12/2/2022 Ocean City Today

OC Today

DECEMBER 2, 2022

CHRISTMAS PARADE

SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY FREE

Complex cost estimate $153.5 million

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) With a proposed price tag of more than $153.5 million, a Worcester County sports complex would need significant contributions from the Town of Ocean City and Worcester County governments to become a reality, according to a report from the Maryland Stadium Authority released to the public Monday.

The Ocean City Indoor Fieldhouse & Outdoor Field Complex Study, Phase 2, follows an initial market and economic study released a year ago that assessed details of developing and operating an outdoor field complex and indoor fieldhouse, known collectively as the “Sports Complex,” in or near Ocean City.

The followup study updates certain aspects, and provides a site assessment and cost estimate for constructing the complex on the roughly 100-acre site proposed for the project off of Route 50 near Stephen Decatur High School.

As outlined in the stadium author-

ity’s report, the complex would consist of eight to 10 tournament-quality outdoor athletic fields and a 125,000 square-foot indoor facility.

Within those parameters, the cost of constructing the project on the proposed site came in at more than $153.5 million — if the facilities are constructed together. The study projected that another $5 million would be tacked onto the price if the facilities are built separately.

According to the study, the complex — and its effect on the tourism industry — should produce enough state and local gross tax revenue to support debt service between $142

million and $169 million of 20-year revenue bonds for the project. The local contribution, presumably split between the county and resort governments, would be an estimated $31 million to $36.5 million, while the state’s contribution would be between $111 million to $132.5 million.

Once built, the tax revenues, according to the study, would be estimated between $8.5 and $10.1 million in a stabilized year of operation. Net new tax revenue is estimated to be between $6.6 and $7.8 million, with $1.7 to $2 million to local governments and $4.9 to $5.8

Chamber looks at next session of legislature

And how Eastern Shore can get some needed attention

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) As anti-crime measures and statewide education funding threaten to take over the entire 2022 Maryland legislative agenda, local business and tourism representatives were urged this week to get involved and to help bring some attention to the Eastern Shore.

TRAIN GARDEN

“What happens over there is Montgomery County, Baltimore County will monopolize the conversation. And their topics are not going to be stuff about us,” Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee Chairman Sal Fasano said to an audience of chamber members and stakeholders at a meeting Wednesday morning of the projected setting in Annapolis this year.

“It’s going be about mainly, number one, crime,” he continued. “That’s

Weather could threaten OC’s yearly tradition with significant chance of rain in forecast — Page 12

Stadium Authority study believes new tax revenues can support debt service

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Winterfest Train Garden is featured inside the Welcome Center at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street. View the model railroad displays and trains, and read and learn about the history of the train station and railroad in Ocean City. It will be open until Dec. 31, Wednesday through Sunday from 5:30-9 p.m. Admission is free; however, donations are accepted and will benefit the Ocean City Beach Patrol.

Christmas 5K, services get OK from Ocean City Council

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) Two Christmasthemed events and one Easter celebration are officially on the books in Ocean City.

Council members voted unanimously last week to approve the events through the consent agenda, and the details are as follows:

Jingle Bell 5K

From 5 to 7 p.m. this Sunday, Dec. 4, the Winterfest of Lights Jingle Bell 5K is tentatively set to begin in Northside Park and Jamaica Avenue north of 125th Street.

According to a city staff report, the organizer of the annual event had failed to submit an application for this year. But since the run has been so popular, Special Events Director Frank Miller reached out to Jason Chance with TCR Event Management to take it over. Chance has organized the annual Run the Boards Like Rob 5K, and this year’s Ocean Games/ Swim OC events, and worked with the town on the Sunfest Sprint races last month.

Chance agreed to organize the Jingle Bell 5K, and, according to the staff report, opted to change the course from years past.

This year’s event will begin on Jamaica Avenue, with participants running north. They will enter the park through the rec and parks department’s lot and run three laps around, finishing back on Jamaica.

The race will delay the opening of the Winterfest of Lights to the general public for that day by about 45 minutes to an hour.

The event is self-sustaining and has a positive reputation in the town. The staff report said no police assistance was requested, but patrol shift officers agreed to make routine checks.

The organizer will pay the town $250 in private event fees, and another $6 for every race participant who is 12 years or older in exchange for tickets to the Winterfest of Lights.

Christmas Eve service

The Ocean City Baptist Church will host a Christmas Eve service from 6 to 7 p.m., Dec. 24, on the Boardwalk at North Division Street.

According to a city staff report, the holiday worship service will be led by the Ocean City Baptist Church band and feature the singing of Christmas carols.

The organizer asked for the use of city electric and the Caroline Street comfort station during this event, which Public Works staff will provide.

No police services were requested, but patrol shift officers will check on the event, which Beach Patrol staff said “is a positive representation of what Ocean City values” in the staff report.

The organizer will pay the town $62.50 in private event fees.

Easter Sunrise Service Council members approved a private event request and memorandum of understanding with the Ocean City Christian Ministers Association to host an Easter Sunrise Service from 6 to 7 a.m. on April 9 on the Boardwalk.

According to a city staff report, the

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Chamber looks ahead at General Assembly

what’s going to monopolize the conversation there. And if you’re not up there speaking … whether you’re getting testimony, going up speaking, the more people we put up there, the bigger voice.”

Each year around this time, chamber executives invite their members from local business and tourism industries to discuss priorities for the legislative session

On Wednesday morning, a modest group gathered inside the newly renovated BLU Crabhouse dining room on 23rd Street to discuss a list of topics officials plan to advocate for and keep an eye on when the session commences in January.

The topics listed were tourism promotion funding, health care, seasonal employment, and small business advocacy.

The meeting began with a speech by Dennis Rasmussen, a former Baltimore County Democratic politician and the chamber’s lobbyist.

Like Fasano, Rasmussen emphasized the importance of paying attention and staying involved with the political process, even if it seems as though the topics set for discussion do not affect Ocean City.

“It’s important to maintain a presence,” he said. “… You always want to be there, know what’s going on.”

With the swearing in of Governorelect Wes Moore, a Democrat, before the session, Rasmussen said much will change in terms of how the ship is run.

He also said that the governor is expected to introduce numerous environmental bills and will likely focus heavily on the state’s relationship with Baltimore City, which has many issues of its own.

“Most of it’s funding,” he said.

Rasmussen said Moore has also expressed a desire to implement free pre-kindergarten for eligible residents and wants to expedite the raising of the minimum wage to $15 to take effect by the end of the upcom-

ing session.

And one of the biggest challenges for the state’s government this year and into the future, Rasmussmen said, is funding the multi-billion dollar Kirwan education plan that passed in 2020.

Known officially as the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the plan calls for a major overhaul of the state’s education system and carries a $3.8 billion price tag. Members of the General Assembly passed it, mostly along party lines with Democrats in favor and Republicans against it because of its cost and what they say is the absence of a plan for obtaining the money.

Rasmussen said the funding source will need determined, as the plan is set for implementation soon.

He added that the state is in a good financial position, with a surplus from federal covid funds, and more revenue expected to come in from the legalization of recreational marijuana. However, he warned that the

money could be spent quickly.

After Rasmussen’s rundown, attendees at Wednesday’s meeting broke into groups and discussed the chamber’s specific legislative topics.

When they were finished, several people shared takeaways and concerns, which ranged from the importance of supporting workforce and advocating for seasonal employees, to controversial plans to erect windmills off the coast.

Larry Noccolino, the executive director of the Ocean City convention center, pointed out the potential for local area to essentially get lost in the shuffle now that money will be coming in from recreational marijuana and sports betting, which is now in full operation.

“Do they care how much Ocean City contributes to everything? I’m not sure they care because of all this money coming in now,” he said.

The legislative session is set to begin on Jan. 12 in Annapolis and will run through April 11.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Amy Thompson, the executive director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, speaks to a group of members and stakeholders Wednesday morning at the BLU Crabhouse on 23rd Street. The attendees gathered to discuss legislative priorities and other details for the upcoming legislative session in Annapolis.

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Sports complex’s purpose would be to spur economy

from Page 1

million to the state.

However, the complex would be no money-making venture, according to analyses in the study.

“Based on the market research conducted to date, the proposed Sports Complex would likely operate at a deficit, which is not unlike other similar facilities that are built for their ability to generate economic activity,” the study said.

In detail, the site plan includes 10 rectangular outdoor fields, several of which can also be used as baseball or softball diamonds; a 125,000 squarefoot indoor fieldhouse with 10 basketball courts or 20 volleyball courts and 20,000 square feet of indoor expansion space; a tournament central area,

parking, a playground, and support spaces such as lobbies, ticket offices, restrooms, spectator seating and storage; as well as future expansion areas.

Overall, the proposed site, which is still up in the air as the county commissioners have yet to establish a source of funding for the land acquisition, received high marks from consultants in the categories of size and configuration, topography, potential conflicts with existing utility structure, environmental remediation, and readiness to build.

“A significant advantage of the site is that it is synergetic with adjacent properties including Stephen Decatur High School, which has existing outdoor fields as well as other existing

PHOTO COURTESY GOOGLE MAPS

A nearly 100-acre site off of Route 50 near Stephen Decatur High School is still tapped for a future county sports complex.

RENDERING COURTESY POPULOUS

A rendering of a proposed sports complex on a nearly 100-acre lot off of Route 50 near Stephen Decatur High School shows how the project could look if it comes to fruition at the proposed site. Continued

Site found suitable for project

Continued from Page 6

County-owned outdoor fields in the area,” the analysts said. “Proximate existing fields could be utilized with the proposed new sports complex to accommodate sporting events requiring additional fields.”

The site specifications deemed adequate included the ability to accommodate future expansion, adequacy of off-site infrastructure, vehicular access from existing roads, proximity to alternative transportation, and compatibility with master plan initiatives.

The site ranked poorly in pedestrian access and proximity to devel-

opment districts.

The proposed sports complex has been a pipedream of sorts for tourism officials for years. Advocates say that it will bring more people to the area during the off and shoulder seasons and become a money-making venture through the increased tourism. Opponents have loudly expressed concerns about the potential cost, which did not have a number attached to it until this study came out, as well as objections to spending any public money on a project they think should be the responsibility of private enterprise.

Council OKs holiday services

ecumenical sunrise worship service will feature music and song, prayer, and a sermon by a local minister on the concrete pad at North Division Street.

The organizer requested the use of the Caroline Street restrooms, two city-owned bleacher sets placed on the Boardwalk and concrete pad at North Division Street facing the beach, a podium on the concrete pad, 250 city-owned chairs, city electric, and parking spaces on North Division between the Boardwalk and Baltimore Ave.

Public Works staff will supply a podium and large bleachers and open the bathrooms. They will also help parks employees with the installation of small bleachers and chairs. The police department will provide shift officers to help with pedestrian crossing and traffic.

The organizer will pay the town $87.50 in private event fees and the Ocean City will provide in-kind support and assets up to $5,500, according to the staff report. The organizer will reimburse any costs incurred for assets and/or support over that amount upon receipt of invoices.

E-bike licensing ordinance passes in 4-3 council vote

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) An attempt to “fix a hole” this week in the city’s new electric bicycle ordinance that allows the rental and sale of all types of the electromotive vehicles across the resort turned into a familiar debate over whether they should be permitted at all.

After many hours of discussion among staff, committee members and elected officials, Ocean City Council members voted earlier this month to allow the lowest class of ebikes on the Boardwalk when regular bicycles are also allowed, prohibit the riding of higher classes of them on the boards, and prohibit anyone from operating bicycles, e-bikes, pushcarts or other motorized devices in a “careless or imprudent manner.”

Class 1 and 2 electric bikes can reach a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and Class 3s top out at 28. Officials agreed from the outset that class 3 e-bikes are too fast for the Boardwalk, but there were contrasting opinions about the decision to ban the rental of them across the resort.

Staff members also recommended approval of another ordinance, which narrowly died at the hands of council members, that would have permitted the rental, sale or repair of Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, allowed for the sale or repair of Class 3s, but prohibited rental of them across the resort.

The latter ordinance also contained language that would have established licensing parameters for all types of e-bikes, which the city code was lacking.

With the denial, another vote was needed for licensing, which council members narrowly approved 4-3 at a work session on Tuesday after some debate.

During discussions, which at times deviated from the licensing talks, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury pointed out that some type of vote was needed to allow for the sale or rental of the e-bikes in any capacity.

“Although it’s fine if something fails, it is our duty to try to fix a hole,” she explained. “And so this is a hole and we just need you to tell us how best to plug it.”

Councilmen Tony Deluca and Will Savage, and Councilwoman Carol Proctor all voted against licensing the bikes.

Savage and Proctor, who are new to council and were not part of the original e-bike approvals, expressed a desire to outlaw Class 3s completely. DeLuca, who served as chairman of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee when members were tweaking the language, has consistently expressed concerns about allowing Class 2 and 3 e-bikes in city

limits.

Their objections were not enough to sway their colleagues, namely Councilman John Gehrig, who was the loudest voice against prohibiting the rental of Class 3 e-bikes in the first place.

“If we’re going to make rules and laws on things we’re scared about, then let’s just make a bunch of rules,” Gehrig said during the discussions. “You have zero facts, zero accidents, zero people breaking the law. There are zero incidents.”

Gehrig’s comments were made in response to Mayor Rick Meehan expressing concerns about allowing rental of any high-class e-bikes.

“I know we don’t like to make laws just to have laws, and I agree with that. You don’t want laws you don’t need,” he said. “I also don’t know if we’re creating more problems with the police department with regard to if now all of these types of e-bikes are now rented on Coastal Highway. It’s just a concern.”

Proctor and Savage also spoke up with concerns about the safety of Class 3 e-bikes on Coastal Highway.

“I think the Class 3 is going to create a nightmare for our police department,” Proctor said.

She added that enough traffic already exists, especially during the summer season, and allowing e-bikes that can go up to 28 miles an hour would just exacerbate the issues.

“I just think it’s going to create a nightmare,” she said. “I don’t think they belong in Ocean City on the road. We have enough congestion.”

Savage had similar comments, and even went a step further in saying that he would be fine banning scooters as well as short three-wheel motorcycle devices that Meehan called “ScootCoupes.”

“On the ScootCoupes, while I don’t like them, I’d be fine banning them. I know that’s not why we’re here today. I can’t point out any particular problem with them but on the scooters I can,” Savage said. “And for me a Class 3 is just like a scooter and is just going to create more problems, or intensify the problems, and yeah, I’d be fine banning scooters too.”

To that, Gehrig asked why anyone would want to outlaw something without evidence that issues exist.

“Why are we banning stuff we just don’t like if there’s not a problem?,” he asked. “It’s like, we’re not China up here, where we just get to do whatever we like because that’s how it is.”

Savage responded by stating that Ocean City is “not China” but that he has witnessed rowdy driving and riders not following the rules on scooters, and places Class 3 e-bikes in the same category.

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Five-story residential condos coming to 137th Street lots

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) Just south of an array of townhouses and apartments coming to far north Ocean City, two five-story condo buildings are ready for construction along 137th Street.

Members of the city’s planning commission approved a site plan on Nov. 22 for the Atlantic Blue Condominium project, a pair of buildings with four condos each on the beach and bay side of Coastal Highway.

Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy presented details of the east and west structures, which will be identical in design with parking on the first floor,

and three-bedroom condos on the second, third, fourth, and bi-level fifth floors.

The developer submitted updated plans for parking, which designates four spaces in each of the buildings and 16 spaces in another lot to satisfy the 20-space requirement. Each building will also have an elevator, which was explained during last week’s planning commission meeting as well.

Planning Commission Chairwoman Pam Buckley called the project “beautiful” and the other commissioners had minimal comments before unanimously voting to approve the site plan.

All classes can be sold, rented

Continued from Page 8

hood that is close to Coastal Highway and I witness it every day,” he said.

“Groups of 10 people riding through my neighborhood, zooming up and down Coastal Highway. They’re supposed to have on helmets, they don’t. They’re supposed to have on goggles, a lot of times they don’t. The police are trying to do the best they can, and if you go with the Class 3s, it’s going to be the same thing.”

The argument proved to be futile, as the final vote for the licenses went

through, thus allowing the sale and rental of all classes of e-bikes in city limits.

The limits on Class 2 and 3 e-bikes still exist on the Boardwalk through the original ordinance, which was introduced because staff learned that the city may have been violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by not allowing any types on the boards.

Input from members of the BPAC and Police Commission formulated details of both ordinances, including the one that failed.

RENDERING COURTESY ATLANTIC PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

A rendering shows the proposed design of one of two buildings in the Atlantic Blue Condominium project. The five-story structures are planned for two lots on the beach and ocean sides of 137th Street.

OC’s 39th annual Christmas parade and after party, Sat.

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) The small town with a big parade is back at it as Ocean City prepares for its 39th annual Christmas procession on Saturday, weather permitting.

Miller said Thursday that a decision on the parade regarding the weather will be made today at 11 a.m. but that it “doesn’t look promising right now.”

The parade will march along Coastal Highway starting at 11 a.m. on Old Landing Road. It will take a northerly route, using the southbound lanes, to the judge’s stand on 120th Street.

The judges will review bands and other parade units in nine categories. The event will feature more than 60 units, including high school bands, antique cars and floats.

“For more than 35 years, this parade has been an iconic event for Ocean City and we are happy to continue a custom that is loved by so many,” Ocean City Special Events Director, Frank Miller stated in a press release.

Trophies will be awarded afterward, during the post-parade reception by the Carousel Hotel on 118th Street. The reception includes ice skating to holiday music, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and complimentary winter refreshments.

The masters of ceremony this year will be WMDT’s “Good Morning Delmarva” anchor Jordie Clark and DJ BK from Radio Ocean City.

Traffic pattern changes will begin around 8 a.m. and motorists should plan accordingly.

The parade may not be as big as the

one that just occurred in neighboring Berlin two nights prior, but it certainly pulls out all the stops, especially with the illustrious backdrop of hotel row framing the parade marching by.

“It’s a very rare occasion when we get to have a large event sitting on Coastal Highway,” Miller said earlier this week. “The event itself is a wonderful family event. People come not only to enjoy the parade from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — and we have a little over 60 entries right now — but afterward, we work with Carousel Hotel and we shut the streets down. Everyone comes over to the Carousel for festivities there in the atrium.”

“It’s not just about the parade,” Miller added.

The parade may be in a small town, Miller said, but it certainly brings a big-city vibe.

“Berlin has their nighttime parade. We have our daytime parade and we just have this festivity that follows,” Miller said. “That’s not normally seen in a small-town parade.”

Talking about Winterfest of Lights at Northside Park on 125th Street, Miller said that so far the Christmastime tradition is outperforming its very successful 2021 season.

“We are up over last year and we’re very happy about that,” he said. “The overall experience and comments have been positive. Once again, everyone loves the walking experience. They love the fact that they can enter the park and it’s no longer a 12-minute ride and done.”

Miller said the walking experience opens up the occasion to different

Santa waves to the crowd attending the 38th annual Ocean City Christmas Parade last year along Coastal Highway. The 2022 event will take place this Saturday.

OC parade offering variety of entertainment, holiday cheer

ways patrons can enjoy themselves.

“(You can) double back through the park, grab that second cup of hot chocolate and watch people walking through the park (if you’d like),” he said. “There’s a lot to capture up there that you may not normally think about. It’s been a big hit and continues to be.”

Santa will be at Winterfest nightly until Dec. 23. Visitors can pose for a photo with Old Saint Nick and drop off their Christmas wish lists.

Wednesdays is again Furry Friends Day, where guests can bring their leashed pets.

Winterfest runs until Dec. 31. Hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online.

Admission is $6 for guests 12 and older and free for youth 11 and younger. For more information, visit www.ococean.com/events or call 410250-0125.

To coincide with the Northside Park festival is a Winterfest Train Garden inside the Welcome Center at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street.

View the model railroad displays and trains, and read and learn about the history of the train station and railroad in Ocean City.

The train garden will be open until Dec. 31, Wednesday through Sunday from 5:30-9 p.m. Admission is free; however, donations are accepted and will benefit the Ocean City Beach Patrol.

NOEL Community providing food for locals for holidays

(Dec. 2, 2022) The N.O.E.L. (Nothing Other than Eating and Loving) Community will provide food for locals for Christmas again this year.

On Saturday, Dec. 24, between 9 a.m. and noon the organization will provide hot breakfast food along with some sweet treats and festive Christmas music.

N.O.E.L. volunteers will distribute bags of non-perishable foods filled with some traditional items to prepare at home. These bags will be distributed at St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church on Third Street

and Baltimore Avenue, in the church hall.

For more information about the N.O.E.L Community or this event, contact the office at St. Paul’s by-theSea at 410-289-3453.

In addition to the Christmas outreach, N.O.E.L. supports many local social service programs and food pantries throughout the year.

To support to the organization, send donations to: The N.O.E.L. Community c/o St. Paul’s by the Sea at 302 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Members of the OC Stars are blanketed with fake snow during the 38th annual Ocean City Christmas Parade last year. The 2022 parade will take place this Saturday.

New appointments made to resort boards, committees

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) With the swearing in of a new Ocean City Council last month, the makeup of several boards and commissions has changed.

At a work session Tuesday, Mayor Rick Meehan presented, and council members unanimously approved, the new and reassigned members, which are as follows:

Police Commission

Mayor Rick Meehan, Council President Matt James and Councilman Peter Buas will continue serving on the Police Commission, while Councilman Lloyd Martin, who opted not to run for reelection and served as chairman, will be replaced by Councilman Frank Knight.

Transportation Committee

Meehan, Knight and Councilman Tony Deluca will remain on the Transportation Committee, while Councilman Mark Paddack, who lost reelection, will be replaced by newly elected Councilwoman Carol Proctor.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee

DeLuca serves as the council representative of the BPAC and will continue in that role.

Tourism Committee

Meehan, James and Councilman John Gehrig will remain on the Tourism Commission, with James set to continue as chairman. DeLuca will be swapped out, though, with newly elected Councilman Will Savage, who has a background in the hospitality industry and expressed a desire to serve on the commission during his election campaign.

Recreation and Parks Committee

Gehrig, who serves as chairman of the rec and parks commission, will continue in his role. However Martin and Paddack, who served on the committee, will be replaced by Savage and Proctor. The city manager will also be replaced by the deputy city manager on the board.

Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (Green Team)

DeLuca, who served on the Green Team, is set to step down with no replacement while Buas will continue serving.

Tri County Council

Meehan is set to continue serving as the sole elected official on the Tri County Council.

Noise Board Liaison

Knight will replace Paddack as the council representative on the Noise Board, while Savage will replace Martin as the alternate.

Pension Committee

No changes were made to the Pension Committee, which includes Meehan, James and DeLuca.

Risk Retention Committee

Buas and Knight are switching places on the Risk Retention Committee, with Buas, who was the alternate, becoming the representative, and Knight, who was the rep, becoming the alternate.

Maryland Coastal Bays Board of Directors

Buas and DeLuca will switch places on the Coastal Bays board,

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Ocean City Council members sit along the dais during their last work session on Nov. 29. At the meeting, Mayor Rick Meehan made new council appointments and several reassignments to resort boards and commissions.

OPA board meetings will now require resident identification

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) In a surprise announcement Monday afternoon, the Ocean Pines Association notified its members that from now on, a property owner identification card must be displayed to gain entry to the monthly regular board meetings and town halls.

Though the OPA had said nothing officially to suggest such an announcement was coming, it wasn’t exactly shocking after the OPA restricted November’s meeting to those with ID cards, a move made to prepare for the possibility that out-oftown supporters of Gavin Knupp’s family could attempt to flood the meeting.

While the last meeting was tense, it was never close to flying out of control. It was unclear just how much the impromptu requirement affected the turnout.

Being done at the last minute, that change drew plenty of scorn from association members. But at least one erstwhile critic sees the value in such a move when it’s made in advance and to be permanent — the next regular board meeting is scheduled for Dec. 17.

“I think it’s good they have a policy going forward,” resident and former

director Amy Peck said. “There’s enough time (this go-round).”

However, Peck did bring up one issue — online interaction.

“My concern is there was nothing mentioned about being able to make comments through Microsoft Teams,” Peck said. “I’ve written the board but have not heard anything back. My fear is they will not allow comments via hybrid like they did the last meeting.”

While he refused to delve into specifics, OPA President Doug Parks confirmed that it’s an issue that the association “is looking into.”

Peck offered one solution — homeowners could show their card to their camera so that whoever is running the simulcast can verify their information and turn on their microphone.

“I just don’t want this to be a way people can’t participate hybrid,” Peck said.

She also added they have plenty of time to figure it out. This board wanted Saturday meetings, which they have now, so it must do right by its members.

“If you’re going to stop people participating, that’s wrong. There’s an easy fix,” Peck said.

“They have until Dec. 17 to figure this out. It’s not rocket science.”

OC Committee offers special related to Reflections project

(Dec. 2, 2022) In celebration of the holiday season, the Ocean City Beautification Committee is presenting a special offer to the public for the committee’s Reflections of Life project.

The project provides a means of recording important events and interests in the lives of individuals, their loved ones and businesses by placing a gift of a bronze, silver or gold leaf or steppingstone on the “Reflections of Life” bronze tree sculpture mounted inside the lobby entrance of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

The committee special that runs until the end of December will feature leaves at 50 percent off the normal price. For the remainder of the holiday season, participants can order gold leaves for $250, instead of $500; silver leaves, regularly $350, are now $175

and bronze leaves, $250, are $125.

Tax-deductible donation forms are available at two locations in the convention center, at the project site near the main entrance and in the visitor center, along with Northside Park, 125th Street bayside.

Forms can also be found on the town’s website at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/city-hall/mayor-andcity-council/beautification-committe e/refelection-of-life/. Checks should be made payable to the Town of Ocean City.

For more information, email Vance Row at v.row@comcast.net.

The Ocean City Beautification Committee is accepting applications for new committee members. To apply, visit https://oceancitymd.gov/pdf/BOCApplication.pdf.

Duplex plans for 127th Street in Ocean City tabled

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) A modern-looking building with expansive rooftop views may soon take up residence on an empty lot on 127th Street.

At a meeting on Nov. 22, resort planning commissioners discussed a site plan for a three-story duplex. The project calls for five bedrooms in each unit and four parking spaces each on the ground level.

Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said that for planning purposes the project was treated as a multi-family unit with condos.

She also said the site, which is empty and nestled between two residential buildings, was once used for parking for the Silver Moon Condos on nearby Assawoman Drive.

The units include open rooftops, which offer high beach views from their vantage point.

During discussions, Gordy said staff members ran into some hiccups while reviewing the plans because of the way the building is designed with the rooftop decks. While the rooftops are not rooms, and set to be used for storage, their existence could be considered another floor, which would mean that more parking and larger setbacks would be required.

Gordy said this project would meet the parking, but not the setback. However, she said the code does not provide a clear definition for whether it needs to comply.

“This is one of the items that we have been working on as far as trying to do a code amendment on but it has yet to go through,” she said.

After more discussion, the commissioners decided to table approval of the site plan until their next meeting on Dec. 6. In that time, staff members will work with the developers on the design of the roof to determine whether changes need made to meet code requirements.

Appointments to boards continued

Continued from Page 14

with Buas becoming the rep and DeLuca becoming the alternate.

Property Review & Enforcement Strategies for Safe Housing

The PRESS board will now include DeLuca and Meehan, who will replace Knight and Paddack.

Beach Mediation Board

Knight will move from alternate to council rep on the Beach Mediation Board, replacing Paddack, while Proctor will step in as alternate.

RENDERING COURTESY TITAN GROUP CONSTRUCTION

A rendering shows the design of a duplex planned for an empty lot along 127th Street. Planning commissioners discussed the plans but they have not been approved yet as staff members work with the developers on logistics of the proposed rooftops.

Townhouses coming to theater lot

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) The most northern part of Ocean City, just before Maryland turns into Delaware, was once the home of several commercial businesses.

Now, thanks to pyramidal zoning,

much of the area is transitioning to residences. And while not everyone is on board, the plans all fall within the parameters of the city’s zoning code.

At a meeting on Nov. 22, resort planning commissioners voted to approve site plans for two new townhouse developments, and extend the plans for a mixed-use project, on several lots between 141st and 144th streets.

The area was once home to the Phillips Crab House north and the popular Sun & Surf Cinema. Now, Philips is demolished, the theater is shuttered, and the new projects are taking shape.

On the theater property between 143rd and 144th streets, the developers of the Cambria Hotel at the foot of the route 50 Bridge downtown are planning to construct an eight-building complex with 56 three-bedroom townhouses. The project, called 143rd Street Townhouse Condominium, will take up an entire city block, and consist of four-story buildings with rearloading garages.

The same developers are also planning a smaller but similar companion project on the northwest corner of 142nd Street, known as 142nd Street Townhouse Condominium, that will consist of three buildings with 16 three-bedroom townhouses. That project, which will take up a quarter of a city block, will contain three-story buildings with rear-loading garages on the first floors.

Planning commissioners hashed out the details of both projects, with several focusing on concerns about parking and space limitations.

Planning and Development Director Bill Neville said the projects technically meet code requirements, however staff determined that the residential plans are not supported by the comprehensive plan or future land use

recommendations, which call for the area to remain commercial. But because of pyramidal zoning, which allows for higher ranked residential projects in lower ranked commercially zoned areas, the projects are codecompliant.

Neville also pointed out, while discussing the 142nd Street project, that the area is mixed use by default because of plans to build warehouses on a nearby lot, and some other projects that contain more than just homes.

Local attorney Joe Moore, who represents the developers, said both projects meet code standards and argued that they are supported by the comprehensive plan.

He also pointed out that the developers, according to density allowances, could have made both projects bigger.

The city’s code would have permitted 101 units on the theater property, and 26 on 142nd Street. The developers instead opted to build 56 on the theater property and 16 on 142nd Street.

The reduction was not enough for some commissioners, though, who expressed concerns about the size of the units and the accompanying garages.

Commissioner Palmer Gillis said during the discussion about the 142nd Street project that the planned enclosed garages — which he has consistently taken issue with because they are often used for storage instead of parking — are not big enough to comfortably house vehicles. He suggested reducing the number of homes as a solution.

“It seems to me that if you eliminated one unit in the run, instead of 10 units in the run, you could make these more livable and palatable,” he said.

Gillis and Commission Chairwoman Pam Buckley, a longtime local

RENDERING COURTESY ATLANTIC PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

A rendering shows an aerial view of the proposed design of an eight-building, four-story townhouse development planned for the former Sun & Surf Cinema property between 143rd and 144th streets.

Several residential projects planned for area

real estate appraiser and broker, also pointed out that the developer could charge more money for the homes, thus putting more cash in their pockets.

“My thing has always been you bring your unit count down and raise the price,” Buckley said. “ … You can develop a really beautiful site plan and get your money out of it without it being all just number of units.”

The commissioners also discussed details such as the overall size of the units, the makeup of the rooms, pedestrian crosswalks, and sidewalk widths.

Moore and Rick Schoellkopf, the architect for the projects, answered some of the questions by sharing updated plans for parking and storage. Moore also pointed out, while discussing the theater project, that the neighbors are in favor of it.

After recognizing a level of irony because he consistently argues that the will of the public does not matter in zoning cases, Moore shared letters from 40 nearvy residents supporting the plans.

“Tonight, I’ve got a plebiscite, 40 signatures, from the immediate surrounding area.” He said. “They want four-story townhouses on this property.”

Moore said information was circulating that the developers were planning an eight-story hotel on the property, prompting the desire for a shorter, less dense project.

In the end, the planning commissioners voted 6-1, with Gillis abstaining, to approve both site plans with staff recommendations and an added requirement to install eight-foot sidewalks on the theater property.

The commissioners also voted

unanimously to grant an extension to the developers of Ocean Two, a mixeduse development planned for the former Phillips property and nearby parking lot on 141st Street.

The site plan was approved about a year and a half ago but expired last month before construction began.

“With covid and economy and supply demands, we’ve asked for an additional 18 months. And absolutely nothing has changed,” said local attor-

ney Hugh Cropper, who represents the developers, of the reason for the extension.

The project calls for 6,840 square feet of commercial space and 36 residential apartments, broken down into 11 two-bedroom units and 25 three bedrooms.

Keith Iott, the project’s architect, said the commercial space will be retail, with about 20 percent restaurant or food service.

CLEANING SUPPLIES

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RENDERING COURTESY ATLANTIC PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

A rendering shows the proposed design of a four-story townhouse development planned for the former Sun & Surf Cinema property on 143rd Street.

Coastal Trust appoints new board of directors members

(Dec. 2, 2022) Assateague Coastal Trust announced the addition of four new members to its board of directors: Jon Bulkeley, Susan Emond, Pete Gibson and Chris Seymour.

The induction ceremony took place at Burn Wood Fired Pizza in Berlin. Elected at the November Board meeting, these individuals begin their three-year terms and can serve a maximum of two terms.

“The directors and ACT staff are honored to welcome these incredible leaders as new colleagues on the Assateague Coastal Trust Board,” said Brenda Davis, ACT’s executive director. “We have worked diligently to ensure ACT board and leadership represents a variety of experts from higher education, state leadership, and advocacy groups, and the newest board members are no exception. We’re looking forward to working with this talented group of community leaders to protect and improve our environment.”

As the new strategic plan unfolds and is implemented, it is important that ACT’s board membership reflects the communities it serves to help support the nonprofit’s work.

Each of the new members brings with them a unique perspective and

the same unyielding drive to inspire a greater awareness of the importance of clean water and how it can affect all of us in different aspects.

“We’re excited to welcome the new board members to regroup and make revisions along the way,” sad ACT Board President Eric Vinson. “To include outreach into the community with an educational component, along with additional fundraising opportunities.

“Quite frankly, the road is endless of what they will bring to the table. They all serve as environmental stewards to our coastal bays which can only be a win-win for Assateague Coastal Trust and the community,” he added.

Assateague Coastal Trust is the Waterkeeper Alliance program for the coastal watershed of lower Delmarva. It is part of a global network of non-profit organizations fighting for every community’s right to water that is fishable and swimmable.

Working arm-in-arm with diverse community partners, they protect and defend the health of Delmarva’s coastal waters through advocacy, education, science and the enforcement of just and equitable clean water laws.

PHOTO COURTESY DEBBI DEAN

Assateague Coastal Trust announced the appointment of four new members to its board of directors. Pictured, from left, are Peter Gibson, Chris Seymour, Jon Bulkeley and Susan Emond.

BOARD OF EDUCATION BRIEFS

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Worcester County Public Schools Board of Education discussed the following during its Nov. 15 meeting:

New stadium name

In accordance with Policy VII-C-03, the Worcester County Board of Education unanimously agreed to name two Snow Hill High School facilities.

The stadium will now be named Kelly Shumate Stadium.

Shumate served as Snow Hill’s principal from 1971-1995, where he was instrumental in not only establishing the school’s football program but lending his voice as the announcer for Eagles football long after his retirement.

The football field will now be named Maurice “Moe” Barber Field.

Barber still holds the record as being the winningest football coach at the school.

He took the Eagles to four Class C state championship games, winning in both 1980 and 1982, and he was named to the Maryland High School Coaches’ Hall of Fame.

Barber collapsed and died on the field during a game against Easton in 1988, but his legacy has endured.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Worcester County Board of Education presented former County Commissioner Bud Church with a proclamation and award honoring his time as both a commissioner and a member of the Board of Education, on which he served before rising to the commissioners.

Local teenager passes away after year-plus cancer fight

By Susan Canfora Contributing Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) There’s no doubt, Jayden Alton said the day after her 18-year-old brother died from cancer, that he’s in heaven, chatting and making friends.

“He wanted to talk to everyone. He wanted to know about everyone. He’s talking Jesus’s ear off right now, I’m sure,” she said with a smile, adding she wants Joshua Jason Miggs Alton, who was born four years after she was, and who died on Tuesday, Nov. 29, to be remembered as a light who shined brightly.

Josh, of Ocean Pines, who touched hearts with his inviting smile and pleasant personality, and who drew a crowd when he and his family celebrated Christmas in August at their merrily decorated home earlier this year, had a difficult battle against Stage IV Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma since being diagnosed in July 2021.

“Josh fought from Day 1,” his mother, Tara, told Ocean City Today the day after her youngest child and only son died.

“He had autism, bipolar disorder, anxiety and then cancer. He constantly had to battle to be what he considered normal. He fought every day of his life. I’m thankful he doesn’t have to fight any more. He made such an impact on so many lives. He showed everybody ‘You can fight through that,’” she said.

In October, Josh, handsome in a bowtie and beaming, was named Stephen Decatur High School’s homecoming king. He had been using a wheelchair for some time, since a tumor was crushing his spine and he wasn’t able to walk, but it wasn’t nearly as noticeable as the purity of his joy.

“It’s absolutely wonderful,” a jubilant Lou Taylor, Superintendent of Worcester County schools, said afterward.

“The kids voted for Joshua. After they announced he was Homecoming King, the entire student body started chanting his name. It was very heartwarming, just a good feeling. It just shows the quality of our student body at Stephen Decatur High School and their priority in making choices. Josh deserves that, and it gives me hope that this generation is making good decisions. To see the gleam in his eye and the smile,” Taylor said at the time.

At first, the teen who loved sour spray on his snow cones wasn’t too sure about being nominated. He had been out of school so long he thought his classmates wouldn’t remember him.

“When they announced his name to introduce the court, the entire senior class stood up. That moment was so special. The smile on his face was priceless. Then when they called his

name, I’m not sure he knew whether to smile or cry. You could tell that he truly felt loved and encouraged by his classmates. The Class of 2023 really came through for him,” his mother said.

The viewing for Josh will be from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, at Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury and the funeral service will be at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, at Cross Point Church of the Nazarene in Salisbury. The family attends The River Church of the Nazarene in Berlin, where Mrs. Alton is a pastor.

To help pay for the funeral, Josh’s sister started a GoFundMe page with the goal of raising $8,000.

“It is not common for a parent to have a life insurance policy for their child, as no parent wants to have to say goodbye to their baby. So as it is, Joshua did not have a life insurance policy and it was too late to get one after his diagnosis. So it would be a great gift, and a burden lifted, if we could have your generous help with the costs of the funeral, so we can honor our sweet Miggsy and the life he lived,” his sister wrote, referring to him by his nickname. Miggs, she explained, was her great-grandfather’s nickname and her brother’s second middle name.

“There were a couple times when Josh questioned,” his mother said.

“Even though I knew that he knew God and I watched him accept Jesus as his personal savior, he would say, ‘Am I going to die? If I die am I going to go to heaven?’ He asked those things many times but once he found that inner peace about it, especially in the last several weeks, he started to develop a peace. In his last conversation with his sister, I think he knew. He said, ‘Sissy, I’ll be in heaven. It will seem like only a couple of days until you get there.’ In recent weeks, he was tired of the pain. He wanted it to be done. I know he was tired.

“We talk about this grace that comes when you are dying. He had that grace. He knew without a doubt where he was going and that it was going to be the best thing ever. So he was just ready. You get to a point when you’re ready. The things of this earth just don’t mean that much,” his mother said.

Josh started having back pain during the summer of 2021 while he was working at Baja Amusements near Ocean City, and then he started losing his balance. He was diagnosed with cancer and by August this year, doctors decided not to continue chemotherapy, his mother said, “as there is nothing more they could do with it.”

The family strived to make life as normal for him as possible throughout his illness. They traveled to the National Harbor in October, to an ice

show the Monday before Thanksgiving and to see the Ocean Pines tree lighting on Saturday, Nov. 26.

“We got through Thanksgiving, then a bit more of a decline happened. It was pretty quick over a few days. When he went fairly unresponsive, it wasn’t even 12 hours. He went very peacefully, very quietly, without any pain,” his mother said.

She is brokenhearted, she said, “but I have, as the Bible tells us, the peace that passes understanding.”

“That’s the only way I can explain it. There isn’t a day I want to live without him but I have that peace. That is what Jesus gives us,” she said.

His sister remembered going to his bedside not long before he died and saying, “Hey, Buddy. It’s Sissy.”

“He reached for my hand. We had this strong bond since we were little. Until the day he died, if he couldn’t

figure out the words, if he wasn’t sure what he needed or what he wanted, I would get it for him. My mother would say, ‘How did you do that?’ I just always knew,” his sister, a college senior, said.

“We talked and after that he kind of started to decline. I said, ‘I want you to know how much I love you. I’m going to miss you.’ He said, ‘I’m going to miss you, too.’ But cancer didn’t win. He is in heaven running and walking and skateboarding. He loved to skateboard. And he will still impact people. He’s just the most amazing person.”

As of Thursday morning, there were 81 donors and $6,235 raised on the GoFundMe page.

Additional help can be sent to Tara Alton’s Venmo account @Tara-Alton3 or text her at 910-286-3462 or Jayden Alton at 910-495-3618.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN CANFORA

Josh Alton accepts an armload of gifts from Santa Claus, who arrived in an Ocean Pines fire engine to help the 17-year-old, suffering from Stage IV cancer, celebrate Christmas in August at his Ocean Pines home. Alton died earlier this week.

BOARD OF EDUCATION BRIEFS

A formal dedication and ribbon cutting will be scheduled for the start of the 2023-2024 football season.

Calendar proposals

Coordinator of Public Relations & Special Programs Carrie Sterrs shared three calendar proposals with the board for the 2023-2024 school year.

Employees, families, and the community can vote on the calendar they like best now through Dec. 21, by visiting https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/232 4Calendar.

Initatives

Board members also heard presentations on several instruction initiatives:

Coordinator of Instruction Cassidy Hamborsky gave a presentation on how the public school system has implemented the Ready to Read Act.

A team from Snow Hill Elementary School update the board on Specially

Designed Instruction.

The Instructional Technology team of Nicholas Genovesi, Makayla Merrill, and Caleb Wilson provided an update on how Apple technology continues to transform instruction across the school system.

Proclamations

The board presented outgoing County Commissioner Bud Church with a proclamation and award honoring both his time of service with both the board and the commissioners.

Nov. 14-18 was American Education Week, and the board presented a proclamation to Worcester County Teachers Association President Beth Shockley-Lynch in honor of this celebration of public education.

Wednesday, Nov. 16, was Educational Support Professionals Day, and the board presented a proclamation to Worcester County Educational Support Personnel Association President Ivory Smith to honor the support staff that help schools run smoothly and efficiently.

Shore Gives More fundraiser nets $290K on Giving Tues.

(Dec. 2, 2022) A day celebrating philanthropy for Lower Shore nonprofits culminated in $290,466 raised for participating organizations.

More than 2,490 donations were made during the eighth annual Shore Gives More Giving Tuesday campaign, which had 124 participating nonprofits this year.

Since inception, the campaign has raised $1.5 million for Lower Shore nonprofits.

Giving Tuesday, held each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is an international 24-hour online giving movement.

The local campaign, known as The Shore Gives More, is hosted by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and assists local nonprofits with the fundraising effort.

By providing an online donation platform, marketing and technical support, the campaign makes a significant impact through collective philanthropy.

“Nonprofits provide critical services to the local community, and fundraisers like Giving Tuesday help charities connect with donors,” said Erica Joseph, CFES president. “Giving Tuesday has become its own holiday in the nonprofit world, and the local generosity really shines a spotlight on how wonderful our region is.”

The Shore Gives More was first launched as a Giving Tuesday campaign for the Lower Eastern Shore in

2015 and raised just under $7,500 in its first year.

“As the area’s leading philanthropic resource, the Community Foundation understands the complexities around charitable giving, and we work hard to simplify the giving process for both donors and nonprofits,” Joseph said. “By giving through the Shore Gives More campaign, donors know their gifts will have an impact close to home.”

The campaign received sponsorships from 47 ABC and Shore United Bank, which significantly increased the campaign presence.

To learn more about the “Shore Gives More” Giving Tuesday campaign for local nonprofits, visit cfes.org or ShoreGivesMore.org to view individual nonprofit participants.

As leaders, grant makers, and stewards of philanthropy, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore connects people who care to causes that matter for the common good of the Lower Eastern Shore.

It is a 501c3 nonprofit with an inspiring history of fostering charitable endeavors, and has provided $100 million in grants and scholarships to the local community since 1984.

It collaborates with individuals, families, and businesses to match their charitable interests with community needs and strengthen local nonprofits through grants and resources.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Board of Education presents Worcester County Teachers Association President Beth ShockleyLynch with a proclamation honoring American Education Week, which was Nov. 14-18.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

This week no one can help you but yourself, Aries. You have to figure out a way to get to the bottom of a problem on your own. But then the reward will be twice as sweet.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

There are a few obstacles in your path this week, Taurus. But nothing you can’t get around. If you have a few people help you out, your work will be even easier to manage.

GEMINI

– May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, when a current plan of attack isn’t working out quite right, you may have to approach it from a different direction. A new angle can bring with it a new perspective.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

You may need to push yourself a little further this week to make up for lost time, Cancer. Hunker down and get things done. There’s rest to have on the other side of the effort.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Turning a blind eye to a certain situation will not make it go away, Leo. It will only postpone the inevitable, which is getting it handled. Don’t procrastinate any longer.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Others may not want to hear the truth, but you’re still going to offer it up, Virgo. Forge ahead even if you may lose some friends in the process.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Think twice before you act this week, Libra. It’s easy to take the path ahead right now, but there may be some other way to go that could prove more rewarding in the long run.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you are looking for a change but you don’t know what that should be just yet. You may have to try on a few different shoes before you find the right fit.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius birthday season is in full swing right now, so you are in a festive mood. That will continue right into the holidays, when you may be the life of the party.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you can change if you want to. It just requires a little effort right now to figure out the path you want to take. Brainstorm a few ideas and you can find a goal.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Keeping secrets will only work for so long. Aquarius. Sooner or later the truth will be revealed and you will need to come clean. Take the high road from the start.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

After a few bumps, you find your groove, Pisces. Supervisors will recognize your efforts and perhaps give you the notice you deserve.

Giving back during holiday season

(Dec. 2, 2022) Jolly Roger Amusement Parks partnered with local nonprofit organization, Diakonia Inc., for Giving Tuesday on Nov. 29, to start the season of giving off on the right foot.

“This is our second Giving Tuesday working with Diakonia,” said Steve Pastusak, vice president of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks. “We’re bringing our team to give back to the community where we live, work and play.”

Diakonia in West Ocean City is an organization which helps individuals and families by providing shelter, food, clothing and program services.

“Although it’s our first year officially participating in Giving Tuesday, Jolly Roger Parks give back throughout the year, and are excited to officially put our feet to the ground on this special day,” Pastusak said. “We encourage other local businesses to participate in making a difference as well.”

The group prepared personal hygiene items for Diakonia guests, did landscaping, moved furniture, decorated Christmas trees, and took down a Bradford Pear tree.

Giving Tuesday is a global giving movement that has been driven by individuals, charities, businesses and

communities across the U.S. and in countries around the world.

Giving Tuesday is the world’s largest generosity movement, and is considered the beginning of the giving season.

The impact of Giving Tuesday goes beyond charitable donations, it inspires giving in all forms.

People coast to coast embrace this day as an opportunity to raise money for local charities and nonprofit organizations, donate to food and clothing drives, encourage kindness, help a neighbor, and generally celebrate the power of generosity.

Pine Tones Chorus concert, Dec. 9

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Pine Tones Chorus will present its annual Christmas concert at Atlantic United Methodist Church on Fourth Street in Ocean City, on Friday, Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m.

The concert opens with its title song, “A Bit of holiday Cheer,” a medley of festive holiday tunes such as “Winter Wonderland,” and “Jungle Bell Rock.”

Popular songs of the season will include “Blue Christmas” by Elvis, and “Sleigh Ride,” frequently performed by the Boston Pops Orchestra.

Classical Christmas selections will feature shepherds in the fields, the Star of Bethlehem and the child in the manger. The song “Love Came Down At Christmas” presents lovely,

dream-like musical themes.

A unique arrangement of “Deck The Hall” will imitate orchestral music from a Mozart composition. Most music fans will recognize this famous Mozart melody.

Unusual musical adaptations are also woven into “We Three Kings” and “God Rest You Merry Gentlemen.”

The Pine Tones Chorus includes about 45 singers from Ocean Pines, Ocean City and nearby areas.

June Todd and Jenny Anderson are the group’s directors and accompanists. Pete Anderson is assistant director/accompanist.

Other instruments will also accompany the chorus with flute played by Barbara Dau and string bass played by Tom Baione.

Admission is free and an offering will be received. After the concert, guests may enjoy refreshments in the church social hall.

The Pine Tones Chorus has been entertaining local audiences in the Ocean Pines and Ocean City areas since 1984.

For additional information, call the Chorus President Dave Holloway, at 410-641-5672, or Todd, 443-8803922.

Funding for Pine Tones Chorus activities comes from individual donations and patrons as well as the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. These organizations are dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.

Jolly Roger Amusement Parks partnered with local nonprofit organization, Diakonia Inc., for Giving Tuesday on Nov. 29. The group prepared personal hygiene items for guests, did landscaping, moved furniture, decorated Christmas trees, and took down a Bradford Pear tree.

NOW PLAYING

BAYVIEW BAR & GRILLE

2nd Floor Residence Inn

61st Street, Ocean City

410-723-2222 / www.ResidenceInnOC.com

Dec. 2: Karaoke w/Donnie, 6-9 p.m.

Dec. 3: Bilenki Duo, 6-9 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Dec. 2: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Dec. 3: Live On-Stage w/Dunehounds, 8 p.m. to midnight

Dec. 4: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 5: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 6: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Dec. 7: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 8: 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

Dec. 2: No Cover ALL DAY!; Element K Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Holiday Bazaar 2022, 6-10 p.m.; Party Fowl, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Dec. 3: Late Last Night, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Gypsy Wisdom, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Dec. 4: No Cover ALL DAY!; Football Sunday, noon to 8:00 p.m.

Dec. 8: No Cover ALL DAY!; Opposite Directions, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Brie topped with cranberry pomegranate relish starter

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) Entertaining is a time to share fellowship with family and friends, but sometimes intentions do not reflect what actually happens in the kitchen.

The number one rule when cooking for celebratory occasions is to prepare as much as possible in advance.

Every day is a new experience, and one never knows what they will be facing.

This past Thanksgiving, my menu was a feast for all.

I had two, 15-pound turkeys brining in my outside cooler. I placed a heavy cinder block on the lid so the raccoons could not share in the festivities.

Mother arrived the day before Thanksgiving with Bonnie. Bonnie is her Westie who has never been to the beach. While this may not seem significant, one must realize I have three cats.

The day before Thanksgiving is crunch time and I have to admit, I was getting a little overwhelmed.

Six dishes were completed and 10 more to go before completion reigned supreme. There is a time and place for everything, and it is time for a glass of wine.

My limited sanity was divided between trying to show mom a good time, playing referee with the animals, and cooking for the big day.

Time to prepare the panko crust for the mac n cheese. I combined unseasoned panko bread crumbs with a

touch of Herbs de Province, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.

It only takes 20 minutes for the mac n cheese to reach the bubbly state. Then, it is finished under the broiler for the coveted brown crust.

I have the oven door cracked, and am diligently watching it.

All of a sudden, Bonnie wants to make friends with the cats, but they want no part of this. Total chaos ensues, and I inadvertently close the oven door while separating the canine from the felines.

The next thing I know mother says, “what is burning?” I panic and run to the stove.

To my horror, the mac n cheese is literally on fire. I grab the dish and am trying to put out the fire with my pot holders.

I started to freak out, but quickly took control of the situation. I scraped the top layer off and prayed the burnt smell had not permeated the dish.

Thank God for small miracles, the dish is salvable. So, I redo the panko crust and the dish goes back in the oven.

I am looking at the clock, and know I am in trouble. I quickly prepare the pecan crumble for the sweet potato casserole, but something does not look right. Oh well, I need to move on.

Just as I am putting the sweet potato casserole in the oven, I notice the melted butter on top of the stove.

I cannot believe I forgot to mix the butter with the flour, brown sugar and pecans. What else is going to go wrong?

So, again I am scraping the topping off and mixing in the butter. But

LATE LAST NIGHT

Seacrets: Sat., Dec. 3, 5-9 p.m.

BILENKI DUO

Bayview Bar & Grille: Sat., Dec. 3, 6-9 p.m.

Kick off holiday meal with brie topped with fruit relish

unfortunately, a small amount of the sweet potato mixture is in the crumble which is going prevent it from getting crispy. At this point, I need another glass of wine.

It is late and I am exhausted. At this point, the turkey needs to go into the oven since it is going to take approximately three hours to cook. Then, I will get up at 2 a.m. and start the second one.

Soy sauce is the secret to a dark brown turkey.

Brine, rinse well, and apply one coating of soy sauce on the bird, then season according to personal preference. The sodium in the soy sauce will help seal the skin and acts as a natural dye.

Your turkey should be at least 13 pounds, or the flavor of soy sauce will come through.

I set the meat thermometer for the proper temperature and decide to watch a little TV.

After an hour, I check on my turkey and to my horror, the oven has kicked off but I am able to get it going again. This meal is starting to follow the theme of “what can go wrong will go wrong.”

I dose off and again check on my turkey. I cannot believe it, but again my oven shut off.

Thank God I was able to get it going. The turkey will be a little dry, but I know the brining will save me.

To make a long story short, I did get through the dinner and overall was very happy.

Things happen and working your way through it is what entertaining is all about. In actuality, we learn more from our mistakes than from perfection.

In my family, cranberries are a tradition at Thanksgiving. Cranberries are also a festive dish to serve at Christmas.

Brie topped with a cranberry pomegranate relish is not only delicious but a stunning way to showcase the brie.

Ruby red cranberries are cooked with pepper jelly, brown sugar, and orange juice, and pomegranate juice to yield a sweet, sour, and spicy dish.

Pomegranate seeds add texture and are a perfect accompaniment with the crisp cranberries.

Brie topped with a cranberry

Brie Topped with a Cranberry Pomegranate Relish Ingredients

1 (12-ounce) package of fresh cranberries

3 tablespoons pomegranate arils juice of 1 pomegranate juice of two large oranges

1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar

3 tablespoons red pepper jelly

1 or 2 pinches of dried red pepper flakes

Wondra Quick-Mixing Flour

2 (8 ounce) brie wheels coarsely ground black pepper as a garnish edible gold dust as a garnish (optional) favorite crackers

1. Combine cranberries, pomegranate arils, pomegranate juice, orange juice, ginger, brown sugar, pepper jelly, and pepper flakes in a medium, heavy-bottomed pan and constantly stir over medium high heat until cranberries just start to pop.

2. Remove cranberry mixture, strain, and spread cranberries on a baking sheet. This step will help the cranberries cool down so they will not turn mushy.

3. Using the same pan, heat the strained juice with several sprinkles of Wondra Quick-Mixing Flour. Constantly whisk until the sauce thickens and reduces by half. Remove sauce from heat and allow to cool. When cooled, combine sauce with cranberry mixture.

4. Allow cheese to come to room temperature and place cranberry pomegranate relish on top. Garnish with fresh black pepper and edible gold dust that can be purchased online. Serve with favorite crackers.

5. If the cheese needs a little boost of heat, cook it in a 350 oven for a few minutes or a gas grill.

Secret Ingredient – Wonder. “Wisdom begins in wonder.”

– Socrates

pomegranate relish is a stunning starter for the Christmas holidays. Enjoy!

MSO to perform in Ocean City, Sun.

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra once again ushers in the Christmas and holiday season with its annual “Holiday Joy” concert series.

This year the much-anticipated event features Soprano Rochelle Bard in carols, arias, and other songs of the season.

Bard earned a Master’s degree from the New England Conservatory and was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Music from her alma mater, The College of the Holy Cross.

With a focus on bel canto and Verdi roles, she has been a soloist with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Hartford Symphony, Tanglewood, and with Opera Orchestra of New York and the MidAtlantic Opera at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.

“We are pleased to be able to showcase the wonderful soprano Rochelle Bard at this year’s Holiday Joy concerts,” said MSO General Manager Dane Krich. “This is always such a special and joyous occasion for both our audience and the MSO Board, staff, and musicians. This concert continues to be the most popular concert of the year, inspiring our audiences and filling them with the joy of the holiday season.”

Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” –a “Holiday Joy” tradition with its sleigh bells and horse whinnies –once again opens the program.

The concert continues with selections from around the world through several centuries of music with traditional carols, music of more recent vintage, opera arias, and salutes to some of our many holiday traditions.

Guests attending this Sunday’s Ocean City 3 p.m. show at the Performing Arts Center on 40th Street are also invited to a post-concert

Dining Guide

p.m. Happy hour drink specials and $10 eats, Everyday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

■

DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

Caroline St, Wicomico St. & South Division St. on the boardwalk, Ocean City www.dumsersdairyland.com

event with heavy hors d’oeuvres and other surprises.

The cost to attend the concert is $55 per person, available at midatlanticsymphony.org/tickets. Tickets for the post-concert event is also available on the web site.

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony offers a group discount for the purchase of 10 or more tickets to a single concert. The Orchestra also makes a limited number of free tickets available for students 18 years and under; tickets for accompanying parents are $10 each.

Reservations are required for the free tickets and may be made by calling 888-846-8600.

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is the only professional symphony orchestra serving southern Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore with a full season of programs.

The MSO is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council; the

sauces and 100 percent cheese. Specialty pizzas, wings, appetizers and salads. Also, calzone, subs and sandwiches. Fast free delivery with 2 locations. Open year ‘round. Order online at ocpizzamambo.com.

■ PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

108 S. Boardwalk between Caroline and Talbot streets

Full bar

Serving snacks only. Food is welcome. Bring your own food and buy a beverage of your choice.

Talbot County Arts Council; the Worcester County Arts Council; the Sussex County, Delaware Council; and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, Inc.

A complete schedule of the 20222023 season’s Masterworks and Ensembles programs, venues, times, and other information is available at www.midatlanticsymphony.org.

■

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.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COASTAL SALT

16th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-973-7258, www.coastalsaltoc.com

$$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

New American restaurant. Local seafood. Closed Monday through Wednesday; Open Thursday through Sunday starting 8 a.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaraunt serving seafood, steaks, and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; Tues. through Sat, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Happy Hour; Tues through Sat, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials.

Closed Mondays. Open Tues.,-Fri. at 2 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 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 with a Caribbean flare; Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring specialty rums; Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10

Ice cream made daily. Stop by any Dumser’s location for homemade ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, floats and much more.

■

■ 32 PALM

OCEAN BITES

401 S. Atlantic Ave next to Thrasher FF and 30th Street Coastal Hwy in the Jolly Roger’s parking lot, Ocean City Oceanbites.net

Kid’s menu. Two locations. Ice cream, lemonades, pizza, salads, appetizers, sandwiches, wraps, wings, tenders, burger, baskets. Open daily. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Try the new Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends, 10 a.m. to 11 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, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout.

■ PICKLES PUB

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PIZZA MAMBO

710 Philadelphia Ave., between 7th and 8th streets 410-289-1200; 7205 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 410-524-0090, ocpizzamambo.com

$$ | Kids’ menu

Serving pizzas with homemade crust,

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

All day dining featuring breakfast, brunch, and dinner; Serving shareables, lighter fare, a wide selection of bourbons; Weekend brunch, Saturday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Happy hour, every day, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

■ MARLIN MOON

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

$$

Open daily for breakfast, lite fare, and dinner; Happy hour, Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters; Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Lite fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Monday-Wednesday, 4 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT PIZZERIA

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

$$ | Kids’ menu

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

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ COASTAL SMOKEHOUSE

12513 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 410-390-5998, coastalsmokehouse.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar with 18 TVs

Steak and barbecue experts. Menu reflects nation's hottest barbecue destinations. Top-notch bourbon list. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro

12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

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

■ OC EATERIES

■

BAHAMAS’S CRABSHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET

Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Highway, Fenwick 302-537-5882

Seafood, crabs selected by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Seafood, chicken, homemade soups, crab cakes, steamed shrimp, clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws. Open daily at 10 a.m. Closed Tuesdays.

12849 Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50), West Ocean City 443-252-3700, oceateriesmaryland.com

$-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Market-style food destination with table service. Seven restaurants offering brick oven pizza, wings, street tacos, cheesy mac, loaded potatoes. Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. with food and drink specials. Live entertainment, Thursday through Saturday evenings. Indoor and outdoor seating.

DOWNTOWN

Rochelle Bard

Annual ‘Holiday Joy’ concert features Rochelle Bard in carols, arias, other songs

Capital Ringers to perform in Ocean Pines, Saturday

(Dec. 2, 2022) Capital Ringers handbell ensemble will perform its “Christmas Reflections” show this Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Community Church at Ocean Pines.

The repertoire for “Christmas Reflections” celebrates the organization’s 18 years of holiday handbells, with signature pieces such as “Winter Wonderland,” “Sing We Now of Christmas” and “Wizards in Winter,” as well as sacred and secular tunes chosen by Artistic Director Linda Simms.

The group’s shows highlight not only the handbell instrument, but includes percussion, synthesizer, a multimedia light show and projection video to complement each piece of music.

The church is located at 11227 Racetrack Road. A free-will offering will be collected.

For more information, visit https://www.capitalringers.org/js_e vents/christmas-reflections-oceanpines/

First Friday event at OC Center for the Arts, Dec. 2

(Dec. 2, 2022) First Friday, Dec. 2, celebrates the holidays at the Ocean City Center for the Arts with two group shows, a small works show, plus a building-wide artisan fair.

The First Friday event is free and runs from 5-7 p.m., and all are welcome.

The Thaler Gallery at the Arts Center showcases the annual Members Group Show featuring artwork in all media by members of the Art League of Ocean City, juried by artist Evan Fitzgerald.

The Sisson Galleria features the Best of 2022, artwork that won awards during exhibits of the past year. Studio E features Small Works, small in size and affordable in price for holiday giving.

The annual Artisan Fair fills the Arts Center for two days with handcrafted items made by local and regional artists.

The artists will display their creations during the First Friday art opening and also on Saturday. Items offered include one-of-a-kind jewelry, ceramics, fiber art, wood and metal art.

The artisans featured are Theresa Alo, Nelly Colyer, Mary Michele Davis, Dee Dobson, Laura Ellison, Susan LeMar, Todd Lewis, Iuliia Nahirna, Dana Simson, Tuve and Tia Tuvesson, and Charlene Willner.

Annual Artisan Fair to be held Friday, Saturday

On Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the fair continues with the artisans, plus book signings by local authors Al “Hondo” Handy, Frank Hopkins, and Joanne Guilfoil.

Special free crafts for children will also be available on Saturday. The Art League will offer a bake sale, a raffle basket of artwork by the participating artisans, and a door prize during the weekend.

Liz Maynes of Bethesda, Maryland, exhibits her paintings in the Spotlight Gallery in December.

A self-taught artist, she holds a medical doctorate and is an assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at USUHS/Walter Reed. Her medium of choice is oil paint, and she has won several awards for her work.

Dee Dobson of Ocean City, is the Art Center’s artisan for December.

Dobson uses the traditional gold and silversmithing methods of rolling, hammering, fabricating, piercing, bending, soldering, and limited-edition casting she learned as an apprentice to a master metalsmith.

She works in silver, gold and copper set with precious and semi-precious stones.

First Friday continues at two points in north Ocean City.

The main lobby gallery at the Princess Royale Oceanfront, 9100 Coastal Hwy. continues an exhibit of art by Golie Miamee. A second satellite gallery on 94th Street at the Coffee Beanery continues a show of artwork by Pat Fecko.

Refreshments at the Arts Center are sponsored by PKS Investments. All shows will be on display until Dec. 31. More information is available at www.OCart.org or by calling 410524-9433.

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

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

‘Portraits of Recovery’ art exhibit

(Dec. 2, 2022) Worcester Preparatory School recently hosted representatives from the Art League of Ocean City who presented “Stigma Highlighted: Portraits of Recovery,” an art exhibit addressing negativity toward individuals battling addiction.

The “Stigma Highlighted: Portraits of Recovery” project is designed to use artwork and personal stories to challenge misconceptions and negativity toward individuals battling addiction.

The program is sponsored by the Giving Spirit Foundation, Worcester County Health Department, Worcester Goes Purple, Talbot Goes Purple and the ALOC.

Local artists, including Worcester Prep junior Izzy Huber, created portraits influenced by their stories of 12 survivors from Worcester, Wicomico, Talbot and Somerset counties in various stages of recovery.

The artists personally met with the individuals, listened to their journeys, and interpreted them in handpainted portraits.

The artists also wrote accounts of their interactions with their subjects and how it personally affected them.

Huber met with Brandon O’Brien, owner of Douglas K. Hamilton House for Recovery, who she describes as one of the most down-to-earth and humble people she has ever met.

“His story inspired me in many ways, but one of the most striking things was his determination and ability to face his fears,” Huber wrote. “Since beginning his journey away from addiction, Brandon has flourished. It was a great honor meeting him, and seeing how his hard work paid off. I was able to visit his very own recovery house, which he opened to serve his community, in the same way he was given help when

New, unwrapped toys being collected for OCPD’s drive

(Dec. 2, 2022) The holiday season is quickly approaching and the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) has begun collecting new, unwrapped toys for its annual Holiday Toy Drive.

This year, all toy donations will benefit Worcester County GOLD, a local nonprofit organization that strives to promote dignity by providing financial aid to families in crisis, vulnerable adults, and children in foster care in Worcester County.

This is the seventh year that the OCPD Holiday Toy Drive has benefited Worcester County GOLD.

All toys will be provided to Worcester County GOLD as part of its “Helping Hands for the Holidays” program.

In 2021, Worcester County GOLD provided holiday gifts for over 500 children and 50 vulnerable adults.

The OCPD is proud to join their efforts again this year.

New, unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Public Safety Building, located at 6501 Coastal Highway. Worcester GOLD requests that all toys be valued at $40 or less, and do not include jewelry, bicycles, electronics, video games, or toy weapons of any kind.

All monetary donations and contributions should be directed to Worcester County GOLD and mailed to: 299 Commerce Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Holiday event organizers wishing to partner with the OCPD Holiday Toy Drive are asked to contact Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller at 410-520-5395. The deadline for all toy donations is Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Winter Train Garden now on display at Ocean City Library

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Ocean City Branch of the Worcester County Library will host a magical Winter Train Garden through Jan. 15.

The Winter Train Garden is provided from the personal collection of train enthusiast Dennis Moore, a local resident.

Visitors of all ages will delight in interacting with buttons that activate accessories and sounds.

A scavenger hunt for young patrons will also be available.

The Winter Train Garden is open during the library’s normal operating

hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, contact the Ocean City Branch at 410-524-1818, or visit 10003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Facebook: Worcester County Maryland Library

Instagram: worcesterlibrarymd

The mission of the Worcester County Library is to promote reading, thinking, learning, and the enjoyment of the arts.

he needed it most.”

For more information on Stigma Highlighted, visit www.StigmaHighlighted.com, where all 12 portraits and stories are on display.

CROSSWORD

Worcester Preparatory School recently hosted representatives from the Art League of Ocean City who presented “Stigma Highlighted: Portraits of Recovery,” an art exhibit addressing negativity toward individuals battling addiction. A portrait of Brandon O’Brien was painted by Worcester Prep junior Izzy Huber. It is hanging in the “Stigma Highlighted: Portraits of Recovery” exhibit at the Art League of Ocean City on 94th Street.

Fri., Dec. 2

POCOMOKE CITY’S OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS EVENING

Pocomoke City, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Christmas Tree Lighting at 6 p.m.; live music; free food, beverages and treats; bonfire; Santa house; kids ornament making; cookie decorating; and horse drawn carriage rides. DowntownPocomoke.com, 410-957-1333 Ext. 111.

DEADLINE FOR BOOKING MOTORCOACH TRIP TO NEW YORK CITY

On December 10, spend time on-yourown in New York from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Cost is $120. Deposit of $60 is due at booking with remaining due by Dec. 2. Book a seat: www.playmarylandscoast.org. 410-632-2144, Ext. 2505.

LETTERS TO SANTA

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Come to the library and write a letter to Santa. Leave it in the library’s special North Pole mailbox. Santa will answer each family. All supplies provided. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-957-0878

CHESS/TAFL CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9:30 a.m. Come play chess and meet new friends. Bring your boards. Also learn the exciting game of Hnefatafl, an old strategy game. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: SNOWFLAKES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Fun story about snowflakes. Each one is unique just like us. Stick around for a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Join in for a short structured activity and then socialize and play with other homeschool families. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOBBIES CLUB: MESSY ART CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Join in on a fun new hobby as the group explores different forms of “messy” art. For ages 6 years and older. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRST FRIDAY FREE ART OPENINGS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 5-7 p.m. Featuring the Annual Members Group Show, Best of 2022 and Annual Artisan Fair. Satellite galleries held at the Princess Royale Oceanfront, 91st St. and the Coffee Beanery, 94th St. www.OCart.org, 410524-9433

Sat., Dec. 3

39TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE

Coastal Highway & Old Landing Road, Ocean City. The parade begins at 11 a.m. on Old Landing Road and marches north along Coastal Highway to judges’ stand at 120th Street. Post-parade reception held at the Carousel Hotel. www.ococean.com/events/

FREE CARRIAGE RIDES & SANTA

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 3-18, featuring free carriage rides from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and meet Santa at Kringle Kottage located at Calvin B. Taylor Museum, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. BerlinMainStreet.com

LETTERS TO SANTA

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Come to the library and write a letter to Santa. Leave it in the library’s special North Pole mailbox. Santa will answer each family. All supplies provided. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-957-0878

HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW

Millville Volunteer Fire Company, 35554 Atlantic Ave., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Santa will visit from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be light food available for purchase, breakfast and lunch. Interested crafters call 302-732-6061.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AND CRAFT FAIR

Berlin Intermediate School, 309 Franklin Ave., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring a wide variety of vendors, a Bake Sale table, 50/50 tickets and lunch. Eat in or carry out. Interested vendors: 443-5134124. Benefiting Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health.

2022 CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendors, bake table, silent auction, white elephant sale, vegetable beef soup, pulled pork sandwiches. Eat in or carry out. Vendors include Sweet Tater Treats, Pampered Chef and Jewels by Josh.

GENEALOGY HELP

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10 a.m.noon. A local history librarian will be on hand to help participants in finding their roots. By appointment only: 410-6323495. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRST SATURDAY WRITERS

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

HOLIDAY ARTISAN FAIR 2022 CONTINUES

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring local and regional artists, book signings by local authors, free crafts for children, a bake sale, a raffle basket of artwork by the participating artisans and a door prize. www.OCart.org, 410-524-9433

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET

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

PROJECT T(W)EEN: SHADOW COLLAGES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Using shadows and different art materials, what will you make? For ages 11 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MERRY MARKETPLACE IN BRRRLIN

The Buzz Meadery, 21 Jefferson St., Berlin, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sip and shop. Many of the Berlin Farmers Market vendors will be participating in Merry Marketplace at The Berlin Commons Buzz Meadery on Jefferson Street.

KID’S WASSAIL & GINGERBREADHOLIDAYS AT THE MUSEUM

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin. 12-3 p.m. A family tradition with a special craft for the winter birds. www.TaylorHouseMuseum.org

HERBAL GIFTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Discuss the therapeutic properties of holiday herbs while learning how to blend them into gifts. Receive a Ginger Cookie Lip Balm and Mulling Spice packet. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE CHRISTMAS SEASON CONCERT

Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, 3 p.m. Capital Ringers “Christmas Reflections” is a celebration of 18 years of holiday handbells. A free will offering will be collected. www.capitalringers.org

COCKTAIL RECEPTION OPEN HOUSEHOLIDAYS AT THE MUSEUM

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 5-7 p.m. Tour the beautifully decorated house to festive cello and violin carols. Then, join the group for cocktails and appetizers. www.TaylorHouseMuseum.org

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., Dec. 4

FREE CARRIAGE RIDES & SANTA

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 3-18, featuring free carriage rides from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and meet Santa at Kringle Kottage located at Calvin B. Taylor Museum, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. BerlinMainStreet.com

24TH ANNUAL CHILI COOK OFF

The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille W. OC, 9616 Stephen Decatur Highway, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Admission is $10 or one unwrapped toy and includes unlimited chili samples and drink specials. Benefiting Hots “4” Tots and Worcester County G.O.L.D.

https://m.facebook.com/events/148125 1125693643

MID-ATLANTIC SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Performing Arts Center, Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 3 p.m. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Holiday Joy Concert featuring Rochelle Bard, Soprano. General admission cost is $55. Tickets https://ocmdperformingartscenter.com /upcoming-events/mso-dec. 888-8468600

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Dec. 5

STORY TIME ‘WADDLING PENGUINS’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Stories, music with movement and crafts about penguins. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Discussion will focus on the second epilogue to “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy. The group meets to discuss selections recommended by the Great Books Foundation. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TAKE

OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY OF BERLINGROUP #169

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. T.O.P.S. is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157

ORNAMENT MAKING WITH CHELSEA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 5-6:30 p.m.

Make beautiful ornaments to gift or decorate your home. All supplies provided. Registration required: 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

HEALTHY HOLIDAYS CUISINE

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Learn how to prepare healthy dishes that won’t be loaded with calories and carbs. Recipes and sample tasting available. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ANNUAL HOLIDAY SING ALONG

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Spend some time with the Delmarva Chorus listening, singing and enjoying complimentary cookies and beverages.

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

Tues., Dec. 6

33RD ANNUAL AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY HOLIDAY WRAPPINGS LUNCHEON & FASHION SHOW

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Auctions, raffles and fashion. Tickets: https://acsdelmarva.ticketleap.com/holidaywrappings/dates/De c-06-2022_at_1000AM. On-line auction: https://go.rallyup.com/holidaywrappingsauction2022.

STORY TIME ‘PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES’

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

STORY TIME ‘OWLS’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. Take-home activity included. For ages 2-5 years. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Bring whatever project you are working on. The group welcomes drop-ins and new members. They are making winter accessories that are available at the library for those in need. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-524-1818

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

MASTER GARDENER PLANT CLINIC WITH GINNY ROSENKRANZ

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks

about all things plants. Bring questions and feel free to show your plants. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

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

YARN ART

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Create unusual artworks by combining yarn and canvases. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIY DIFFUSER BRACELETS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:30 p.m. These handmade bracelets are infused with essential oils of your choice. All supplies included. Registration required: 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. All genres welcome. Present works in progress or talk through composition issues with other songwriters. 410-6410650, 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.

DELMARVA DANCING

Tuesdays - Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173, 13324 Worcester Highway, Bishopville, 5:30-9 p.m. Dance to the sounds of the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and more. A $5 donation benefits Veterans and local charities. All are welcome. Charlie, 410-465-0445

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.

Wed., Dec. 7

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Held via Zoom, on the first and second Wednesdays of each month, for nonsurgical patients. Atlantic General

Bariatrics Center, 410-641-9568

BABY TIME: SILLY SONGS & SILLY SOUNDS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. The group will be exploring sounds. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 2 years and younger. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CREATIVE KIDS CORNER

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Come create a winter craft at the library or take it with you. Most supplies included. For ages 4 years and older. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PAGE TO SCREEN BOOK CLUB

Meeting via Zoom. 1 p.m. Join the group as they continue reading “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney. Recommended for ages 7-11 years. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under “Events.” 410-208-4014

HEALTHY EATING ON A BUDGET

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Leah Vickers from Achieve Fitness LLC teaches the group how to eat well while saving money. She will offer grocery store shopping tips and other insights. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Group provides discussion, education and a speaker on the topic of diabetes. Darlene Jameson, 410-208-9761, djameson@atlanticgeneral.org

HOLIDAY BAKING FOR YOUNG CHEFS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Learn three new recipes for making cookies and holiday treats. For ages 6 years and older. Registration required: 410-9570878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

BERTINO’S BOOK SIGNING AND READING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6-8 p.m. Author and columnist Chip Bertino will host a book signing and reading for his just released book, “It’s All About … Some of My Favorites” a collection of some of his favorite columns.

Thurs., Dec. 8

STEM THURSDAYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Drop in any time during the day to use your creativity and build using one of the STEM building kits. For ages 4 years and older. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30

a.m. Join the group for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HERBAL GIFTS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Discuss the therapeutic properties of holiday herbs while learning how to blend them into gifts. Receive a Ginger Cookie Lip Balm and a Mulling Spice packet. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org.

DECORATIVE WREATHS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Make a beautiful decorative wreath from household materials. Everything will be provided. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6410650.

ZUMBA FOR ALL

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. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under “Events.” 410-641-0650

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

FREE INTRO TO PLATFORM TENNIS & SPEC TENNIS

By appointment in January and February. Call Vin at 862-219-3352 or email oppaddle2020@gmail.com. Equipment provided.

WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, through Dec. 31. An expanded walking tour through thousands of sparkling holiday lights. Also featuring hot chocolate, photos with Santa, gift shop and a 50-foot Christmas tree. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Admission cost is $6 for adults and free to children 11 years and younger. Event is weather permitting. Pets are welcome on Wednesdays. 410250-0125, 800-626-2326

Crossword answers from page 32

AUTOMOTIVE

If you are looking for a change, NOW is the time!

We are a large Automotive Service Center with several company owned parts stores, service centers and used car dealership. We have multiple locations in the Ocean City, MD, Bethany Beach, DE and Rehoboth Beach DE areas. We are accepting applications for experienced:

-Technicians

- Oil Lube / Tire Techs

- Parts Associates

Great Pay scale and Advancement opportunities plus Benefits, Employee Discounts and Friends & Family Discounts! Call: 302-344-9846

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

Coastal Cuts, a New Family Salon in West Ocean City, is looking for talented Hair Stylists. Must be Maryland licensed. Interested? Call 410-390-3916

Year-Round Rental in Ocean Pines. 3-bedroom, 2-bath. $1750 a month plus utilities. Call Karen 443-880-5727.

Year-Round Studio Rental, 32nd Street, OC. $1200/month plus utilities. No pets. Available now. 410-524-0295

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

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

Seeking Roommate Bayview Estates, Selbyville. 5.7 miles to beach. Includes utilities & internet. Shared kitchen, W/D, living room, outdoor space, POOL. VERY CLEAN. $850/ month. 302-4485516

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

COMMERCIAL

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Each are approximately 1600 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

SERVICES

Ocean Pines Handyman is offering free estimates to the Ocean Pines community during leaf removal season. We also will service Berlin, Ocean City, Salisbury, Dagsboro and any location within a 30-mile radius from Ocean Pines. Book your free estimate today! www.oceanpineshandyman.com/leaf-removal

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.

Classifieds 410-723-6397 Advertise in MDDC

Worcester County Health Department

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST II - Full Time, State Benefits. Duties include performing inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with environmental health laws and regulations. This position performs routine environmental health filed work for public health protection. Duties include animal bite investigations and rabies exposures, as well as performing inspections on food service and public swimming pool facilities to ensure compliance with COMAR regulations.

At the time of hire, the selected applicant must possess a current license as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist from the Maryland Board of Environmental Health Specialists. Valid driver’s license and background check required.

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by December 6, 2022.

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

Worcester County Health Department

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE - Full Time, State Benefits. Duties include performing inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with environmental health laws and regulations. Duties are performed in various programs, which include Public Swimming Pool/Spa Compliance, Food Service Facility Compliance, Rabies Prevention & Vector Borne Disease and Nuisance Complaint Investigation and Abatement.

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

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by December 6, 2022.

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

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

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

Maryland, Delaware and D.C.: 106 papers with a circulation of 2.3 million and readership of 4.9 million! For only $495

Deadline is Wednesday of the week prior to publication Call 410-723-6397 for more information

DOG, PETS, LIVESTOCK, PET SUPPLIES

Use Happy Jack® Kennel Dip as an area spray to control Lyme disease ticks, fleas, stable flies, & mosquitoes where they breed. At Tractor Supply (www.fleabeacon.com)

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

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

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.

WANTED TO BUY

TOP CA$H PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. 888-491-4534

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

MDDC - 410-723-6397

Council, Baradel, Kosmerl & Nolan, P.A.

125 West Street, 4th Floor

Annapolis, Maryland 21401 (410) 268-6600

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S SALE OF VALUABLE FEE SIMPLE RESIDENTIAL DWELLING

1848 New Bridge Road, Pocomoke, MD 21851

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust (“Deed of Trust”) from William Henderson and Annie James (“Borrowers”) to PNC Bank, National Association (“Lender”), dated June 22, 2009 and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland (“Land Records”) in Liber 5309, Folio 276, and further secured by an Assignment of Deed of Trust (“Assignment”) from PNC Bank, National Association (“Assignor”) to US Mortgage Resolution LLC, (”Assignee”), dated November 12, 2019, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland (“Land Records”) in Liber 7538, Folio 188, and further secured by a Corporate Assignment of Deed of Trust (“Assignment”) from US Mortgage Resolution LLC (“Assignor”) to Onyx & Shadow Equities LLC, (”Assignee”), dated September 13, 2020, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland (“Land Records”) in Liber 7795, Folio 301, and default having occurred under the terms thereof, and at the request of the party secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Courthouse Door, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on:

Monday, December 12, 2022 at 11:00AM

All that lot of ground and the improvements thereon SITUATED IN Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property is believed to be improved by a residential dwelling. The property address is 1848 New Bridge Road, Pocomoke, MD 21851.

Said property is in fee simple and is sold in an “as is condition” and subject to all covenants, conditions, liens, restrictions, easements, rightsof-way as may affect same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD SUBJECT TO the legal operation and effect of at least one prior senior lien/Deed of Trust, the bal-

ance(s) of which will be announced at the time of sale, if known.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $1,000.00 will be required of the purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or certified check, or other form acceptable to the Substitute Trustee, in his sole discretion. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid in cash within ten (10) days of the final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. If payment of the balance does not take place within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit may be forfeited and property may be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser. The defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. Interest to be paid on unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the deed of trust note from date of sale to date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustee in the event the property is purchased by someone rather than the note holder.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , including, but not limited to, exceptions to the sale, bankruptcy filings by interested parties, or court administration of the foreclosure, there shall be no abatement of interest. Taxes, ground rent, water, condominium fees and/or homeowner association dues, all public charges, assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. If the Substitute Trustee is unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit. Upon refund of the deposit, this sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claims against the Substitute Trustee.

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

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN DUE DILIGENCE WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the Substitute Trustee.

Brian T. Gallagher, Substitute Trustee Tidewater Auctions, LLC 410-825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com

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.

DUDLEY M. EICHHORN (DECEASED) MYRNA L. EICHHORN (DECEASED) 5934 Taylor Landing Rd. Girdletree, MD 21829

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-22-000180

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 10th day of November, 2022, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 5934 Taylor Road, Girdletree, MD 21829, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 12th day of December, 2022, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 5th day of December, 2022.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $86,000.00.

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-11/17/3t

DAVID J. BAINES EWING, DIETZ, FOUNTAIN & KALUDIS, P.A. 16 S WASHINGTON STREET EASTON, MD 21601

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 19453

Notice is given that the SUPERIOR COURT court of NEW CAS TLE COUNTY, DE appointed SAMANTHA AUSTIN whose address is 30 KENMOUNT LANE FELTON, DE 19943 as the ADMINISTRATRIX of the Estate of WILLIAM LOUIS AUSTIN AKA: WILLIAM L AUSTIN who died on AUGUST 5, 2022 domiciled in DELAWARE, USA

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is DAVID J BAINES whose address is EWING, DIETZ, FOUNTAIN & 16 S WASHINGTON STREET EASTON, MD 21601. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER COUNTY.

All persons having claims against

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-11/17/3t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: John Michael Cookro, 3 Garrett Drive, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Joshua Michael Elliott, 30679 Satterfield Court, Salisbury, Maryland 21804; Jeremy Andrew Norton, 701 Parkway Avenue, Salisbury, Maryland 21804.

For: Roadie Joe Berlin, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Roadie Joe Berlin 525 South Main Street Berlin, Maryland 21811

Formerly: Crush & Crab, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 7, 2022 @ 1:00 P.M.

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

OCD-11/24/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "A" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Patrick Ryan Spicer, 304 Sunset Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: Buster's 119, LLC

For the premises known as and located at: T/A: 7-Eleven 11911 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: H & R Martin, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 7, 2022 @ 1:10 P.M.

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

OCD-11/24/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "D" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Matthew Cody Miller, 203 Henrys Mill Drive, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Eric Joseph Fiori, 8808 Hunting Hound Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Forgotten Fifty, LLC

For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Forgotten Fifty 10103 Old City Bouelvard Berlin, Maryland 21811

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 7, 2022 @ 1:20 P.M.

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

OCD-11/24/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to change start time of indoor live entertainment hours currently starting at 4 p.m. to 12 noon with three (3) hours duration for entertainment, Request to change start time of outside live entertainment hours currently starting at 4 p.m. to 12 noon with three (3) hours duration of entertainment, Request to allow a DJ or Music Technician for three (3) hours durations starting at 12 noon for inside and outside, Request to expand the licensed premises to include the side driveway area, Request to build a full-service bar open 7 days a week open to close. Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Heather L. Welch, 300 North Washington Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863; Jason A. Welch, 300 North Washington Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

For: Mill-Wel, LLC

For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Oaked 110 300 North Washington Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 7, 2022

@ 1:55 P.M.

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

OCD-11/24/2t

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19459

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

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 Dec 1, 2022

IN THE ESTATE OF DONALD L. FRANCIS

Notice is given that James L. Francis, 2680 Shadow Ridge Court, Kamas, UT 84036, was on November 16, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donald L. Francis who died on May 4, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of May, 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

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

James L. Francis 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: November 24, 2022 OCD-11/24/3t _________________________________

NOTICE of Public Hearing

Amendment to Worcester County Water and Sewerage Plan Riverview Mobile Home Park Bishopville, Maryland

The Worcester County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider an application filed by Rauch Engineering representing Jim Latchum, owner of Riverview Mobile Home Park. This amendment would allow for the construction of a wastewater treatment plant for stream discharge and modifications to the existing water treatment plant to serve an expansion of the existing park up to sixty (60) units. The existing conventional subsurface multi-use septic system would be connected to the proposed wastewater plant, and septic would be properly abandoned after the required year-long timeframe for operational testing of the wastewater treatment plant. To allow for the review of such a permit, it is also necessary to modify Section 1.2.2 D (Protection of the Environment) of The Plan to amend the existing language to make it possible for this facility to apply for a discharge permit. The Worcester County Planning Commission reviewed the proposed Water and Sewerage Plan amendment at its meeting of November 3, 2022 and found it to be consistent with the Worcester County Comprehensive Plan.

The public hearing on this application will be held on:

Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at 11:45 A.M. in the

Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 – Government Center One West Market Street

Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

For additional information, please contact the County Administration at (410) 632-1220 x 1601 or visit the County website at: online at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-11/24/2t _________________________________

David J. Baines

EWING, DIETZ, FOUNTAIN & KALUDIS

16 S. WASHINGTON STREET EASTON, MD 21601

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19452 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL E. COGHLAN Notice is given that Mary Heath, 1245 Yeocomico Drive, Lottsburg, VA 22511, was on November 17, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael E. Coghlan who died on October 17, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 17th day of May, 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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.

Mary Heath 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: November 24, 2022 OCD-11/24/3t _________________________________

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY

before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 p.m. Case No. 22-56, on the lands of William Harris Jr., requesting an after-the-fact variance to the left side yard setback from 6 feet to 4.32 feet (to encroach 1.68 feet) & an after-the-fact front yard variance from 25 feet to 24.7 feet (to encroach .3 feet) for an existing attached garage, in the R-3 Multi-Family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1207(b)(2), and ZS 1-305 located at 83 Newport Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 198,Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 22-57, on the lands of Harry How III, requesting a variance to each side yard setback from 6 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 3 feet each) for a proposed dock in R-3 Multi-Family Residential District pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 2 Widows Watch Court, Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 365, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

feet) for a proposed new dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located on Snug Harbor Road, about 1,800 feet east of Meadow Lane Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Lot 79, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 22-59, on the lands of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception to allow a boundary line adjustment in the RP Resource Protection District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-215(c)(3) & ZS 1-311, the affected properties are 9245 Seahawk Road, Tax Map 25, Parcel 22, and 10625 Assateague Road, Tax Map 25, Parcel 129, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland. OCD-11/24/2t

APPLICANT: DAVID FIELDS –(BZA 2637 #22-09400019)

At 6:20 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3) and/or Section 11093(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) and/or Section 110-94(3)(b) requesting a variance and/or special yard exception to allow new egress stairs to be 8’ into the required 10’ front yard setback providing a remaining setback of 2’. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 3-6 and part of Lot 2, Block 69, of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat; further described as located on the southeast corner of Philadelphia Avenue and 24th Street, and locally known as 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: MAD DESIGN GROUP FOR SINEPUXENT POST 166– (BZA 2638 #22-09500012)

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

DECEMBER 8, 2022

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person

6:40 p.m. Case No. 22-58, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, on the lands of Bruce McConkey, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet from the center of the road right of way to 39.27 feet (to encroach 10.73 feet) and a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 27.61 feet (to encroach 2.39

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:

December 8, 2022 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to allow a 6’ tall fence in the front yard setback of a corner lot where only a 42” tall fence would be permitted. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 1, Block 33, Section 2A, of the Caine Woods Plat; further described as located on the west corner of North Surf Road and Laurel Avenue, and locally known as 700 Laurel Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: WILLIAM NIXON –(BZA 2636 #22-09500011) at 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to waive one (1) parking space to allow the finishing of the attic space for a home office that is to be considered as a bedroom per Code Section 110-933(a). The site of the appeal is described as Lot 102A of the Caine Harbor Mile Plat; further described as located on the north side of Windward Drive, and known locally as 204 Windward Drive, Unit A, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney

OCD-11/24/2t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

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

Thursday, December 8, 2022 At 2:00 p.m.

PW 22-127 A request has been submitted to install one 6’ x 10’ floating dock to be used as a kayak launch, maximum channelward extension of 10’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 14013 SEA CAPTAIN RD Parcel # 9453A-29 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Jerry Ricciardi

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 22-130 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with all associated poles, maximum channelward extension 25’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2001 HERRING WAY UNIT A Parcel # 3269 -125 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Francis Anderson

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 22-131 A request has been

submitted to install one double PWC float a maximum channelward 21’ of existing bulkhead, not to exceed existing mooring pile and pier. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 11618

SEAWARD RD UNIT 17 Parcel # 3890A-17 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Timothy Lamberto

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc.

PW 22-132 A request has been submitted to install one 11’x18’ double PWC float, maximum channelward extension of 28’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 12301 JAMAICA AVE UNIT H127 – Slip D 52 Parcel # 5183A-H127 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Jeffrey Decker

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc.

PW 22-133 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 28’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2005 HERRING WAY UNIT A Parcel # 3269 -125 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Rocco Digirolomo

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc

PW 22-134 A request has been submitted to construct ~ 42 lf of vinyl bulkhead 18” channelward of existing deteriorated timber bulkhead – tying both ends into existing vinyl bulkheads; construct a 6’ x 45’ pier at the end of the existing 6’ x 25’ dock; and install two 16’x16’ boat lifts with associated pilings a maximum of 50’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 14009 LOOP RD Parcel # 9436A-12 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Christopher Reda

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc.

PW 22-135 A request has been submitted to install a 5’x17’ parallel pier extension to an existing 23’x5’ pier making total length 40’; and to install one boat lift with 4 associated pilings. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 14147 SEA CAPTAIN RD Parcel # 9897A-7 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Joel Keaton

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 22-136 A request has been submitted to install one 6’ x 12’ floating jet ski dock at end of existing pier, maximum channelward extension 52’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at Block 130, Caine Stable Road, Lot #17 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Blaine Bunting

APPLICANT: Jon Stiffler

PW 22-137 A request has been submitted to install one PWC lift on an existing piling, maximum 7’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 11616 SHIPWRECK RD Parcel # 3920A-58 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Jonathan

Mitrecic PW 22-139 A request has been submitted to install one 4’ x 24’ pier and one boat lift with four associated poles a maximum channelward extension of 24’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 779 94TH ST Parcel # 9626 -779 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Adam Ramos

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC OCD-11/24/2t

Spencer Ayres Cropper

Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, MD 21842

Golden Sands Club Condominium Association, Inc.

c/o Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A. 6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Plaintiff vs. Grace M. Bellosi-Mitchell Jessica Bellosi-Siebert 213 Hidden Valley Road Tracy’s Landing, MD 20779

Defendants

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY

STATE OF MARYLAND CIVIL CASE NO. C-23-CV-22-000191

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, this 18th day of November, 2022, that the foreclosure sale of Golden Sands Club Condominium, Unit 202, 10900 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland, made and reported by Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 19th day of December, 2022, provided a copy of this Order is published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once in three successive weeks, before the 12th day of December, 2022.

The Report states that the total proceeds from the sale of the property to be Three Hundred and Eighty Thousand Dollars ($380,000.00).

Susan R. Braniecki CLERK, CIRCUIT COURT

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-11/24/3t

IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

IN THE ESTATE OF: WILLIAM THOMAS TRAYNOR ESTATE NO. 19465

NOTICE OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Thomas J.

Kokolis, Esq., 110 North Washington Street, Suite 500, Rockville, Md 20850 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 01/10/2023 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 11/24/2022 OCD-11/24/2t

JAMES E. CLUBB JR, ESQ 108 N 8TH ST. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

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

To all persons interested in the estate of EDMUND ALLEN NELSON Estate No. 19470 Notice is given that SHELLEY NELSON DYER whose address is 20660 NANTICOKE ROAD NANTICOKE, MD 21840 was on NOVEMBER 23, 2022 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of EDMUND ALLEN NELSON who died on MAY 13, 2022 without a will.

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

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

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

NOTICE

of a Public Hearing of the Mayor and Council of the Town of Berlin, MD

Pursuant to the Code of the town of Berlin, MD Section 108-215, “Procedure for Change”,

The Berlin Mayor and Council will hold a Public Hearing during its meeting to be held on Monday, December 12, 2022 at 7:00 PM in the Mayor and Council Chambers, second floor, of the Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Berlin, MD to consider Ordinance No. 2022-08, a Text Amendment requested by the Burley Oak Brewing Company to Section 108-163(b)(8) of the Town Code.

The proposed Text Amendment reads as follows:

“In the B-2 Shopping District or B-3 General Business District a Special Exception to allow a grain silo to be utilized as part of a brewery operation, but not exceeding thirty-five (35) feet in height”.

The Berlin Planning Commission passed a motion to recommend the Text Amendment by a 6-1 affirmative vote to the Berlin Mayor and Council at its most recent meeting held on Wednesday, November 16, 2022.

David H. Engelhart Planning Director Town of Berlin, MD OCD-11/24/2t

TOWN OF BERLIN PUBLIC NOTICE CASE NO. 9508 (q)

PUBLIC UTILITY LAW JUDGE’S NOTICE OF HEARING

A Public Hearing in the above-entitled matter will be conducted by the Maryland Public Service Commission on Tuesday, December 19, 2022, at 1:00 p.m., in the Commission's 19th floor hearing room, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The hearing will be live streamed on the Public Utility Law Judge Division’s YouTube Channel using the following link: https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP. OCD-12/1/1t

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONTINUING INVESTIGATION OF THE ELECTRIC FUEL RATE AND PURCHASED POWER COST ADJUSTMENT CHARGES OF THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SYSTEM OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN

Worcester County TED earns expansion award

(Dec. 2, 2022) Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development (TED) took home the Market Expansion Award for Golf in Maryland’s Coast during the 41st annual Maryland Travel and Tourism Summit, which took place at the Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort from Nov. 1416.

“The lower Eastern Shore is home to pristine courses set against beautiful backdrops, like the Atlantic coastal bays, and these courses are destinations unto themselves,” TED Advertising and Destination Marketing Specialist Brianna Dix said. “We’re both thrilled and honored to receive this year’s award because our team works hard to develop marketing strategies that promote the county’s thriving golf industry in ways that help draw businesses and attract golfers and all visitors to stay and play on Maryland’s Coast –Worcester County.”

Maryland’s Coast earned this year’s award for successfully producing a comprehensive golf advertising campaign to expand an existing demographic and geographic market.

“Golf in Maryland’s Coast is a marketing campaign for the perfect golf getaway in Worcester County,” Dix said. “Focusing on open space, 17 championship golf courses, national and state parks, and the abundance of outdoor and water recreation, the campaign included an increase in print, radio, television, and digital advertisements, promoting golf packages, dining, shopping and recreational activities running in target markets and demographics re-

sulting in increases of website traffic, lodging collections, and overall tourism sales tax revenues.”

The annual summit is sponsored and managed by the Maryland Tourism Coalition, which brings to-

gether hundreds of public sector leaders in the hospitality industry each year to network and develop new strategies to benefit tourism businesses and the state of Maryland as a whole.

The Maryland Tourism awards were presented by the Maryland Department of Commerce Office of Tourism Development and the Maryland Tourism Development Board.

Honors presented to team in Nov. for efforts made in moves in area golf market

Maryland’s Coast – Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development (TED) took home the Market Expansion Award for Golf in Maryland’s Coast during the 41st annual Maryland Travel and Tourism Summit in November. Pictured, from left are, Maryland Department of Commerce (MDC) Tourism, Film, Arts, Marketing and Communications Assistant Secretary Tom Riford, TED Director Melanie Pursel and Advertising and Destination Marketing Specialist Brianna Dix, Oxford-Bellevue Ferry and Maryland Tourism Development Board Chair Judy Bixler, and MDC Tourism and Film Managing Director Liz Fitzsimmons.

BrightMLS shows home sales down

With inventory still low, the median home price continued to increase in the region, rising 4 percent year-over-year to $364,000 in October.

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) The multiple list service, BrightMLS, that provides real estate data in the Mid-Atlantic, covering six states (Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia), issues market stats on a monthly basis in their Mid-Atlantic Market Report.

The most recent report showed that home sales were down 29.8 percent in the Mid-Atlantic in October, as continued fast-rising mortgage rates have priced some home buyers out of the marketplace, while others have taken a “wait-andsee” approach, according to the Bright MLS October Housing Report released this week.

The average home sales price for Maryland specifically in the October data was $444,315.

“The effects of the sharp and quick increase in interest rates are being felt in full force in the Mid-Atlantic housing market,” said Dr. Lisa Sturtevant, Bright MLS chief economist. “In most places, we haven’t seen prices fall yet, but they will undoubtedly come down from their peak levels. However, because home prices ran up so quickly during the pandemic, in most markets prices will remain higher than they were three years ago.”

In the weekly Market Report, Bright MLS reported data showing that Buyer activity stalled during the Thanksgiving week.

Below were the highlights provided by Bright MLS in its most up to date weekly Market Report:

Homebuying activity always slows

during the holiday week, but the number of weekly new purchase contracts across the Bright footprint during the week ending Nov. 27 was at the lowest level since the end of 2019.

New listings fell sharply last week. Sellers were largely sitting out last week, as the number of new listings coming onto the market fell 40.9 percent compared to a week ago. The ratio of new pendings to new listings rose to 1.42 during the week ending Nov. 27, which is the highest level for the year. With significantly fewer new listings, the average daily inventory in the region fell 2.6 percent compared to a week ago.

Sellers have begun to internalize new market environment. More than 40 percent of active listings on the market across the Bright footprint had a price drop. But the share of listings with a price drop has declined in some markets, which indicates that sellers are starting to do a better job at setting their original asking price.

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

MONTEGO BAY

Located in the sought-after community of Montego Bay in quiet north O.C., this 3 BR/2BA home features an open floor plan, cathedral ceilings, crown moldings, natural gas heat, skylights in both bathrooms, walk-in closets in 2BRs, an enclosed porch w/a mini-split HVAC system, and so much more! Home has had many upgrades/improvements. Walking distance to shopping, dining, the beach, the bus stop, and Ocean City's 58-acre Northside Park. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, a pickleball court, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $360.00 a year!! $389,000

Worcester Arts Council announces winners

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Worcester County Arts Council announced winners in the juried art exhibit: “Small Treasures.”

This exhibition features 29 pieces of artwork submitted by professional and emerging artists, with work in all media. The exhibit combines many mediums including oil, watercolor, and acrylic painting, pastels, encaustic, photography, glass, and mixed media.

The winning artwork was selected by local artist Martha Graham.

The winners were honored at the opening reception held on Nov. 11 at the Arts Council Gallery.

Monetary prizes were awarded to, first place, Jiyeong Yun for “Sound of Moonlit Night;” second place, Brigitte Bowden for “Flower Grid;” and third place, Carol Gentes for “Otter.”

Honorable mention awards were given to Ellie Scott for “47th Street and Broadway;” Tawn Crosby Shivers for “Sir Hamton;” and Gail Stern for “OSV Assateague Ponies.”

The exhibit will be on display until Dec. 31. Artwork is available for purchase.

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 our community.

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

The Worcester County Arts Council announced winners in the juried art exhibit: “Small Treasures.” This exhibition features 29 pieces of artwork submitted by professional and emerging artists, with work in all media. Pictured are the winners: Carol Gentes, Gail Stern, Brigitte Bowden, Jiyeong Yun, Ellie Scott and Tawn Crosby Shivers.

Beach to Bay Heritage Area receives new product award

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area (BBHA) was presented with a “Best New Product Award” during the Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit Awards Banquet on Nov. 15 at Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort.

This award honored the 2022 year’s best new event, tour, destination, program, promotion or experience.

“It’s innovative, a model for others, and a successful Maryland tourism product,” said Kevin Attacks, Maryland Tourism Coalition Awards chairperson.

The award recognized the Tindley Mural in downtown Berlin. Teamwork and partnerships were the driving force behind this one-of-a-kind mural project.

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area sought funding from the Rural Maryland Council for an African American Heritage project to bring to life the story of Charles Albert Tindley.

But, the group couldn’t do it without support, both financial and inkind from the Town of Berlin.

One of the region’s most famous native sons, the Reverend Dr. Charles Albert Tindley was born in Berlin in 1851. In his determination to educate himself for the ministry, he overcame slavery and poverty.

Tindley went on to become an influential gospel music composer and is known as the “Godfather of Gospel Music.”

His composition, “I’ll Overcome Someday,” is credited as the basis for the U.S. Civil Rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome,” and the song ,“Stand By Me,” which Ben E. King would later make famous.

His hymnal, “Songs of Paradise,” is still in use today in Worcester

County and five of his hymns appear in revised Methodist hymnals used worldwide.

To commemorate this man, his music and his humble roots, the Beach to Bay Heritage Area and the Town of Berlin embarked on a journey to memorialize Tindley with a mural in downtown Berlin.

With direction from the African American community, downtown business owners and the Historic District Commission, the plan to create a mural took shape.

A well-known black artist was commissioned for the mural and business owner, Shelly Bruder, stepped up to offer her building to serve as the canvas.

Tindley family members came from widespread locations in June to celebrate his life and participate in the dedication of the mural.

The Tindley Choir was on hand to sing some of his more well-known hymns.

Since the mural dedication, the project has served as a catalyst for more heritage-based tourism.

Commerce Street has also been named “Tindley Way” and a “Tindley Festival” took place in October at the Germantown School.

The local museum now has an indepth exhibit of Tindley’s life and accomplishments.

A QR code is on sight to direct people to learn more about Tindley at the museum.

“Public art, when it tells a story, can have a huge impact on the local economy in not only dollars but also in pride of place. The mural inspires, evokes emotion and teaches at the same time,” said BBHA Director Lisa Challenger. “We are proud to tell this story.”

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area (BBHA) was presented with a “Best New Product Award” during the Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit Awards Banquet in November. Pictured, from left, are Nora Campbell, Kristen Goller, Mindie Burgoyne, Ivy Wells, Lisa Challenger and Chris Riehl.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

BOOK SIGNING

Al

PHYSICS TEST

TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER

WELCOME HOME

Worcester

CELEBRATION

Rev. Bill Sterling, pastor of Bethany United Methodist Church, celebrated 50 years in ministry Oct. 30 during Sunday worship. He was honored by numerous visiting family members and friends, and with special remembrances, gifts and a potluck dinner. Pictured, from left, are

DONATION

Worcester Prep seventh grader Chase Thompson presents a check to the SPCA for over $900, a result of the fundraiser he spearheaded through his “Head of School for a Day” experience. He is pictured with Head of School Dr. John McDonald. Thompson acted as Head of School on Oct. 14. His parents purchased “Head of School for a Day” during the annual WPS Gala fundraiser auction this past April.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

“Hondo” Handy will sign copies of his book, “Defying Expectations Family Sports & Recreation,” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum’s Holiday Open House on Sunday. Handy, left, is pictured with Cara Downey, assistant curator, and Allan Beres, museum aide. The museum is located at the southern end of the Boardwalk. The open house will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Jen Corron’s Worcester Prep senior College Prep Physics class met in the Guerrieri Library to put their newly constructed roller coasters to the test, while the third grade observed. Cayden Wallace demonstrates his roller coaster as third graders Bianca Prosekova, Tobi Blaska and Marshal Hidell watch the marble make its way around the track.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Atlantic General Hospital Foundation held its 2022 Robert E. Warfield Memorial Tournament, AGH’s 29th annual Fall Golf Classic, on Sept. 22, at the Ocean City Golf Club. With the help of the many sponsors, golfers and volunteers, the event raised $124,000 for the foundation. Pictured, in back, from left, are Bill Harrington; Ryan Nellans; Max Hutsell; Steve Green, Atlantic General Hospital Foundation Board chair; CL Marshall; Don Owrey, Atlantic General Hospital president and CEO; Sarah DelliGatti; Sam Glaeser; and in front, Jenn Kukel; Gigi LeKites; Al “Hondo” Handy; Caitlin Evans; Steven Sweigert, event co-chair; Aladin Glaoui, Carousel Group general manager; Michael James, Carousel Group managing partner; Kam LaBrunda, Atlantic General Hospital Grants/Operations officer; Toni Keiser, Atlantic General Hospital vice president Public Relations.

Jackie Sterling and Rev. Sterling who receives a gift certificate from Barbara May, chair of the Nurture Committee.

Preparatory School’s fourth and fifth grades came together in a musical performance to celebrate veterans on Nov. 11. Fifth grader Emma Sherrin was reunited with family friends, Ashton and Carsen Hyde of the U.S. Army, who both just returned from deployment.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

DONATION

GUEST SPEAKER

YOUTH SUPPORT

‘DAWG TEAM’

COUNTING PRACTICE

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Students in Beverley Thompson’s Kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary School recently learned about Thanksgiving traditions. They read about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and learned how all the parade balloons are made. They then created their own balloons to parade around the school.

Pictured, from left, are Olivia Gruppo, Henry Glavitch, Kinsley Wilson and Carter Clifford.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

The Kiwanis “Dawg Team” sells concessions at many Ocean Pines events. Pictured during the November Craft Fair are Dawg Team Kitchen Crew members Kitty Wrench, Charlotte Cathell, Ed Ahlquist and Sue Wineke.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

Mary Lou Tietz, MidAtlantic Symphony Orchestra developmental officer, was the guest speaker during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City’s Nov. 9 meeting. She is pictured with Club President Bob Wolfing.

OC Lions recently donated $500 to Camp Merrick, a campground located on 320 acres in Charles County. The camp programs promote the education, creative expression and social growth of special needs youth. Pictured are OC Lions President Norm Cathell, left, and Lion Joe Myles.

Ocean City Elementary school students from Mackenzie Roberts’ PreK-4

five using beads put on a broomstick.

OC Surf Club recently presented a check for $2,000 to the local Rise Up Foundation supporting the youth in the community. Pictured, from left, are OC Surf Club President Tommy Vach, Rise Up Foundation Co-Executive Director Patrick Henry and OC Surf Club Surf Instructor Bill Thomson.

Worcester GOLD program for holidays helps area residents

(Dec. 2, 2022) Worcester County GOLD, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is holding its Helping Hands for the Holidays program again this year.

This program provides Worcester County families and individuals in need with holiday gifts to help reduce financial burden and stress during the holidays.

Applications are being accepted from community members to Shopfor-a-Child. Community members partner with GOLD to go out and purchase gifts for families who have requested holiday assistance.

Shoppers get to select the number of children they would like to provide for and the area they live in. Then, they are matched with a family that fits the criteria.

“In 2021, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we provided holiday gifts for over 500 children and 53 vulnerable adults,” said Taylor Carty, program coordinator. “Helping Hands for the Holidays gives GOLD the opportunity to work in unison

with our community to help families in need and make the holidays a little brighter.”

All requests for assistance come from agents with GOLD’s community partners on behalf of families that they serve. Eligible recipients are children and vulnerable adults residing in Worcester County.

All recipients are screened to assess need, and to prevent the duplication of services.

Anyone in need of assistance this holiday season should contact 211. Helping Hands for the Holidays is a closed program that is not open to the general public.

To be a shopper or for more information, visit WorcesterGOLD.org.

Worcester County GOLD promotes dignity by providing emergency financial assistance for Worcester County residents who live in poverty and low-income circumstances including infants, children, families, vulnerable adults, those who are homeless, and children in foster care.

Ocean City Art League 2022 awards luncheon next week

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Art League of Ocean City will present the “heART Awards 2022” to two recipients during its annual holiday luncheon and meeting on Thursday, Dec. 8, at Fager’s Island.

In addition to the awards presentation, the luncheon will honor the members, volunteers and supporters of the Art League.

The Art League will present the “heART Award” to Glenn Irwin, executive director of the Ocean City Development Corporation, and Yumi Hogan, working artist and Maryland’s First Lady.

The “heART Awards” honor those who have had a significant impact on the arts in Ocean City.

Irwin is the leader of downtown Ocean City, working for more than two decades to revitalize and develop that area.

He recognized early on the importance of art in the community and created the Public Art Program that sponsors large and small projects throughout the resort, including the artistic painting of numerous utility boxes.

Born in Long Island, New York, Irwin attended Rowan University and Florida Atlantic University, and began his career as a development planner in South Florida.

Twenty years ago, scattered development was happening across Ocean City, and city leaders wanted to create a nonprofit organization that would follow design guidelines.

Irwin’s OCDC was created, and, since 2002, he has directed the facelift of more than 250 downtown buildings.

Hogan, a native of South Korea, received her BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art and her MFA from American University.

Hogan has had more than 14 solo exhibitions, including one at the Ocean City Center for the Arts in 2017, and was part of a group show at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C.

During husband, Gov. Larry Hogan’s cancer treatments, the First Lady befriended many pediatric cancer patients and their families.

It was during these interactions that she was first introduced to the positive effects of art as a therapeutic activity for child patients, and in many cases, for their family members, to better cope with the emotional stress and trauma often brought on by a cancer diagnosis.

Hogan’s “Yumi Cares” nonprofit organization focuses on children’s art for recovery, empowerment, and strength.

Reservations for the Art League luncheon at Fager’s Island on 60th Street are still available by calling 410-524-9433.

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

Study shows way on sports complex

One hundred fifty-three million five hundred thousand dollars, or $153.5 million. No matter how it’s written or spoken, that’s a lot of money.

It’s also the estimated cost of building a sports complex on Route 50, according to the Maryland Stadium Authority’s second study of the proposal released this week.

As the study asserts, the city and county would be on the hook for 20 percent of that if they pursued the project in partnership with the state. Their combined share for site development and construction of a multi-field campus and fieldhouse would be between $31 million to $36.5 million, with the state picking up the balance.

The study also suggests that this level of spending for a first-class facility on the 95-acre tract next door to Berlin isn’t a bad idea, as the tax revenues from the complex would cover the debt on government bonds sold to pay for building and development.

In addition, the study’s analysts found that new business brought in by the complex would pump between $82 million and $97 million into the economy, create between 830-980 local jobs, and post annual net earnings of $30 million.

These conclusions leave elected officials with an obvious question: is a sports complex worth doing? The better, question, however, is what if they do nothing?

Considering that tourism and real estate development drive the local economy, what do elected officials propose to do to encourage economic growth and a stable tax rate over the long term? What’s their plan? Build houses across the entire county, more agro-tourism?

Here’s something to think about: if there’s a better way to boost the economy than by generating $316,000 an acre every year on a per-acre investment of $1.6 million, the suggestion box is open.

PUBLIC EYE

Playing name game

Because I like to keep up with all the trends, like setting up a chatsnap account and ticking my tok (not that it’s anyone’s business) I’m changing my name so it will be more current.

From now on, I want to be known by my first name’s last two letters, which are “rt.” I figure if it works for Kanye West, who’s now known as “Ye,” I can be referred to as Rt, which, obviously, is pronounced “urt.”

wise occupied trying to reboot yourself out of big trouble.

And now that I think of it, that may be the first time I called myself by my new name.

“Hey, buddy,” I think my companion said. “Urt?” I replied.

Many years have passed since then and the possibility of actually employing this new name remained dormant until the late rock star Prince adopted an unpronounceable symbol as his name before moving on to become “The Artist Formerly Known As Prince,”

By Stewart Dobson

It has to be pronounced that way because otherwise it would sound like a stockcar racer’s name, as in, “Hit the gas, Ar-tee, they’re gainin’ on ya’ll.”

I have nothing against stockcar racing, by the way, except that I once covered a 500mile NASCAR event down on the infield by the pit crews where the view is limited.

Here’s what that’s like and why I’ll never do that again: you spend four hours watching two hours of racing by rotating your head from shoulder to shoulder 500 times.

At least I think it was 500 times. It’s hard to say, since huffing gas fumes in 100-degree heat on a long afternoon will give you brainspin, as in that little whirling ball you get on your computer screen when your system goes kerflooey.

You’re standing there looking completely normal, head swiveling from one side to the other, and no one can tell that you’re other-

This was not destined to last forever, as it proved a little unwieldy to the crowds chanting his name at concerts.

“Ahhhhhhhhhhh! I loooooove you, The Artist Formerly Known As Prince” was not a common refrain at his concerts, as far as I know, and he eventually reverted to his original name.

But when Kanye became Ye, I knew this was the right time to make my own switch, even though we have nothing beyond two-letter names in common. After all, I’m not rich and I’m not an idiot.

So, there you have it. You can call me urt, or Mr. urt, if you prefer, but either way, you can’t say I’m not up on all the cool things.

Just like the other day, in fact, I got a text (yes, a text) that said, “See me on YouTube.”

“Absolutely!” I replied with excitement, adding for emphasis, “Tube You, my friend!”

Maybe it’s the new name on my cell account that’s confusing him, because I haven’t heard back.

Community thanked for support

Editor,

I want to thank the community of Ocean City for their continued support of Thanksgiving Dinner at Ocean City Baptist Church.

For the last 43 years, Ocean City Baptist Church has hosted and served a free dinner on Thanksgiving day. Every year I am amazed to see the community come together to make sure that nobody is hungry or alone on Thanksgiving Day.

This year Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645 and Humphreys Foundation made sure that we had enough donations to buy all the food and paper goods to support this ministry!

Also, there were over 100 volunteers from in the Ocean City community that came to help set-up, serve, cook, clean up, bus tables, deliver meals, and do whatever it took to make sure that everyone was happy and fed.

In a world that seems so divided on every issue, it was an amazing thing to experience!

This year we served 452 meals to

those who came in or carried out. In addition, we delivered 215 meals to our amazing first responders who were working on Thanksgiving as well as shut-ins and a few businesses that were opened on Thanksgiving. Making the total number of meals served 677!

These meals consisted of turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, cranberry sauce, sauerkraut (for those who asked) and a piece of apple or pumpkin pie.

I want to give a special thank you to Paul deHuarte and Melanie Corbin (members of Ocean City Baptist Church) for their hard work in making sure everything went smoothly.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday where we count our blessings and this meal reminds me every year of the blessing it is to live in Ocean City.

It truly is an amazing city full of great people who love God and love one another.

I am thankful to live in such an amazing place!

God Bless, Pastor Sean Davis Ocean City Baptist Church

Motorcoach trip to NYC on Dec. 10 with Rec. and Parks

(Dec. 2, 2022) Take a motorcoach trip to New York City on Dec. 10, with Worcester County Recreation & Parks. It is the organization’s first bus trip to New York City since the covid19 pandemic.

Individuals and families are invited to book their seats to travel to the Big Apple to celebrate the holidays.

The trip will be on your own, so the itinerary for the day is up to each individual.

Participants can visit the Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center, or wander through famous neighborhoods.

Enjoy the holiday spirit of the city with a carriage ride through Central Park, ice skating, the tree at Rockefeller Center, or holiday shopping.

There will be two pick up locations, one at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill at 5 a.m. and the second at the Berlin Walmart at 5:30 a.m.

Participants can expect to arrive at Macy’s at 34th and Broadway in New York City around 10:30 a.m. The bus will depart at 6:30 p.m. and arrive back in Worcester County at midnight.

The price per person for this trip is $120. The deposit of $60 is due at the time of booking, and the remaining $60 balance is due by Friday, Dec. 2. To book a seat, visit www.playmarylandscoast.org.

For more information, contact Tyler Keiser at 410-632-2144 ext. 2505 or tkeiser@marylandscoast.org.

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines has chosen Terry Devine as the December Crafter of the Month.

Devine shares her time between her hometown of Philadelphia and Ocean Pines, where she has owned a home for nine years.

In March of 2020, she retired from her job as a director in the Philadelphia Health Care System, just as the covid-19 pandemic was starting to cause lockdowns.

When the pandemic forced her to spend more time at home, Devine joined an online class and started making art from acrylic paint and glass.

The glass she primarily uses is the same chunky glass used in decorative gas fireplaces. She also breaks and cuts glass from colorful vases she finds in thrift stores.

Along with making crafts, Devine also enjoys traveling, photography, gardening and spending time with family and friends.

View Devine’s projects and other handmade items at the Artisan Gift Shop in White Horse Park, on 239 Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines.

The shop is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.oceanpines.org/web/page s/artisan-gift-shop.

The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines has chosen Terry Devine as the December Crafter of the Month.

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Committee was named a 2022 Group/Team Spirit Award recipient for embodying the volunteer spirit of Worcester County.

Volunteer Spirit awards were presented at the Worcester County Commissioners meeting Oct. 18 for each of the following eight categories: individual, group/team, emerging leader, faith-based, nonprofit volunteer program, local business, veteran, and lifetime achievement.

The chamber’s executive director Amy Thompson, Young Professional Chair Billy Apostolou and member Cate Nellans accepted the award.

The Young Professional committee volunteers at chamber events and hosts the annual Christmas Spirit Campaign, which serves more than 100 local children and their families.

The CSC committee works closely with the Worcester County Public School System, local churches and community organizations to identify children who are in-need and at-risk.

Volunteers shop with a wish list and gifts are distributed at the chamber.

“This is a very special award for our group. A lot of effort and hours go into our planning,” Apostolou said. “I am very proud of the Young Professionals and especially our work with the Christmas Spirit Campaign; nothing means more to us than making

Professionals win volunteering award WORLD

WAR II

sure these children can have a better holiday season.”

For more information about CSC, how to sponsor a child, or to join the Young Professionals, visit oceancity.org/ocmdyp or email billy@directmortgageloans.com.

British and American soldiers link up in Tunisia 80 years ago

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) This week, 80 years ago, soldiers of the British 2nd Parachute Battalion linked with American GIs near Medjez el Bab, in northern Tunisia. The British paratroopers had been dropped at, and had captured, Depienne Airfield on Dec. 3, 1942.

The airfield is located 7.5 miles northeast of El Fahs, and 33 miles southwest of Tunis, the capital and largest city in Tunisia. Today, El Fahs has a population of 23,500, while Tunis’ population is 2,700,000, almost 10 percent of the total for the country.

By this time, the Axis’ position in North Africa was getting very tenuous. The Allied Eighth Army, commanded by Gen. Bernard Law Montgomery (“Monty”), had defeated Field Marshal Erwin Rommel’s Panzerarmee Afrika at El Alamein in Egypt, and had driven it out of Egypt

and across Libya.

By all accounts Field Marshal Rommel did a masterful job just keeping the remnants of his army together in its long retreat. At the same time, British and American forces had invaded the French protectorate of Morocco and the French colony of Algeria and were headed east toward the French protectorate of Tunisia.

Field Marshal Rommel’s Panzerarmee Afrika was retreating into Tunisia and was being squeezed from east and west, and once in Tunisia, from the north and south, as well. By now, the vaunted Panzerarmee Afrika numbered but 7,500 men — of whom

Field Marshal Albert Kesselring wearing Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Committee won a 2022 Group/Team Spirit Award for volunteer spirit in Worcester County.

about 5000 were German — together with 21 tanks, 35 anti-tank guns, 65 pieces of artillery, and 24 anti-aircraft guns

But, beginning on Nov. 10, shipments of men and materiél began arriving by plane and by ship to Tunisia, so much that a second Axis army was created — Fifth Panzerarmee, commanded by Hans-Jürgen von Arnim. Also, Field Marshal Rommel’s Panzerarmee Afrika was reinforced with the addition of Pistoia Infantry, La Spezia Airborne, Centauro Armored, and Giovani Fascisti (Young Fascist), Divisions, commanded by, respectively, Gens. Giuseppe Falugi, Gavino Pizzolato, Count Giorgio Calvi di Bergolo (who was also Italian King Victor Immanuel III’s son-in-law), and Ismaele Di Nisio.

Italian Dictator Benito Mussolini had been agitating his fellow German dictator to allow occupation of Tunisia for several years, because the distance between the Italian and Tunisian ports was so much shorter than between the Italian and Libyan ports. Now, that it was too late, Il Duce’s idea was accepted!

However, there were 15,000 French troops in Tunisia,under the command of Gen. Georges Barré. French Premier, collaborationist Pierre Lavale, accepted the German offer of “assistance.” German soldiers soon began arriving by sea and air.

American paratroopers landed in Tunisia on Nov. 15 and British paratroopers landed the next day. Two days later, the Kingdom of Italy formally incorporated Tunisia into Italian North Africa.

Beginning Nov. 19, Axis troops from the newly created XC Corps, commanded by Walter Nehring, forced Gen. Barre’s French troops out of Medjez el Bab, an important crossroads which controlled access from the west to Tunis. It controlled one of

two east-west passes through the mountains. Medjez el Bab is located 36 miles southwest of Tunis and 80 miles south of the port of Bizerte.

Meanwhile, on Nov. 17, 1942, the British 78th Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Vivian Evelegh, was heading east from Algeria, with its objective Tunis. However, to get to Tunis, it would have to go through Medjez el Bab, now defended by Gen. Nehring’s XC Corps.

By Nov. 19, units of Gen. Evelegh’s 78th Division were 30 miles from Medjez el Bab. Two days later, it was within 12 miles of the target. The British assault on Medjez el Bab began on Nov. 25. The next morning, American armor closed within 10 miles of Tunis, before being stopped by a pair of 88s, which Gen. Nehring had placed there to guard the approaches to the Tunisian capital.

But the close proximity of the Americans had convinced the German general that the Axis lines needed to be shortened to effectively defend Tunis and Bizerte. So, the order was given to withdraw the Axis units from Medjez el Bab. Some say that Gen. Nehring lost his nerve.

Field Marshal Albert Kesselring, commander of German forces in the south thought that Gen. Nehring’s withdrawal had been too precipitous, and ordered him to go over to the offensive, as more men and materiel were arriving in Tunisia daily.

Gen. Nehring ordered 10th Panzer Division, commanded by Wolfgang Fischer, to attack Tebourba, 21 miles northeast of Medjez el Bab, and on Dec. 1 Gen. Fischer personally led the assault. Tebourba is 20 miles west of Tunis and 80 miles southwest of Bizerte. It currently has a population of 28,000. By now, the Axis had shoveled more than 15,000 soldiers into Tunisia.

This would be the first time that the Allies encountered the terrifying

Tiger tank, with its 16 foot long, 8.8cm cannon. That night, the Allied force was reinforced by American tanks. But the Germans added a battery of 88s.

Tebourba was captured on Dec. 4. The Allies had lost 55 tanks, 29 artillery pieces, and 300 vehicles. More than 1,000 Allied soldiers had been captured. The Allies’ position was now eight miles east of Medjez el Bab. Another Axis push was launched at Medjez el Bab two days later. Although making good progress, the assault was halted by the recently arrived Gen. von Arnim, who felt that the Axis should go on the defensive and conserve strength.

The German brass now recognized the importance of Medjez el Bab, and that it was the key to the defense of Tunis. The Allies launched an offensive from Medjez el Bab, with British, American and a few French soldiers against the Axis positions. By Dec. 26, after suffering 20,743 casualties, the Allies were back where they had started — Medjez el Bab.

The Axis planned an offensive to secure it for late January, but it was not launched until Feb. 26, 1943, without success. The Axis suffered nearly 2,800 casualties and another 2,200 men were captured, together with 90 percent of their armor, including 19 of the vaunted Tigers, and 60 other vehicles. The Allies suffered 1,800 casualties and lost 2,300 captured, and 16 tanks, 40 other vehicles and 30 guns. It would be the last Axis offensive in North Africa.

Next week: Destruction of Italian Eighth Army

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

OBITUARIES

SCOTT WILLIAM TANNER

Ocean City

Scott William Tanner, age 56, suffered a massive heart attack and passed away at home on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022.

Scott was preceded in death by his faithful dog, Ellie Mae, who died on Nov. 2. Scott was born May 5, 1966 in Annapolis, Maryland, and has resided in Ocean City since 1973.

Scott loved spending time with his family. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, NASCAR, game shows and cruising North OC on his bike.

Those who knew Scott knew he didn’t speak much but when he did say something, it was usually a pun or a humorous one-liner.

Scott was the best father, husband, son, and a loyal friend to many, but especially Tommy P.

He was a hard worker and a great cook. Scott loved working with Slater and the crew at Whisker’s Pub in Ocean City.

Over the years, he made work families at the Fenwick Inn, Island Café, and Mancini’s.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him (along with Scotty’s Cajun Crab Lumps).

Scott is survived by his loving wife, Lori A. Tanner; and two sons, Kyle (Kayla) and Dylan Tanner, all of Ocean City, Maryland; mother, Penny Carley (aka Meems) of Bishopville; one brother, Bob Tanner of Bishopville; two sisters, Tammy Bubczyk (Mike) of Westminster, Maryland, Dail North of Federalsburg, Maryland; niece, Ashely Lazarewicz (Steve), and great-nieces, Skylar and Addison of Ellicott City, Maryland; mother-in-law, Lori Schramm; and brother-in-law, Tim Schramm, both of Catonsville, Maryland and Ocean View, Delaware.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Tanner; stepfather, Skip Carley; and father-in-law, Buzzy Schramm.

A special thanks to the Shumate’s and our large extended family for your unwavering love and support.

Also, a very special thank you to the OCFD, OCPD, Worcester Crisis Response Team and William Cooper, Chaplain. You all treated our family with respect and care, thank you all for you service.

In honor of Scott, please consider donating to Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company (1409 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City, Maryland 21842), or Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services (124 North Main Street Suite C, Berlin, Maryland 21811).

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingfh.com.

Scott W. Tanner

OBITUARIES

WILLIAM G.B. OCHSE

Berlin

William G.B. Ochse, age 85, passed away at his home in Berlin on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the son of the late Walter Ochse and Gracie Bowers.

Ochse founded The Kite Loft in 1975, helping to make Ocean City become known as the ‘Kite Capital of the World.’ Affectionately known as the ‘King of the Wind,’ he was active and held numerous leadership positions in Ocean City organizations.

He was named the Ocean City Chamber’s Spirit of Ocean City Award winner in 1999.

He was an avid sailor and completed a transatlantic voyage on his sailboat with his wife, Mary. He loved laughter, great food and his dog, Riley.

Bill’s favorite quote was, “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much space!”

He is survived by his wife, Mary Carlson Ochse; four sons, Steve Ochse (Shari), Gregory Ochse (Kathie), Bryan Ochse (Kathy) and Christopher Ochse (Linda); two daughters, Caryn Sullivan (Chris) and Traci Chadbourne (Charlie); and 10 grandchildren, Isabel, Samantha, Caleb, John Mark, Brady, Harrison, Mark, William, Julia and Jack.

A celebration of life will be held at Atlantic United Methodist Church in Ocean City, Maryland, at a later date.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

GINA MARIA MOLLICONE

Ocean City

Gina Maria Mollicone, age 63, passed away peacefully on Nov. 5, 2022 at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore with her husband, Vinnie, by her side.

Gina was born in Manhattan, New York, to Vito D’Erasmo and Lucille (nee D’Aguillo) D’Erasmo.

After vacationing for years in Ocean City, she and her husband moved to West Ocean City permanently in May, 2013. She fought a valiant battle against scleroderma for more than 18 years during which she never lost her grace, her dignity and her sense of humor.

Gina enjoyed the beach, cooking for her husband and her friends and spending social time with her lodge brothers and sisters at Sons and Daughters of Italy, Ocean City Lodge 2474.

Her passions were decorating her home, sewing, crafting and caring for

her beloved cats who truly were her adopted family.

In addition to her husband, Vincent Mollicone, Gina is survived by her brothers, Frank D’Erasmo of Scarsdale, New York, and William D’Erasmo of Yonkers, New York.

A memorial service will be held and announced at a later date.

JERRY HENRY HALLER

Berlin

I am heartbroken to announce the death of my father, Jerry Henry Haller (Jan. 28, 1953- Nov. 23, 2022).

He passed away peacefully on Nov. 23, at the age of 69 surrounded by friends and family.

My dad enjoyed fishing, shooting pool, playing poker, pour painting, macrame and watching his grandkids play sports. He is predeceased by his mother, Joyce Ann Haller (White); father, James Robert Haller; and sister, Priscilla.

He is survived by daughter, April Bireley (Keith); grandsons, Cory, Dylan and Eric Braica; siblings, and Michael and Debbie, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023, at The Cork Bar in Ocean City at 6 p.m. He told me he wanted to have a milestone birthday

party so we will honor him on that day.

DR. PATRICIA J. (FITZGERALD) GRAVES Berlin

Dr. Patricia J. (Fitzgerald) Graves passed away unexpectedly Nov. 21, 2022, at TidalHealth, Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Maryland.

Born in Washington D.C., she was the daughter of the late Wilfred Fitzgerald and Jeanette (Lohofer) Fitzgerald.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Kenneth Graves; son, Bart Talbert; grandchildren, Katelin, Alissa and Julie Talbert; brothers, Dan Fitzgerald (Susan) and Kevin Fitzgerald (Wendy); daughter-in-law, Laura McCoy; Kenneth’s daughters, Donna Hall, Sandy Gene Graves and Margaret Jo Sandifer; and Emily, Zachary, Dilan, and Sheppard.

She truly was a force of nature, always curious and deeply searching, she found ultimate peace in this life through the grace of God. She put her faith into practice.

In mid-life she went back to school and earned her MBA from the University of Maryland and was CFO of a nationwide healthcare service in Hilton Head, South Carolina, for many years.

She went on to earn a PhD in faith-

based psychiatric counseling.

Moving to the Eastern Shore and establishing her own practice, Hope Happens, she devoted herself to helping others in times of darkness, sharing her hard-won insights through the love of the Lord.

She will be deeply missed and never forgotten by all who knew her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Savior Catholic Church, 1705 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842 at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patricia’s memory to the Worcester Co. Humane Society, 12330 Eagles Nest Rd., Berlin, Maryland 21811; or to Diakonia, 12747 Old Bridge Rd., Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland.

Condolences may be shared with the family via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

OBITUARY NOTICES

Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511

William Ochse

Gina Mollicone

Jerry H. Haller

Patricia Graves

Sports & Recreation

www.oceancitytoday.com

WORCESTER PREP WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Wor. Prep girls’ basketball squad young and hungry

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Dec. 2, 2022) Worcester Prep Coach Mike Kelley describes the girls on his basketball team this season as young and hungry.

Mike Kelley

“We only have one returning varsity player from last year [and] half the team is freshmen,” he said. “We have some talented freshmen. They just have to learn the varsity level.

“Being so young, we’ll have a lot to prove,” he continued. “We’ll take our lumps early and we just have to strive to be better.”

Of the 15 players on his roster, seven are freshmen. The team is also made up of three sophomores, two juniors and three seniors.

The only returning player from last year – when the team went 13-5, losing in the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference semifinals, 27-26, to Saints Peter and Paul – is senior Anne Carter.

Kelley will count on Carter for leadership this season.

“She has a great attitude and heart. She’s a great athlete and can run forever,” Kelley said of Carter.

This is Carter’s third season on the varsity team, fourth year overall playing for Worcester.

“I feel like just with my experience and everything I’ve learned from the older girls that I played with the past three years I’ll be able to help out,” she said. “We have a really young team and I feel like I’ll be able to help them just transition from middle school basketball into high school, so they can integrate into our team … even though we’re a younger team, there’s still a lot of experience.”

As the only returning player, Carter is confident she can help lead the group as a captain.

“I’m just looking forward to a good season, and I think it will be fun,” Carter said. “Our biggest goals is to win the conference, win the tournament, but also I think that everyone just wants to become a better basketball player and just improve their own skill sets while also helping their teammates get better too.

“So far, I feel like everyone’s put-

ting in a lot of effort,” she continued. “Definitely everyone is here to put in the work and get better and push each other. We’ve only been practicing [a few] weeks but I feel like there’s definitely been a lot of growth already. I’m excited for what’s to come and see what we can do.”

Kelley said the group is fast and athletic and despite being young, a number of the girls have basketball experience. Several girls were on the JV squad last year and some freshmen play in leagues outside of school.

“We’re more balanced this year. It’s truly a team effort,” Kelley said. “It wont be just one player we rely on to score, there are four or five capable to score double digits on any given night.”

Despite nearly an all-new varsity team, Kelley said the girls are picking up what he’s teaching quickly.

“We took the opportunity to change up a lot of things and introduce a lot of new stuff. They’re picking things up well,” he said. “The mood is good so far. The girls are getting along. We have a shared goal and everyone is working toward it.”

The ultimate goal is winning the conference championship. But to get there, the girls must continue to improve daily.

“I don’t believe in setting lower goals because what happens if you reach them?” Kelley said. “Every day we’re working to get to that championship game.

“The number one goal is to get better every day with the overall goal to be in the championship game and win it,” he added. “We have to be better than the day before to get there.”

Kelley said he is looking forward to his second year as head coach of the team; he was assistant coach the three seasons prior.

“It should be a fun season,” he said. “To watch this group of young players grow, that’s exciting. We have a lot of potential.”

Worcester will travel to Delaware to play the Indian River Indians today, Friday, at 4:30 p.m.

The Lady Mallards will host Greenwood Mennonite School on Monday and Chincoteague on Wednesday. Both games are slated to start at 4:30 p.m.

Wor. Prep boys’ basketball team has height this yr.

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Worcester Prep boys’ basketball team will use height to its advantage this season.

“We have good size. Some kids grew a ton from last year to this year,” said Prep Coach Pat Moylan. “We have five kids that are 6’4’’ and bigger, which is something we’ve never had before.”

There are 13 players on Moylan’s roster, six of whom were on last year’s team that finished with an 8-7 record. The Mallards season came to an end with a 65-58 lost to Delmarva Christian in the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference semifinals.

The squad is made up of six seniors, three juniors, two sophomores and two freshmen.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

“We only have one returning varsity player from last year [and] half the team is freshmen,” Worcester

Prep Coach Mike Kelley

said. “We have some talented freshmen. They just have to learn the varsity level … Being so young, we’ll have a lot to prove. We’ll take our lumps early and we just have to strive to be better.”

Decatur football team falls in 2A state semifinals

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Dec. 2, 2022) The Stephen Decatur football team battled with the Milford Mill Millers in the 2A state semifinals last Friday in Baltimore, but came up a bit short of advancing to the championship game.

“We beat the topranked defense in the quarterfinals and then faced the number one team in the state in the semifinals,” said Decatur Coach Jake Coleman after the 40-33 loss. “We take the lead with four minutes left and … [then] we were 48 seconds from going to the championship. It’s tough when you lose like that.”

Decatur scored first, but Milford tied it up, 7-7, in the first quarter. The visiting Seahawks led 14-13 at halftime.

At the end of the third quarter, Decatur held a 23-19 advantage.

The fifth-seeded Berlin squad started off the fourth quarter with a safety by senior A’zavion Manuel to pull ahead, 25-19.

The Millers then scored to take a 32-25 lead. With less than four minutes on the clock, Decatur went up, 33-32.

Milford got a touchdown with less than a minute on the clock and held on for the victory.

Junior quarterback Brycen Coleman was 26-for-53 passing for 320 yards. He threw two touchdowns.

Coleman carried the ball 16 times, racking up 77 yards. He also had a two-point conversion.

Senior Luke Mergott rushed three times for four yards and two touchdowns. He also caught five passes for 70 yards and one touchdown.

Junior Gavin Solito caught 10 passes for 125 yards and one touchdown.

Senior Logan Bradshaw caught four passes for 70 yards.

Junior Brogan Eastlack was 2-for2 on extra points. He also kicked a 31yard field goal.

Sophomore Amarian Manuel led the Decatur defense with 13 tackles (five solo, eight assisted).

Mergott had five tackles (two solo, three assisted) as did Solito (one solo, four assisted).

Sophomore Ethan Bradshaw made six tackles (three solo, three assisted).

“I couldn’t be prouder of the kids. They showed so much grit and mental toughness and kept on playing,” Coleman said. “When you lose one like that it takes a little time to get perspective of all you have accomplished. Hopefully, the underclass-

Mallards shooting well in practice

“They’re good kids. They will play hard,” said Moylan, now in his fifth season with the program; he was an assistant the first two years. “They play lots of sports [so] they’re in shape. A lot of times we wear other teams down.”

The team will be led by senior captains Griffin Jones and Harrison Humes, who Moylan said “have stepped up since the first day of practice,” as well as senior Jack Gardner.

“The athleticism of my big three, they’re scorers, they’re tough and they’re ready to play well,” Moylan said. “We’ve got great seniors who can play with anybody in our league, especially Griffin, Jack and Harrison. Other than those three, not a lot of the rest have a lot of playing experience … They are hell-bent on making this a successful season. They want to win a basketball championship.”

Jones, who received All-ESIAC honors last season, will again be the team’s point guard.

“Being on the team for four years I know the offense. Even with the new guys, I feel like I can lead them in a way that will help us as a team, help our chemistry,” the four-year player said. “Every year we’ve kind of run the same man-zone offense and I

think I’ve adapted to it. A lot of the guys that have been here two or three years are starting to adapt to it. I feel like this is the year we can bring that all together.”

The biggest surprises returning from last year are senior JR Hamer and junior Baylor Hoen, Moylan said.

Senior Daniel Thompson is a nice addition to the team, Moylan added.

“We have a lot of fouls to play with if needed. We told the kids to play as hard as they can and if they foul, so be it,” Moylan said. “We’re also shooting 1,000 times better in practice than any years I’ve been here. [In the past] we get great shots, we just don’t make them. We have kids that can shoot the basketball this year.”

Running the same system, Moylan said the players are getting better at understanding spacing, the difference between good and bad shots, handling the ball, timing, and having more confidence.

“Their goal is to win a championship. That’s what they want to do. It will come down to how they perform,” Moylan said. “They need to

have confidence, stay focused, not play too fast, be patient and work the ball, and stay in their own game and not get rattled.

“The biggest thing is to get them to not start slow, and we need to finish when we get opportunities,” he continued. “This year I think will be different [because] we’re making lots of shots in practice.”

To be successful, Jones said coming together as a team will be key.

“Our team is really young this year. We have six, seven upperclassmen that are really kind of the main players, but a lot of the young guys, I’ve seen a lot of improvement so far. [The underclassmen] just listening to us older, more experienced players, just learning from us, learning from each other, I think that aspect of teamwork is really what we need to kind of get us going,” Jones said. “A lot of guys are stepping up, especially from last year. I feel we will really work together as a team well this year.”

Worcester will travel to Delaware to play the Indian River Indians at 6 p.m. tonight.

The Mallards will then host Greenwood Mennonite School on Monday and Chincoteage on Wednesday in Berlin. Both matches are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.

Jake Coleman

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

“We have good size. Some kids grew a ton from last year to this year,” said Prep Coach Pat Moylan. “We have five kids that are 6’4’’ and bigger, which is something we’ve never had before … “We’re also shooting 1,000 times better in practice than any years I’ve been here.”

Pat Moylan

Team played best football at end of season

men will take the loss as motivation going forward because they see how close we were.”

This was only Decatur’s third appearance in the state semifinals in program history. It was the team’s first time since 2004, when the Seahawks lost 56-19 to Hereford. In 1988, Decatur was edged out, 7-6, by Brunswick in the state semifinals.

Decatur finished the season with a 10-3 record.

“We were playing our best football at the end of the season,” Coleman said. “They were focused every day. We grew from one game to the next and that says a lot about the kids. This group was special. They raised the bar going forward.”

The team will graduate several seniors who were big contributors.

Some of them have been on the team since Coleman joined the program four seasons ago.

“It’s my fourth year at Stephen Decatur, third as head coach. Some of the guys I had all four years, so it’s something special,” he said. “I’m so proud of the seniors. I want to thank them for believing in us, believing in themselves and each other.”

Despite graduating some key play-

ers, Coleman is optimistic for next season.

“This team is blessed to be a young team,” he said, as several playmakers and stat leaders will be returning, including his son, Brycen.

In addition, Coleman said he appreciates the support from the community this season.

“It was a memorable year and a great time to be a Seahawk,” he said.

PHOTOS COURTESY BAYSIDE SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

(Left) Stephen Decatur senior A’zavion Manuel (5) and junior Gavin Solito (3) work to take down a Milford player during the 2A state semifinals last Friday in Baltimore. “I couldn’t be prouder of the kids. They showed so much grit and mental toughness and kept on playing,” said Decatur Coach Jake Coleman after the 40-33 loss.

Thicker full wetsuits, boots, gloves key for winter surfing

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Dec. 2, 2022) Greetings ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls. We’re seemingly into a time of transition lately, as in fall to winter, although moving forward there can be elements of both.

In mainly referring to air temperatures and winds that can occasionally get to more winter like, the fall season can become “extended” with warmer air.

Fortunately, water temperatures are more consistent and don’t change as quickly and radically.

The weather guys, or more formally meteorologists, will say that winter “time” is more like the months of December, January and February.

Astronomically speaking, winter will be roughly Dec. 21 to March 21.

In order to stay in the water through December and beyond, more wetsuit gear will most likely be needed.

We’re talking thicker full wetsuits, boots, gloves, and most advisedly a wetsuit cap or hood.

I recall a December where the air stayed warm enough that gloves weren’t needed.

I can also recall a November where it snowed twice before Thanksgiving and to where December featured extremely low air temperatures.

As far as wave conditions go, that is a totally variable subject, element, condition, factor or whatever you’d like to call it.

The fall season always seems to be best for a variety of reasons, but that idea, that notion can vary as well.

Basically speaking, good wave conditions can occur at most anytime of

the year, but it’s easy to get into a mode where that surfer becomes quite picky as to when to go out into the water.

On the other side of the coin, this transitional time of the year is golden to a large degree.

Drawbacks are colder and shorter days, dropping water temperatures, and drained outside showers.

On the plus side, traffic is light, parking is abundant, sunny days and cool crisp air become almost a rule instead of an exception.

There are probably some toll booths that will have light duty if not charges at all. No restrictions occur at this time of the year.

So, as we can see, the attitudes can go either way.

Some will go year-round, others prefer to eliminate the coldest winter months. Some will simply restrict most of the year only to consider the warmest summer months.

The only way to gauge or measure it is by one’s own feelings.

It probably comes down to a question of enthusiasm and how often one gets to the beach.

To live here or at least close by, or maybe up in the cities, many variables can and will happen.

So there you have it. Transition and winter surfing will definitely require wetsuit gear.

Pros or cons, drawbacks verses benefits, the scenario will need some adjustment.

Hopefully, we’ll come to a period of good surf and that wetsuit gear will be available and abundant.

Wintertime is certainly a time of the year when the beaches are wide open.

— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.