arcadia

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 31, 2023) The Stephen Decatur softball team capped off four straight games on the road with backto-back victories this week.

After falling in its season opener at home in Berlin on March 21, 9-3 to Delmar, the Lady Seahawks topped the North Caroline Bulldogs, 10-6, last Wednesday, in Ridglely, followed by a 21-2 win over the James M. Bennett Clippers, the next day in Salisbury.

This week, the Berlin squad was back on the bus for competition, heading to Salisbury on Monday to play the Wicomico Indians.

Decatur got the job done in five innings, shutting out its opponent, 19-0.

The Seahawks scored seven runs in the first inning, five in the second, five in the third and two in the fourth.

The squad tallied 16 hits. Ten players recorded hits. Leading the Seahawks was sophomore Ryleigh Smith, who had three hits – two of which were home runs – and three RBIs. She also scored three times.

Freshman Bailey Griffin (two hits, one RBI) and junior Kiara Taylor (two RBIs) also hit home runs.

Junior Leah Simpson chipped in with two hits and two RBIs.

Sophomore Madison McGinnis

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Stephen Decatur tennis teams faced a tough opponent in North Caroline on Tuesday in Berlin. The Lady Seahawks won one match (sophomore Anika Karli, 8-5, third singles) and the boys’ team earned victories in two. (Left) Junior Kalli Nordstrom returns a serve in her first doubles match with teammate, senior Paula Magathan. (Right) Junior captain Matt Beck won his second singles match, 8-4, and came out on top at first doubles with partner, junior captain David Janney, 8-3.

Seahawks come from behind to top Firebirds, 7-5

Continued from Page 60

pitched two innings. She struck out three, allowed one hit and walked one.

Freshman Emily Blume struck out three in one inning.

Freshman Kirby Bounds pitched one inning and struck out one. Simpson struck out one and walked one in one inning.

“Everyone contributed … four pitchers all threw well,” said Decatur Coach Scott Kurtz. “Lots of hits.”

The Seahawks faced tougher competition the next day in Oak Hill, Virginia, when they went up against the Arcadia Firebirds.

Decatur scored twice in the first inning. Arcadia cut the lead to one in the fourth inning then went ahead, 52, with four runs in the fifth.

“We went up 2-0 and then we got cold. We knew two runs wasn’t going to get it done,” Kurtz said. “Arcadia is a good team. Four or five girls got their best hits of the game all in the same inning … They were 5-0 and we knew we would have to keep scoring.”

The Seahawks tied it up, 5-5, in the sixth then Griffin hit a two-run home run to make it 7-5.

“We just rallied big hit after big hit,” Kurtz said.

The Decatur defense held off Arca-

dia in the bottom of the sixth and seventh to secure the victory.

“They had the winning run at the plate and we got them out,” Kurtz said.

Taylor led Decatur with three hits. Senior Sarah Smith had two hits.

No-hitter for SD pitcher Croll, Seahawks score 20

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 31, 2023) The Stephen Decatur baseball team shut out the Wicomico Indians, 20-0, in five innings on Monday in Salisbury.

“All guys got in and played a role,” Decatur Coach Rich Ferro said. “[And] Gus threw well – 0 hits and 0 walks.”

The visiting Seahawks had a big first inning, putting 13 runs on the board. They added three in the second, two in the fourth and two in the fifth.

Decatur recorded 17 hits in the

game by 12 different players. Leading the team was senior Gus Croll, with three hits – one of which was a home run – and four RBIs.

On the mound, Croll pitched all five innings. He struck out eight in the no-hitter. Thirty-seven of his 47 pitches were strikes.

Senior Owen Knerr chipped in with two hits (single and home run) and three RBIs. Juniors Kole Kohut and Lukas Loring each contributed with two hits and two RBIs.

Decatur will host the Kent Island Buccaneers on Tuesday at 4 p.m.

McGinnis struck out nine, gave up six hits and walked three in seven innings.

Decatur will host the Kent Island Buccaneers on Tuesday at 4 p.m. in Berlin.

PHOTO COURTESY STEPHEN DECATUR SOFTBALL FACEBOOK

Three softball players hit home runs during Stephen Decatur’s game against Wicomico on Monday in Salisbury. Sophomore Ryleigh Smith had two, and freshman Bailey Griffin and junior Kiara Taylor hit one each in the 19-0 shutout.

Worcester Prep girls’ tennis team wins 6-1 over SC

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(March 31, 2023) The Worcester Prep girls’ tennis team hosted the Salisbury Christian Jaguars on Wednesday in Berlin and won, 6-1.

The Lady Mallards didn’t face much competition except for at first singles, which Salisbury Christian’s Kasie Hammond – the defending 2022 Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference singles champion – won, 8-2, over Worcester junior captain, Lebby Becker.

The rest of the Mallards shut out their competition, 8-0.

Junior captain Natasha Richter played second singles, followed by sophomores Lydia Schwartz and Savannah Palmisano at fourth and fifth singles, respectively.

Salisbury forfeited the third singles match.

Junior Natalie Chadwell and sophomore Abigail Ament took the court at first doubles and senior Meeta Agarwal and junior Mia Lovitt competed at second doubles.

“They played well. Lebby had a tough competitor at No. 1 singles, but she had many long rallies and made adjustments in real-time in an attempt to gain an advantage, so I give her credit of showing that fight,” said Prep

(March 31, 2023) Ocean Pines Golf Club will hold a “Resident Golf Day” on Sunday, April 9.

The event will feature free greens fees for Ocean Pines residents, playing tips, activities, and a chance to learn more about Ocean Pines golf groups.

Tee times have been set aside for residents from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Greens fees are free; cart fees are $25 per player for

18 holes and $15 per player for nine holes. An Ocean Pines resident ID card (available at the Ocean Pines Administration Building) must be shown at check in to receive the special rate.

Free greens fees are for registered golfers only – no additional riders or walkers are allowed.

Representatives from the new Golf Academy in Ocean Pines, the Ocean

‘Resident Golf Day’ in Pines, April 9 OC Chamber Cup Golf Tournament

(March 31, 2023) The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce will host its 35th annual Chamber Cup Golf Tournament, Wednesday, May 3, at GlenRiddle Golf Club/War Admiral Course in Berlin.

Check-in and breakfast starts at 8 a.m. and teeoff is at 9 a.m. Everyone is welcome to register for this tournament with premium prizes, food and camaraderie.

Coach Kevin Chalk. “Our other players just put in the work and stayed focused and got the job done.”

Worcester’s boys’ and girls’ tennis teams will face the Gunston School Herons today, Friday, at 3:30 p.m. in Berlin.

The golf committee is raising funds for the chamber as well as for the Ocean City Chamber Foundation/Eunice Q. Sorin Scholarship Fund.

To date, the foundation has given more than $50,000 in workforce scholarships to local youth and adults to further their education and learn new skills.

The cost for the tournament is $175 per person or $700 per team, which includes golf with cart, premium player gift, breakfast, boxed lunch, awards dinner catered by Papi’s Tacos, beverage selection including Harborside orange crushes, professional team photo and goodie bag.

Purchase a player card for $20 and participate in the putting, longest drive and closest to the pin contests and win prizes. Hole-in-one prizes include a vehi-

Pines Men’s Golf Association, the Ocean Pines Ladies’ Golf Association and the Ocean Pines Golf Advisory Committee will be on hand with information and sign-up opportunities. Golf professionals will be on the driving range offering tips, and other activities will be available.

For more information, or to make a tee time, call the Golf Shop at 410-641-6057.

cle, $10,000 and Daytona 500 package. The event also features a silent auction of sports memorabilia and a 50/50 raffle.

The chamber is looking for sponsors and prizes. Sponsors will have their business logo or name in the brochure, event signage and/or social media posts, promoting them to hundreds of chamber members plus their representatives and 13,000 social media followers.

Golfer registration is online at bit.ly/ChamberCup2023 or visit oceancity.org/membership and look for the golf graphic. Register online by April 26.

Contact Events Coordinator Colby Noble at colby@oceancity.org or 410213-0144 ext. 110 for sponsorship information.