4/21/2023 Ocean City Today

ART CONTEST

Ward Wildfowl Carving Competition starts today at Ocean City convention center – Page 20

Resort drops

Ticketmaster for concerts

Switches to less costly provider for conv. center

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(April 21,2023) The soaring cost of booking acts at the resort’s performing arts center has prompted officials to drop Ticketmaster and its accompanying expenses in exchange for a new, cheaper online ticket provider.

“It’s primarily about the fees being charged to the consumer,” Ocean City Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo told members of the city’s Tourism Commission last week while explaining why staff opted to sign a contract with web-based ticketing service Etix.

According to the company’s online summary, Etix processes more than 50 million tickets annually for sports, travel and entertainment events in 40 countries. Perlozzo said staff members vetted numerous options to reduce the cost of tickets and determined Etix was the best deal.

The change, coupled with a new PAC membership program that will allow patrons to buy sponsorships for

See VENDOR Page 4

Mitrecic tells Bertino: leave school budget alone

County usually stays out of bd. of ed business but that could be changing

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) With another eight-figure difference between income and spending, the Worcester County Commissioners are scrutinizing next fiscal year’s budget seemingly line by line. Typically, that hasn’t been the case for the Worcester County Public School system and the board of education, which, mostly, are left to their

own devices in determining what they need and how to spend it.

But this year, some commissioners say they need more transparency from the schools.

School Superintendent Lou Taylor and Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert presented the school system budget to the commissioners on Tuesday, asking for an increase of $4.2 million over FY23, or about 4.1 percent more.

In a presentation, Tolbert said that the expected revenue for FY24 is around $131 million, an increase of about 4.78 percent.

Aside from a few questions about particulars in the budget, most of the comments from the commissioners zeroed in on the overall transparency of the school system budget — or as some commissioners put it the lack thereof.

“This is the budget for all county departments that isn’t the Board of Education, roughly $110 million,” Commissioner President Chip Bertino said as he piled three binders about a foot tall.

He then held up and set down a single, thin binder — the education budget request.

See COUNTY Page 4

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Worcester County Humane Society hosted its 22nd annual Boardwalkin’ for Pets last Saturday. Pictured are two dogs meeting behind the signup table near the end of the Boardwalk during the fundraiser for the no-kill Berlin shelter.

EXPERIENCE

ATLANTIC DENTAL

COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

PREVENTIVE CARE • INVISALIGN

PERIODONTAL TREATMENT • FULL MOUTH RESTORATIONS • IMPLANT RESTORATIONS

SMILE ENHANCEMENTS

EMERGENCY SERVICES FOR OUR CURRENT PATIENTS

Council advances request for air rights over Majestic Hotel

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Access from one wing to another at the new planned Majestic Hotel is coming out of thin air.

At least that’s the plan for the project developers, who convinced Ocean City Council members Monday to advance a request to obtain air rights over an existing alley at a public hearing.

Council members voted 5-0, with Councilman Peter Buas absent and Councilman Will Savage recusing himself because of a past family con-

nection to the property, to move the request to a first reading.

Local attorney Joe Moore, representing property owner Avraham Sibony, and architect Rick Schoellkopf said the developer needs the air rights to advance plans to renovate and redevelop the property at 613 Atlantic Ave. between Sixth and Seventh streets.

The historic Majestic Hotel has stood at its Boardwalk location for nearly 100 years. Last year, Sibony bought it from the longtime owners, the local Savage family, with plans to

See APPROVAL Page 6

Ocean City Today

Calendar..........................29

As members of the MarylandDelaware-D.C. Press Association, we subscribe to the following code of ethics:

• Seek the truth and report it.

• Minimize harm. Treat sources, subjects, colleagues and members of the public with respect.

• Act Independently.

The primary obligation of ethical journalism is to serve the public.

• Be Accountable and Transparent.

Reporters must take responsibility for the accuracy of their work and respond quickly to questions about accuracy, clarity and fairness.

Classifieds........................31

Commentary....................53

Crossword Puzzle..............28

Entertainment..................27

Obituaries........................57

Public Notices..................35

Service Directory..............33

Editor: sdobson@oceancitytoday.net

News: editor@oceancitytoday.net

Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net

Classifieds: classifieds@oceancitytoday.net

Phone: 410-723-6397

www.oceancitytoday.com and at Facebook/Ocean City Today

Sports..............................58 Published Fridays by FLAG

RENDERING COURTESY ATLANTIC PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT INC.

A rendering shows plans for renovations to an alley that currently runs through the Majestic Hotel properties on the Boardwalk. The new owners of the hotel between Sixth and Seventh streets asked for the city to abandon air rights over the alley to develop an arcade, hospitality suite and fitness center as part of planned renovations.

YOU CAN TRUST

We have generations of experience and are well known for our exceptional dental care.

We want to help you keep that bright and beautiful smile this Spring & Summer!

County struggling to close big budget gap

Continued from Page 1

“More clarity is what we’re looking for to help us,” Bertino said. “As we’ve talked about, Kirwan (Commission) and the blueprint are coming. We need to see (where we can be more efficient).”

“That is not the role of the county commissioners. It’s the board of education’s role. We’re asking for more help to better understand where the money is going. Mosquito control has a budget of $78,000 and I think a case can be made that there’s a better look at control in that budget than in (that of) the board of education.

“The way information is presented — we’re asking that it’s presented differently. Today, we haven’t seen it. Can we, will we and when?”

Worcester County government, which does not receive nearly as much state funding for its school system as other Eastern Shore districts, funds roughly three-fourths of WCPS’s budget. The investment can be even higher some years.

Taylor said the school system wants to be fully transparent and that nothing is hidden. He pointed out,

however, that the board of education is different from any department in that it is an elected body.

“I answer to the board of education,” Taylor said. “That’s who signs, fires me, sends me home, whatever. I will work with them to ask where we want to go with this. My concern is what is their role?”

Bertino said that board members had told him privately that there was some reluctance to delve into further detail because they didn’t know what the commissioners would be looking for.

They didn’t know either, Bertino said, which is why they want to look and “better understand how $104 million of taxpayer money is being used.”

“This is not our purview. I recognize that,” Bertino said. “But we need help. We are facing considerably more state mandates unrelated to the board of education (that affect) law enforcement and the state’s attorney’s office and other areas, and we are faced with challenges with the (education) blueprint … We don’t get as much funding (for education) as our neighbors. We’re spending even more than 82 percent when considering capital expenses. We only have so much money available. “

Taylor replied that he understands

where Bertino is coming from and added that this is the budget that was presented to him. The commissioner’s concerns would be addressed at a board meeting later on Tuesday.

Bertino and Taylor both agreed that cooperation has been solid over the years, but this year the commissioners say they need help.

Taylor acknowledged that, but countered that it’s a two-way street, “Now, I need your help,” he said. “I need your help when I have teachers looking at fund balances, how I can answer them when I say the commissioners don’t have any money?”

That answer will become clear as budget deliberations progress, Bertino replied.

Commissioner Eric Fiori said that historically standards have certainly been met, but this year they’re looking at increases “we have never seen” with materials, salaries and more.

“What’s so unprecedented about this year is the increases in (every facet of life),” he said.

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, who was president of the board of commissioners for the last four budget negotiations, reminded his colleagues of how the last few years played out.

There was an $11 million shortfall last year, he said. It was even higher the year before.

In fact, in FY22, Mitrecic pointed out, there were told they’d be “$5 (million dollars) in the hole” but ended up with a $12 million surplus.

“I’m not one of the people that want to scrutinize the board of education budget,” Mitrecic said. “They’re elected just like we are. They’re responsible for the school system in Worcester County. Not us. We’re just responsible for funding it.”

“We either choose to fund it at what they ask for, the state requires, or in between.”

If other commissioners want to see what’s inside the school budget, they can probably do so with a Freedom of Information Act request, Mitrecic said.

“There was never a problem with transparency over the last nine budgets we’ve gone through,” Mitrecic said. “(This is) wrong. It’s the wrong steps. If you want a different board of education to run this school system differently, get a different board. Vote in new people. Same thing with us. If you don’t like (how we do the school budget) then vote us out.

“You either support them or you don’t.”

Vendor change will save money

Continued from Page 1

between $100 and $5,000 for seats and other perks, will keep ticket prices affordable.

“Adding Etix reduces ticketing fee by about eight bucks per ticket,” Perlozzo said. “Having the funds to do this will keep those costs down and fill the house, basically, with quality entertainment.”

Etix will take over ticketing duties on May 31, Perlozzo said, with Come-

dian Terry Fator’s July 23 show the first to use the new service for booking.

Perlozzo said the staff realized a change was needed within the last year as they saw the costs of acts going up. For example, he said the Broadway shows they secured for the 2022 season are costing $15,000 more this year.

“The music industry has exploded,” he said. “The costs have increased 30 to 40 percent.”

Chip Bertino

Joe Mitrecic

Are You Ready For Summer? Are You Ready

THIS HOME IS A SHOW-STOPPER!

Custom 6BR/6BA/3HBA/ new construction west facing bayfront estate designed and built by David Bradley of Bradley Construction w/ views of both Assawoman Bay and skyline from the property’s L-shaped pool and swim-up bar. Features exceptional craftsmanship w/astute attention to detail, custom finishes/woodwork, and architectural details. A welcoming orange crush bar made w/Port Rush quartz and 1st-floor Den/bedroom ensuite complete w/Murphy bed. Expansive family room has a wall of windows and glass sliders overlooking the bay. Gourmet chef's kitchen just off family room includes plenty of bar seating w/endless bay views. Kitchen boasts GE monogram ss appliances including 6-burner gas range, expansive center island, custom farm sink, w/vegetable sink, hone marble and quartz countertops. White custom Fabuwood cabinets w/undercounter lighting, appliance garages and custom pull outs for easy storage. Floating shelves in kitchen made w/reclaimed wood, and a designer tile backsplash. An expansive butler’s pantry, mud room w/custom shelving, laundry room, half bath on the main floor. White oak stairs, and custom-made glass elevator. 2nd floor spacious ensuite Bayfront bedrooms, each w/its own private balcony. A 4th ensuite bedroom which has been designed as a bunk room w/custom bunk and trundle bed complete w/a port hole. A coffee bar, refrigerator, and full-size laundry on 2nd floor. 3rd floor primary bedroom ensuite w/bay views, cathedral ceilings, turret cupola, coffee bar, fireplace, exquisite tile work, two enormous closets w/wood detailing and shiplap, and expansive covered porch. Primary bath has insulated tub w/jets and faces the bay w/a 6’x6’ circular Anderson window. Bonus room w/soaring ceilings and cupola; separate refrigerator, bar seating, a private deck, half bath, and laundry. A saltwater pool and spa, cabana area complete w/2 outdoor TVs, 2 refrigerators, custom cabinetry/countertops, fire pit area, permits for three lifts and a transient boat, a 50ft pier, dock and ramp. Parking for 6 cars. MLS MDWO2012190

COMING SOON

UNIT 154D • 489,900

Professional photos to follow: Stunning 2BR/2BA Thunder Island unit hits the market! Enjoy breathtaking bay views and sunsets night after night. As you walk through the front door you will fall in love with the open floor plan. The kitchen will sure to delight the chef in your family with upgraded countertops, and plenty of cabinet space with selfclosing drawers, undercabinet lighting, ceramic backsplash, and tile floors. The dining area flows off the kitchen to enjoy home cooked meals with family and friends. The family room has two sets of glass sliders giving you fantastic bay views. The oversized balcony has southern exposure for year-round enjoyment. The primary bedroom is spacious with its own private bathroom with a tiled shower, tile floors, new toilet, and vanity. The second bedroom is great for guests to enjoy a nice night's rest after a day at the beach. The unit is being sold, furnished ready for your immediate enjoyment and is beautifully updated. You will absolutely love the bayfront swimming pool to relax and unwind. There is new carpet in the bedrooms and family room. The HVAC, appliances and water heater have been recently replaced. The balcony also has been recently coated. There are plenty of community owned boat slips available for your boat. There is also off-season boat storage and plenty of parking at Thunder Island. The condo is centrally located close to everything Ocean City has to offer. You will enjoy the restaurants, shops, convention center, beach and all the water sports available on the bay. Come take a look today before it's SOLD!

THE ESTATES OF INLET ISLE 12980 INLET ISLE LN OCEAN CITY $2,999,900

Waterfront 6BR/3BA custom estate w/marina, bay, canal views, sunrises, and sunsets. There is a deep-water slip that can accommodate a 42’ boat providing easy access to the ocean at the inlet. Built by JN Custom Homes, known for fine craftsmanship and attention to detail. Close to world class marinas, fishing, multiple golf courses, Assateague Island, the Ocean City Boardwalk, and many restaurants. Come take a look at this dream home that has stunning, unmatched architectural style and a wonderful waterfront location. Contracts are being accepted now, in time for you to personalize this home and select your finishes. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO2010644

LAND

1303 MCHENRY COURT BERLIN • $145,000

Mumford's Landing Pool, and located only a few miles from Ocean City’s famous beaches.

Ocean Pines is an amenity rich community w/restaurants, shops, tennis, recreational facilities, golf, ball fields, pickleball courts, basketball court, playground, 12 parks, 6 trails, indoor and outdoor pools, 2 marinas, beachfront beach club at 49th Street in Ocean City, and the farmer's market. There is also police protection, fire protection and excellent management. MLS MDWO2008616

2BR/2BA Fountainhead Towers condo is now available for sale! This unit is absolutely stunning and its direct ocean- front. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises to start your day with the sound of the waves crashing onto the sand. From the minute you walk in the door, you’ll fall in love with the stunning decor. The kitchen is sure to delight like the chef in your family and has a breakfast bar. The dining room is off the kitchen and makes a great gathering place to enjoy home cooked meals with friends and family.

The large living area is off the dining area and has four glass sliders leading to a large ocean front deck with completely unobstructed views of the beach and ocean. The balcony is one of the largest balconies boasting 30‘x 9 feet. There’s also a Bayside balcony which is approximately 14’ x 7‘to watch the sunsets night after night. This is one of the few buildings that comes complete with two balconies. The primary bedroom overlooks the ocean with glass sliders for endless views of the ocean. Unwind, relax, and get away to decompress, mesmerized by the ocean views. The primary bath is off the bedroom and has a shower, closet, and double vanity. There is a second spacious bedroom which has two queen-sized beds with another full bath that has been upgraded. There is a washer and dryer in the unit. The floor- ing has been upgraded in the unit to Italian porcelain. There is also Travertine marble in the bathroom and carpet in the two bedrooms. In the family room, and the primary bedroom there is a remote control for the drapes. The family room has surround sound and a large Sony TV for entertaining guests and family. The water heater was replaced in October 2019 to a 50-gallon water heater. The 2.5- ton HVAC with large chaise air handler was also replaced in 2019 for optimum cooling and heating.

On the bay facing balcony there is also a separate owners closet just for the use of unit 1506. This condo is located at 116th St. The condo has an outdoor swimming pool on the beach side, which you’re sure to love after a hot warm day on the beach. The condo also has tennis and pickleball courts. The condo is conveniently located close to restaurants, shops, entertainment and has easy access in and out of ocean city. The condo is sold fully furnished and ready for your immediate enjoyment.

COMMERCIAL

34862 WEST LINE RD SELBYVILLE, DE $2,900,000

heavily traveled Rt 54. The location is approximately 3-4 miles to the beaches of Ocean City & Fenwick Island. It has water and 8' sewer main that will supply a hotel, shopping center, office complex, medical center, professional center, etc. Lot is cleared. Buy it Now Before It's SOLD!!! Owner Financing is available. MLS DESU184528

Stunning newly constructed 4BR/3.5 BA home by RBR Homes has just been completed in "America's Coolest Town". The minute you walk in you will fall in love with the custom finishes and abundance of light and outdoor space this home offers. The gourmet kitchen will delight the chef in your family with its center island and upgraded cabinetry. The family room and dining room flow off the kitchen. You will love entertaining family and friends over dinner. On the first floor there is also a wonderful bedroom with private bath. On the second floor you will find a luxurious primary bedroom and bath, and two additional bedrooms and another full bath. The outdoor space has a great patio, and the backyard is perfect for pets and little ones to play. There is a two-car detached garage and above the garage is additional space that could easily be finished off for a home office. This home is located only a short distance to restaurants and shops in downtown Berlin. You will enjoy the small town feel and way of living. The home is situated on a quiet circular street and has small town charm and curb appeal. The home is minutes from Ocean City and Assateague Island. The association fee is only $250 per year. Professional photos to follow house will be completed and ready for showings soon!

Ocean block beauty 2BR/2BA steps from the beach and priced to sell! Rarely is there a condo for sale in this building. There are two large balconies, one has breathtaking ocean views and the other is very spacious as well in front of the unit door. As you walk through the front door you will feel the warmth of this open layout. The kitchen has been upgraded, it's sure to delight the chef in your family. The dining area flows off the kitchen into the family room. There is plenty of room for entertaining family and friends. The master bedroom is spacious and has its own private bath. The other bedroom is large as well. Both bathrooms have been upgraded and the condo is freshly painted in nice beach colors. The unit is being sold fully furnished and is ready for your immediate enjoyment. The building is well maintained with low condo fees and is only steps from the ocean. This fantastic condo is close to restaurants and shopping. Come take a look today!

LAND

- JUST REDUCED!

GEORGETOWN ROAD BERLIN • $150,000

Build your dream house! If you are looking for some acreage look no further, this property is 3.016 acres. This property is just off Route 113 and close to Berlin, America's coolest small town. The property is conveniently located near Ocean City Beaches and Assateague Island. Survey has been done and soil samples are completed. No HOA to worry about let's start the process and get exactly what you want in a home. MLS MDWO2009248

LAND 0 S ROUTE 54 SELBYVILLE, DE $490,000

7.29 acres hits the market! Minutes from the beaches, shopping, and restaurants. This piece has a density of 16 lots. Both pieces are served by water and sewer in Selbyville. OWNER FINANCING IS AVAILABLE! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS DESU2028756

COMMERCIAL TAXID 533-17.00-156.07

S ROUTE 54 SELBYVILLE, DE $990,000

Commercial land 3.94-acre prime location served by water and sewer from Selbyville. This land is across from the new development of Coastal Villages. 1,000 feet of road frontage. Also available for sale is Tax ID 533-17.00-156.04 which has 7.29 acres for $490,000 (MLSDESU2028756) this has a density of 16 lots. Both pieces are served by water and sewer in Selbyville. OWNER FINANCING IS AVAILABLE! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS DESU2028754

COMMERCIAL 13010 WORCESTER HWY BISHOPVILLE $370,000

Are you looking for that commercial piece with high visibility? Look no further this commercial tract is 14.33 acres on the corner of Route 113 and Route 610 across from Emings BBQ. This is your opportunity to establish a foothold in this increasingly desirable area on the Eastern Shore. The possibilities are endless! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO113678

11604 COASTAL HWY UNIT 1506 • OCEAN CITY $789,900

107 CONVENTION CENTER DR THUNDER ISLAND

10615 POINT LOOKOUT RD • OCEAN CITY • $5,599,900

Ocean City to begin hydrant flushing on Sunday,

(April 21, 2023) The Town of Ocean City’s Public Works Department will begin conducting the spring hydrant flushing of the water system on Sunday.

The hydrant flushing, which is done bi-annually, will progress from south to north, beginning on South 1st Street and covering several blocks per day.

Currently, public works personnel are scheduled to perform the hydrant flushing throughout the late evening hours and into the early morning hours, although circum-

April 23

stances may require those times to change.

Residents and businesses are reminded that after flushing there may be a slight discoloration of the water. This is not harmful and will dissipate after a short time, the department advisory said. If you wish to clear your pipes, run cold water for several minutes until the water runs clear.

The completion of this project is expected to be done by the afternoon on Thursday. For informaation, contact the Public Works Water Department at 410-524-8388.

Approval rolls project to first reading before final approval

Continued from Page 3

spruce it up and reopen it.

The air rights, which are described as the space 14 feet over the ground and up to 60 feet high over an existing 16-foot alley, are needed to create a walkway from one building to another on the property.

Moore said during the initial presentation for the request last month, as well as during Monday’s public hearing, that he and his team understand the “iconic” nature of the property and know important it is to ensure the renovations are done right.

“We are aware we have plenty we have be respectful of,” he said.

Schoellkopf said the breezeway, according to the plans, will be five levels, with the first floor serving as the ground floor, the second floor housing a gateway and game room, passageways and a fitness room on the third floor, and passageways and hospitality rooms on the fourth and fifth floors.

If the air rights are not granted, there will be nothing connecting the two buildings on the property, forcing patrons and guests to go outside to travel back and forth.

In response to some criticism received last month, Moore explained during the hearing that the abandonment of the air rights will not increase density of the project. He said the breezeway will connect the buildings, and is expected to improve the area by widening the alley and adding bicycle lanes, which he confirmed with Schoellkopf.

“We’re actually trading air and space area, or basically air and space area. We’re getting a build-over, which increases the public safety,” Moore said. “And it is a substantial benefit not only for the use of our property, but to the use of surrounding property.”

Examples of other city projects that were granted air rights for development and redevelopment, such as the Bonita Beach Hotel on 81st Street and Breakers Hotel on Third Street, were also presented.

A nearby property owner also spoke in favor of the project and request for air rights, while another resident spoke later against giving away the space for free.

The request will move now to a first reading before final approval.

Spring, summer events approved

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) From several Boardwalk walks to raise money and awareness for local causes to an annual volleyball tournament, a number of events are filling up Ocean City’s calendar as the summer season approaches.

At a meeting Monday, City Council members approved the following private events in one fell swoop.

Walk for Kids

Each year, representatives from the CRICKET Center host a Walk for Kids on the Boardwalk to generate income to support the organization’s operating budget.

According to a staff report, this year’s 10th annual event is tentatively set from noon to 3 p.m., April 23, on the Boardwalk from Caroline to Fifth streets. A rain date is set for April 30.

The staff report said the headquarters for the event will be on the concrete pad and beach at Caroline Street, east of the Boardwalk, where the walk will begin. The route includes stops at supporting local businesses and ends at Fifth Street. Pinwheels will be placed in the sand on the beach to represent sponsors.

Risk management staff members have said the event is self-sustaining, brings a positive image to the Boardwalk and benefits local businesses.

The organizers have not asked for assets or support for the event, and will pay $262.50 in private event fees.

First Grade Boardwalk Walk The Showell Elementary School

First Grade Boardwalk Walk is tentatively set from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., May 12, with a rain date of May 16.

According to a staff report, first grade students will walk the length of the Boardwalk from the inlet to 27th

Street. At the end of the walk, the students will eat a bagged lunch on the beach at 27th Street and listen to members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol give a safety presentation.

The organizer requested permission to drive buses into the inlet parking lot to unload the students and chaperones, then park on 27th Street between the Boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue. If approved, public works staff will post the parking spaces for event use.

Members of the Beach Patrol believe the walk is a “great, annual event and helps the department fulfill its mission of education,” according to the staff report.

While it was not requested, the police will have on-duty patrol officers check the school buses at the start of the event.

The staff report said risk management staff noted that the group is small and poses minimal risk.

No private event or asset and support fees will be charged, as Worcester County Public Schools are exempt.

See ARRAY Page 8

A young fan gets his shirt signed during a past Ravens Roost parade in Ocean City. City Council members approved details for this year’s event, as well as several others, at a meeting this week.

BAYVIEW BUILD

Crews perform work earlier this week near the Downtown Recreation Complex along Chicago Avenue on the bay between Third and Fourth streets. A groundbreaking ceremony is set for 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, at the site to officially kick off renovations planned for the park, which include an expansion of the Ocean Bowl Skate Park, the installation of a new multi-court surface for tennis and pickleball, reconstruction of the basketball courts, a new playground and walking paths.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Array of Boardwalk events OK’d

Continued from Page 7

School band performance

Members of the Ocean City Development Corporation and a representative from Woodson Elementary School are set to host a musical performance from 11 to 11:30 a.m., May 30, on the Boardwalk.

According to a staff report, the school band will play a free 30minute concert for spectators on the Somerset Street Plaza. OCDC members will be responsible for coning off the west end of the plaza so no vehicles drive through during the event.

The organizers will pay the town $87.50 in private event fees.

Ravens Roost parade

Members of the Council of Ravens Roosts are tentatively set to hold their annual Ocean City parade from 10 a.m. to noon, June 3, in the southern lanes of Baltimore Avenue from 19th to 26th streets.

A staff report said the parade, which celebrates the Baltimore Ravens Football Team and its fans, will be staged at 8:30 a.m. from 15th to 19th streets on Baltimore Avenue. If more staging is needed, it will take place from 16th to 19th streets between Baltimore and Philadelphia avenues.

At 10 a.m., the staff report said the participants of the parade will step off the southern lanes of Baltimore Ave. and proceed north to 26th Street. The parade will end no later than noon.

Members of the public works department will provide a portable generator, PA system, 160 traffic cones, 20 sections of special event fencing, 125 plastic traffic barricades, an arrow board, two judges’ stands, four folding tables, 10 chairs, 20 trash cans, and two boxes of trash can liners.

Members of the police department have said the event requires significant manpower, requiring roughly 25 officers.

Representatives from the fire marshal’s office said the drive surface for the road closure must remain free and clear of obstructions to allow accessibility to adjacent buildings, and access to all hydrants and building connections must be maintained, according to the report.

The organizer was charged $350 in private event fees and $4,144 in asset fees. The staff report said town officials have agreed to provide inkind labor to support the event at no cost to the organizer, with the cost not to exceed $18,000. The organizer must reimburse costs incurred over that amount.

Volley for TBI

The annual Volley for Traumatic Brain Injury, or TBI, event is set from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Aug. 12, on the beach between 42nd and 43rd streets, with a rain date set Aug. 13.

According to a staff report, the

teams of amateur volleyball players will be partcipating in a tournament to raise money for Sinai Hospital in Baltimore for TBI research and rehabilitation. To date, the local annual event has raised nearly $200,000 for the cause.

Wooden studs will be placed in the sand to hold four nets, which will be set up alongside each other sharing the studs, and extend a half block. Three tents will serve as the event headquarters and the judges and team sign-in station. Water coolers and raffle baskets will be on hand. The staff report said spectator viewing will be east of the courts and speakers will be set up near the dune line for music and announcements, among other details.

The staff report said this is the 10th annual event, which is self sustaining and has not created any incidents in the past.

Members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol requested to meet up with the organizer to ensure emergency access through the event area, and provision of CPR training by holding a recruiting effort, and/or competing in the event.

The organizer will pay the town $350 in private event fees, the staff report said.

Walk for Recovery

The Atlantic Club’s Walk for Recovery, a fundraiser to raise awareness about addiction, will take place Sept. 9 on the Boardwalk from the inlet to 27th Street.

According to a staff report, the event is set from 9 to 11 a.m., with the headquarters set up on the south end of the Boardwalk.

The staff report said proceeds from the event will go to scholarships for schooling and treatment. Participants will begin on the south end of the Boardwalk and walk the length of the Boardwalk and back. Tree water stations will also be set up along the route.

The staff report said the organizers asked to set up tables, chairs, signs and equipment on the south end of the Boardwalk, including a first-aid station, informational tables, a memory board, activities, and tents secured with weights, water barrels or concrete block.

The fire marshal requested that the organizer not place any fixed structures at the street ends or within 15 feet of any fire hydrants within the event footprint. The organizer must also ensure the nearby inlet village and lodge maintain access onto the Boardwalk, according to the staff report.

Transportation staff advised that, weather permitting, the Boardwalk trams will be in operation from 2 to 10 p.m. on the day of the event.

The organizer is slated to pay the town $87.50 in private event fees to put on the event.

SPRING ‘23

Fire dept. seeing positive returns

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Members of the Ocean City Fire Department are already seeing positive results from a new deployment model and staffing plan.

Up until recently, the prognosis for the department — which includes career firefighters and emergency service personnel, volunteers, and the fire marshal’s office — was looking pretty grim. Staffing shortages across the board had resulted in considerable overtime as employees struggled to keep up with service demands post-covid.

But today, according to Fire Chief Richard Bowers’ annual report, the situation has improved.

“One of the things that’s important in this information and data is the fact that we are addressing some of these actual items in our current deployment model that is getting ready to start in May of this year,” Bowers told City Council members Monday. “And again, thank you to the council. This is some of the return of investment that the council will begin to see, and the city manager, as a result of that.”

City Manager Terry McGean helped address some of the staffing and other issues within the department’s collective bargaining agreement, which was signed in January. Outside of the agreement, the council approved a staffing

plan in the department’s fiscal 2024 budget that included adding 12 new full-time firefighters/ emergency medical technicians.

Department officials are also focusing on efforts to recruit and retain parttime employees, which Bowers said is going well. An academy for part-time hires is underway now, with six people in the class and more candidates in the hopper.

“We’re getting quality candidates, which I’m very happy to say,” Bowers said.

Emergency response times are also good, with the department clocking 4 minutes and 27 seconds on average to receive, dispatch and arrive at calls. Bowers said the national average is

under 5 minutes 90 percent of the time, which the local department has exceeded.

The survival rates for non-traumatic cardiac arrests, which Ocean City had 54 of last year, is also impressive, Bowers said. The national average for surviving the events is 9 percent, and in Ocean City it is currently 16 percent.

“That means out of that 54 that we can say that about 15 or 16 people actually walked away alive from having a cardiac arrest here in Ocean City,” Bowers said. “That’s pretty darn tremendous, I got to tell you.”

Other improvments include training efforts. The staffing plan included the addition of a new training officer, which Bowers said has significantly helped.

Crab-Stuffed Mushroom Caps

Boudin Balls

Bourbon Street Steak

(Served blackened w/Bourbon Mushroom Glaze)

Lobster Ravioli w/ Crab Alfredo Sauce

Chesapeake Chicken w/ Lump Crab

(Served w/Mushrooms & Onions in an Old Bay Wine Sauce w/Mozzarella)

Broiled Maryland Crab Cake (6oz)

Honey Bourbon Glazed Salmon

Paella Jambalaya

(Shrimp, Chicken, Mussels, Andouille Sausage) served w/ spicy saffron rice

Cochon de lait

(NOLA Pulled Pork served w/slaw & cornbread)

House salad, Caesar salad, or Spinach salad OR:

Gumbo, Red Beans & Rice, or Maryland Crab

Strawberry Shortcake

Blueberry Crisp

Bread Pudding w/ Bourbon Caramelized Glaze

Key Lime Pie

A fire truck and gear are shown inside the Ocean City fire station on 130th Street. Chief Richard Bowers presented details of the department’s annual report, which includes proof that new staffing and deployment plans are working, to council members this week.

ng

Salt Life mobile h about 1 in app satisfie Community’s locatio home park outside o 5 miles away from t $169,9 lying, contact us today!

00 ICE losest cated ions, amusem a little g affordab

ents, and restaurants, meaning you don et-away. Our location is not only one of le in the area.

FindYYoou hersVVaacationurDreamTToodayandLiveWhereOth oday and Live Where Others V our Dream T Find Y . hedule Y Call Us to Sc Yoour Tour! 410-213-776693

Staff still tweaking proposed fee changes for resort events

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Ocean City tourism staff members are still working on finalizing proposed changes to the resort’s special event fee structure to more fairly and adequately cover associated costs.

The fee structure for holding both big and small events on city property has not changed since 2014, prompting officials to look into replacing it with a new one that gets the town more bang for its buck and reduces strain on employees.

At a Tourism Commission meeting last week, Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, discussed the latest changes to the working plan, which was first introduced in March.

The initial draft bumped up the application fees considerably, made them nonrefundable, had no distinction between summer and off-season events, and included several other details that did not sit well with commission members.

For example, an annual Easter sunrise church service on the beach, which today costs just $88 total, could have jumped to $1,300 for application and space rental fees through the first formula. But after making some changes, which included setting different rates for offseason events, the cost dropped significantly lower.

As presented, the new structure establishes four tiers for events, ranked from smaller and less complicated to larger and more crowded and busy. The first two tiers, which include the Easter sunrise service, nonprofit 5K fundraisers, a beach soccer tournament, and other small events, would not require council approval and are cheaper to hold overall.

Tiers 3 and 4, where festivals such as Bikefest, the Cruisin’ weekends, and other larger events are categorized, require more negotiations and council approval.

The latest version of the new fee structure also does not have nonrefundable application fees and has flexibility for other details that addressed some of the concerns commission members expressed during the first meeting.

However, the draft is not ready. Several details still need narrowed down, such as the right way to charge for-profit, non-ticketed events, before the draft goes to council members for official review and approval.

Perlozzo said staff members will take the comments into consideration and make changes where appropriate.

“It’s confusing, we want to get it right,” he said after hearing from commission members and requesting more feedback from council members.

The goal is to charge promoters and organizers enough money in application and space rental fees, lost parking lot revenue and percentages of ticket sales to make up for the cost of providing security and other resources for events. Currently, the city is losing money on some large events, and straining employees, and the new structure aims to put more of the burden on the event organizers.

Waterline flushing in Mystic Harbour coming in spring

(April 21, 2023) The Water and Wastewater Division of Public Works will begin its semi-annual program for flushing waterlines in Assateague Pointe, Edgewater Acres, Nantucket Point, Deer Point, Landings, Mystic Harbour, Newark, Ocean Reef and West Ocean City Service Areas between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The following proposed spring 2023 dates for the flushing of the waterlines

See WATERLINE Page 13

A classic car drives down the Boardwalk during OC Cruisin’ in 2021. A new fee structure is proposed for these types of special events on city property in an effort to cover associated costs.

Rural broadband gets $92M

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) More state funding is coming to Worcester County to expand access to broadband for rural residents.

On April 5, Gov. Wes Moore announced that the state is awarding about $92 million to expand access to around 14,500 households and businesses across the state through the Connect Maryland initiative.

“Internet access is essential for Marylanders to have a pathway to receive critical information, be involved with their communities and participate in the local economy,” Moore said in a statement. “These awards help ensure that the infrastructure exists to make Maryland more equitable.”

About $4.5 million of that money is going to Talkie Communications for 319 homes in

Worcester County.

Andre DeMattia, who owns Talkie with his twin brother Andrew, said in an email that the funding comes as part of a three-year plan to complete areas that include Pocomoke City, Girdletree, Stockton, Newark, Bishopville, Whaleyville and parts of the Nassawango Hills area.

The total cost to provide internet access to all unserved county residents is about $70 million, he said.

DeMattia said Talkie has secured “over $100 million” in grant funding to extend fiber optic internet to 15 Maryland counties and three in Delaware. The money consists of state, federal and county funds and is meant for areas where “wireless solutions are the only available option.”

“Our priority is to target

these underserved regions first before overbuilding,” he said.

So far, about 52,000 rural homes in Maryland have been connected to broadband through state initiatives.

“Broadband is the utility that will determine economic outcomes in much the same way water and sewer systems have been for the past 150 years,” Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day said in a statement. “Full participation in the digital economy is essential for resolving inequities for countless Marylanders and the Office of Statewide Broadband is committed to closing the digital divide.”

Choptank Electric Cooperative also received funding from the grant for Worcester County, earning about $2.3 million for 243 homes.

Fire/EMS allocations tabled

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) It’s back to the drawing table for Worcester County Fire and EMS.

On Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners voted 6 to 1, with Joe Mitrecic in opposition, to table discussions about how the county will allocate $1.5 million in ARPA funding to its fire and EMS services.

The issue was up for approval or denial, but some of the commissioners felt that too many of the requests did not meet the criteria of needs that will “fix a fragile system,” as Commissioner President Chip Bertino put it.

For the last couple of years, Worcester County’s Fire and EMS leadership has met with county officials and politicians regularly to assess the current and future needs of an emergency system that has been

forced to make more with less for years.

The Commissioners voted in July of last year to allocate the money to fire and EMS services.

Looking over the list of requests from the county’s eight Fire and EMS companies — when Ocean Pines and Ocean City EMS services are considered separate from fire — Bertino felt that only Ocean City EMS, Ocean Pines EMS and Girdletree Fire were making conforming requests.

Among the pricier requests were $150,000 apiece from the Stockton and Showell fire companies one new pumper engine apiece to replace aging engines, $150,000 from Girdletre for self-contained breathing apparatus and $150,000 from Bishopville for a new engine/brush unit to replace a 37-year-old engine.

“The vote by the fire chiefs

was to split the money equally 10 ways,” Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young. said. “The intention of the money was to provide one-time funding to fix the fragile system.”

Young handled much of the discussion on behalf of fire and EMS services in lieu of Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers, who had to leave the meeting early.

He added that the intention of the commissioners last year was to allow the fire chiefs of the county to decide how the money was allocated.

“I don’t see how this fits the criteria of fixing a fragile system,” Bertino said.

After a motion to pass the requests failed 3 to 4 with Commissioners Jim Bunting, Caryn Abbott, Eric Fiori and Bertino in opposition, the motion was made to table the discussions for now.

Waterline flushing scheduled

Continued from Page 12

are subject to change.

- April 24 thru May 5 – Assateague Pointe, Deer Point, Mystic Harbour, Ocean Reef, and West Ocean City

- May 9-10 – Newark

- May 11-12 – Edgewater

Acres and Nantucket Pointe

Routine flushing of the water system helps to reduce the fre-

quency of discolored water. Public Works crews open and close the hydrants, flushing out the built-up iron deposits. Sometimes, this can lead to temporary increases in suspended iron, which should settle out within a few hours of the flushing.

Be aware that, even on dates the water lines in a section are

not being flushed, it is still possible to experience discolored water.

If area residents notice that their water becomes cloudy during these times, allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear.

For more information, call the Water and Wastewater Division at 410-641-5251.

We will be offering this special every day, from Sunday, April 16 to Sunday, April 30th

Open Daily at 5 PM • Reservations Recommended www.thehobbitrestaurant.com

Book reservations via our website or call 410-524-8100 FULL REGULAR MENU AVAILABLE ALONG WITH RESTAURANT WEEK MENU

Restaurant Week 3 Courses for $49 Menu

(Please choose 3 of the 4 courses listed below) No Substitutions Please

Appetizers

Shrimp Toast Fresh shrimp, cilantro, scallion, garlic, sesame seeds. Fried and served with three dipping sauces; soy, spicy sambal and lemongrass

Chorizo Fundido Spicy chorizo sausage, peppers, onions, blend of pepperjack, smoked cheddar, and asadero cheeses served in a mini cast iron pan. Served with a toasted baguette

Chicken Kiev Bites Panko breaded chicken bites made with garlic butter and fried, finished with a “green goddess” aioli

Soup Du Jour (GF) Our Chef’s daily creation! Please ask your server

Salads

Caesar Salad Fresh chopped romaine hearts, homemade Caesar dressing, shaved parmesan and homemade croutons

Gandalf’s Goat Cheese Greens (GF) Mixed greens tossed in an orange poppy seed dressing with goat cheese, oranges and toasted pine nuts

House Salad (GF) Mixed greens, fresh garden vegetables, creamy homemade Italian vinaigrette

Entrees

Salmon over Coriander “Zoodles” Skin on North Atlantic Salmon, roasted and served over coriander zucchini noodles with a soy ginger sauce

“Yankee Pot Roast” Braised Short Rib (GF without onion crisps) Slow cooked short rib, buttery potato puree, Brussels sprouts, baby carrots, cippolini onions, roasted onion demi glaze, finished with bearnaise sauce and onion crisps

Tru e Carbonara Tagliatelle pasta, pancetta, tru e butter, egg yolks, parmesan, pecorino

Pork Milanese Thinly pounded pork medallions, breaded and pan sautéed, finished with a caper butter sauce. Bitter greens salad with tru e honey mustard vinaigrette

Crabcake (GF) 5 oz fresh all Maryland jumbo lump crabcake, sprinkled with Old Bay, served with chef’s choice of vegetable and mashed potatoes

Dessert

Mary’s Delight Our house specialty for over 40 years. Crushed walnut crust, thin layer of sweetened cream cheese, chocolate pudding and whipped cream

Crème Brûlèe (GF) Creamy vanilla custard finished with a caramelized sugar coating

* GF Denotes Gluten Free Selection.

HB1071 passed April 10, stops police from searching

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Regardless of the General Assembly’s passage of legislation that prohibits the right of police to stop or search a vehicle or person based solely on the smell of marijuana, the old law is still the law.

Delegate Charlotte Crutchfield of Montgomery County was the chief sponsor of HB1071, which is set to go into effect starting July 1 and is awaiting a signature from Gov. Wes Moore.

“Until the law goes into effect, an individual’s vehicle is still subject to a search based on the officer’s observa-

tions of the physical presence of cannabis or the odor of cannabis,” said Ocean City Police Department’s Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller. “We will consult the legislation and Attorney General’s Office to determine our operating procedure moving forward.”

In addition to doing away with the smell test, the bill also prohibits police from stopping or searching an individual when a personal-use amount of marijuana is found near money and there are no signs of the intention to distribute, according to the legislature’s fis-

See BILL Page 16

Cricket Center to present 10th annual Walk for Kids

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) April is nationally recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month, so the Cricket Center is hosting the 10th annual Walk for Kids on the Boardwalk this Sunday to help raise money for its programs.

The Cricket Center’s name is an acronym for “Children’s Resource Intervention Center Kids Empowerment Team,” said Lauren Cooper, executive director of the Cricket Center.

As the only child advocacy center in Worcester County, it works as a multidisciplinary team with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, medical and health professionals and prosecutors to investigate allegations

Bill does away with smell test

Continued from Page 15

cal and policy note for HB1071.

of physical and sexual child abuse, Cooper said.

The Cricket Center also assists children who have witnessed a violent crime or domestic violence.

“We have our partners with the Life Crisis Center, so they provide our victim advocate who works with the child as well as their non-offending caregivers to make sure that they’re seeing a trauma-focused therapist … but we offer the victim advocacy,” Cooper said.

Registration for the walk begins at noon at Caroline Street on the Boardwalk, where attendees can take part in the annual pinwheel planting on the beach.

“We’re going to plant a pinwheel in

See BUSINESSES Page 18

HB1071 also limits where law enforcement can search while investigating someone for driving under the influence of marijuana. If police are only investigating for DUI of marijuana, they won’t be able to search areas of a car that are not readily accessible to the driver or that don’t reasonably contain evidence related to the driver’s condition.

“Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs (including cannabis) and/or alcohol is prohibited by law,” Miller said. “The Ocean City Police Department will continue strict driving under the influence (DUI) enforcement to ensure our roadways remain a safe area for motorists and pedestrians.”

The bill reduces the fines for smoking in public. First-time offenses can have a maximum fine of $50, which was reduced from $250, and second-time offenders can have a maximum fine of $150, which was reduced from $500.

“Cannabis smoking is and will be prohibited by law in any public place or any motor vehicle,” Miller said. “A public place includes outdoor spaces and indoor spaces open to the public, including bars, restaurants, public transportation, and indoor places of employment. In specific terms of Ocean City, this includes the Beach and Boardwalk.”

In November 2022, Marylanders

voted to pass a ballot referendum that would legalize recreational marijuana use for people 21 and older, also effective July 1. It will be legal to possess marijuana as long as it remains within the amount defined for personal use, which includes up to 1.5 ounces of usable cannabis, up to 12 grams of concentrated cannabis and cannabis products containing up to 750 mg of THC, according to Maryland.gov.

The referendum also legalizes the possession of up to two cannabis plants, increases the amount of marijuana possession subject to a civil fine from 10 grams to 2.5 ounces, and creates a process that will expunge all previous cases where possession of under 10 grams was the only charge.

“With this legislative change (increase in amount required for civil penalty), we anticipate seeing an increase in citations. It is too early to speculate on how arrests will be affected,” Miller said.

Miller said that with regards to the new legislation, the OCPD’s K-9 unit will continue with current training standards.

“Since the new legislation (HB1071) is in its infancy, we do not want to speculate how it could affect general police statistics,” Miller said. “We will follow the new legislation and recommendations from the Attorney General’s Office.”

Businesses, first responders support charity walk for kids

Continued from Page 16

the sand, which represents a national symbol for the fun carefree childhood that every kid deserves,” Cooper said.

Register as an individual or team on the Cricket Center’s website and collect donations before the walk, or sign-up the day-of at noon on Caroline Street, which will be the central hub of the walk.

Registration is $25.

The one mile walk starts at 1 p.m. Participants are welcome to go at their own pace until they reach Fifth Street and then turn back around to return to Caroline Street.

Along the way, walkers can stop at four restaurants to take part in family-friendly activities.

On Second Street, attendees can make picture frames at Bull on the Beach, then design masks and have their face painted at Mug and Mallet. Farther down the Boardwalk, participants can create slime and visit Cricket the clown for balloon making at Shenanigan’s on Fourth Street. Decorate cupcakes, make sand art and see the Cricket Center’s facility dog, Josiah, at Hooters on Fifth Street.

The theme of the walk this year is “Heroes 4 Hope,” so when everyone meets back up at Caroline Street at 3 p.m., there will be police, fire fighters and other first responders who will participate in physical challenges and an obstacle course with the children.

Max, the Ocean City Fire Department’s therapy dog, will also make an appearance, Cooper said.

Families can also join in on the superhero-themed costume contest, which will have prizes for best DIY costume, coolest outfit and most unique.

Local businesses including Candy

Kitchen and Jolly Roger Amusements donated gift cards, T-shirts and general swag for the raffle and lottery tree that is taking place after the walk.

The Cricket Center’s fundraising goal this year is $20,000, which will pay for training and specialized equipment for its partners.

Specific projects include buying child abuse-related crime scene investigation equipment for law enforcement, new medical tools to investigate sexual abuse for the center’s medical partners and making the sexual abuse exam room at Atlantic General Hospital more childfriendly, Cooper said.

Funding will also support the Cricket Kit Program, which provides children with items like clothes, toiletries and games while they undergo abuse-related hospital exams, Cooper said.

Cooper said organizers are hoping for at least 100 walkers this year, but there is no limit on the number of people.

“It’s really just a fun community event, and it’s a good time to celebrate the good things that our community does to promote healthy child development because a lot of all the work that we do is really heavy stuff,” Cooper said. “We’re dealing with really serious allegations and it’s a lot, so it’s a really cool way for our team to be able to interact with children in the community in a really positive way.”

For more information about the Cricket Center, visit https://thecricketcenter.com/. Register for the walk at https://thecricketcenter.com/event/ 10th-annual-walk-for-kids-to-helpthe-fight-against-child-abuse/.

The Cricket Center is holding its 10th annual Walk for Kids to raise money for its child advocacy services on the Boardwalk this Sunday. Pictured are walkers from last year’s event.

Ward World Championship returns to resort

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Waterfowl carving is part of Maryland’s heritage.

What began as craftspeople carving decoys to draw in birds for the waterfowl industry around the Chesapeake Bay has since grown past its utilitarian roots and blossomed into a world-class art form.

“It allows people to reconnect with nature,” said John Leonard, chairman of the board of directors for the Ward Foundation. “If you’re in your shop, you’re working on a piece of wildfowl art, constantly thinking about wildlife. You’re looking back to that certain day that you were out in Mother Nature and saw what you’re trying to recreate.”

That’s what makes Maryland such an appropriate location to host the 50th in-person Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival at Ocean City’s own Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street, from today until Sunday.

“It’s a world-level event that is happening in Ocean City, and if people wanted to experience the best that there can be, they would need to come to Ocean City and see it,” Leonard said.

The Ward Foundation is a non-

profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting wildfowl art. The foundation was previously based out of the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, a building and collection that is owned by Salisbury University.

Recently SU announced it is cutting ties with the foundation by the end of the fiscal year, so although the foundation lost the museum, the world championship goes on.

Contestants from around the world have entered waterfowl carvings into categories like functional hunting decoys, interpretive pieces, contemporary decoys, fish carvings and sculptures made from materials other than wood, just to name a few.

Each day, judges will evaluate entries from the Champion Level World Class and skill levels ranging from novice to masters based on many criteria including craftsmanship, accuracy, essence of species and artistry.

World-renowned carvers like Peter Palumbo from Delaware, Pat Godin from Ontario and Rich Smoker of Maryland will be in attendance.

People who enter as novices and win awards eventually graduate into higher levels from year-to-year, Leonard said.

Competitors can enter into a higher level if they feel ready for it, but they cannot drop back down into

a lower level once they have competed in that skill set.

Competitor registration closed at 9 a.m. Friday morning.

At the award ceremony on Saturday at 5:30 p.m., first-, second- and third-place prizes will be awarded for each category, along with honorable mentions. The foundation is granting around $60,000 in prize money, which will be distributed among winners.

Multi-day passes for attendees cost $10, with $8 tickets for students and seniors and free admission for children younger than 12.

The 2020 championship was canceled because of covid and the 2021 event was held virtually. Last year was a hybrid online and in-person contest with a turnout that Leonard estimated to be about an eighth of the number of entries that normal championships have.

Usually, contestants have one year from the date of the previous show to create their pieces. This year contestants can enter sculptures made over the past few years along with pieces made this year in case they missed the past shows during covid, Leonard said.

The 50th in-person Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival at Ocean City’s own Roland E. Powell Convention Center runs from today until Sunday. Pictured is attendees viewing art at the 2019 competition.

Art entries expected to be more than double

Because of this, Leonard guessed that there could be more than double the number of entries compared to years past.

“It just means that the judges that we do have will have to work harder,” Leonard said.

The normal number of entries varies for each category. On a usual year Leonard estimated that the youth categories might have 300-400 entries, while other ones have 50100. World Champion level categories will often have under 10 entries.

“We get so many people, not just around the country. We get international visitors to come to Ocean City every year for the World Championships,” Leonard said.

Tonight the event will feature a Living Legends Award Presentation and Dinner, which honors champion carvers and those who have benefited the Ward Foundation or the wildfowl carving community.

Tickets for the dinner cost $65 for members of the Ward Foundation and $75 for non-members.

While the Ward Foundation web-

site lists a World Class Art and Carving Benefit Auction at 2 p.m. Saturday, Leonard said that this is incorrect. The auction will be held at a later date separate from the championship.

At past championships, Sunday is when people relax, talk and look at the winning pieces, but this Sunday, the foundation is holding a special roundtable event where guests can share ideas about how the foundation can move forward after the separation from SU and the museum, Leonard said.

“We are a foundation without a home,” he added.

When the Ward Foundation built the museum at Schumaker Pond, it incurred a large debt, according to Leonard.

SU assumed $1.6 million of the foundation’s debt in 2003, and in return the foundation gave SU ownership of the museum building, property and waterfowl art collection, according to a press release from the foundation.

During the week of March 23, SU

See WARD Page 22

Terri Bradford

associate Broker, GRI

410-430-6875

Bethany Drew

associate Broker,

an extra wide canal and Beautiful Pintail Park! Direct access to Bay from your private boat dock w/lift. The sunny and bright great room features cathedral ceiling, wood burning fireplace and access to the waterfront deck & screened porch! This eat-in kitchen will delight any chef with its custom tiled backsplash. Formal dining area w/hardwood flooring. Immaculately maintained landscaping, cedar shake vinyl siding, stone foundation, concrete drive, outdoor shower! $749,000

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS:

32 Palm – Hilton Suites, 32nd Street

Albertino’s Brick Oven Eatery, 131st Street

Assateague Bar and Grill, 9636 Stephen Decatur Hwy, West Ocean City

BLU Crabhouse and Raw Bar, 23rd Street

Blue Fish Restaurant and Bar, 94th Street

Bourbon Street on the Beach, 126th Street

Captain’s Table, 15th Street inside the Courtyard By Marriot Hotel

Crab Bag, 130th Street

Fager’s Island Restaurant, 60th Street

Happy Jack Pancake House, 25th Street

Hooked, 80th Street

Ocean 13, 32nd Street

Papi’s Taco Joint, 15th Street

Reef 118 in the Carousel Resort Hotel, 117th Street

Sea Bay Bar and Grille, 60th Street

Seacrets, 49th Street

Tailchasers, 122nd Street

Tequila Frogs OC, 54th Street

The Hobbit, 54th Street

The Shrimp Boat, 9724 Stephen Decatur Hwy, West Ocean City

Touch of Italy, 66th Street

Ocean City Restaurant Week continues through April 30

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Diners have one more week to take part in the annual Restaurant Week, organized by the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association.

“I am delighted with the way Restaurant Week has kicked off,” Susan Jones, OCHMRA’s executive director, said earlier this week. “It is difficult to gauge the success thus far, however, any amount of business is always better than no business.”

Twenty-one restaurants are participating in the promotion. Some eateries created priced-fixed menus so customers can choose one of many meals all at the same cost, while others are providing discounts or offer-

ing specialty dishes.

“We have altered the dates for several years; trying early spring, early June, however, it seems as though this two-week stretch is the perfect time,” Jones said. “It really has provided the restaurants an opportunity to get open and while also allowing for time to bring back staff.”

Longtime participants include The Hobbit on 81st Street and Bourbon Street near 127th Street. Some new faces include Papi’s Taco Joint on 15th Street, Tequila Frogs near 54th Street and Assateague Bar and Grill off Stephen Decatur Highway in West Ocean City.

Jones said that some restaurants are inquiring about the promotion, but for dining establishments to participate they must be members of the OCHMRA.

To learn more about Restaurant Week, see specialty menus and hours of operation, visit oceancityrestaurantweek.com.

Ward foundation seeks new home

Continued from Page 21

announced it would end its relationship with the foundation, according to the press release.

SU Public Relations Director Jason Rhodes said that the decision was based on financial problems with the foundation, a failure of the museum’s HVAC system last summer and a general need to scale down the building used to house the collection.

“The University System of Maryland, their policies state that a university in the university system cannot affiliate with a nonprofit foundation that is not considered a going concern, which is the case with the Ward Foundation, according to the last audit,” Rhodes said.

Leonard said the museum was struggling the past few years because of covid.

SU is planning to move the museum and its collection to a building in downtown Salisbury that is smaller and more manageable than the current location on South Schumaker Drive. They hope it will bring higher attendance and cost less to upkeep, Rhodes said.

“It’s been a big turmoil,” Leonard said. “There’s been a lot of things, meetings with the Wicomico County Council, and what have you, to see why the university doesn’t want to work with the foundation anymore.”

For more information about the Ward Foundation and the Ward World Championship, visit www.wardmuseum.org. (Subject to change).

Breast cancer group hosts event

(April 21, 2023) Women Supporting Women, a local nonprofit organization that has dedicated the last 30 years to providing awareness, education and support to individuals who are affected by breast cancer, will host its first “Putt the Night Away” miniature golf fundraiser.

The event is scheduled for Friday, April 21, from 6-10 p.m. at Old Pro Golf – Under the Sea indoor course on 68th Street in Ocean City.

Family and friends are invited to an evening of unlimited mini golf play that includes a hole-in-one contest, basket raffle and a meet and greet photo op with Mermaid Tasha, the Marlin Mermaid.

Entry for adults is $15 and $10 for children 12 and under, which includes unlimited mini golf play, one slice of pizza and a bottle of water.

“We wanted to plan something fun for the whole family to enjoy,” said Cindy Feist, executive director for Women Supporting Women. “We are looking forward to reconnecting with our survivors, volunteers and supporters at the event and welcome anyone from the community to join us for a good time, friendly competition and the opportunity to win some great prizes.”

Stop by the WSW office at 1320 Belmont Ave. Suite 402 in Salisbury to re-

serve a spot or call 410-548-7880. Sign up is also available at the event.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/684 358316671162/?ref=newsfeed.

Women Supporting Women is a local, grass-roots nonprofit organization dedicated to providing awareness, education and support to all those who are affected by breast cancer.

To learn more about WSW, visit www.womensupportingwomen.org, www.facebook.com/wswdelmarva, or stop by the Salisbury office =at 1320 Belmont Avenue, next to the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.

Bloody Mary contest set for Sun.

(April 21, 2023) Ocean 98.1 WOCMFM with presenting sponsor Seacrets Distilling Company, will hold its 15th annual “Best Bloody Mary on the Shore” Contest on Sunday, April 23, from noon to 3 p.m.

The event will take place in Morley Hall at Seacrets, Jamaica USA, on 49th Street, with proceeds benefiting the Ocean 98 “Cash for College” Fund.

The $20 entry fee charged at the door will provide each attendee a judge’s ballot and allows for unlimited tastings of the Bloody Mary’s prepared for the event by

some of our community’s best restaurants. The categories that will be judged are “Best Overall,” “Best Presentation” and “Spiciest.”

Seacrets Distilling Company returns as the event’s presenting sponsor, and will provide Seacrets Distilling Company Vodka to each competing restaurant to be used for their Bloody Mary.

The competition field is limited to 18 area restaurants. Competitors are: 45th Street Taphouse, Bourbon Street on the Beach, Bull on the Beach 94th Street,

Chaps Pit Beef, DiFebo’s, Fast Eddie’s, Lewes Oyster House, Matteo’s Salsa Loco, Micky Fins, Papi’s Tacos, Pickles Pub, Purple Moose Saloon, Saltwater 75, Seacrets Jamaica USA, Spain Wine Bar, The Sterling Tavern, Thompson Island Brewery and Victoria’s Restaurant. No one under 21 years old permitted. The Ocean 98 “Cash for College” fund provides a $5,000 scholarship each year for an outstanding high school student in Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex County.

WORCESTER COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FY 2024 REQUESTED OPERATING BUDGETS

The Worcester County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the Fiscal Year 2024 Operating Budgets as requested by the Agencies and Departments which are funded by the Worcester County Commissioners. If you wish to speak or attend in person, we encourage you to pre-register by calling the County Administration office at 410-632-1194. Speakers will be allowed to address the County Commissioners for up to two (2) minutes. Public Comment may also be submitted in advance by email at wchearing@co.worcester.md.us or in writing received on or before 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time on Monday, May 1, 2023 in the County Commissioners’ Office at Room 1103 Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. All commenters must identify themselves by their full name and address to be included in the public record. Written comments received by the deadline will be read into the record by Worcester County staff during the public comment portion of the meeting. Anyone not planning to speak may view the public hearing live on the County website at https://worcestercountymd.swagit.com/live. The Public Hearing will be held at:

7:00 P.M., Tuesday, May 2, 2023

WORCESTER COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER, SNOW HILL, MD

General Fund requested expenditures exceed available revenues (based upon current tax rates) by $11,586,353. This difference must be reconciled by the County Commissioners either through reductions in expenditures or increases in taxes, fees and/or use of Budget Stabilization Funds. Copies of the requested budgets are available for public inspection on the Worcester County website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

GENERAL FUND ESTIMATED REVENUES

Nesting terns have success breeding on artifical island

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Look out on the water from Hooper’s Crab House or the Cambria Hotel and you can see Skimmer Island, or what remains of it.

The island used to be a prime nesting site for common terns. It was seven acres and high enough that when birds set up nests, high tide did not wipe them out. But the island today is little more than a sandbar because of erosion caused by tidal ac-

tion, currents and sea level rise.

“There’s not much opportunity for nests there now,” Coastal Bird Conservation Specialist Kim Abplanalp said, of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

When the tide is low, small parts of Skimmer Island are still visible, and during the summer, boaters take advantage of that to anchor there.

Many small islands like Skimmer Island, that terns and other birds used to use for nesting, are disap-

See ARTIFICIAL Page 26

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside

The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410289-7192, www.captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Visit Captain’s Table for seafood, steaks, lobster specials and martinis; Open for breakfast and dinner everyday; Breakfast, Monday and Friday, 7:30am to 10:30am, Saturday and Sunday, 7:30am to 11:30am; Dinner, Monday through Thursday, 4pm to 9pm, Friday through Sunday 4pm to 10pm. Come hear Phil Perdue live on piano, Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm to 9pm.

■ COASTAL SALT

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

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2 to 5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out. Ordering online www.coinspuboc.com.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine with a Caribbean flare from a selection of house specialty entrees such as burgers, seafood, and pastas! Breakfast, Daily, 7am to 11:30am; Lunch and Dinner, Sunday through Thursday, 11:30am to 9pm, Friday through Saturday, 11:30am to 10pm; The elegant, yet cozy dining venue is perfect for a date, fancy family dinner, or celebratory meal.

■ FISHTALES BAR & GRILL

21st Street and the Bay, Ocean City, 41029-0990

$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Fishtales located in a premier outdoor beach location on the bay with the best sunsets.

Come for the best local fare in town. We offer lunch and dinner with great happy hour food and drink specials. Kids play area too. So, sit back and enjoy. Open 7 days a week.

■ HARBOR WATCH

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

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

Join us for our award-winning Raw Bar where you will find the most fresh, off-the-boat seafood! Featuring the best views of the Inlet and Assateague Island, dine in for our unlimited sides and certified Angus Beef steaks; Now Open, Monday and Thursday, 4-9 p.m., Friday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call for banquet and largeparty details.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PICKLES PUB

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

5639, 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 |$$

Eat where the locals eat! Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon delivers the culinary combinations you’re craving and uses only locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables. Open all year round daily featuring a great selection of entrees, small plates, appetizers, and creatively crafted cocktails. Breakfast, 7:30am to 11am; Lite Fare, 11am to 10pm; Dinner, 4pm to 10pm.

■ PGN 29th Street, Ocean City, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-8380, 410-2894083, www,pgncrabhouse.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Beer & Wine

Know for their famous steamed crabs. Dining in or carry out is available. Casual seasonal seafood stop for the all-you-can-eat specials. Steamed crabs, chicken and corn on the cob. You can find clams, ribs, crab cakes, seafood platters and more. You can call for daily specials. Open 7 days a week. 11 a.m.

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets

■ BAHAMA’S CRAB SHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET

Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Hwy, Fenwick 302-537-5882, Premium seafood, fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Open daily at 10 am, closed Wednesdays. Seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters, and snow Crab Claws.

■ BOURBON STREET ON THE BEACH

■ 32 PALM

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

32 Palm’s inviting decor fuses the perfect atmosphere with Eastern shore favorites for an exceptional dining experience! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring a unique selection of bourbons. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Also, don’t miss out our extensive wine list and whiskey menu.

■ LONGBOARD CAFE

6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-644-

12601 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 443-664-2896, www.bourbonstreetonthebeach.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Happy Hour, daily, 3-6 p.m. Check our website for days and hours open. Louisiana-style cooking with specials for Restaurant Week and regular menu. Featuring surf and turf, fantastic chicken dishes, seafood gumbo, fried catfish, jambalaya, prime rib and many more specialty dishes.

■ 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) 410801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

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

■ PIZZA TUGOS

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

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

PHOTO COURTESY KIM ABPLANALP

A raft was built in 2021 by volunteers Todd Peterson and John Collins to provide a nesting habitat for the endangered common tern in Chincoteague Bay west of Assateague Island. Terns have successfully nested on the platform for two years. Last year, Maryland Coastal Bays Program banded 159 chicks.

Artificial island provides habitat for nesting terns

Continued from Page 25

pearing, which is one reason why the common tern is not so common anymore. It is designated as endangered in the state of Maryland.

“In 2003, there were 520 pairs of terns, but by 2022, there were only 20 pairs nesting on natural islands,” Dr. Archer Larned, from Maryland Coastal Bays Program, said.

That’s a 90 percent decline in the population.

“One of the main reasons for this decline is loss of nesting habitat,” Abplanalp said.

“They nest on small islands in the Maryland coastal bays. All of these are eroding away due to sea level rise caused by climate change and changes in sentiment dynamics,” Larned said.

“So, we decided to create a raft,” said Abplanalp.

They enlisted the help of Todd Peterson and John Collins to build the raft. Funding came from The Pittman Robertson Fund and Maryland DNR.

In 2021, they built a raft to create an island for terns to nest in Chincoteague Bay west of Assateague Island. The platform consists of different sections, each hinged together to allow flexibility with the tide.

They covered the gaps between the sections with carpet to avoid having chicks slip through and then covered each section with clam shells. Side boards on the platform keep chicks from wobbling off into the water and a ramp down to the water allows the birds to venture out as they fledge.

Solar panels bring power to the platform for cameras, which allows the team to remotely monitor the rafts. Marker lights signal boats that the raft is there.

The platforms’ builders planted fake grass tufts on the rafts. Members of Coast Kids painted small tent shaped shelters for the chicks to protect the birds from predators. The raft is connected to four anchors and has survived winds of up to 60 mph.

A recording of nesting colonies is played to attract terns to the platform.

“These are colonial nesting birds. They want to nest where other terns are,” said Larned.

The platforms’ keepers turn the recordings off at night to avoid attracting predators, such as great horned owls.

The first year resulted in 23 nests with 22 chicks fledged.

This was an 82 percent success rate.

The second year, the platform program expanded to allow for 155 nests, allowing Coastal Bays Program personnel to band 159 chicks.

“We were incredibly thrilled to

have this kind of success,” Abplanalp said.

The platform can handle about three times more nests.

“Common terns are astute problem solvers. They figured out quickly how to use the raft and ramp,” Abplanalp said.

A visit to the island can be harrowing for the bird’s human monitors.

“They are able to identify individuals [people] and they will attack some more than others, depending on how frequently we visit them,” Larned said.

Eventually, the team members had to start wearing bike helmets when they were on the platform.

They visit the platform only once a week, to band and check on the birds.

“The raft is very successful as a nesting habitat substitute, but is not a permanent solution.

It would be better to restore natural islands and have natural islands for these birds to nest on,” Larned

said.

A tern cares for its chicks on the tern raft. The raft was placed in Chincoteague Bay west of Assateague Island to provide nesting habitat for the endangered birds.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

You don’t want to have mundane tasks hanging over your head, Aries. Try to check as many of them off your to-do list this week as you can. This will free up a lot of free time.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, you may be planning a muchneeded vacation at the present time. Figure out a place you’ve never been and then fill your itinerary with plenty of fun things.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You likely will have to devote a lot of attention to practical matters in the days to come, Gemini. This includes taking a hard look at your spending and making cuts.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Long-term plans are to restore sand islands using dredge spoils.

“Talks are underway. But permitting slows that down a little,” Larned said.

“We are working with Ocean City to try to get something set up so if they are dredging a channel, there is a place to put it,” Larned said.

“A lot of things go into it, it’s the whole ecosystem. That takes a lot of cooperation from a lot of agencies,” Abplanalp said.

“We have never been here in history. Never had this situation ever with this kind of sea level rise. We have to adapt quickly. But we have to do it well,” Abplanalp said.

May starts the nesting season, so the raft, hauled out and cleaned of barnacles over the winter, went back in the water last week.

“It will be exciting to see how many banded birds show up and how many nests we will get,” Abplanalp said.

Book helps kids, adults be good tourists on Assateague

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Summer is coming and so are the tourists. That means the peaceful time for the Assateague ponies and other wildlife is about to end.

Samantha Norwood Conners hopes her new book, “Assateague Island Activity and Coloring Book,” will educate visitors on how to be good tourists while visiting Assateague Island.

Conners’ book aims to provide an engaging way for kids — and others — to learn about the rules to follow on Assateague Island when it comes to the wildlife, especially the wild horses.

Throughout the book, there is advice on ways to be a good visitor and keep the horses, other wildlife and people safe, including driving slowly,

not approaching the horses, and keeping food stored properly.

“There are also fun coloring pages and activities to complete,” Conners said.

“There have been sad incidents over the past few years. In July of 2021, there was a mare and foal that were struck by a vehicle.

“I work in a warehouse that makes books. When I thought about the tragedy, I wondered if there was a book about Assateague that would identify things people should be aware of,” Conners said.

There wasn’t.

So, she started to think about creating one herself.

Then the stallion, nicknamed Chip, was removed for getting too aggressive with visitors.

Cancer, the coming week will be a busy time for social opportunities. Other people will want to be around you as you can be the life of the party when you come out of your shell.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Don’t be surprised if your energy level is high this week, Leo. This leads to you feeling restless at home and even at work. This could be a fine time to take up a hobby.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you may be looking forward to an evening out with a romantic partner or close friends. Try to narrow down a day this week or next. Have a few restaurants at the ready.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Take advantage of some free time to get things done around the house, Libra. Cleaning or other home improvements should be a priority.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

There’s a lot of activity expected close to home, Scorpio. A new business may open or there could be a movie star who is spotted in town. Maybe you’ll get new neighbors.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

The thought of financial prosperity has you scouring the recruitment sites this week, Sagittarius. Speak to others about the pros and cons of leaving your current job.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you are surrounded by positive energy and eager to be out and about with friends this week. Start exploring all of the possibilities around you.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

This may be a good week to devote a large chunk of time to being alone Some time with just your thoughts and a little silence could be everything you need.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, discussions at work could get a bit heated. It’s best to distance yourself from these situations as best as you can.

PHOTO COURTESY KIM ABPLANALP

NOW PLAYING

ROGUE CITIZENS

Pickle’s Pub: Saturday, April 22, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192/7191 / Captainstableoc.com

Friday & Saturday: Phil Perdue, 5-9 p.m.

BOURBON STREET ON THE BEACH

126th Street & Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-664-2896, /www.bourbonstreetonthebeach.com

April 21: Dave Sherman, 4 p.m.; First Class, 7 p.m.

April 22: Chris Button, 4 p.m.; Risky Business, 8 p.m.

April 23: Chris Button, 5 p.m.

April 26: Stevie Mac, 4 p.m.; Reform School, 7 p.m.; Open Mic, 8 p.m.

April 27: Xerocks, 6 p.m.

COINS

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

April 21: Lennon LaRicci & the Leftovers, 7 p.m.

April 22: First Class, 7 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

April 21: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 22: Rogue Citizens, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 23: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 24: Karaoke with Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 25: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 26: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

April 27: 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

April 21: Element K 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.; Hometown Radio, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Coming Alive, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

April 22: John McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Hometown Radio, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Party Fowl, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

DJ Tuff

April 23: Ocean 98's 15th Annual

Best Bloody Mary Contest, noon to 3 p.m.

April 27: Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

PIZZA TUGOS

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

April 21: Schizophrenic Bogeyman, 9 p.m. to midnight

Every Wednesday: Karaoke w/DJ Chuck D, 8 p.m. to midnight

Train & Toy Show

Assateague horses, wildlife featured in new activity book

Continued from Page 26

“I said to myself, ‘are you going to do this book or not?’”

Conners created all of the art herself, drawing freehand and using some models of horses to ensure she had the proportions right. But she wanted to make sure the horses looked like the wild horses on Assateague, not “Clydesdales.”

The book includes various exercises, including connect-the-dots, word search, color by number and a saltwater maze with horses trying to find each other.

“Each page I made into its own poster that can stand on its own. You can hang it on a wall. One is a door hanger that has seals on it that say, ‘Do not disturb,’” Conners said.

The Assateague horses have been special to Conners since she was little.

“I am an animal lover, especially horses. I was one of those horse-crazy girls. I have been taking [riding] lessons since I was three,” Conners

said.

She has visited Assateague since she was about five years old. She loves the thrill of looking for the horses and the other wildlife she has seen along the way.

Back when she first started visiting, the horses did not have names, and fewer people were visiting the island. As the crowds grew, so did the dangers for the wildlife.

“People were feeding the horses more. I fed them as a young kid. I was educated and now I am trying to educate other people.

“The book is to help visitors be the best visitors on the island,” Conners said.

“Assateague Island Activity & Coloring Book” is available on Amazon. Conners is currently working on the book being available in local stores by Memorial Day.

A portion of proceeds from each book sale goes to the non-profit Assateague Island Alliance to help preserve the wildlife on the island.

Bookmobile reinvented as pop up library in Worcester

(April 21, 2023) The Worcester County Library will host a “Meet your Pop Up Library” event on Wednesday, April 26 at 2 p.m. at the Berlin Branch.

Light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the chance to see the Library’s new bookmobile up close.

The Library plans to take the bookmobile, which is being called a Pop Up Library, to special events and parades and is working on a regular schedule that will include visits to child care centers, senior living facilities, and activity centers.

“The Pop Up Library allows us to take our services on the road, reaching communities that might not have the resources to make it to our physical library branches,” said Library

Director Jennifer Ranck.

The bookmobile will carry books and DVDs for all ages. It will have Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing people nearby to connect their devices to a public network.

It will also be used to expand the Library’s programming capabilities, by bringing programs to the bookmobile’s stops.

The Worcester County Library acquired its first bookmobile in 1960 and provided mobile services until 1982. The new Pop Up Library is the Worcester County Library’s first bookmobile in over 40 years.

The Worcester County Pop Up Library project was funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by the Maryland State Library Agency.

The Worcester County Library will host a “Meet your Pop Up Library” event on Wednesday, April 26 at 2 p.m. at the Berlin Branch.

CROSSWORD

Samantha Norwood Conners created “Assateague Island Activity and Coloring Book” to educate kids young and old how to be good visitors to the island.

PHOTO COURTESY SAMANTHA NORWOOD CONNERS

Fri., April 21

WARD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CARVING COMPETITION AND ART FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Judging, silent auction, classes, seminars/demos, kids’ activities & more. Admission cost is $10 for multiway pass, $8 for students/seniors, free to children under 12. www.wardmuseum.org, 410-742-4988

8TH ANNUAL TAKE PRIDE IN BERLIN WEEK

Berlin Maryland Welcome Center, 14 S. Main St., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.,Each day this week, one of the Town’s local non-profits will have information about their organization and be given the opportunity to fundraise. iwells@berlinmd.gov, aearly@berlinmd.gov, 410-629-1716

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘RUN ROSE RUN’ BY DOLLY PARTON AND JAMES PATTERSON Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the library front desk. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WSW PUTT THE NIGHT AWAY MINI GOLF FUNDRAISER

Old Pro Golf, 6801 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6-10 p.m. Tickets $15. Entry for adults is $15 and $10 for children 12 years and younger, which includes unlimited mini golf, one slice of pizza and a bottle of water. Sign up at the event, call 410-548-7880 or WSW office.

Sat., April 22

WARD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CARVING COMPETITION AND ART FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Judging, silent auction, classes, seminars/demos, kids’ activities & more. Admission cost is $10 for multiway pass, $8 for students/seniors, free to children under 12. www.wardmuseum.org, 410-742-4988

8TH ANNUAL TAKE PRIDE IN BERLIN WEEK & BERLIN CLEAN UP DAY

Berlin Maryland Welcome Center, 14 S. Main St., 8:30 a.m.-noon, For general park clean-up, sign up at any of Berlin’s parks starting at 8:30 a.m. Hudson Branch sign-up is at Henry Park. Bring your own tools. iwells@berlinmd.gov, aearly@berlinmd.gov, 410-629-1716

FISHING FLEA MARKET

Ocean Pines Southgate Pond Area, 11144 Cathell Road, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Buy and sell fishing and boating items, 50/50 raffle and Chinese auction. Table rental space: $10 and $2 for table. Reserve a table: Jerry Leuters, 240-427-8929, dorado1045@yahoo.com.

LOWER SHORE ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING CONFERENCE

Sonrise Church, 10026 Main St., Berlin. 9 a.m.-noon. Get answers to human trafficking. Conversations/questions with experts. Additional information from the CRICKET Center, Zoe Ministries, The Worcester County Health Department & more!

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

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.

PET ADOPTION EVENT

Tractor Supply Co., 1701 Market St.,

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.

Pocomoke City, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to the public and friendly, leashed pets. In addition to dog and cat adoptions, there will be Pet Care 101 and Pet Treat Tasting. 410-957-3491

EARTH DAY PAINTED SHELLS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 11 a.m. Celebrate Earth Day by painting Assateague see shells with local artist Evie Eggers. All materials provided. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

EARTH DAY CLEAN UP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Come celebrate Earth Day and help pick up litter around the library. For all ages. Families are welcome. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DELMARVA CELIAC SUPPORT GROUP MEETING

Fenwick Inn, 13801 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 1 p.m. Attending speakers of Tidal Health, Dr. Jerrold Canakis, MD PA Gastroenterologist and Dietitian Michael P. Kirtsos, RD, LDN Registered Dietitian. Door prizes. RSVP to 443664-5979.

Sun., April 23

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

WARD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CARVING COMPETITION AND ART FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Judging, silent auction, classes, seminars/demos, kids’ activities

& more. Admission cost is $10 for multiway pass, $8 for students/seniors, free to children under 12. www.wardmuseum.org, 410-742-4988

15TH ANNUAL ‘BEST BLOODY MARY ON THE SHORE’; CONTEST

Seacrets - Morley Hall, 117 49th St., Ocean City, 12-3 p.m. The $20 entry fee, paid at the door, includes a judge’s ballot and unlimited Bloody Mary tastings. Proceeds benefit the Ocean 98 “Cash for College” Fund. Must be 21 years and older. http://OCEAN98.com, 410-7233683

2023 ANNUAL KENNEY - KING DINNER Lighthouse Sound Restaurant, 12723 Saint Martins Neck Road, Bishopville, 5:30 p.m. Speaker will be The Honorable Brooke Lierman, Maryland’s Comptroller and Chief Fiscal Officer. Reception at 5:30 p.m.; dinner, 6:15 p.m. Tickets cost $100. 410-208-2969 or vick1947@aol.com

Mon., April 24

RESERVATIONS DEADLINE FOR WOMEN’S CLUB FASHION SHOW AND LUNCHEON

To be held May 11, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Ocean Pines Yacht Club, 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines. Cost is $38 and includes fashion show, a choice of four entrees, desserts and non-alcoholic beverages. Jan Chiampa, 508-4466204, 410-600-4236

STORY TIME ‘INSECTS’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Come learn about insects as the group listens to fun stories, sing songs and play games. For ages 2-5 years. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

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

CROCHET BOOKMARKS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:306:30 p.m. Create Bookworm Bookmarks. Yarn and needles will be supplied, but you are welcome to bring your own. 410-632-3495. www.worces-

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

BARRACK GROUNDBREAKING

Although the project began in January, the groundbreaking on April 7 marked the ceremonial start to the construction of the new Berlin Barrack V. Pictured, from left, are Director of the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division Dan Katz, MSP Superintendent Col. Roland Butler, Berlin Barrack V Commander Lt. Earl Starner, Secretary of the Maryland Department of General Services

Atif Chaudry and Chaplain William Sterling.

Continued from Page 29

terlibrary.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 25

STORY TIME ‘MISS SUSAN’S FAVORITES’

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

STORY TIME: BIRDS AND NESTS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts about birds and climb in the giant nest the group will build. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

CALMING GLITTER JARS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:30 p.m. This DIY glittery paradise, a swirling vortex of calm, helps eliminate the stress of a long day. All supplies included. Limit 10. Registration required: 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

PRESENTATION

Wed., April 26

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR 35TH ANNUAL OC CHAMBER CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT

To be held May 3, 8 a.m. at Glen Riddle Golf Club/War Admiral Course, 11501 Maid at Arms Lane, Berlin. Cost is $175 or $700 per team and includes golf cart, premium player gift, breakfast, boxed lunch, awards dinner, team picture and goodie bag. Register: bit.ly/ChamberCup2023. 410-213-0144, Ext. 100

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

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

FIRST STATE DETACHMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE MEETING

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

‘MEET YOUR POP UP LIBRARY’ EVENT Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Featuring light refreshments and a chance to see the Library’s new bookmobile up close.

SPRING IN FULL BLOOM FASHION SHOW & LUNCHEON

Grand Hotel, 2100 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 12 p.m. Doors open at 10:30

a.m. Fashions by CraZy LadyZ Boutique, $10 mystery gift cards, Chinese Auction and 50/50. Tickets cost $40. Contact Kris, 443-614-8445 or Barbara, 507332-2526.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

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

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 on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Thurs., April 27

STORY TIME ‘COW LOVES COOKIES’

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

INTERACTIVE PUPPET SHOW: CHOOSE OUR ADVENTURE!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. National Tell A Story Day. Come join our interactive puppet show and help the characters choose their own adventure. Stick around after for a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014

RWWC

WELCOME HOME REPUBLICAN STATE LEGISLATORS

Harrison’s Harbor Watch, 806 S. Atlantic Ave. at the Inlet, Ocean City, 10:30 a.m. Tickets $31.50. The RWWC will “Welcome Home!” our Republican State Legislators at the April 27th Meeting and Luncheon. Reservations: https://www.cognitoforms.com/RWWC 1/April272023GeneralMeetingLuncheon by April 19.

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

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. A popular and entertaining discussion featuring books you have read and want to share. Come and find your next great read or future favorite. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA

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

ROMANCE BOOK CLUB: ‘SOMETHING

FABULOUS’ BY ALEXIS HALL

The Buzzed Word, 11805 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6 p.m. An afternoon of Queer Romance and wine. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.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

PATRON PICKS

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, April 24-29, all day. It’s National Library Week, so come celebrate by sharing some of your favorite books and movies with everyone. For all ages. 410-2084014

Crossword answers from page 28

Ocean City/Berlin Optimist Club President Christine Dolomount-Brown presented Worcester Preparatory School with a $1,500 donation to support the 2023 prom afterparty. Pictured, in front, from left, are senior Sophia Spadaro, Dolomount-Brown, and senior Jenna Hess, and in back, Assistant Head of School/Head of Upper School Mike Grosso, seniors Riley Moyer and Owen Schardt, and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

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

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Now Hiring Seasonal Sales Positions

Full-time, part-time now through October.

Competitive starting pay. Parking available.

Apply in person:

SOMERSET JEWELERS

412 South Atlantic Avenue, OCMD 410-289-7011

HELP WANTED

Dogtel in West Ocean City Part time and weekends. Call Dan 410-984-5719.

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

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Worcester Preparatory School is seeking

EXPERIENCED TEACHERS

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

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

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

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

HELP WANTED

Part-time. Local garden center. Need one person for Plant Nursery Labor and Customer Service

Wednesday-Saturday.

Honest and reliable. Call 410-208-4475 between 10am-5pm please.

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

CAD Designer/ Drafter Berlin, MD area. Work experience and/or an Associates degree in CAD or closely related field preferred. Contact by email hiring@jwse.com or call 410-641-0126

Call 410-723-6397 by Monday 5 p.m.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Thunderbird Beach Motel

Now Hiring

PM Maintenance Apply in person MondayFriday, 9am-2pm. 32nd Street & Baltimore Ave., Thunderbird Beach Motel. Now Hiring for Seasonal Certified Pool Operator Apply within Comfort Suites, 12718 Ocean Gateway (Rte. 50), Ocean City, MD (WOC). 410-213-7171.

Cooks and Cleaning

Help Wanted

Flexible schedule, clean kitchen, new equipment. Weekly paychecks. Friendly work environment. If interested apply in person. Open daily, 12:00 p.m.

American Legion Post #166 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, MD

Year-Round Outboard

Motor/Boat Mechanic needed for established Boat Yard in West Ocean City, Maryland. Call Harbor Marine, 410-213-2296.

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.

BOAT YARD HELP NEEDED Call Harbor Marine 410-213-2296

Front Office Manager $50-55K/year

Full Time with Benefits

To apply: 410-289-6166, ask for Allyson 4801 Coastal Hwy. Ocean City, MD 21842

Pool Attendant

Flexible hours.

Full time or part time. 3-4 days/evenings a week.

Contact Jimmer Gardiner with Harbour Island at 14th St. on the Bay 240-298-0365

• PM Front Desk Supervisor

• Front Desk

• PM Maintenance

• Grounds

• Housekeeping

• Security

• Bartenders Apply online at www.princessbayside.com. Please send resumes to drickett@ princessbayside.com

Now Hiring

Day & Nighttime

Customer Service/Cashiers

Looking for easy outgoing person with fun personality. Cool place to work. Competitive wages. Serious inquires only 410-250-5678

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED RENTALS COMMERCIAL DONATIONS

Barn 34

Hiring Kitchen Help

Apply in person

Thurs. & Fri. between 9am - 12pm 3400 Coastal Hwy.

We are looking for friendly, energetic people to join our crew

Experience preferred

•

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.

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

Advanced Marina 66th St. Ocean City

Advancedmarina.com

PGN Crab House 29th Street & Coastal Hwy. Now Hiring for • Waitstaff

• Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am

Pool -

General Maintenance Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus/not required. Able to pass CPO test. Summer. includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others.

410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne

• Counter Server

Serious inquiries only! Apply within or email us mionespizza67@gmail.com

Now Hiring: Mechanics Boat Yard Crew Cleaners Painters

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

Coconuts and The Beach House Restaurant at Castle in the Sand Hotel

We are looking for Line and Grill cooks for the 2023 season. All shifts available, breakfast, lunch and evening shifts.

Experience a plus but we will train also. Come join our team for the 23 season. Apply online at Castleinthesand.com or in person at 3701 Atlantic ave. OCMD

NOW

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

Warehouse Associate

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

Summer Bayside Condo near Jolly Roger. 2BR, 2BA W/D & AC. Cable, Wi-Fi, fully furnished. Sleeps 4-6. 2 units available May-Sept. Call Mike at 410-603-6120. www.mbjcproperties.com

Seasonal Weekly Rental (ONLY). Single Family Home, Berlin. 4BR, 3BA. $625/per night. Call 610-383-1138 for details.

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

WINTER WEEKLY

Utililites Included CONTACT US AT

Yearly & Seasonal

Self-Storage Units on Route 50 on Grays Corner Rd. 100 sq. ft., 200 sq. ft. & 250 sq. ft. 100 sq. ft. $125/mo. 200 sq. ft. $185/mo. & 250 sq. ft. $200/mo. Call Bill 301-537-5391

SERVICES

CAREGIVER AVAILABLE for home care, everyday needs. 35 years experience. Delaware and Maryland area. Call Deborah at 302-934-7420

Nurse Available for Home Care 30 plus years

experience

Reasonable rates. 856-528-6254

YARD SALE

WHALEYVILLE, April 28, 8-4, 12402 Blueberry Rd. Power saws, small power tools, hand tools, workbench, electric power washer.

Multi-Family Yard Sale!

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

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

Warehouse/Contractor Shops/Storage/ Flex Building for Lease

1000-10,000 sq. ft. In town Ocean City on 142nd St. 410-723-4400 or 410-430-8332

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK FOR SALE

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

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.

Sat., Apr. 22nd & Sun., Apr. 23rd from 8am-1pm. Kent Road, West Ocean City

Huge Liquidation Sale. Shoes, Lawn Furniture, Glassware and SO much more! Things are priced to move! 10831 Griffin Rd., Berlin

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 dewormed and vaccinated. Price is $800. Please email jasjas123@gmail.com text 843-455-3517

BUDGET MOVERS

443-664-5797 LOCAL

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

MISC. FOR SALE

DISH Network. $64.99 for 190

Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE

$100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-855407-6870

MISC. SERVICES

FREE high-speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-888-592-5957

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

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

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

Classifieds 410-723-6397

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

(301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

37 LIBERTY ST. OCEAN PINES A/R/T/A BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated November 26, 2008, recorded in Liber 5176, Folio 564 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $420,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

MAY 9, 2023 AT 4:05 PM

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

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $26,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale.

The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 355517-1)

OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

chaser 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.

(CGD File #: 459381)

Richard E. Solomon, Richard J. Rogers, Michael McKeefery, Christianna Kersey, Kevin Hildebeidel, Kyle Blackstone, and Kathleen Young, Substitute Trustees

Howard N.

Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

OCD-4/20/3t

COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

1099 WINTERSON ROAD SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

8634 LANGMAID ROAD

NEWARK, MD 21841

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Clifton Henry Dennis Jr, dated July 30, 1999 and recorded in Liber 2733, Folio 406 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $51,459.54, and an original interest rate of 8.000%, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

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 $5,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash will be accepted) 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 note rate 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, unless the purchaser is the foreclosing lender or its designee. 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 pur-

OCD-4/20/3t

COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

1099 WINTERSON ROAD

SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

8 SHORE POINT DRIVE OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Katie Lee Douglas, and Duncan Douglas, dated July 21, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4755, Folio 305 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $960,000.00, and an original interest rate of 2.000%, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on May 2, 2023 AT 3:55 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property being sold is a condominium unit and all common elements appurtenant thereto.

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 $85,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash will be accepted) 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 note rate 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, unless the purchaser is the foreclosing lender or its designee. 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.

(CGD File #: 449606)

Edward S. Cohn, Stephen N. Goldberg, Richard E. Solomon, Richard J. Rogers, Michael McKeefery, Christianna Kersey, and David W. Simpson, Jr., Substitute Trustees

Bishopville, MD 21813, was on March 28, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Martha Wilkins who died on February 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 (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th 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

OCD-4/13/3t

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

CARRIE M. WARD, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs.

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 is hereby given this 29th 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 1st day of May, 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 24th day of April, 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-4/6/3t

VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ. AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19643

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARTHA WILKINS

AKA: MARTHA TOWNSEND

WILKINS

Notice is given that Wendy Ann DiBuo, 12004 Turtle Mill Road,

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.

Wendy Ann DiBuo

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: April 06, 2023

OCD-4/6/3t

JOSHUA WINGER ESQ. BYRD & BYRD, LLC

14300 GALLANT FOX LANE, SUITE 120 BOWIE, MD 20715

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19589 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN EDWARD FISHER III

Notice is given that Jason Louis Fisher, 16301 Oxford Court, Bowie, MD 20715, was on March 28, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Edward Fisher III who died on January 7, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of September, 2023.

(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.

Jason Louis Fisher 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:

April 06, 2023

OCD-4/6/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WAYNE WESLEY EDWARDS Estate No. 19648 Notice is given that CAROL ANNE EDWARDS whose address is 689 LINCOLN AVENUE, NORTHEAST, MD 21901 was on MARCH 27, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WAYNE WESLEY EDWARDS who died on FEBRUARY 14, 2023 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th 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

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:

Foreign Personal Representatives

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: April 6, 2023

10, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ernest Hairston who died on December 29, 2022 with a will.

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

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

OCD-4/6/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of FRANKLIN POWELL HASTINGS Estate No. 19655 Notice is given that DIANE H BRINKER whose address is 11427 BELL ROAD, WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872 was on MARCH 31, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FRANKLIN POWELL HASTINGS who died on MARCH 7, 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 30th 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

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 October, 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.

Crystal L. Hairston 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

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-4/6/3t

JAMES E. CLUBB JR, ESQ 108 N 8TH ST.

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19629

Notice is given that the Circuit court of Alexandria City, Virginia appointed Christopher E. Mar, 112 Alpine Drive SE, Leesburg, VA 20175; Jonathan M. Mar, 1002 Orr Circle SW, Leesburg, VA 20175; and Rachel Mar, 4304 Victoria Land, Alexandria, VA 22304 as the Personal Representatives of the Estate of Eugene Mar who died on December 20, 2022 domiciled in Virginia, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is James E. Clubb Jr. whose address is 108 N 8th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.

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

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Christopher E. Mar Jonathan M. Mar Rachel Mar

(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-4/6/3t

THOMAS H. QUEEN LAW OFFICES OF THOMAS H. QUEEN & ASSOCIATES

7961 EASTERN AVENUE, SUITE 304

SILVER SPRING, MD 20910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19550 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ERNEST HAIRSTON

Notice is given that Crystal L. Hairston, 3070 Pine View Court, NE Washington, DC 20018, was on April

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

April 13, 2023

OCD-4/13/3t

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

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

Thursday, April 27, 2023 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(5)

requesting a special use exception to allow outdoor display of merchandise incidental to the on-premise use. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 33 & 34 of the Skyline Development Plat, further described as located on the northwest corner of Bayshore Drive and Philadelphia Avenue, and locally known as Thrift and Treasures, 2609 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: THRIFT & TREASURES – (BZA 2649 23-09400006)

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

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman

Maureen Howarth, Esq. Attorney OCD-4/13/2t

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

These three weeks of notification begins on April 20, 2023

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

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

TUESDAY, MAY 2, 2023

At 7:00 pm

To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, to add employee housing, non-accessory and other housing type definitions by amending Section 110-2, Definitions; clarifying Section 110-94, Special Exceptions- special exceptions to parking requirements; add Planning Commission required approval for certain housing types to Section 110182 Planning Commission approval required for certain uses; amend various zoning districts to allow employee housing, accessory and non-accessory as either a permitted or conditional use - R-2A Low-Density Multiple-Family Residential District: Section 110-302, Permitted uses and Section 110-304, Uses permitted by conditional use; R-2, Medium Residential District: Section 110-332, Permitted uses and Section 110-334, Uses permitted by conditional use; BM-1, Bayside Marine District: Section 110-452, Permitted uses and Section 110-454, Uses permitted by conditional use; DM, Downtown Marine District: Section 110-482, Permitted uses and Section 110-484, Uses permitted by conditional use; LC-1 Local Commercial District: Section 110-512, Permitted uses and Section 110-514, Uses permitted by conditional use; B-1 Boardwalk Commercial District: Section 110-602, Permitted uses and Section 110-604, Uses permitted by conditional use; DMX, Downtown

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

Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police

Mixed Use District: Section 110-662, Permitted uses and Section 110-664, Uses permitted by conditional use; M, Manufacturing District: Section 110-692, Permitted uses and Section 110-694, Uses permitted by conditional use; I-1, Inlet District: Section 110-861.1, Permitted uses and Section 110-861.3, Uses permitted by conditional use; and in the Supplemental Regulations – Section 110904 Modification of lot area requirements - to address accessory and non-accessory employee housing; and Section 110-932 Minimum number of spaces - to address off street parking for accessory and nonaccessory employee housing; and adding a new section 110-886- Employee Housing accessory and nonaccessory- addressing regulations for the use of accessory and non-accessory employee housing.

APPLICANT: PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION (FILE #2214100001)

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

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

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

ESQ.,

ATTORNEY

OCD- 4/13/3t

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19666 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CALVINA WAINWRIGHT FISHER AKA: CALVINA W. FISHER

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 2023-02

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, SETTING THE REAL PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024

The Ordinance will be introduced for a first reading on Monday, April 10, 2023, at 7:00 PM. The public hearing on the Ordinance will be held on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 7:00 PM. Both meetings will be held during Regular Meetings of the Mayor and Council Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, 2nd Floor, Berlin, MD 21811.

The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged.

Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information.

OCD-4/6/2t

CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC 100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

Notice is given that Cynthia F. Twilley, 1106 New Bedford Way, Salisbury, MD 21801, was on April 10, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Calvina Wainwright Fisher who died on January 22, 2023, with a will.

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

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

AUTH:

Cynthia F. Twilley

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: April 20, 2023

OCD-4/20/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 19671

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOAN DIANE S. WATT

AKA: JOAN WATT, JOAN SATTERFIELD WATT

Notice is given that Cecil H. Satterfield Jr., 44 Sundial Circle, Berlin, MD 21811, was on April 11, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joan Diane S. Watt who died on April 3, 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 11th day of October, 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.

Cecil H. Satterfield Jr.

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:

April 20, 2023

OCD-4/20/3t

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

P.O. BOX 910115 BROAD STREET

SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of KATHLEEN R. PENKUSKY

Estate No. 19677 Notice is given that JOSEPH C. PENKUSKY whose address is 4111 WATERFRONT ROAD, BIVALVE, MD 21814 was on APRIL 12, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KATHLEEN R. PENKUSKY who died on MARCH 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 12th day of OCTOBER, 2023

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other de-

livery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W. MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-4/20/3t

KELLY A. BURGY ESQ.

COUNCIL BARADEL KOSMERI & NOLAN, P.A.

125 WEST STREET, 4TH FL, ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19680 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANGELA DOOLEY CLARK

Notice is given that Michael Clark, 17 Fosse Grange, Berlin, MD 21811, was on April 17, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Angela Dooley Clark who died on February 16, 2007, 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 17th day of October, 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 Reg-

Michael Clark

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:

April 20, 2023 OCD-4/20/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

of Proposed Solicitation

Board of Zoning Appeals

Legal Services Rebid

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, May 2, 2023. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than Tuesday, May 9, 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. Envelopes shall be marked “Board of Zoning Appeals Legal Services Rebid”, in the lower left-hand corner. 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-4/20/1t

State withholding tax law explained

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(April, 21, 2023) Anyone who sells a property in Maryland, but is a “non-resident” of the state of Maryland, must pay a withholding tax.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

MAY 1, 2023 AT 6:00 PM TOWN OF OCEAN CITY

RE: FISCAL YEAR 2024 OPERATING BUDGET

A Public Hearing is scheduled on Monday, May 1, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council, in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. The purpose of the public hearing is to consider the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024 Operating Budget as discussed during multiple budget meetings March 23 through March 31. The Fiscal Year 2024 Proposed Budget sets the tax rate at .4526 per $100 of assessed value, the same rate as FY2023. Real property tax revenues will increase by 1.1% resulting in $474,189 of new real property revenues. The entire Fiscal Year 2024 Proposed Budget and budget meeting video links are available online at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/city-manager/town-of-ocean-city-budget/. Proposed budget details will be published for two weeks prior to its scheduled adoption at the May 15 Mayor and Council Regular Meeting. Please contact the City Clerk’s office at 410-289-8842 if you have questions.

OCD-4/20/1t

Recently the Maryland Association of Realtors released information on various aspects of this law as presented by the Office of the Comptroller of Maryland, Revenue Administration Division.

The law has been in place for more than 10 years, with two rates in place.

In 2020, the withholding amount changed to 8 percent for individuals and trusts. The rate for business entities stayed at 8.25 percent.

Simply put, a non-resident is a person who resides in another state or country.

But the Comptroller’s office explains, “If you have an individual client who has lived in Maryland and was a Maryland resident, they will be a resident until they establish residency in another state.”

A list of common misconceptions was provided as follows:

Is it a tax?

No, it is not a tax, but an estimated payment (withholding) toward any in-

come tax liability that the seller may have as a result of capital gain.

Currently, the rate of withholding is 7.5 percent.

Why would the nonresident seller pay tax to Maryland on capital gains?

Because any income realized from the sale is Maryland income, regardless of where the seller lives.

Income from the sale of Maryland real property is Maryland income and must be reported to Maryland.

Who qualifies for an exemption?

Almost anyone will qualify for at least a partial exemption, but they must apply before closing. There are special situations that apply as well.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Joins TidalHealth

Kristen Abbott, FNP, joins TidalHealth Primary Care in Ocean Pines.

Abbott received her Master of Science in Nursing from Wilmington University and obtained her Family Nurse Practitioner certificate in 2022.

She is currently working toward her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Wilmington University.

Abbott has more than 10 years of ex-

One exemption is if the seller’s home qualifies as a principal residence under federal law. The nonresident seller may apply once the property is under contract but must be at least 21 days before closing.

The earlier the seller is aware of this requirement, the better it is so that they may find the application and gather information necessary to apply.

The application for an exemption, MW506AE, may be found on www.marylandtaxes.com and questions can be emailed to nrshelp@comp.state.md.us.

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2023-07

RE: Grant Authorization

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2023-07 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of April 17, 2023. Second reading is scheduled for May 1, 2023. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the April 17, 2023, agenda packet. This ordinance authorizes a grant to the Ocean City Development Corporation in the amount of $625,000 from project funds dedicated to the Ocean City Development Corporation to satisfy an existing model block bank note.

OCD-4/20/1t

perience as a registered nurse.

She began her career caring at the Wicomico County Board of Education, then transitioned to TidalHealth Nanticoke where she provided comprehensive inpatient care to pediatric, adult and medical-surgical patients. She has also

Continued on Page 42

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

Kristen Abbott

County’s portable ice rink headed to auction

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Worcester County’s beleaguered portable ice rink is headed to auction following a close vote on Tuesday.

Instead of being sold or reallocated within the county, it will appear on Liquidity Service’s online marketplace GovDeals.com.

The Worcester County Commissioners have been debating the fate of the ice rink since January when they voted 4-to3 to instruct Recreation and Parks staff to determine how the county could either donate or sell the ice rink. Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Diana Purnell and Ted Elder voted in opposition.

Since then, the department has produced a list of possible buyers around the Eastern Shore, but as of Tuesday’s meeting, no person or entity had stepped forward willing to buy it.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Continued from Page 41

served as an adjunct faculty nursing clinical instructor at Salisbury University for the past six years.

When she isn’t treating patients, Abbott enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with her large family.

Abbott is accepting new patients at TidalHealth Primary Care, located at 11101 Cathage Road, Suite 102 in Berlin. To schedule an appointment, call 410-912-6104.

Inducted

Aaron M. Sebach, PhD, DNP, MBA, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, NP-C, CP-C, CEN, CPEN, CLNC, CGNC, CNE, CNEcl, SFHM, TidalHealth Hospitalist and Community Wellness/SWIFT nurse practitioner, was inducted as a Distinguished Practitioner and Fellow (FNAP) in the Nursing Acad-

“We put out a bid for the ice rink requesting proposals” Chief Administration Officer Weston Young reported. “Bid opening was March 28. There were no bids from anyone interested.”

The county advertised the ice rink through its website, newspaper ads and email.

“I think the taxpayers should recoup some funding for the cost of the ice rink,” Commissioner President Chip Bertino said. “If we have to put it out on GovDeals we should do it.”

Abbott agreed, saying the taxpayers should recoup as much of the $64,000 spent on the ice rink as possible.

But, Elder pointed out, the money had already been spent. Besides, Recreation and Parks didn’t get a fair shot at making the ice rink work considering the obstacles that the pandemic presented.

“(The ice rink) was popular here in Snow Hill the very few times we at-

tempted to use it,” Elder said. “The money is already spent … Giving it away is just looking backward. I think you have the money already invested. I think what you can do is let Recreation and Parks (work a little longer with it). They did just get started on it with covid-19 and all. Finding out what works and doesn’t work. Everything was just getting started and now we’re going to throw away money and that’s what I think it is. Throwing away money that’s already been spent and I think it’s wrong.”

Purnell said it’s the third time they’ve tried to ditch the rink, so they should just let the county keep it so children could enjoy it.

And if it stays in Worcester County, then the taxpayers will still “reap the benefits” of it, Mitrecic added.

“I understand Elder’s point,” Mitrecic said. “The motion has been made to get

rid of it so I think the best use is to give it to someone in the county so county residents can continue to get use for it.”

The ice rink was purchased back in 2019 — just months before covid shutdowns began. To purchase it, the Worcester County Commissioners agreed to allow the Recreation and Parks Department to reallocate funds from special event savings.

The purchase cost was $69,000, but with donations, the amount was brought down to $49,000, then-Recreation and Parks Director Tom Perlozzo told the commissioners at the time (he is now Ocean City’s director of marketing and business development). With advertisements and sponsors, that cost could be even lower, he said before the purchase.

The lack of advertisements and sponsors, however, is why four commissioners are willing to dash to the ice rink altogether.

emy in Washington, D.C., on April 1.

There are less than 330 nurses nationwide that have been bestowed this honor and Dr. Sebach is the only nurse in Maryland to be inducted this year.

Fellowship in the NAP is an honor extended to those who have excelled in their profession and are dedicated to furthering interprofessional practice, scholarship, and policy in support of interprofessional care.

“Aaron has been an integral part of many programs here at TidalHealth and in the community,” said Kathryn Fiddler, DNP , MS, RN, NE-BC, TidalHealth’s vice president of Population Health. “His work as a hospitalist and as a nurse practitioner for our SWIFT program con-

nects the care of our patients through exceptional practice, commitment and passion. We are excited to see Aaron earn this well-deserved recognition for all he does for TidalHealth and our community.”

New oncologist

Dr. Rodney Williams joins the medical staff of Atlantic General Hospital to provide medical oncology care alongside Dr. Rabindra Paul and nurse practitioner Paige Wildmann at the John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center.

Williams earned his medical degree at University of California School of Medicine.

His training and clinical experience includes a fellowship at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women’s

April 20 - April 27

Hospital in Boston, after a residency at the University of Colorado Affiliated Hospitals in Denver.

He comes to Atlantic General from coastal South Carolina, where he provided cancer treatment in a rural clinic and in the hematology/oncology division at the Medical University of South Carolina, in Charleston.

Williams has held medical leadership positions at several healthcare organizations, including the Greater Baltimore Medical Center. He is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology.

Williams is currently accepting new patients. For more information and appointments, call the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center at 410-629-6888.

Aaron Sebach

Rodney Williams

County monitoring cannabis laws

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) With recreational cannabis use coming to Maryland on July 1, Worcester County needs to decide where dispensaries can set up shop and whether patrons can use cannabis at their sites.

“Under the (new) law, it would appear that new adult-use cannabis would have additional distance restrictions if you would so choose,” said Jennifer Keener, director of Development, Review and Permitting. “You do have the ability to … reduce them. In addition, there are different types of licenses that this law allows, such as micro licenses and on-site consumption establishments, which would allow eating and vaping but not smoking.”

She added that the law indicates to her department that the county will likely be limited in “what we can do with dispensaries,” and that it’s mostly just zoning decisions.

“But it does allow us to restrict or outright prohibit the outright consumption establishments. That’s something that we want you to think about,” Keener said.

Commissioner President Chip Bertino asked if the county needs to move before the state, but Keener said that she thinks they have a little time on their side.

The first round of licenses will be distributed on or before July 1 with the second round on Jan. 1. There will be no on-site consumption licenses dispensed in the first round.

“I feel like we have a little bit of time to absorb the bill and feel out what we want to do locally. Then we can adopt emergency legislation through a public hearing process.

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said he’d like to see dispensaries at a minimum of a half-mile from schools and playgrounds.

“I certainly think we need to have DRP look at it moving forward so we can, in fact, keep these kinds of establishments at a safe distance from our school zones and playgrounds. I think we need

Medical cannabis dispensaries like Positive Energy on Route 50 will be able to sell recreational cannabis on July 1.

The Worcester County Commissioners are currently debating how close cannabis facilities should be allowed to schools.

to continue moving forward with that,” he said. “We need to be on top of this and I think looking at the maps, we need to be at least a half-mile.”

It was unclear at the meeting just how restrictive the county could be in limiting the distance to school zones and playgrounds, but the consensus among Mitrecic, Keener and Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young was that while a mile might open the county to litigation, a half-mile could be safe.

In a memo to the commissioners, Keener recommended that a new subsection be added to the Public Health Article if they decide to restrict distances.

Currently, one grow operation, one processing operation and two dispensaries are located in Worcester County.

Berlin to propose 2-cent tax increase Mon.

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Is Berlin’s revenue shortfall $325,000? Is it $222,000? Somewhere in between?

That answer isn’t known for certain yet, but what is known is that the Berlin mayor and Town Council will be voting on a 2-cent tax increase on Monday.

During an enterprise fund work session this past Monday, Mayor Zack Tyndall ordered town staff to use a rate of 83.5 cents per $100 of assessed valuation in the tax rate ordinance the council will consider.

According to Finance Director Natalie Saleh, every cent added to the tax rate will generate roughly $51,000 in revenue.

Tyndall suggested the remaining balance — assuming a deficit of

$220,000 which would leave a remainder of $118,000 after the tax increase — could be paid off using impact fees.

A deficit of $220,000, while stark for a town of fewer than 5,000 residents, would be a marked improvement from the $325,000 that town officials discussed at the regular mayor and council meeting last week. But the issue is Berlin has no way of knowing yet if that will truly be the deficit.

Tyndall’s $220,000 figure assumes that Worcester County will oblige the town in providing it with its usual $465,000 in unrestricted money and another $122,000 to maintain funding for its Flower Street traffic mitigation project.

The reaction from the county when Tyndall presented the request

in March wasn’t exactly promising, with Worcester County Commissioner President Chip Bertino calling the presentation “a big ask.”

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

Councilmember Steve Green recalled that lukewarm reception on Monday.

“I don’t believe we’re getting (all of that),” he said.

A safer assumption would be preparing for a $300,000 deficit, Green said.

In short, the town needs to have other ways mapped out that it can cut costs, while throughout the meeting officials expressed wariness over the potential tax increase.

Town officials are currently re-

viewing a compensation study that it commissioned last year. Green said that the study suggests that appropriate pay raises would cost the town about $317,000 annually.

Both Councilman Dean Burrell and Saleh cautioned against the possible consequences if the town doesn’t take care of its employees.

“Until we decide what we’re going to do with that (payroll) study (that we’re reviewing), we’re just blowing smoke,” Burrell said. “(I overheard in a meeting) … that during budget time, the Town of Berlin will develop draft budgets and staff is always left for last. If I was working here, that would be a hard pill for me to swallow. With their qualified and committed staff, all the trucks we buy, all the cars we purchase, all the grass we cut

Hospital CEO recounts cyber security attack, budget, staff

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) Less than a year into the job, Atlantic General Hospital President and CEO Donald Owrey has already been forced to address a cyber security incident, budget shortfalls and staffing challenges.

While the ransomware attack earlier this year was unexpected, the latter two challenges have plagued most community health care facilities since the pandemic, and AGH was not spared.

“I’ve been in health care for 33 years. It’s safe to say, not withstanding the last several weeks, this has been the hardest three years,” Owery said while presenting the hospital’s annual report at Monday’s Ocean City Council

meeting. “Coming through covid, we’re now through covid, we’re on the back end of covid, but it has left an enduring mark on health care providers.”

Owery began his presentation with a summary of the ransomware event, which was discovered in late January and forced officials to take the hospital’s systems offline for about two weeks to investigate the cause and severity.

Officials have said the perpetrators gained access to some internal folders and files containing employee and patient data, and that the patients whose data may have been compromised have been informed.

While the incident is still under investigation, Owery said external sur-

See FINANCIAL Page 45

See BERLIN Page 45

Financial challenges, worker shortages endure post-covid

veyors have evaluated the hospital’s systems and care processes and determined that everything they were doing, and have done since the breach, has been satisfactory.

“They were very complimentary of the work of the team in responding to and protecting our patients and ensuring that operations were contained and services were continued,” Owery said of the report.

Owery began his position in June of last year after his predecessor, Michael Franklin, left abruptly the previous September.

Owery said Monday that one of the biggest issues he has faced since taking on the job, outside of the cyber attack, was a staffing storage, which put a strain on the overall budget.

He described a “significant labor shortage,” which resulted in more than $5 million in “agency-related expenses.”

Up until last year, federal and state subsidies offset the extra costs, but that money is no longer coming in.

“It created a lot of economic hardships at the hospitals, including Atlantic General,” Owery said.

Specifically in 2022, Owery said AGH experienced a loss of $800,000 in operations money. However, officials were able to offset the shortfall with investment gains and community support to generate a positive margin of just over $1.5 million.

Owery said the money was used to give staff members 3.5 percent raises and invest in new surgical technology such as the Mako robot, which aids in providing high-level precision and accuracy during hip, knee and partial knee replacement surgeries.

Owery said the financial challenges are not over, though.

“The first nine months of this fiscal

year have proven to be equally challenging. We remain in an economic storm,” he said. “But we do have a strategy to strengthen our services and make sure the residents and visitors who come to our area have access to the high quality care that they need and deserve.”

Councilman Tony DeLuca asked Owery about the current staff prognosis, specifically with nurses, who have been difficult to hire not only at Atlantic General but across the board in health care since the pandemic.

Owery said AGH has had a high turnover of new hires, mostly in clerical support, with about 40 percent, or two in five, leaving within a year of starting. Overall, the staff turnover is about 20 percent at AGH, which Owery said exceeds the overall benchmark.

“Healthcare is a challenging environment,” he said. “Pay is, it’s competitive, but in a resort area like this staff can go elsewhere, make more money and have less regulation and headache, frankly, with it.”

Currently, the hospital has about 10 vacancies in nursing, and openings for scrub, lab and x-ray techs. He also said this is a “tough market to recruit doctors,” among other staffing challenges.

“We have some attrition with medical staff. We are trying to stem that,” Owery said. “We know the community needs better access to care. Some of that comes with bringing additional providers into the community.”

Mayor Rick Meehan commended Owery and his staff, as well as the resort’s fire and emergency service personnel, for their efforts in caring for tourists and residents in Ocean City.

“I know we’re doing everything we can to provide the best service possible,” Meehan said. “I know you and your staff are doing the same.”

Berlin proposing 2-cent tax hike

Continued from Page 44

would just be nowhere … Those folks need to be compensated accordingly.”

Saleh took an uncharacteristically direct tone later in the meeting.

“I’m sorry, I’m not going to be quiet,” she said. “This is the message we’re sending again, we’re moving the (employees) … to fund something else.”

Earlier Saleh said that she’s already lost one employee to a betterpaying job.

Councilmember Shaneka Nichols stressed that any talk of not addressing the town’s wages was a suggestion, not a collective opinion.

“I’m not saying it’s a good suggestion, but that is not what we are saying as a whole because that was not

my thought at all,” she said. “But I don’t have anything I feel comfortable stating at the moment, because there are some things I’m still completely questioning as far as budgeting.”

Other suggestions included onetime fixes, which both Saleh and Tyndall warned against.

“Next year expenditures are not going to be any less,” Saleh said. “The prices have doubled for everything.”

Other ideas at the meeting included Green’s suggestion of cutting $21,000 for a new IT server and $20,000 meant for police squad car video and Orris suggesting using $400,000 from the capital reserve to minimize the necessary cuts.

Monday’s vote will be preceded by a public hearing when Berlin residents can weigh in.

In the early morning hours of April 12, Ocean City resident Emily Sachs Heiner underwent a $1.2 million doublelung transplant surgery at Johns Hopkins after having three previous calls to surgery fall through and waiting about four weeks on the donor’s list. Pictured is a collage of Emily’s family photos.

Emily Heiner facing recovery after double-lung transplant

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(April 21, 2023) In the early morning hours of April 12, Ocean City resident Emily Sachs Heiner underwent double-lung transplant surgery at Johns Hopkins after having three previous calls to surgery fall through and waiting about four weeks on the donor’s list.

On the afternoon of April 11, Hopkins called Heiner for surgery. She was informed that there was a potential pair of donor lungs, so she drove to Baltimore that day to be ready for surgery, hoping that doctors would green-light the transplant.

The lungs were determined to be a match, and several hours later she was on the operating table, said her long-time family friend, Sandy Abrams, who is helping to run the fundraising for her surgery and medications.

The surgery took seven hours, and Heiner is now in recovery, Abrams said.

“She’s still intubated, but she’s basically awake and she’s communicating by squeezing her husband’s hand or the doctor’s hand, and she looked better,” Abrams said on April 13.

Heiner needed the surgery because of a collapsed right lung, which resulted from cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that affects many organs, but most prominently the lungs.

A CF patient’s lungs fill with overly sticky mucus that blocks airways and traps infections.

“Basically, CF feels like, the best way I can describe it, is like breathing through a straw all the time,” Heiner said on March 27.

On March 21, around two weeks after making the donor’s list, Heiner got the first call for a potential lung donor and drove to Hopkins. That surgery fell through, and 24 hours later she had another call, which also didn’t work out.

On March 28, she got another call, but that too was a false alarm.

Doctors originally told Heiner she could be waiting for about two-tothree months, her husband, Scott, said.

Insurance will only cover 80 percent of the cost of $1.2 million surgery and the medication that Heiner will need for years post-surgery.

Heiner will need financial aid for at least a decade, Abrams said, so he and his wife, Karen, are receiving training and help from the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, or COTA, an organization that provides fundraising assistance to children in need of organ transplants, according to its website.

COTA is running Heiner’s fundraising even though she will turn 35 on April 23, because COTA assists people of any age for certain diseases such as cystic fibrosis.

One-hundred percent of every contribution made through COTA goes to the patient’s transplant-related expenses, and money raised goes to pay medical bills directly for the patient, Heiner said.

Heiner set her fundraising goal at $65,000, as an homage to “65 Roses,” a term used to help young children pronounce cystic fibrosis, Heiner said.

According to the donation webpage COTA set up for Heiner, over $9,000 had been raised as of April 17.

A COTA representative met with the Abrams on April 13 for a training session about how to fundraise for Heiner around Ocean City.

“We (the Abrams) raise the money, it goes to COTA. It’s put into her account for her, and as she expends funds the invoices go to COTA, and they write her reimbursement check or they pay the company that gets the money.” Abrams said.

The first fundraising event in Heiner’s honor was Emily’s Paint Night Fundraiser for New Lungs which happened last Friday at T.C. Studios on 15th Street in Ocean City. The event raised $3,000 with 39 attendees, Abrams said.

“That’s (the April 15 fundraiser) just the beginning. That’s small potatoes compared to what we’re planning for the rest of this year,” Abrams said.

With the help and guidance of COTA, the Abrams are planning restaurant nights, a chicken barbecue and are even discussing a virtual motorcycle ride, Abrams said.

“They’re (COTA) going to send us some containers to put up in places to get nickels, dimes, quarters, whatever dollars. It’s just, there’s nothing we are restricted from doing,” Abrams

PHOTO COURTESY OF SANDY ABRAMS

COTA and family friends plan more fundraising efforts

Continued from Page 46

said.

Heiner’s doctor expects her to remain under hospital care for about 12-20 days immediately after the 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, she said before the surgery.

To find out more about Heiner and the fundraising campaign, visit www.tcstudios.org/events/emilysfun draiser. To learn more about Emily and her continuous fundraising efforts, visit cota.org/campaigns/ COTAforEmilysLungs/blog/ourstory.

“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 a few weeks before the surgery.

“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.”

(April 21, 2023) The Pine’eer Craft Club has chosen Maryland native and Ocean Pines resident, Sharon Cooper, as the April Crafter of the Month.

She began making jewelry as a member of the Ocean City Marlin Club years ago.

Since then, she was able to take lessons, while spending a couple of months in Florida, learning how to make different hand-beaded bracelets and necklaces.

Cooper also enjoys making earrings, mostly with beach themes. A friend, who is a Pine’eer Craft Club member, convinced her to join the club several years ago, and she has never looked back.

“My goal has always been to make fun and most important, affordable jewelry for individuals to purchase for themselves or others,” Cooper said.

Most of her pieces cost $15 or less, including some for only $6.

“The only exception to that would be some of my more detailed hand-beaded necklaces with over 1,000 beads,” she said.

“That’s something we gladly hear often from our shoppers,” Barbara Herzog said. “They are pleased with the variety of handmade gifts available in the shop, but surprised the prices can be so reasonable for handmade creations.”

In addition to the Pine’eer Craft Club, Cooper serves as vice president of the Arcadia Questers, an international or-

ganization, that promotes the study and education of antiques.

“Our local group makes an annual donation for the restoration and preservation of historical artifacts,” Cooper said. “In the past, we have donated to the Taylor House museum.”

Ocean Pines and the surrounding area has much to offer residents, and there is a club or cause for every interest.

To see Cooper’s jewelry, stop by the Pine’eer Artisan Gift Shop, open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., except holi-

days.

Pine’eer Craft Club’s April crafter of the month goes to Ocean Pines resident, Sharon Cooper, for her hand-beaded bracelets and necklaces.

The club is always seeking new crafters and its meetings are open to the public. Artisan who would like to sell their creations at the shop, should contact Debbie Jiwa or Herzog, shop managers, at opcraftclub@aol.com for more information.

All new crafters must go through the juried process, and when items sell profits return to the community. Since its inception 49 years ago, the craft club has donated nearly $179,000 back to Ocean Pines.

DIAPER SUPPLY

The ladies from the local Shriner’s Auxiliary recently restocked the diaper supply at the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health in Berlin. The Grace Center was selected as a nonprofit to make this donation to because it is a safe haven dedicated to improving the maternal health and well-being of women in the community. Pictured are April Lewis, illustrious commandress, and member Michelle Briddell.

DONATION

Worcester Preparatory School’s Head of School, Dr. John McDonald, with the help of students, recently presented a $1,000 donation to the Catch a Lift Fund. On Feb. 10, Worcester held “Super Bowl Friday” and for a $2 donation to Catch a Lift (CAL), students and staff were able to wear their favorite team’s jersey or colors. CAL enables veterans to recover and rehab both physically and mentally through physical fitness programs. It was founded in memory of Army Cpl. Chris Coffland, who lost his life in Afghanistan while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in November 2009. The fund was started by the family of Army Cpl. Coffland, who lives near Worcester Prep. His niece, Tony Phillips, graduated from WPS in 2005.

CHESS CONTEST

Worcester Preparatory School’s Chess Club Tournament winners were recognized and awarded with a trophy on March 9. Sixth grade student Artemiy Klimins is pictured with Head of Lower School Dr. Sara Timmons for winning the Grades 5-8 bracket of the chess club this year. Led by Dr. Timmons and Upper School Social Studies teacher Paul Cyryca, the chess club had much interest this year maxing out at 40 students participating.

SCHOOL SUPPORT

Randy’s Crew recently presented a check to Buckingham Elementary School for $1,250 to help provide all children ice cream after lunch. When the organization found out that youth on the Free Lunch Program are not eligible for ice cream, it wanted to help. Pictured, from left, are Principal Dr. Chris Welch, Randy’s Crew founder Wayne Littleton and board member Maria McEvoy, and Cafeteria Manager Michelle O’Ferrall.

OUTREACH PROGRAM

The Art League of Ocean City’s outreach program includes the “After School Art Club” at Berlin Middle School. Led by instructor Joanne Guilfoil, the students meet once a week to create special art projects. Pictured is Elizabeth Hulme drawing a picture.

ART CONTEST

Shirley Hall Youth Art Show at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on First Friday, March 3, showing art from Worcester County middle and high school students. Betsy Hall Harrison, Shirley Hall’s daughter, judged the show and awarded cash prizes in memory of her mother. Pictured is Amelia Gonzalez Ventura of Stephen Decatur Middle School.

PHOTO COURTESY WAYNE LITTLETON

YOUNG AUTHORS

The Worcester Preparatory School second grade class invited family and friends to a signing of their published series of stories on March 9. Each student wrote their own creative piece about being trapped in a snow globe, and the stories were published as a collection through Studentreasures Publishing.

BREAKFAST

Ocean Pines held a pancake breakfast with the Easter Bunny on April 1, and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City volunteers annually to cook the food. Kiwanis Kitchen Crew, from left, are Kitty Wrench, Mike Castoro, Candy Foreman, Ed Ahlquist and former member, Barb Peletier.

WPS GALA

Nearly 250 parents, alumni, teachers and friends of Worcester Preparatory School attended a western-themed gala on March 4 at Seacrets. Proceeds will be used toward campus updates to be completed over the summer. Pictured, from left, are teacher Allison Bescak, Owen Nally (’17), Olivia Bescak (’17), Mia Geraghty, Luke Buas (’17), Madison Buas (‘17) and Todd Bescak.

GETTING TOGETHER

The "Drawbridge Diners of Ocean Pines" are once again enjoying their monthly get-together. On March 27, 22 neighbors on Drawbridge Road met for dinner at Taylor’s Restaurant.

SCHOOL ACADEMY

After-School "Fly Like a Girl" Academy fourth grade students at Ocean City Elementary applied the engineering design process as well as the concepts of lift and thrust they learned from flying drones to construct their own gliders. The program is taught by Wendy Macrides. Pictured, from left, are Katie Vornicu, Gracie Buckworth, Lia Walls, Maleah Maness, Katerina Spallino, Mikayla Bayline and Afua Agyei-Mensah.

CELEBRATION

In honor of the birthday of Dr. Seuss, Ocean City Elementary celebrated Read Across America Day on March 2. The school welcomed special guest readers from the Board of Education and the community and dress-up spirit days were held themed to some of the students' favorite Dr. Seuss books.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

Sweet and spicy Thai chili sauce with shrimp

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(April 21, 2023) The philosophy of time suggests we live in the present, but have a sense of the temporal distinctions from the past.

That being said, is our awareness of time subjective or dependent, and is it based on the degree of effect and reaction?

One might be wondering what does time and cooking have in common – a lot more than you think.

Our perception of taste is directly related to the phycological factors that are associated with family and tradition. Time is a key factor for inspiration and ultimately defines our future. Allow me to explain.

My grandmother, Nanny Coon, loved shrimp dishes that had just a touch of heat. She is no longer with us, but her memory has left a lasting impression, and inspires me whenever I prepare shrimp.

I will be entertaining this weekend and shrimp will be my choice of protein.

Thoughts of Nanny Coon permeate my approach to the menu.

Shrimp encased in shredded,

crispy phyllo dough with a side of sweet and spicy Thai dipping sauce comes to the forefront.

Sometimes the past is actually the present and the future can be the past.

Crispy firecracker shrimp is a simple but imaginative dish that is packed with flavor and can be made on the spur of the moment.

But before we get into specifics, let us briefly review the difference between shrimp and prawns. Knowledge is the basis of confidence and creativity.

Both shrimp and prawns are decapods, meaning they are crustaceans with 10 legs.

Shrimp have one pair of legs that include claws at the end, whereas prawns have three pairs with claws. Prawns also tend to have legs that are a bit longer in relation to the size of the body than shrimp of similar size.

Shrimp bodies are encased in a sort of accordion shell, which makes them very flexible.

Prawns, on the other hand, have a shell where each segment overlaps the previous one producing a stiffer body with less movement.

While you can find shrimp and prawns in both salt and freshwater, the majority of the shrimp for consumption are from salt water, and the

majority of the prawns for consumption are from freshwater sources.

Can you substitute shrimp for prawns and vice-versa is the most common question when it comes to this particular subject.

The answer is yes. Shrimp and prawns are essentially identical in taste and texture.

With that thought in mind, let us get down to the essence of this recipe.

The sweet and spicy Thai chili sauce is as easy as it gets.

Simply purchase a bottle of Thai Sweet Red Chili sauce at your neighborhood grocery store. This product can be found in the international section.

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the desired heat level. Finely chopped scallion, cilantro and black sesame seeds conclude the sauce.

Skewering the shrimp not only facilitates the rolling of the shrimp in the shredded phyllo dough but it also

helps keep them straight. Keeping the shrimp straight is more pleasing to the eye.

While we are on the subject of shrimp, it is best to use large shrimp. In this case the bigger the better.

Larger shrimp are easier to work with and produce the best ratio of meat to dough.

Firecracker shrimp with sweet and spicy Thai sauce is always a hit in my house. It’s also a reminder to me how lucky I was to have a grandmother like Nanny Coon. Enjoy!

Crispy Firecracker Shrimp

• Sweet and Spicy Thai Chili Sauce

• 1 cup Thai sweet red chili sauce

• ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon finely chopped scallions

• 1 teaspoon finely chopped cilantro

See SHRIMP Page 51

Shrimp and prawn same in taste, different in anatomy Gold Badge Member Jack Fisher 30 years in fire co.

Continued from Page 50

• ½ teaspoon black sesame seeds

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl, set aside.

Shrimp

• ½ pound shredded phyllo dough, thawed

• ½ pound (16-20) shrimp, (10-12) shrimp are ideal (shrimp should be deveined, shells removed, but leave the tail on)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika

• kosher salt to taste

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoon cold water

• small bamboo skewers

• canola oil for frying

• fresh cilantro for garnishing

1. Skewer each shrimp with a bamboo skewer. Set aside

2. Set up the dredging station by combining flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika and salt on a small sheet pan.

3. In a small bowl, whisk egg and

water together.

4. Dip the shrimp in the egg wash and allow excess to drip off.

5. Place a handful of shredded phyllo dough stretched out in a vertical position.

I find it is easier to cut the shredded dough into sections with scissors or a very sharp knife.

6. Place the skewered shrimp horizontally to the phyllo dough. Roll the shrimp in the shredded dough until they are completely covered. Repeat this process for the remaining shrimp.

7. In a large sauté pan, heat enough canola oil to cover the shrimp to medium-high heat. Cook shrimp until golden brown.

8. Place shrimp on a cooling rack underlined with paper towels. Once the shrimp are cool enough, remove the skewers, and trim any loose strands of phyllo dough.

9. Serve warm with dipping sauce and a garnish of cilantro.

*The skewers can be left intact and serve as shrimp lollipops

Secret Ingredient – Spiciness. “If it’s not spicy, I’m not eating it.” –

Anonymous

By Steve Price Contributing Writer Jack Fisher

OCVFC on April 29, 1975.

(April 21, 2023) This week in the “Volunteer Spotlight” we recognize Gold Badge Member John H. “Jack” Fisher. Jack is a Vietnam War Veteran, having served four years of active duty as a U.S. Marine. He then returned to the Berlin/Ocean City area to work for 14 years in the restaurant and motel business.

Jack became a firefighter/paramedic for the Town of Ocean City in 1984 retiring in May 2010. Jack now lives in Pittsville with his wife, Carol, and enjoys spending time outdoors hunting and fishing.

Firefighter Fisher applied to join the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company in the winter of 1973/1974. He was hoping to join his friends and family in providing for the safety of our community. However, there were no positions available in the OCVFC at that time.

(Writer’s note: OCVFC membership enrollment was limited in the 1970s and early 1980s to 125 active volunteer members, and applicants were often asked to wait for an “opening” to occur before joining as a member). Jack finally joined the

During his 30 years of active service to the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Jack served as lieutenant and later captain for Rescue Truck #18. He also served as secretary for the organization.

Firefighter Fisher cites the Boardwalk hotel fires of the ’70s and the massive fire that destroyed the Ship’s Café on May 9, 1977 as significant events which greatly affected his desire to take part in additional training in the fire service.

He believes his participation in the training offered during the annual Maryland State Firemans Association as well as classes provided by the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute greatly enhanced his ability to provide fire and emergency services to his friends and neighbors in Ocean City.

Jack cites his greatest accomplishments as a member of the OCVFC as the opportunity to “do a good job” in providing a service to this community

Sports Complex meeting

Editor, Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Mayor & City Council (M&CC) of Ocean City are hosting the Maryland Stadium Authority for a presentation of the Sports Complex Study.

The event will take place at the Convention Center on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at 1 p.m.

As reported on the City Clerk’s website, “The press and public are invited to attend but, please note, there will be no opportunity for public comment.”

This is the ultimate insult.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be just under $167 million.

According to the Town’s Capital

Improvement Plan, the M&CC are poised to spend just under $40 million between FY24 and FY27, and yet the public cannot comment.

On top of it, the state of Maryland is being asked to fund over $127 million of the cost; and we, Marylanders, cannot comment. Yes, this is the ultimate insult.

The study is centered around acquisition of the land just west of Stephen Decatur High School.

The voters of Worcester County, in effect, rejected that location last November.

Since then, I have not heard that the Town of Berlin is clamoring to revisit that ill-conceived idea.

As in the 2017 County study by the same consultant, a sports complex is

expected to operate at a deficit after a stabilized year of operation.

The earlier study for an outdoor facility suggested that it takes from three to five years to reach a stabilized year of operation.

Even then, they projected an operating loss of approximately 25 percent before taxes, debt service and depreciation.

What about the concern expressed by a number of tournament promoters and producers regarding the oversaturation of the Mid-Atlantic

market?

These facilities are being built all over the region. There are at least four such facilities or expansions being considered in Maryland alone.

There are many issues to be addressed and questions to be answered, and the public cannot comment. To the citizens of Ocean City, it is time to wake up before the M&CC spend us into financial oblivion.

Vincent dePaul Gisriel Jr. Ocean City

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday

(April 21, 2023) The Maryland State Police, in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), are asking residents to dispose of unneeded prescription medications during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 22, at Maryland State Police barracks statewide.

According to Maryland Department of Health statistics, from January 2022 to January 2023, there were 2,154 opioid-related fatal overdoses recorded in the state and of those, 320 were prescription opioid-related fatalities. According to the DEA, the majority of teenagers abusing prescription medications are finding an unlimited supply in their family’s medicine cabinet.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing prescription medications, while also educating the general public about the potential for misuse of medications.

Each Maryland State Police barrack will act as a collection station, giving residents an opportunity to dispose of all unneeded prescription medications.

At the last Prescription Drug Take Back event in October 2022, the Maryland State Police collected more than 570 pounds of unneeded prescription medications.

This included more than 80

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

pounds from the Frederick barrack, 73 pounds form the College Park barrack, 49 pounds from the Rockville barrack, and 44 pounds from the Golden Ring barrack.

Since 2014, the Maryland State Police have successfully removed more than 26,000 pounds of unneeded prescription medications in an effort to prevent medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.

As part of Maryland’s combined and continued effort to reduce opioid misuse, Maryland State Police barracks, across the state, have become aroundthe-clock drop-off locations for unneeded prescription medications.

All 23 Maryland State Police barracks are now equipped with secure drug collection boxes and are available around-the-clock for unneeded prescription medication drop-off. The drop-off boxes remain confidential. No questions will be asked when deposits are made.

Residents can locate the closest Maryland State Police barrack by visiting: https://bit.ly/3L27LDj.

The Maryland State Police is a partner in the Opioid Operational Command Center, which facilitates collaboration between state and local public health, human services, education, and public safety entities to combat the Heroin and Opioid Crisis and its’ deadly impact on Maryland communities.

Fisher fought Boardwalk fires

Continued from Page 51

and the many friends he made during his career in the fire service.

We thank Firefighter Fisher for his years of service to protect our nation’s freedoms and for his many

years of service to the safety of his family, friends and visitors to our community.

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

Post-covid reality affects local govt.

It’s been a major difficulty for businesses for the past two years or so, but local governments are just now catching up on the news that personnel expenses are a long way from what they once were. And the cost of materials? Forget it.

The Town of Berlin is pondering a 2-cent tax increase to cover its rising expenses, and the Worcester County Commissioners are squirming as they look for ways to bring spending in line with revenues, despite maintaining a tax rate that will produce an additional $4.4 million in the year ahead.

Elected officials might be deeply opposed to raising taxes, but just like the businesses that didn’t want to increase their prices this year, officeholders are discovering that reality doesn’t care what anyone thinks.

One of those realities is that the covid-related shutdown of businesses and institutions in 2020 significantly altered the work/life perspective of many people. Having been given plenty of time to think about the demands they had been enduring at work to break even or to get slightly ahead, many workers just said no to returning to the jobs they used to have.

Now, whether they can make it in whatever non-traditional pursuit they choose is a different matter, but the immediate impact is there are more job openings right now than there are people to fill them, especially in demanding fields.

Bear in mind also that inflation, high fuel costs, and other recent impediments to a return to the pre-covid “normal” affect workers just as much as they do businesses and government.

It isn’t that people don’t want to work, as has been said numerous times, it’s that they don’t want to work at the same old grind for the same old money and find themselves unable to buy the same old things.

As the towns of Ocean City and Berlin have learned, they have little choice but to adjust to this shift in perspective or do without the people they need and those they would like to keep. County government, on the other hand, is just now realizing that budget-cutting its way out of this mess will prove much more painful than it used to be.

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

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

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

How info got leaked

Let’s say, for the sake of argument, that you own a super special car, and let’s also say that new neighbors have moved in and that they have a son, 21-year-old Billy, whom you don’t know but have seen around from time to time.

By Stewart Dobson

Now let’s say that you have completely lost your mind and approach Billy with the keys to your super special car and say, “Here you go, kid, I’m handing you the keys to my 612 hp, twin turbocharged Ferrari Roma, which has a top speed of 199 and is guaranteed to get you more girls than a Jimmy Choo Shoes Giveaway at Nordstrom.

“Wow, mister! That’s great!” Billy says.

“Sure, and by the way, I’ll be out of town for a while Billy, so don’t drive it.”

“Sure, you can depend on me.”

Now, does that sound plausible?

I don’t know about anyone else, but it sounds about as plausible as giving access to the country’s top secrets to a kid who’s probably still suffering from the emotional scars of 10th grade acne.

I would almost rather hear the excuse that the recent leak of a trove of classified material was all due to an attack by the Lizard People, because that would be more comforting than knowing that someone somewhere set up the very, very bad system that we apparently have.

I mean while the big brass is at it, why don’t they write down all their bank routing

numbers and spread them around the barracks?

The sad part is I can see how this happened. First, the top generals tell the subordinate generals to round up this material and put it in one place.

They, in turn, assign the job to the colonels, who go to their majors and say, “take care of this.”

Which they do by handing it off to their captains, who give it to their lieutenants who go, timidly, to their sergeants, who say, “Give it to the privates ... because that’s where private stuff should go. Right? Hahahahahaha!”

That has to be it, because the excuse that “These men are all professionals” doesn’t wash with me.

I know, because I’ve heard that before.

“Okay, men,” a Navy lieutenant told a room full of Navy and Coast Guard sailors once upon a time down at Cape Hatteras, “because I know you’re all professionals, I feel I can tell you that we have discovered that marijuana grows wild right here on Hatteras Island. It’s illegal, so again, be professional.”

About 40 minutes later, I’d say at least 100 of these professionals were out in the woods picking through weeds and laughing it up about an hour after that. True story.

I’m not saying that the show-off kid who posted this stuff online shouldn’t get what’s coming to him, but I do think limiting punishment to a private misses the point.

What I’m saying here is when you see a system as messed up as this one, it’s apparent that some privates further up the chain of command ought to be on the line as well.

Arts council announces competition winners

Contestants took part in ‘Artist’s Choice’ event, 41 pieces entered into contest

(April 21, 2023) The Worcester County Arts Council announces the winners of its juried art competition: “Artist’s Choice.”

Entries in this competition are featured in the exhibit at the Arts Council’s Gallery and include 41 pieces of artwork submitted by 25 established and emerging artists with work in all media.

Ryan Poe won first place for his oil painting, “Cambridge Creek,” David Shanks placed second for “Aniyah” pyrography, and Jiyeong Yun won third place for her mixed media, “Antifragile.”

Honorable mention awards were presented to Jason Giusti, Kathryn Redden and Ellie Scott.

The winning artwork was selected by accomplished local artist, Sandra Strachan Buchanan.

Winners were honored at the opening reception held on April 14 at

the Arts Council Gallery, at 6 Jefferson Street in downtown Berlin.

The exhibit will continue to be on display through April 30. The Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Worcester County Arts Council is a non-profit organization whose

mission is to support, promote and encourage visual, performing, and literary arts in Worcester County.

As designated by the Maryland State Arts Council County arts agency, the Worcester County Arts Council is committed to fostering the excellence, diversity and vitality of

arts, artists, and arts organizations and increasing access to the arts for all members of the community.

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

Anti-Human Trafficking Conference Saturday

(April 21, 2023) Worcester County is not immune to the crime of human trafficking, and Atlantic General Hospital’s faith-based partnership will explore the problem at a Lower Shore Anti-Human Trafficking Conference Saturday at SonRise Church in Berlin.

From 9 a.m. to noon, a team of experts from local community organiza-

tions will provide participants with a deeper understanding of human trafficking, including how it affects Worcester County, how to identify warning signs, how to report suspected trafficking and information on available resources, among other things.

Among the speakers will be Kelly Richardson, who chairs Harriett’s House, an organization in Cambridge that helps free women trapped in these situations.

Richardson, a wife and mom of five, is a domestic violence survivor and a

Marine veteran. She holds her degree in homeland security.

Richardson has been a board member with Harriett’s House for the past three years. Her passion to combat human trafficking started about eight years ago at a Faith Filled Women’s Conference in Salisbury.

After listening to a breakout session about human trafficking with the Samaritan Women, of Baltimore, she decided to take action for those that have no voice and are locked in a world of modern day slavery.

Since then, Richardson tries to take every opportunity to do local mission work throughout the Eastern Shore by educating and raising awareness. She strives to open the eyes of those that are unaware that human trafficking is happening right here on the Eastern Shore.

Also on the agenda is Julie Crain, founder and executive director of Harriett’s House, which also operates as a drop-in center for survivors of human trafficking, with plans to expand into residential housing in the future.

Crain began her work in human trafficking through traveling internationally, doing short-term mission work in after-care programs for women who had escaped sex trafficking.

Realizing the need for services in the United States compelled her to start Harriett’s House with the goal of raising awareness and educating communities about human trafficking, providing outreach, drop-in centers and developing residential programing for women survivors of sex trafficking.

Scheduled to speak as well are Dr. Danielle Thomas: child sex trafficking regional navigator, Life Crisis Center and Mandi Mendoza, survivor leader, Delaware Anti-Trafficking Action Council.

This event is free of charge, with the sole purpose of educating and raising awareness of human trafficking in this area. After all, an educated community is the first line of defense in keeping the Eastern Shore free of human trafficking.

Contact Thomas at dthomas@lifecrisiscenter.org for more information and to register for the conference.

Berlin seminar promises to provide answers to fighting crime against humanity

The Worcester County Arts Council announces the winners of its juried art competition: "Artist’s Choice.” Pictured, from left, are competition judge Sandra Strachan Buchan, Ellie Scott, Jason Giusti, Jiyeong Yun, Kathryn Redden, David Shanks, and Ryan Poe.

Worcester Historical Society spring dinner in Pocomoke

(April 21, 2023) The Worcester County Historical Society will hold its annual spring dinner meeting at the Pocomoke Community Center on Market Street, Friday, May 5.

Dinner guests will learn about gambling in Ocean City in the early to mid20th century while enjoying a meal of chicken and dumplings with all the fixings prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary.

Joe Moore, a practicing attorney in Ocean City, will give a presentation about the gambling in the resort, which went on until the early 1950’s.

During his talk he will show pictures of the night clubs up and down the highway, (the Ricks Raft, The Sandbar, and the Brass Rail) the locations of some of the slot machines. The machines were also present at locations along the Boardwalk.

A source of his information for his talk will be newspaper reports about the gambling. Some of the reports concerned the raids by a very young states attorney, William G. Kerbin Jr., who raided the locations in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s, along with his “flying squad.”

He served in that position from

1938 to 1946.

In the very early days at the resort, before 1933, arrests were made not only for gambling but also for bootleg liquor.

One story in the Baltimore Sun discusses hauling bootleg from a Canadian ship to the shore.

Jack Sanford, who was elected state’s attorney in 1950, shut down the gambling for good a short time later, in 1951.

Moore credits the Ocean City LifeSaving Museum for the pictures and Newt Weaver, president of the society, for much of the information from two articles he wrote for the former Coconut Times.

Having been a practicing attorney at the resort since 1969, Moore also served as state’s attorney from 1978 to 1982.

Doors will open for the event at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $25 per person and can be purchased by sending a check to Judi Menavich, 9 Drawbridge Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

The deadline for reservations to the dinner, which is open to the public, is Friday, April 28.

Hurley Memorial scholarship applications now accepted

(April 21, 2023) The George & Suzanne Hurley Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $2,000 is awarded to a graduating senior of Stephen Decatur High School, Worcester Preparatory School, Pocomoke High School and Snow Hill High School who plans to further his/her education in the fall at a fouryear accredited college or university in the state of Maryland.

This scholarship was established in memory of two people who were the heart and soul of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum from its beginning.

Jewish people fight back in Warsaw Ghetto 80 years ago

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(April 21, 2023) This week, 80 years ago, the Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto were fighting, and killing, their German oppressors.

After the conquest of Poland, the Germans herded many of the 3 million Polish Jews into ghettos in the largest Polish cities. The largest of these ghettos, located in the largest Polish city, Warsaw, concentrated approximately 300,000 to 400,000 people into a densely packed central area of the Polish capital.

These Jews represented 30 percent of the city’s population, while the ghetto was 2.4 percent of the city’s area. In October 1941, the Germans decreed that any Jews found outside the ghetto would be shot. Inadequate food and disease were already causing many deaths in the overcrowded ghetto.

“Resettlement Commissioner,” SS Sturmbannführer Hermann Höfle, on July 21, 1942, informed Adam Czerniaków, who was the leader of the Ghetto Jewish Council — “Judenrat” — about the Reich’s new “Resettlement Policy,”called “Großaktion Warschau.” Czerniaków was ordered

to have 6,000 Jews at the train station, ready to board the trains for deportation every day by 4 p.m. He was informed that they were allowed to take with them 33 pounds of baggage, food for three days, money, gold and other valuables, and the deportations would start the next day, It was the eve of the Jewish holiday of Tisha B’Av, which commemorates the destruction of Solomon’s Temple and the Second Temple, and is considered the saddest day in the Jewish calendar.

Discerning the German interpretation of “resettlement,” Czerniaków returned to his office, wrote a note to his wife reading, “They demand me to kill children of my nation with my own hands. I have nothing to do but to die.” Then he took one of the cyanide capsules he had kept for just such an occasion. From then until September 21, 1942 between 254,000 and 300,000 of the Warsaw ghetto’s residents were transported to Treblinka, where most were murdered.

By the end of 1942, most of the remaining ghetto inhabitants had learned what Czerniaków had discerned and decided to revolt. The fighters were organized into two

Their dedication to documenting the history of Ocean City and preserving the 1891 U.S. Life-Saving Station that houses the museum spanned almost 40 years.

Applicants can choose from three essay topics. Each topic spotlights historical places, events and people of Worcester County and honors two of the founders of the Ocean City LifeSaving Station Museum.

The deadline is May 1. To learn more about the scholarship, visit www.ocmuseum.org/supportus/scholarship.

Group collecting items for camp

(April 21, 2023) Ocean Pines Get Involved and Worcester County GOLD are teaming up to help collect supplies for local at-risk children attending summer camps on scholarship.

Worcester County GOLD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing emergency financial assistance and basic needs items for Worcester County residents living with low income.

This year, the nonprofit will supply scholarships for around 100 children to attend summer camps.

They are asking for donations of the following items: cinch bags or back-

packs, beach towels, sunscreen, insect repellent, socks, sizes 1Y – 7Y and flipflops or sandals, sizes 1Y – 7Y.

Items may be dropped off in a donation box in the Ocean Pines Administration Building lobby on 235 Ocean Parkway.

For more information on the donation drive, contact organizer Esther Diller at esmatt4@aol.com.

Summer camp scholarships are available to Worcester County residents living on a low income. For more information, email contact@worcestergold.org.

groups — the 220-man left wing Jewish Combat Organization, Zydowska Organizacja Bojowazob (ZOB), led by 23-year-old Mordechaj Anielewic, and the 1500-man right-wing Jewish Military Union — Zydowski Zwiazek Wojskowy (ZZW), led by Pawel Frankel. Although the ZZW began as a right-wing organization, it accepted anyone who wanted to fight — unlike ZOB.

The second wave of deportations began on Jan. 18, 1943. By now, the population of the ghetto had been reduced to 55,000-60,000. This time, the Jews fought. ZZW and ZOB took control of the ghetto. Nazi collaborators were executed and a prison was created to hold and execute traitors and collaborators.

Defensive strong points were established. A few weapons were acquired from the Polish Home Army, Armia Krajowa. The Nazis abandoned their “deportation” efforts.

On April 19, 1943, the eve of Passover (and the day before Hitler’s birthday), police and SS auxiliary forces entered the ghetto, at 6 a.m., where they were ambushed. Two of their vehicles were set on fire by “Molotov Cocktails.” Two boys climbed onto the roof of a building on Muranowski Square and raised the red-and-white Polish flag and the blue-and-white flag of ZZW.

Anielewic wrote to his friend and deputy commander of ZOB, Yitzhak Zuckerman, that, “Things have surpassed our boldest dreams — the Germans ran away from the ghetto twice!”

It was at that time that the Reichsführer-SS, Heinrich Himmler, replaced SS-Oberführer Ferdinand von Sammern-Frankenegg with SS-undPolizeiführer Jürgen Stroop. Oberführer von Sammern-Frankenegg was found guilty of “defending Jews,” in a court-martial on April 24, 1943,

demoted and transferred to Croatia, where he was killed in a partisan ambush on Sept. 20, 1943.

Stroop organized a force of 2,090 men, which included 821 Waffen-SS, regular Army, German police, and Ukranian, Latvian and Lithuanian auxiliary troops. When the Jews rejected Stroop’s surrender ultimatum, he ordered the ghetto burned and razed. One of the ZOB leaders, and cofounder, Marek Edelman, said, “We were beaten by flames, not the Germans.”

While the battle against the Polish Jews raged in the ghetto, units of the Armia Krajowa (AK), and the communist People’s Guard, Gwardia Ludowa (GA), attacked German units outside of the ghetto and provided some supplies to the beleaguered Jews.

Henryk Iwa ski led an 18-man AK group of the Security Corps — Pañstwowy Korpus Bezpieczeñstwa (PKB) — which included his brother, Waclaw, and son, Roman, into the ghetto on April 27, 1943. They brought ammunition and other supplies and decided to join the fight.

Henryk was seriously wounded and Waclaw and Roman killed. For his help, Henryk’s name was placed on the Wall of Honor, of the Righteous Among Nations in Yad Vashem in Jerusalem. However, this account of Iwa ski’s contributions is now disputed.

On April 29, the surviving members of ZZW escaped through a tunnel and made their way to the Michalin Tunnel. The Germans discovered the headquarters of ZOB on May 8. Anielewicz, and others, took cyanide rather than be captured. This left Edelman as the ZOB leader. Two days later he led the remnants of ZOB out of the ghetto through Warsaw’s sewers. He survived the war and became a cardiologist, in his native Poland, “...to outwit God.” He died

Oct. 2, 2009 - the last surviving leader of the Uprising.

ZOB leader Anielewicz’s body was never recovered. He has been honored by Israel with a statue and streets in several cities bearing his name, as well as an elementary school. Israel also honored him with a stamp.

Edelman was not so honored, because having, like the Palestinians, lived in an occupied country, he identified with them, and was a committed anti-Zionist, even writing a letter of support to the Palestinians.

He was active in the anti-Communist movement, and is regarded as a hero in Poland. Adam Czerniaków is interred in the Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery in Warsaw. Pawel Frankel did not survive the Uprising, either, but he is honored in Warsaw with a plaque and monument.

After the Ghetto had been destroyed, Stroop prepared a report titled, “The Warsaw Ghetto Is No More.” A copy was delivered to Himmler and SS-Obergruppenführer Fredrich-Wilhelm Krüger, SS and police leader in the German occupied

portion of Poland.

It has come to be known as “The Stroop Report.” It consisted of 75 typewritten pages, with more than 50 photographs bound in black pebble leather. During the proceedings before the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg, Chief U.S. Prosecutor, Mr. Justice Robert H. Jackson, told the court that “The Stroop Report” was, “. . .the finest example of ornate German craftsmanship, leather bound, profusely illustrated, typed on heavy bond paper . . . the almost unbelievable recital of the proud accomplishment by Major-General of Police Stroop.”

Stroop’s Report for May 16 stated that, “180 Jews, bandits and sub-humans were destroyed. The former Jewish quarter of Warsaw is no longer in existence.” Stroop personally punctuated the end by pressing the button which activated the explosives which destroyed The Great Synagogue of Warsaw.

He recalled, “What a wonderful sight! I called out ‘Heil Hitler!’ And pressed the button. A perfect explosion brought flames right up to the clouds. The colors were unbelievable. An unforgettable allegory of the triumph over Jewry. The Warsaw Ghetto has ceased to exist because that is what Adolph Hitler and Heinrich Himmler wanted.”

Stroop’s Report indicates that 56,065 Jews were eliminated from the ghetto, at a cost to the Germans of 16 dead and 85 wounded. There were probably more Axis troops killed. During the battle, 13,000 Jews died, with 6,000 from the fires.

Stroop was among those tried during the “Dachau Trials.” He was convicted of ordering the summary execution of captured Allied airmen and sentenced to death on March 21, 1947. He was extradited to Poland to stand trial for the liquidation of the Warsaw Ghetto. He was convicted after a three-day trial and sentenced to death on July 23, 1951. The SSund-Polizeiführer was executed outside of Mokotow Prison, in Warsaw, on March 6, 1952.

German soldiers watching the Ghetto burn

GEORGEANN MAGNES

Ocean City

Georgeann Magnes, age 80, of Ocean City, Maryland, passed away on Friday, April 14, 2023, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, Maryland, surrounded by her four daughters after a long battle with lung disease.

Georgeann was born in Munhall, Pennsylvania, and was the daughter of the late Nicholas Kolesar and Marian Scherbik.

She is also preceded in death by her late brother, Nicholas Dean Kolesar, and sister, Marian Dunn.

Georgeann moved to Maryland in 1963 with her late husband, John Daniel Magnes, where they started their family and their journey toward almost 60 years of marriage.

When her husband, Dan, became involved as a coach in their girls’ softball leagues, Georgeann quickly jumped in giving rides to practices and games and became the best scorekeeper in any league!

Originally from Pittsburgh, she remained an avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan, but when it came to baseball, the Baltimore Orioles stole her heart!

On any given night she could be seen watching the game while ironing in the kitchen hooting and hollering “Go O’s” or “That’s my Birds!”

Georgeann always believed in giving back and helping others in need.

She was involved in the soup kitchen through her church parish, gave supplies to the homeless and even saved old blankets to give to the local SCPA.

In addition to the charitable donations, she would go out of her way on holidays and special occasions to make up little goodie bags to give out to her social groups, such as the ladies’ lunch bunch, Elk’s Women’s Axillary Group, and No-Hatters.

One of her favorite social events

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 56

After finally being arrested on January 2, 1961, SS Sturmbannführer Hermann Höfle committed suicide the following year, before trial.

In the 2001 TV movie, “Uprising,” Jon Voight played Stroop and Donald Sutherland portrayed Czerniakow. Today, April 19 is remembered, and celebrated, for the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, in Poland.

Next week: Katy

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@beachin.net.

was the shuffle bowl at the Elk’s.

Georgeann was a faithful person and, being raised Catholic, she became a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church once they moved to Ocean City.

She wore a tiny angel on her shirt to always carry her faith with her.

Georgeann is survived by children, Paula (Steve) Peddicord, Denise Flynn, Jacqui (Bruce Howard) Magnes and Danielle (Troy) Scogland; grandchildren, Bryan, Sean, Erin, Derek, Joey, Cydney, Riley, Drake and Sawyer; six great-grandchildren, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a one-hour visitation on April 21, 2023 at 1 p.m. held at St Luke’s Catholic Church at 100th Street and Coastal Highway followed by a Catholic Funeral Mass at 2 p.m. Inurnment will be private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to:

Believe in Tomorrow: https://www.believeintomorrow.org/ways-to-give/

St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/do nate

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland. Letters of Condolences may be sent to the family via burgage@burbagefuneralhome.com.

BRYAN STURM

Lutherville

Bryan Sturm, a well-loved resident of Lutherville, Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 5, 2022, in Ocean City.

Born on Aug. 8, 1954, in Baltimore, Maryland, Bryan was the son of the late Frederick Sturm, Jr., and Eileen Sturm.

Bryan spent his childhood in Baltimore, where he attended Loyola Blakefield High School.

His love for basketball was evident from a young age, and he excelled at the sport. He was a star player for Loyola Blakefield’s basketball team and continued to play the sport throughout his life.

After graduating from high school, Bryan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

He was stationed in Iceland, where he served his country with honor. He was discharged from the Marines with honors, and his service remained a significant source of pride for him.

Upon returning home, Bryan continued to pursue his love of basketball.

He became a basketball referee and officiated countless games over

the years. His passion for the sport was infectious and apparent in every game he officiated.

In addition to his love for basketball, Bryan was an avid fan of the Maryland Terrapins. Bryan was also known to spend time tending bar when he wasn’t working as a referee.

Bryan was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Sturm Jr.; his mother, Eileen Sturm; and his brother, Fred Sturm III.

He is survived by his sister, Patricia Sturm Jones; and his nephew, Ben Jones.

A private ceremony will be held at Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery to honor Bryan’s life and service to his country. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Obituary Submissions

E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net

Submitted obituaries

will cost $50.00 for print and online publications. A sales representative from our office will contact you for payment once your submission is sent.

$1,445.

G. Magnes

Bryan Sturm

Sports

Recreation

Many Decatur track athletes earn PRs during home meet

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Stephen Decatur outdoor track teams hosted their second and final home meet of the season last Thursday in Berlin, with many athletes recording personal best marks in their events.

Six schools participated in the meet. Decatur’s girls’ squad finished in second place and the boys’ team came in fourth.

“We did have a lot of athletes earn personal records at this meet, but several of them were not [team] scorers,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel. “With such a young team, PRs at this time of the season is an indication that our athletes new to the team are showing potential to be competitive in their events in future seasons if they keep with it. I am very much looking forward to having a new track next year to really see what these kids can do when they are able to train on a surface that does not impede on their progress.”

Parkside won the girls’ competition, scoring 131 points. Decatur was runner-up with 109, followed by James M. Bennett (99), Cambridge (85), Wicomico (56) and Holly Grove (22).

“I was very excited for our girls’ team to score second at this meet. They have been working hard and were deserving of the recognition,” Hommel said. “The weather actually

helped us since some of the other teams did not have runners in the longer distance events due to the heat, so we were able to tally some extra points. You just never know who is or isn’t going to show up on the line, so you have to always be ready to run no matter what.”

Lady Seahawks who scored points for the team for placing sixth or better were: seniors Mayah Garner (high jump, fourth, 4 feet 10 inches) and Breanne Ferguson (triple jump, seventh, 27 feet 10 inches *one point for seventh place because four Parkside athletes finished ahead of her but only three can score points for a school per event), juniors Macy Woroniecki (1,600-meter run, first, 5:46.39), Tiara McDonald (400meter dash, first, 1:04.48), Daniela Carrasco-Gonzalez (3,200-meter run, second, 18:29.75), Sauna Vick (300meter hurdles, fifth, 56.98 seconds), Lexi Kliphouse (discus, fifth, 61 feet 2 inches) and Adelaide Weber (discus, sixth, 59 feet 11 inches), sophomores Amber Marshall (3,200-meter run, first, 14:11.59; 1,600-meter run, fourth, 6:34.46), Alessandra Fernandez (1,600-meter run, fifth, 7:05.50) and Nevaeh Horton (800-meter run, sixth, 3:03.75), and freshmen Lotus Wise (200-meter dash, second, 27.72 seconds; triple jump, third, 31 feet one inch; long jump, sixth, 13 feet 2 inches), Ellie Cheynet (800-meter run, third, 2:45.82) and Mackenzie

Purnell (shot put, sixth, 26 feet 5.25 inches).

Cheynet, McDonald, Marshall and Woroniecki won the 3,200-meter relay race (11:04.02).

Garner, sophomore Peyton Redmond and freshmen Jordan Carrigan and Rayna Esquivel came in second place in the 800-meter relay event (2:09.15).

Carrigan, Vick, Garner and Redmond took third in the 400-meter relay race (58.14 seconds).

Cheynet, Wise, McDonald and Woroniecki finished third in the 1,600-meter relay event (4:34.05).

Cambridge won the boys’ competition, tallying 142 points. Parkside took second with 116 points, followed by Bennett (114), Decatur (83), Wicomico (70) and Holly Grove (8).

“I was happy with the effort put forth by the boys’ team as well,” Hommel said. “We left some points on the table since a few boys did not run their usual events and a few did not perform as well as they have in the past in field events. We know what we need to work on for our next meet.”

Decatur athletes who scored

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

(Left) Stephen Decatur senior Mayah Garner competes in the high jump during last Thursday’s track meet in Berlin. (Right) Sophomores Eddie Quick and Sam Plunkett participate in the hurdles event.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Decatur runners, from left, junior Ethan Justice, and freshmen Collin Pennigton and Braydon Bell race in the 1,600-meter event. Justice won the race.

Simpson ‘perfect’ on mound in 19-0 victory

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Stephen Decatur softball team tallied a total of 30 runs earlier this week, while only giving up five in its games against Pocomoke and Queen Anne’s.

The Pocomoke Warriors came to Berlin on Monday to face the Lady Seahawks and junior pitcher Leah Simpson, who was perfect on the mound in the 19-0 five-inning victory.

Simpson struck out 10, while not allowing any walks or hits. Forty-six of her 60 pitches were strikes.

“I’ve put in a lot of work to get where I am today and I was able to show what I can do,” she said, adding she felt confident on the mound.

“I feel like I got better and better [with each inning]. I knew they had some good players that could hit the ball so I made sure I pitched it where they couldn’t hit it,” Simpson said. “[Defense] got my back when they had some hits. They caught them all and did what they were supposed to. I think we’re on a good roll and showing what we can do.”

The Seahawks scored three in the first, one in the second, eight in the third and seven in the fourth.

“We started slow with the bats. It just took the girls a little bit of time to get adjusted,” said Decatur Coach Scott Kurtz. “The second time through the lineup they started really hitting good strikes out there into the outfield.”

The team racked up 18 hits. Ten players had at least one.

Sophomore Ava Snelsire led the charge with three hits and three RBIs.

Sophomore Ryleigh Smith chipped in with three hits and two RBIs.

Freshman Emily Blume contributed with two hits and two RBIs.

Simpson and freshman Bailey Griffin logged two hits and one RBI

Young SD athletes showing progress throughout season

each.

“We got everybody in. We’ve been able to do that two games in a row, so that’s been great for the girls to get that experience and they all took advantage and hit the ball when they got in, which was awesome,” Kurtz said.

“Leah Simpson pitching a perfect game, defense had her back, she was hitting her spots, she had them on their heels all day chasing rising balls. She really threw a good game and I’m happy for her,” he added. “We’re kind of following up where we left off last week. We’ve been really hitting our groove in terms of hitting, base running. We’re starting to really put it together.”

Kurtz said after the Pocomoke game that Queen Anne’s on Wednesday would be a good mid-season test for his team.

“Everything was working today and we hope to keep that positive vibes going into Wednesday,” he said.

The Seahawks did keep the momentum going, winning 11-5 over the Lions in Centreville.

Decatur scored two in the first inning, but Queen Anne’s cut the advantage to one in the bottom of the second.

The Berlin squad tacked on three in the third, two in the fourth and three in the fifth to pull ahead 10-1.

The home team tallied two in the bottom of the fifth, with Decatur following with one run in the top of the sixth.

Queen Anne’s logged its final two

runs in the bottom of the sixth.

Decatur racked up 16 hits.

Snelsire had three hits and one RBI. Simpson chipped in with two hits and three RBIs.

Junior Kiara Taylor and sophomore Madison McGinnis had two hits and two RBIs each.

On the mound, McGinnis struck out seven, allowed eight hits and gave up five runs in six innings.

Simpson came in for the final inning. She allowed no hits and walked one.

“Maddy pitched great and Leah came in and finished the last inning,” Kurtz said. “All the girls hit well, especially Leah [with] a couple shots off the fence. Great overall game.”

Decatur will play the Washington Jaguars on Monday at 4 p.m. in Berlin

points for the team by placing top six in their events were: seniors Bryce Solomon (discus, fifth, 87 feet 10 inches) and Nick Purnell (shot put, fifth, 35 feet 5.5 inches), juniors Ethan Justice (1,600-meter run, first, 4:52.56), Graham Fields (3,200meter run, second, 14:10. 74), Floyd Ke’nai (long jump, third, 18 feet) and Gavin Solito (long jump, fourth, 17 feet 7 inches; triple jump, sixth, 35 feet), sophomores Alex Ward (400meter dash, fourth, 55.27 seconds), Ethan Cowder (400-meter dash, fifth, 55.36 seconds), Michale Hoos (3,200-meter run, fifth, 14:39.84) and Amarian Manuel (triple jump, fourth, 36 feet 10 inches), and freshmen Collin Pennington (1,600-meter run, second, 5:06.65; 800-meter run, fourth, 2:21.01) and Braydon Bell (1,600-meter run, sixth, 5:28.71; 800-meter run, sixth, 2:23.34).

Ke’nai, Manuel, senior Jaden Holland and sophomore Donovan Henry crossed the finish line first in the 800-meter relay race (1:38.31).

Justice, Bell, Pennington and freshman Quinn Martin came in second in the 3,200-meter relay event (9:25.52).

Ward, Cowder and sophomores Brandon Fitzgerald and James Uebel took third in the 1,600-meter relay race (3:49.60).

Holland, Solito, senior Logan Bradshaw and sophomore Ethan Bradshaw placed fifth in the 400meter relay race (46.88 seconds). The next track meet is Tuesday beginning at 4 p.m. in Salisbury.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur junior Leah Simpson was perfect on the mound on Monday against Pocomoke in Berlin. She struck out 10, while not allowing any walks or hits in the 19-0, five-inning victory.

Continued from Page 58

(Far Left) Decatur freshman Lotus Wise competes in both the long and triple jump events during last Thursday’s track meet in Berlin.

(Left) Sophomore Ethan Bradshaw, left, and senior Jaden Holland sprint toward the finish line in the 100-meter dash.

LISA CAPITELLI/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

WP Lady Mallards swing through competition

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Worcester Prep girls’ tennis team pulled out a 43 victory over the James M. Bennett Clippers on Monday, then the next day the Lady Mallards won, 6-1, over the Salisbury School Dragons.

Worcester hosted Bennett to start the week in Berlin.

The week before, the Prep squad also edged out its opponent, 4-3, playing Bennett’s (a public school of the Bayside Conference) four singles and three doubles format on its home courts in Salisbury.

On Monday in Berlin, the teams competed in Worcester’s (a college prep school of the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference) format - five singles and two doubles matches.

Some player matchups were different from the first and second competitions.

Winning their second through fourth singles matches were junior captain Natasha Richter (8-2) and sophomores Lydia Schwartz (8-4) and Savannah Palmisano (8-2).

Sophomore Abigail Ament and junior Natalie Chadwell topped their first doubles opponents, 8-3.

“I’m proud of No. 1 doubles. They lost last time, but they figured out their opponents’ weaknesses this time and got the win,” said Prep Coach Kevin Chalk. “They were much more consistent and I’m starting to see their confidence increase.

“Definitely was a close match [overall] though and it could’ve gone any way … But without that win at No. 1 doubles we would’ve lost 3-4, so

it was close,” he continued. “I love close wins though. [It] shows determination and grit.”

Worcester’s boys’ team won three of the seven matches against Bennett.

Sophomore captain Aleksey Klimins outscored his first singles opponent, 8-1.

Junior captain Dylan Simons won, 8-4, at second singles. Junior Carson Rayne edged out his fifth singles competition, 8-5.

“[We played] different matchups due to the different format. [It was] very close. Two of four losses were 86,” said Prep Coach Terry Underkoffler. “We are improving. [There are] several players who are new to competitive tennis. We need to have the confidence to play the way we train [and] relaxing the game-day nerves and composure under pressure of

points. We are getting closer to that.”

The Lady Mallards were also playing on their home courts on Tuesday, taking on Salisbury School’s Dragons.

“I gave some newer players a chance to get some match experience,” Chalk said. “I sat out [junior captain] Lebby [Becker] and Natasha and bumped everyone up. [Sophomore] Sydney Tingle is brand new at tennis but I wanted to give her a shot at No. 5. Although she didn’t win (lost 2-8), I think it was a fun experience for her.”

Earning victories at first through fourth singles were: Schwartz (8-0), Palmisano (8-0), sophomore Angie Todorov (8-0) and freshman Sydney Todorov (8-2).

Salisbury forfeited both doubles matches.

Worcester will host the Parkside Rams on Monday at 3:30 p.m.

Prep boys’ lax squad logs wins over SS, CA

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Worcester Prep boys’ lacrosse team was on the road this week and picked up wins over Salisbury School and Caravel Academy.

The Mallards headed to Salisbury on Monday to battle the Dragons.

The Berlin squad held a 6-2 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

Worcester went on a 9-0 run in the second, and at halftime, the team led 15-2.

“[We were] able to clear the bench throughout the second half,” Coach Drew Haugh said after the 18-9 victory. “The best part of the game was the fact that everybody had a chance

to play, and the guys took advantage of the extra minutes they got on the field.”

Senior captain Griffin Jones had four goals and five assists. Senior captain Jack Gardner tallied eight goals, and sophomore Ryan Mann chipped in with four goals and three assists.

Dylan McGovern contributed with two goals.

Junior goalie Connor Ferguson recorded 14 saves.

“One of the highlights of the day was the play of midfielder [sophomore] Nathan Montague … who took advantage of his extra playing time by scooping up ground balls, catching and throwing, hustling, playing solid defense and shooting,” Haugh said.

Worcester took a trip to Frederica, Delaware, to battle Caravel Academy at the Turf Sport Complex on Wednesday.

“After a long bus ride, the Mallards came out guns a’blazing and doubled up Caravel, by outscoring them 8-4 in the first quarter. The Mallards didn’t let up in the second quarter, and outscored their opponent 7-3 to lead 15-7 at halftime,” Haugh said.

The Mallards won, 21-14.

Jones was Worcester’s top producer with eight goals and three assists.

Gardner scored seven goals and had three assists. He surpassed the hundred-goal milestone for his career, as his seven during the game

boosted him to 102. Mann netted five goals and had three assists.

Junior captain Dylan McGovern, “the one-man clearing machine,” Haugh said, logged seven assists. Ferguson stopped 20 Caravel Academy shots.

“The Mallards welcomed back [junior captain] Baylor Hoen for his first game, since a knee injury in the first quarter of the Stephen Decatur game [on March 28],” Haugh said. “Baylor helped at long pole and close defense and did a nice job after a long layoff.”

Worcester will be on the road again today, Friday, to take on the Delmar Wildcats at 4 p.m. in Delmar, Delaware.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Worcester Prep tennis teams hosted James M. Bennett on Monday in Berlin. (Left) Junior captain Natasha Richter scored an 8-2 victory at second singles. (Above) Junior captain Dylan Simons won, 8-4, at second singles.

Decatur baseball squad’s defense and pitching solid

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Stephen Decatur baseball team’s pitching and defense has been solid, with only one run given up in the two games earlier this week, while the offense put a total of 14 runs on the scoreboard.

On Monday, the Seahawks won, 111, over the Pocomoke Warriors in five innings on their home field in Berlin.

“We pitched and played defense. We’ve got to get the bats back on track here, but it’s baseball. It’s not going to be perfect all the time,” said Decatur Coach Rich Ferro.

Decatur tallied three runs in the first and six in the second to take a 9-0 lead. Pocomoke scored one in the top of the third, but the Berlin squad tacked on two in the bottom of the inning.

In-game adjustments key to victory for WP Lady Mallards

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Worcester Prep girls’ lacrosse team adapted to what was happening on the field in its game against the Salisbury School Dragons on Monday in Berlin and those changes paid off as the Lady Mallard won, 14-11.

“I thought we played well for most of the game,” said Prep Coach Chris Williams. “The key to the game was the adjustments we made.”

Goals were traded in the first half and at the break, the game was tied, 8-8.

“Salisbury has some very strong players, and it was a back-and-forth track meet at the beginning of the game, but our defense adjusted and

we were able to slow them down to three goals in the second half,” Williams said. “We anticipated what they were trying to do and didn’t give them easy shots.”

Senior captain Caitlyn Hoen evened the score at 9-9 with 17 minutes remaining in the game. The Prep squad netted five additional goals and held Salisbury to two.

“Our offense also adjusted and we were able to run our motions offenses and find good shots, and our draw circle work improved in the second half, and we were able to even out the possession on draw,” Williams said.

“In-game adjustments was the key that allowed us to pull ahead. We

The Seahawks had five hits in the game and were walked eight times.

Juniors AJ Kolb (one RBI), Foster Smith (one RBI) and Lukas Loring (two RBIs), and seniors Owen Knerr (three RBIs) and Stephen Wade (two RBIs) had one hit each.

Junior Matt Wright struck out nine, walked two and gave up one hit in four innings.

“Matt was very good. He gave up one hit, struck out a bunch,” Ferro

said. “He settled in after the first inning. It was good having him on the mound and we played defense behind him.”

Smith came in to pitch in the final inning. He struck out one to close the game.

Decatur took a trip to Centreville to battle the Queen Anne’s Lions on Wednesday.

After Monday’s game, Ferro said to be successful against the Lions, the Seahawks needed to “just play really good baseball.”

The Berlin squad tallied three runs – one in the fifth and two in the seventh – and held Queen Anne’s scoreless.

“Great team win,” Ferro said. “[Senior] Gus Croll was great giving up one hit and 11 strikeouts [with two walks in seven innings]. [Junior Ryder] Swanson had two hits and Lukas Loring had a big RBI single in the seventh.”

Decatur had six hits in the game, led by Swanson.

Kolb (one RBI), Loring (one RBI), Knerr and senior Ryan McLaughlin (one RBI) tallied one hit each.

Decatur will face the Washington Jaguars on Monday at 4 p.m. in Berlin.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Worcester Prep freshman Laura Malinowski sprints up the field with the ball during Monday’s game against Salisbury School in Berlin. She had one goal and four assists in the 14-11 win.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur junior Matt Wright struck out nine, walked two and gave up one hit in four innings of Monday’s game against Pocomoke in Berlin. Decatur won, 11-1, in five innings.

Lady Seahawks play well in front of home crowd this wk.

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(April 21, 2023) The Stephen Decatur girls’ lacrosse team displayed solid performances on its home field in Berlin against the Easton Warriors and Kent Island Buccaneers this week.

The Lady Seahawks kicked things off on Monday with a 19-6 victory over Easton.

“The girls played fantastic. They came out strong from the first draw control and didn’t stop until the final whistles,” said Decatur Coach Lindsay Owens. “It was a great team win, with multiple players scoring, assisting, and trying new positions. Things we did well were draw controls and moving on attack to create multiple options.”

The Lady Seahawks led 14-3 at halftime.

Senior Audrey Mumford led Decatur with three goals and two assists.

Worcester wins 14-11 over SS

Continued from Page 61

were up by two with two minutes left, and our defense made some very key stops (with two critical saves by our goalie) to seal the game.”

Sophomore Emma Zajdel led Worcester with five goals. She also scooped up four ground balls.

Freshman Caitlin Shimko chipped in with four goals. She also won seven draws.

Hoen tallied two goals, one assist and three draws.

Freshman Laura Malinowski contributed with a goal and four assists.

Sophomore Nazli Unal had one goal and four ground balls and junior Madilyn Nechay scored one with two ground balls and two draws.

Junior captain, goalie Caitlin Williams, recorded nine saves.

Worcester will host the Parkside Rams on Monday at 4 p.m. The Mallards will then face Salisbury School again on the road on Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Senior captain Mia Kemp tallied three goals and one assists. She also won seven draws.

Sophomore Mariabella Morse chipped in with three goals and one assist.

Junior Sadie Kauffman (one assist, three draws) and sophomore Lily Carson scored two goals each.

Freshmen Laila Pascucci and Ava

Konyar, junior Hennessy Murphy, and seniors Kora Ketner, Tatum Vorsteg and Kayla Brady netted one goal apiece.

Junior Addison McDaniel recorded 11 saves in goal for Decatur.

Kent Island came to Berlin for competition on Wednesday and it was a backand-forth battle. Decatur led 6-3 at halftime and won, 7-6.

“I was so proud of the girls for the way they battled against a strong Kent Island team. Both teams were super aggressive and it was a tiring game, but our girls left it all on the field,” Owens said. “Our offense shined the first half and our defense stepped up the second half. Overall, great program win for us against a competitive team.” Mumford tallied three goals and one assist. Brady chipped in with two goals and one assist.

Kauffman and Carson netted one goal apiece.

The Seahawks will host the Cambridge South Dorchester Vikings today, Friday, at 5 p.m. in Berlin. Decatur will then head to Salisbury on Monday to play the Wicomico Indians ay 3:30 p.m.

Surfing ‘strange’ this time of year in resort

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(April 21, 2023) This time of year is a rather strange one for this area, referring specifically to the beach.

Right now, the best word that I can think of, the most descriptive, would be “fluky!”

If you are near the ocean there’s always the possibility of cooler; no colder air temperatures, especially if the wind is coming from any direction off the water.

This is because the water usually stays in the 40s or low 50s at best. Throw in a cloudy or rainy day, even a bit of wind, and springtime becomes more like a latent winter.

So, the springtime becomes at least somewhat delayed if one is by the ocean.

On the other side of the coin we can still be subject to some fine spring weather.

Just the other day, sunbathers

could be seen in swimsuits, basking in the sunshine.

The wind wasn’t coming off the water, the sun was shining brightly and what little wind there was came from a westerly direction so setting up close to the dune blocked any wind chill.

It’s all about the water temperature.

The Gulf Stream, which runs from the Gulf of Mexico, in a northerly direction, runs all the way up the East Coast clear to the northern parts of Europe.

It doesn’t start until 60 to 90 miles off our coast. The problem is that the water “in between” is colder.

It’s also affected by the Labrador current, which runs north to south, closer to our shore and is much colder than the warm Gulf Stream.

The Gulf Stream is the reason why places like the U.K. and Ireland stay reasonably warm.

If even a casual study is made, the

60 to 70 air temperatures just a few miles inland will be easily 10 degrees colder or more at the ocean shoreline.

I’m witness to it quite often. People will be in shorts and short sleeve T-shirts ostensibly trying to be warm in 45-degree air temperatures.

The efforts are applaudable but sooner or later reality has got to set in.

Maybe the time between the car and a warm building is short but it seems as though these folks missed the part of class that said, “dress for the weather.”

Now as far as being in the water the wave conditions are going to be totally variable due to the vagaries of land and sea.

A wetsuit greater than a 3/2 is still going to be needed along with boots, gloves and hood or cap.

Wetsuits work amazingly well but thickness matters.

If your session is going to be greater than 15 minutes and one of

your objectives is fun and not just toleration, the gear is indeed necessary.

We’re talking about what comes down to a majority of the year if one wants to invest time and effort and really surf.

The only alternative to be had is move to a warmer climate which is certainly easier said than done.

So go ahead and make the investment! If not already done there’s probably some “sale type” prices on heavier suits which would be quite useful for a few months.

Plus, by the time late fall comes around you’ll be good to go.

Naturally, most people associate this area with summer time and getting in the water in much warmer times, but surfing is much more than that and can logically be considered a year-round activity.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Stephen Decatur senior Shelby Rosemond looks for a teammate to pass to during Monday’s game against Easton in Berlin. Decatur won, 19-6.

— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.

Lindsay Owens