1/8/2021 Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 8, 2021

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More than 400 penguins take a dip in the 47-degree ocean on New Year’s Day during the 27th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim, held between 91st and 94th streets. See story on page 21 and more photos on page 30.

City Council will consider boost in 5% room tax

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Based on a suggestion from Ocean City Councilman Tony DeLuca, the mayor and council will discuss increasing lodging room taxes at an upcoming work session.

DeLuca raised the issue at the conclusion of the council meeting on Monday.

“I think that we Tony DeLuca should raise the room tax a half a percent,” he said Although frequently, if erroneously, called a hotel room tax, the charge is applied to all room rentals, from hotels to condominiums.

Councilman Frank Knight sought clarity in terms of process.

“In order to raise the room tax, don’t we have to go to the [Maryland] See RESORT Page 4

Schools start new year with County explores return to virtual instruction all options for

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Worcester County public and private schools remained in distance learning mode this week, as school officials from both sectors agreed to abide by the Worcester County Health Department’s request.

Health department officials told Ocean City Today that the recommendation for schools to conduct classes virtually was based on metrics provided by the state.

State guidelines encourage limited or no in-person programs when a county positivity rate is above 5 percent and has a new case rate greater than 15 per 100,000, officials explained.

As of Saturday, when Worcester Preparatory School and Worcester County Public Schools notified families of the change in instruction, Worcester County had a positivity rate of 14.47 percent while the statewide positivity rate was 9.15 percent.

“Both metrics were on the rise last weekend, and as of [Sunday], Worcester County’s positivity rate was 16.22 percent with a new case rate of 56.57 per 100,000 population, far above the state’s guidelines to return to in-person learning,” a statement from the health department read.

“Worcester Prep was contacted by the Worcester County Health Department alerting us that the metrics on the Eastern Shore have increased significantly,” said Dr. John McDonald, head of school. “While we were planning a return to in-person instruction on Jan. 4, the health department asked that we consider a transition to virtual learning for a period of one week.”

McDonald advised families on Saturday that the private school on South Main Street in Berlin would transition to virtual instruction this week for the first time this academic year.

“Our intention is to return to inSee IN-PERSON Page 2

sports complex

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Worcester County’s long-standing goal to develop a sports complex took one step back and one step forward at the county commissioner’s meeting on Tuesday.

For nearly two years, Tom Perlozzo, director of recreation and parks, economic development and tourism, had been recruiting landowners and private companies to build a sports complex in southern Worcester County, but was unsuccessful.

This prompted the commissioners to vote to open the search to all locations and funding options. County Commissioner Jim Bunting was the sole opposing vote.

Both the county and the Town of Ocean City have pursued bringing a sports complex to Worcester County as a new revenue driver. The complex See NORTH Page 4

PAGE 2

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

In-person classes out for now Continued from Page 1 person instruction on our campus on Monday, Jan. 11,” McDonald said.

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School on Racetrack Road in Berlin made the decision to switch to virtual instruction for Jan. 4-8 prior to the start of winter break, following the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington’s direction.

“This week we are in session virtually as directed by Dr. Lou DeAngelo, superintendent of schools for Lou Taylor the Diocese of Wilmington, in a letter to our families from December 10, 2020,” said Principal Kathleen Manns.

The health department did contact the school’s nurse to con- Kathleen Manns firm that classes were conducted virtually this week.

Although Superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools Lou Taylor announced on Dec. 29 that some students would return John McDonald to campuses on Monday, he changed plans last weekend after receiving an email from the health department late last week that strongly recommended that students remain in distance learning after the holiday break.

“We understand that this decision creates challenges for many of our families,” Taylor wrote on Saturday night. “Please know that decisions like this are not taken lightly. But there is something you can do. In order for us to successfully reopen for in-person instruction, we implore all of our students, staff and their families to be safe in the community. Wear your masks, maintain a safe physical distance at all times, be sure to stay home when sick and see a medical provider if you experience any symptoms of covid-19.”

Taylor’s latest announcement came after Gary McCabe Sr., UniServ director of the Worcester County Teachers Association and the Worcester County Education Support Personnel Association, sent a letter to him on Saturday morning after the associations met on

Dec. 31 to discuss their concerns about bringing students back to the schools as the local covid-19 positivity rates rise.

“Your decision to disregard the state guidelines and return to in-person instruction is politically untenable for us,” McCabe wrote. “It does not reflect the sentiment of our members. It follows neither the letter not the spirit of the guidelines. It does not comport with your fellow superintendents, who have similar and high infections rates in their [counties]. Your decision gives us no solid political ground upon which to support your decision.

“If you change course now, you will have our full backing and we will dedicate all our resources to supporting you,” McCabe continued. “We will immediately engage with all political leaders and the community to support you. We will work arduously to carry our message to parents. If, however, you continue down the path you are on, you must understand that you will be doing so without the support of WCTA and WCESPA.” McCabe told Ocean City Today on Tuesday that the associations appreciate Taylor’s decision to remain in distance learning this week and look forward to working with him in the future.

Taylor said he has spoken with the Worcester County Board of Education members.

“They have basically supported the decision that was made that we remain in distance learning,” he said.

Taylor also said he has received calls and emails on both sides of the debate.

A change.org petition called “Open Worcester County Schools!” was started on Monday calling on the Worcester County Board of Education and Taylor in support of in-person learning.

Dr. Brian DelliGatti, an emergency room physician at Atlantic General Hospital, along with others, created a private Facebook group called “Coastal Community Collaborative – Return to Learn” consisting of frontline healthcare professionals battling covid-19 in Worcester County and surrounding areas, mental health providers, educators, parents and community leaders, “all who recognize the invaluable benefits of in-person learning for the children in our com-

munity.” The group has more than 480 members.

DelliGatti also sent a letter to McCabe in response to his letter to Taylor, saying he was part of a group of more than 30 local medical professionals, including emergency physicians, pediatricians, mental health professionals, social workers, and educators, who support “the CHART COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT safe return of students The Worcester County Health Department strongly recommended and staff to in-person all Worcester County schools transition to, or remain in, distance learning after the holiday break based on state guidelines that enlearning.”

“Our collabora- courage limited or no in-person programs when a county positivity rate is above 5 percent and has a new case rate greater than 15 tive’s goal is to involve per 100,000. On Sunday, Worcester County’s positivity rate was all of the key stake- 16.22 percent with a new case rate of 56.57 per 100,000 populaholders in the process tion. of developing a reTaylor is expected to update famisponsible and safe resumption of inperson learning, recognizing the lies about the “Responsible Return” by significant limitations virtual learning Friday after assessing all health and presents, resulting in severely im- safety information.

“I am going to work with our paired educational attainment, loss of vital social support structure for chil- parochial school leadership. We are dren suffering with food insecurity, scheduled to speak sometime this neglectful and abusive home environ- week, so that we can all try to be conments, and the exacerbation of pre-ex- sistent,” Taylor said on Monday. “I am isting socioeconomic disparities going to meet with our teachers assowithin our public school system,” he ciation leadership this week to try to work out some things that would allow wrote.

DelliGatti added that the group has for us to return to in-person learning.”

He added that his decision will rebeen in communication with Taylor, Dr. Annette Wallace and Coordinator flect what is best for the most amount of School Health Services Lauren of people.

“I feel strongly that when we do Williams.

“Our group contends that the make a decision to come back whattremendously impactful and tangible ever the metrics are, whatever the sitdetrimental effects that the prolonged uation may be that we have done a and ongoing school closures have per- tremendous amount of work as a petuated are persisting unjustifiably school system to prepare our teachers and are unsupported in the medical lit- and our employees to lead safe envierature,” he wrote. “These views are not ronments, so that our kids can get unique to this coalition and are sup- back to learning,” Taylor said.

He strongly advocates for students ported by our national health experts including Dr. Robert Redfield and Dr. to return to in-person instruction as Anthony Fauci. There is a compelling quickly and as safely as possible.

As of Jan. 13, some of the students body of medical literature demonstrating reassuringly low rates of student will have been out of schools for 10 and staff transmission of COVID-19 months, he said.

“That’s not only damaging to the inthat is additionally bolstered by data indicating that educators face no structional piece of their lives, but it’s also greater risk than other comparatively damaging to their social and emotional low-risk front-line workers. I would be well-being,” Taylor added. “I want them happy to share this information with back in our schools, but the number one your organization in more detail at priority is the safety and the health of all who work and attend our schools.” your convenience.”

JANUARY 8, 2021

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Ocean City Today

OC extends outdoor dining permits for ‘21 If restrictions end, program would allow restaurants to continue use of space

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Regardless of what covid-19-related occupancy restrictions for restaurants might do in the months ahead, Ocean City government has extended its temporary outdoor seating permit program through the end of the year.

Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville presented a renewal request for the outdoor dining Bill Neville permit program during the mayor and City Council meeting on Monday.

“This item is a success story from last year,” he said.

Last May, the council approved issuing temporary permits to allow restaurants restricted by covid safety protocols issued by Gov. Larry Hogan the ability to set up table service outdoors.

Neville said the stopgap measure was well received by the business community and consumers with few problems noted last summer.

In total, 66 resort restaurants were approved for temporary outdoor table service. The permit program approved last year expired on Dec. 31.

Neville said the Ocean City HotelMotel-Restaurant Association was among the entities requesting the outdoor dining permit program be extended into 2021.

“We’ve had a number of requests from HMRA and individual businesses,” he said. “There’s a real interest in trying to make this happen again this next year.”

Mayor Rick Meehan supported the outdoor dining permit process for the sake of businesses, as well as residents and visitors.

“Our businesses were creative,” he said. “They followed all the guidelines and they led by example.”

Meehan asked if the outdoor dining program would continue when covid restrictions are lifted to allow restaurants and bars to return to maximum indoor occupancy.

Neville said the permit program language approved last year established the process for either six months or until all indoor dining restrictions are lifted.

“Our recommendation at staff level would be to retain that language so council has the option, when and if that happens, to decide if the program should continue all year,” he

said.

Meehan said allowing additional outdoor occupancy for restaurants in the aftermath of coronavirus would be ideal in most cases, but warned

that parking issues or conflicts with adjacent properties need to be avoided.

“I’m cautiously optimistic that See USING Page 4

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Ocean City Today

North county could have sports complex site Continued from Page 1 would tap into sports tourism by bringing in traveling competitive teams.

Perlozzo said he believed he had exhausted every option.

“I’d like to see this thing get built because I think it’s going to be an economic boom for the county, absolutely, but I’m at a loss here because I don’t know where to move forward here,” said County Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom.

Perlozzo responded that the best opportunity would be to locate the complex where the infrastructure in the county is, meaning closer to the northern end.

County Commissioner Chip Bertino criticized both the sports complex idea and the intention to discuss revenue opportunities.

“He [Perlozzo] gave us an update on the southern part of the county — there was nothing about what the options were or what revenue there was,” Bertino said. “I just say that because there is an agenda, I believe, to get this thing built and have the

county taxpayers on the hook for it and I certainly oppose that.”

Bunting agreed.

“I will not vote for it unless it’s funded privately and not by the county,” Bunting said. “This is wrong.

This was orchestrated.”

County Commissioner Diana Purnell denied that anything was orchestrated and suggested the sports complex be located in Berlin. She pointed out that Ocean Pines and Ocean City already have recreational areas and that the county invested in Snow Hill via the loan for a paddle boat.

“The only thing we have is the ballfield,” Purnell said. “We do not have anything that our kids can go to.”

Bertino countered that the sports complex wasn’t intended for public use.

“This is not a park, this isn’t a playground that we’ll be constructing for the local community,” Bertino said.

“This will be a business to bring in tournaments, to bring in regional teams — that’s what was presented to us.”

Perlozzo corrected him, saying

Resort council considering increase to room tax rate Continued from Page 1 legislature?” he said.

Under Maryland law, counties are permitted to raise room taxes to 5 percent but require state approval for higher percentages.

Deluca confirmed that fact but noted the initial stage involves pursuing permissions.

Knight said since the next General Assembly session is about to begin the decision should be made sooner

than later.

Ocean City raised room taxes to 5 percent last year. Prior to that the rate was increased from 4 percent to 4.5 percent in 2008.

Mayor Rick Meehan said the first step should be conferring with county officials.

“The first thing we’ve got to do is go to Worcester County if we’re considering raising the room tax,” he said.

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that multi-sport facilities would be available for all and that the area could include walking trails, a pond and an amphitheater.

County Commissioner Bud Church added that the complex would be investing in Worcester County.

“This will enhance our community, through our schools, through the community, give kids opportunities they don’t have,” Church said.

“It’ll bring revenue in. . .fill rooms, particularly in the off-season, restaurants in the off season.”

County Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic said the complex could be a way to avoid increasing taxes.

“Nobody wants to raise taxes of course, and there’s only so much money that’s going to be generated through taxes, so the other way to do it is to increase revenue with economic development,” Mitrecic said.

Bunting reiterated that he would not support the complex unless it was a private venture.

“If you could concentrate on getting a private owner, bring it to us and I’ll be happy to endorse it, but I’m not going to endorse it if the county is going to own it and operate it because we don’t make a penny on anything we do,” Bunting said.

Perlozzo explained that assuming there are no changes with Program

Open Space, the state would reimburse 90 percent of the project, leaving the county responsible for only 10 percent of the funding.

“If we can find a private developer or a private corporation that would partner, they could essentially come up with a zero cost to county taxpayers for the project,” Perlozzo said.

He said that if the county acquired a piece of land outright, 100 percent of that could be reimbursed by Program Open Space. In addition, Worcester County receives about $600,000 a year, according to Perlozzo, and 75 percent of that can be used for development and 25 percent for acquisition.

“You could essentially have a facility that if it was $12 million, if we didn’t get a dime, it would only cost you $1.2 million,” Perlozzo said.

He added that the county could create a memorandum of understanding so that residents could use the space, and that the municipalities could partner with the developer.

Mitrecic encouraged Perlozzo’s ideas.

“Your wildest ideas need to come to the county commissioners,” Mitrecic said. “We may laugh at you, but we want to hear them.”

Perlozzo said he would return to the commissioners with another update.

Using outdoor space could help restaurants’ recovery Continued from Page 3 those restrictions will be removed,” he said.

Councilman John Gehrig said he would back extending the permit program through the end of 2021 even if covid restrictions are lifted.

“Letting those businesses recover from what happened in 2020 and make the decision themselves what’s best for their business,” he said.

Neville said after conferring with the Worcester County Health Department, the Board of License Commissioners and the Worcester Fire Marshal’s Office the consensus was the permitting process went smoothly with few issues.

“The only exception was the Fire Marshal’s Office would like us to [require] that information be provided on the location and specifications of any proposed tent or patio-heating appliances,” he said. “We’ve had some proposals for propane heaters,

but we’ve also seen some that have tried to connect to the gas lines in the building.”

Neville suggested any temporary measures related to heating outdoor spaces could be issued under the outdoor dining program but permanently extending gas lines outside a structure would require a building permit application.

Councilman Mark Paddack, in a motion for approval, said approval for temporary exterior heating could be handled under the permit program.

“If they want to do something permanent, the businesses would go through the regular process,” he said.

Neville said the program renewal would allow dining establishments already approved for outdoor tables to continue in the same manner this year.

“Anybody that was approved last year gets to roll their approval over without having to re-file,” he said.

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Ocean City Today

County commissioners focus on FY22 budget Worcester officials discuss goals for new year, such as more open public spaces

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Back in 2020, the Worcester County Commissioners had no other option but to trudge through the covid-19 pandemic.

But, according to County Commissioner Chip Bertino, the county’s ability to manage the effects of the pandemic, particularly on the budget, was a positive.

“It certainly was unexpected going into the New Year,” Bertino said. “At this time last year, we had no idea what we were going to face.”

He praised county government and staff, the Worcester County Health Department, the board of education, first responders and the business community for addressing the continuous changes.

“Our firefighters and our EMTs had to quickly pivot to be able to handle emergency calls and calls for assistance — that was certainly nothing planned,” Bertino said. “I think that was a major accomplishment for the county overall as well as our local businesses, many who were impacted drastically and dramatically because of closures, guidelines.”

Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic said that getting the commissioners to return to in-person meetings was

one of the biggest accomplishments.

“We were able to continue to do business and take care of the people of the county,” Mitrecic said. “I think that’s the best thing we accomplished this year through all this.”

Commissioner Ted Elder agreed that the county managed to stay in a positive financial condition, adding that the de- Chip Bertino partment of economic development and tourism consolidated.

“I think we made it a more efficient unit that way, saved the county money on doing it, and at the same time, made it more dynamic,” Joseph Mitrecic Elder said.

Both Elder and Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom mentioned loaning Snow Hill money for the Black Eyed Susan paddle boat as another highlight.

“We had to act very quickly and honestly, a lot of people Ted Elder were very concerned about that, but I think it’s going to be a fantastic draw for southern Worcester County, and Worcester County as a whole,” Nordstrom said.

He added other gains for the southern end of the county included increased funding for the Discovery

Center in Pocomoke City, restored funding for Furnace Town and a grant for Snow Hill and Pocomoke reflecting the table game revenue from Ocean Downs Casino in Berlin.

Moving into 2021, Bertino and Elder both said there should be a focus on the budget, especially in response to the Bud Church economic downturn caused by covid-19.

“I also believe very strongly that there should be no tax increase to address that, unless it’s absolutely necessary,” Bertino said.

J. Nordstrom Elder said the overall effect the pandemic will have on the new fiscal year’s budget won’t be clear until after the first quarter of the calendar year.

“I’m going to be a little conservative right now until we really get a good feel of it,” Elder said.

Similarly, Commissioner Bud Church said his goal is to get the county back to everyday operation and to keep everyone healthy.

“I hope the vaccine works,” Church said. “It’s just uncertain times right now and we need to get life back to normal.”

Mitrecic said one of his two goals is to bring a sports complex to the county.

“The second one and probably on equal ground is a way to pay for our volunteer fire companies and support them the way we need financially, coming up with some sort of dedicated source of revenue for that, so that they can do their budgets based on that,” Mitrecic said.

Nordstrom will continue to focus on improvements for the southern end of the county.

“We need more open public spaces in Pocomoke, especially in our underserved communities,” Nordstrom said. “I feel, and many of my neighbors and constituents feel, that there are a lack of places for young people to go out and play games and enjoy themselves and run around.”

He said more parks could add youth and sports leagues, a positive activity for children.

“It’s something that we want to develop — playgrounds, public spaces, not just for young people, but for adults as well, so that we can take advantage of some of the beauty we have in Pocomoke,” Nordstrom said.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

National Guard to help health depts. with vaccinations

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Mobile vaccination support teams from the National Guard are being dispatched to local health departments across Maryland to expand covid-19 vaccination capacity, Gov. Larry Hogan said during a press conference on Tuesday night.

The support teams will consist of nine to 14 military medical professionals, said Adjutant Gen. Timothy Gowen.

“Initially, we will have close to 200 personnel organized in 14 teams,” Gowen continued. “Additionally, we’re providing manpower to support congregate care and long-term health facilities and additional manpower to support county health department testing activities, call center assistance, data center analysis and logistical support.”

The National Guard personnel will help administer shots as well as provide logistical support.

Through the Maryland Responds Medical Reserve Corps, state health officials have also identified 700 qualified volunteers prepared to assist with vaccine administration. The Maryland Department of Health will share this information with local health officers to help them expand their clinics.

Furthermore, the Maryland Department of Health on Tuesday declared that if any facility does not administer at least 75 percent of its total first allocation, it may have future allocations reduced until it can prove its ability to meet capacity.

“Any provider that has excess doses will be required to notify their local health department so that those doses can be reallocated to other priority populations,” Hogan said.

As of Tuesday, 270,150 doses had been allocated, deployed and distributed in Maryland, equaling 98.7 percent of all doses the federal government has allocated to the state. The state has retained 3,727

doses at the Maryland Department of Health for emergency back-up purposes, Hogan said.

According to the state’s Covid-19 Vaccination Plan, allocation of the vaccine to Maryland jurisdictions will be based on several factors, such as critical populations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) with input from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, current local prevalence of the virus and the availability of the vaccine.

The governor reminded citizens that states are reliant on the federal government and the vaccine producers for the supply of vaccines and explained how the vaccine distribution process works.

“Each week the federal government informs each of the states of their allocation. After that, they open up their ordering system,” Hogan said. “Then, states are then able to place our orders directly with them as to where they should ship those doses, and we’re able to then notify our providers, the frontline vaccinators. Then, they can immediately begin to have their clinics ready to receive those doses and to begin vaccinating.”

At this point, state health officials anticipate receiving roughly 10,000 doses per day from the federal government.

“At the current pace of allocation

from our federal partners, we would expect to have 1.8 million doses by the end of May, which would represent only 30 percent of our state’s population,” Hogan said.

Maryland conducted a single-day record of 11,553 vaccinations on Monday. As of Thursday, 98,536 first doses of the vaccine were administered and 1,474 second doses across the state, according to data from the Maryland Department of Health.

Atlantic General Hospital received its first shipment of Pfizer vaccines on Dec. 18 and began vaccinating its staff that same morning. Since then, the hospital has received and administered both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations to its staff.

“We have currently received 1,317 vaccinations, 317 of the Pfizer vaccine and 1,000 [of the] Moderna vaccine,” said Toni Keiser, vice president of public relations for Atlantic General, on Wednesday. “We have provided 317 Pfizer doses and more than 200 Moderna doses to our Phase 1A recipients as of today. We will be providing additional Moderna to our Phase 1A associates throughout this week.”

The hospital is expecting to receive additional shipments to allow it to provide the second dose of the vaccination that is required.

“Our associates are encouraged to discuss their medical care with their physicians,” Keiser said. “Associates who are pregnant and confer with their physicians (or choose not to) may choose to receive the vaccine.

We will honor their informed choice and provide the vaccine.”

The state’s 24 local health departments received 12.8 percent of the vaccines distributed.

“Local health departments have already administered 11,401 doses, which is 32.4 percent of what we have deployed to them,” Hogan said.

Each health department is administering vaccinations to its staff and the county’s first responders, Hogan added.

The Worcester County Health Department has administered 11.5 percent of the vaccines as of Tuesday’s press conference.

“Several officers have elected to take the vaccine, a few declined and others will wait until later to make their determination,” said Berlin Police Chief Arnold Downing. “Five have had the first dose last month and two [had theirs Tuesday].

Ryan Whittington, the spokesman for the Ocean City Fire Department, said the department is working with the health department to offer covid-

During a press conference on Tuesday, Gov. Larry Hogan announced an expansion of the phasing groups for vaccine distribution as well as a “Southwest Airlines” model for rolling allocation of vaccines. Now, providers will not wait for all members of a particular priority group to get vaccinated before moving on to the next group in line.

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 7

Ocean City Today

Phase 1A group receives vaccine 19 vaccinations to its paramedics and firefighters.

Eighteen Ocean City paramedics had been vaccinated as of Wednesday afternoon. In addition to those vaccinated, 11 paramedics have been trained to assist in administering the vaccinations to other frontline workers, Whittington said.

“This is a historical event and certainly illustrates the need for community teamwork and partnership to get our arms around this deadly virus,” said Fire Chief Richie Bowers.

Ashley Miller, the deputy communications manager for the Ocean City Police Department, said employees recently completed a confidential survey indicating whether they would like to receive the vaccine when it becomes available.

“By the end of this week, all of our employees that indicated that they would like to receive the vaccine will be vaccinated,” Miller said.

CVS and Walgreens, which have a federal partnership to administer the vaccines to the 227 nursing home residents and staff across the state, received 22.4 percent of the vaccines distributed. According to data entered by Tuesday, CVS and Walgreens have administered 8,503 doses, which is 13.8 percent of what was deployed to them.

“I have contacted Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar to express our serious concerns about the pace of the federal nursing home pharmacy program,” Hogan said on Tuesday.

In addition, Hogan had discussions on Tuesday with both the CEO of CVS and the CEO of Walgreens.

The CEO of CVS said that they have actually done nearly twice as many vaccinations in Maryland as are being reported. Data reporting issues are currently being corrected, the governor said.

Meanwhile, Walgreens has reportedly scheduled clinics at every nursing home they have been assigned.

“We’re going to be in close contact with CVS and Walgreens to continue monitoring their progress and seeing what we can do to help them continue to ramp up their vaccinations,” Hogan said.

The governor has also issued an executive order to require all providers to report vaccination data to ImmuNet within 24 hours after administration.

In addition, Hogan expanded the four phases groups of distribution of the vaccine. The state is currently in Phase 1A, which now includes health care workers, frontline hospital staff, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, nursing home residents and staff, all licensed, registered and certified healthcare providers, correctional healthcare staff and officers and frontline judiciary staff for a total of

PHOTO COURTESY RYAN WHITTINGTON

Paramedics at the Ocean City Fire Department prepare to receive the covid-19 vaccination. As of Wednesday afternoon, 18 paramedics have been vaccinated. In addition, 11 paramedics have been trained to assist in administering the vaccinations to other frontline workers.

more than 500,000 people.

“Our new Phase 1B will now include all Marylanders over the age of 75,” Hogan said. “It will also be expanded to include special needs group homes, high-risk inmates, developmentally disabled populations, continuity of government vaccinations as well as teachers, childcare and education staff.”

The revised phase includes roughly 860,000 additional Marylanders. The anticipated start of Phase 1B vaccination is late January.

Phase 1C is projected to start vaccinations in early March. The group has been adjusted to incorporate all Marylanders between 65 and 74 years old, public safety workers not covered in Phase 1A, public health workers not covered in Phase 1A, grocery store employees and workers in public transit, the postal service, manufacturing and food and agriculture production. Phase 1C includes an additional 772,000 citizens.

Lastly, Phase 2 encompasses citizens between 16 and 64 years old with increased risk of severe illness because of comorbidities, incarcerated adults and essential workers in critical utilities, transportation, logistics, infrastructure and other sectors for another 1.1 million Marylanders.

The state has adopted a “Southwest Airlines” model for rolling allocation of vaccines. Now, providers will not wait for all members of a particular priority group to get vaccinated before moving on to the next group in line.

Dr. Jinlene Chan, the acting deputy secretary for public health, said the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines See VACCINE Page 8

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

Vaccine distribution expanded Continued from Page 7 currently appear to be effective against a new, more contagious variant of covid-19 that originated in the United Kingdom and has been detected in four states in the U.S. and 33 countries as of Tuesday.

“There is more study that’s being done,” she said. “The vaccines themselves actually protect and create antibodies against multiple parts about the spike protein, and so the change in this particular virus is really only one part of that spike protein.”

So far, the state public health laboratory has not detected the variant in Maryland. Chan said it may change some characteristics of how the virus is spread.

“While it does appear to spread more easily, we have not seen any evidence that it actually causes more hospitalizations or severe disease or that it increases the risk of death, and that is important to understand,” Chan said.

On the Eastern Shore, 2.31 percent, or 10,584 people, of the roughly 460,000 population had been vaccinated as of Thursday.

Statewide, the majority of vaccinations are being administered to white women, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

Marylanders currently eligible for vaccinations will receive private registration links to schedule an appointment at a vaccination clinic with instructions, Chan said.

More information will be available at MarylandVax.org and WorcesterH ealth.org.

As of Wednesday, Worcester’s covid-19 positivity rate was 13.16, an increase from 8.65 percent last week.

That’s still higher than the state’s rate of 9.31 percent.

Over the past two weeks, Worcester has confirmed 466 new cases.

This brings the county’s total cases since March to 2,402.

The Maryland Department of Health reported Berlin and Ocean Pines had 929 and Ocean City had 635.

Worcester has recorded 51 deaths from covid-19.

As of Wednesday afternoon, 26 patients with coronavirus were in Atlantic General Hospital – 23 in the medical/surgical unit and three in the intensive care unit, according to Keiser.

Hospital staff has cared for six patients who have come off a ventilator.

Atlantic General has discharged 142 coronavirus patients who are recovering.

In the meantime, public health officials are encouraging anyone who feels sick, or who may have had contact with someone who is to get tested. All Worcester County residents, employees and their children 8 years and older who are experiencing covid-19 symptoms are eligible for testing.

People who suspect they may have the virus should call their primary care providers or the health department. The Worcester County Health Department has a hotline Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to determine if a person should be tested. Call 410-632-1100 and select option eight.

The Worcester County Commission on Aging at 4767 Snow Hill Road, in Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, offers drive-through covid-19 testing on Jan. 11 from 12:30-3:30 p.m. by appointment only.

Worcester County Health Department offers drive-through covid testing on Jan. 14 from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Park and Ride, 12848 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, by appointment only. The health department has expanded testing and will now offer testing in Pocomoke City at the Pocomoke Health Department site, 400 Walnut St. # A, Pocomoke City, Maryland 21851. Testing is available on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. by appointment only for adults 18 years and older. Dates are scheduled for Jan. 11 and Jan. 25.

To track Maryland cases, visit coronavirus.maryland.gov/.

To report a restaurant or bar for not following safety guidelines, call the county environmental health department at 410-352-3234.

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GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Cambria Hotel boardwalk project is set to commence after Ocean City Council awarded the winning bid to AJT Homes for just over $124,000 on Monday.

Cambria boardwalk contract awarded for just over $124K

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Work is set to begin for the previously delayed Cambria Hotel boardwalk project after the Ocean City Council approved a bid this week for just over $124,000.

The winning firm, AJT Homes, submitted the lowest of nine bids received during a City Council work session on Dec. 15.

After undergoing staff review last month, $124,860 the bid was unanimously approved by the council Monday.

Other vendors submitting bids last month were Apex Construction at $146,604, CSI Contracting at $192,378, Murtech Marine Division at $171,417, Commercial Industrial Applications at $287,000, Colossal Contractors at $135,000, JJIDRBCI at $208,000, Harkins Concrete Construction at $159,990 and Rehak’s Contracting at $478,580.

During the Dec. 15 work session, City Engineer Terry McGean said the work was estimated to cost just over $177,000.

McGean previously said the project would take roughly 100 days to complete and with work set to kick off

this month the boardwalk remains on track for completion by this spring.

Site plans for the Cambria Hotel on the parcel, which had been home to the Cropper Concrete plant, were initially approved in Jan. 2017 by the Ocean City Planning Commission.

The lodging establishment opened to the public in August 2020.

Negotiations to construct an accompanying bayside boardwalk were nearing completion with project developer Ocean 1 Hospitality in Dec. 2019 but almost derailed the larger project in April 2020 following the coronavirus outbreak.

Citing unprecedented financial challenges during the covid-19 pandemic, Ocean 1 Hospitality President Tauhid Islam asked city officials delay receipt of $165,000 the company agreed to pay as part of an easement deal dating to 2017.

After the council insisted on payment before the Cambria Hotel opened to the public, the matter was resolved.

McGean had cited concerns about acquiring raw materials for the job, as lumber prices skyrocketed during 2020. In December, however, he told the council a stockpile had been acquired for about $29,000.

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JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 9

Ocean City Today

Worcester selects broadband vendor Talkie

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday agreed to use the Chestertown company Talkie as the vendor for its longterm rural broadband project.

In the past year, the county has made several important steps in the pursuit of rural broadband, including commissioning a feasibility study last year and conducting an internet speed survey among county residents.

In October, the commissioners accepted the request for proposals to

search for a vendor.

IT Director Brian Jones reported that Talkie and Bloosurf out of Salisbury were the only two that responded with a full proposal.

He and Columbia Brian Jones Telecommunications, a broadband consultant, both recommended accepting Talkie without a monetary commitment.

Commissioner Jim Bunting asked

how much control over the area Bloosurf had.

At previous meetings, it was determined that most of Bloosurf’s service areas were protected until this year by a 10-year loan grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The grant preempted any other entity from securing federal funding.

The internet speed survey was necessary to determine that Bloosurf was delivering under its self-reported standards.

“At this point, most everything they had on the table has expired, so

it won’t affect us at all,” Jones said.

He reiterated that although nothing will be expected from Worcester County in this deal, it needs to begin applying for grants that will expire soon, one of which is the FY21 Broadband Expansion Grant Program.

“Two hundred thousand dollars will be provided by the state of Maryland through a grant and they’re [Talkie] planning to put in $652,224.

That’s just one area,” Jones said.

The commissioners unanimously accepted Talkie as the broadband vendor.

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PAGE 10

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

Maryland General Assembly session kicks off Wednesday

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) When the Maryland General Assembly begins it 2021 session next Wednesday, it will have about 800 pre-filed bills as compared to 200 last year, according to Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38 C).

Some of these bills did not make it through both the House and Senate last year since the coronavirus pandemic caused the legislature to adjourn early.

Two such bills are the ban on intentional balloon releases, House Bill 391, and Wade’s Law, Senate Bill 17.

Hartman said that the goal of the balloon release ban is to raise awareness of the harmful environmen- Wayne Hartman tal impacts balloons have on marine life.

“Many of the sea animals that live in the ocean have mistaken them for food and accidentally ingest them,” Hartman said.

“There’s also a prob- Mary Beth lem with entanglement Carozza from the ribbon. If somebody releases five or six balloons that are tied together, the ribbon is just enough of a problem as the balloon itself.”

He added that balloons can also get tangled in farm equipment.

Other Maryland counties, such neighboring Wicomico County, have already passed their own version of a balloon release ban.

The statewide version carries a $250 penalty for intentional balloon release.

Wade’s Law, filed by Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), increases penalties for criminally negligent driving that causes a life-threatening injury.

Similar to the balloon release ban, House Bill 314 would reduce the use of plastic bags. Hartman said he has not yet taken a stance on the bill, but expressed concern that stores would have

to charge a certain amount for plastic bags.

“To me, that becomes excessive regulation, when you’re regulating private businesses as to what they have to charge for a replacement bag, so that part of it would be concerning to me,” Hartman said.

Following the national reckoning regarding police violence on Black communities, Maryland will consider police reform bills. Hartman said he opposes several, such as House Bill 139, which requires police officers to use all de-escalation tactics before engaging use of force.

“With the anti-police sentiment from some areas, it’s just really challenging to hire law enforcement officers,” Hartman said. “We’re doing things like this that’s going to make their job more challenging and put them at greater risk personally.”

House Bill 151 would repeal the Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights and House Bill 188 would eliminate no knock warrants. Hartman said eliminating no knock warrants would put officers at risk.

“The unfortunate part is, I don’t think people are taking into consideration when a no knock warrant is issued, it’s actually a judge that determines if a warrant is no knock,” Hartman said.

“There’s a lot of thought and justification into it.”

One of Hartman’s bills, House Bill 286, would make harming or attempting to harm a law enforcement officer or first responder a hate crime.

In a statement, Carozza said she would work with the Senate Small Business Workgroup on legislation for civil immunity for small businesses affected by the covid-19 pandemic.

“The threat of litigation arising out of covid-19 infection during these uncertain times can suppress business operations and keep businesses from reopening that otherwise could, impacting jobs and income,” Carozza said.

“The cost of actual litigation also impacts business operations, preventing See MD Page 11

IMAGE COURTESY OCEAN CITY PLANNING AND ZONING

The Ocean City Planning Commission approved a site plan this week to redevelop four parcels located in the 900 block of Baltimore Ave. to become the Paradise Plaza West.

OC Planning gives Paradise Plaza expansion green light

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) The Ocean City Planning Commission approved a site plan for a residential annex of several lots in the 900 block of Baltimore Avenue to add hotel rooms and employee housing for the Paradise Plaza Inn. Avi Sibony, principal for Ninth Street LLC, proposed the redevelopment of four parcels located at 903909 Baltimore Ave to become the Paradise Plaza West.

Planning and Zoning Director Bill Neville said two of the Baltimore Avenue lots are being used for overflow parking at the Paradise Plaza Inn on the Boardwalk, while the other two contain antiquated employee housing structures.

“The consolidation of those four lots has been proposed for the development of the 31-room hotel,” he said.

Site plans also include 13 employee-housing units, with the structure elevated and parking included underneath.

Neville said the site plan was submitted to the Ocean City Development Corporation for design review.

“The applicant made some minor changes to the design,” he said.

Neville said the previously approved site plan for the Paradise Plaza Inn on the Boardwalk from the late 1990s included spaces on the two

open lots within required parking calculations.

“There’s a recorded easement that dedicates those for that use,” he said.

Neville said the proposed redevelopment would employ a 14-space parking non-conformity for the current residential structures to provide the mandated number of spots.

Neville also raised a concern about the new structure’s ground-level elevation and proximity to Baltimore Avenue.

“Our zoning requirements call for a 10-foot setback but allow for an open unenclosed deck to project six feet within that,” he said.

Neville also said the sidewalk on the west side of Baltimore would need to be expanded to meet the eight-foot requirement.

Final architecture would be presented with the building permit application, Neville said.

The proposed structure would be 35 feet tall, with three full floors of housing and a fourth smaller attic level with three residential units.

“We did look at the adjoining structures [and] the height is not out of place within the block,” Neville said. “The three employee housing units on the upper floors, essentially the fourth floor, need to be removed.”

Neville suggested retaining the top level for storage and potentially revisiting the design use in the future.

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Council approves numerous special events during May

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Ocean City’s spring calendar is filling quickly, as the Ocean City Council approved a number of events for this May during its meeting on Monday.

Topping the list are the OC Power Boat Races scheduled on May 2 from noon to 5 p.m. in the ocean between N. Division Street and 12th Street.

The first race would be at noon, with the second taking place at 3 p.m.

Following the power boat races on Sunday, and only one day after Cinco de Mayo, Ocean City’s annual Springfest will take place from May 6-9.

After closing out Springfest on Mother’s Day, the Wine on the Beach event is tentatively slated from May 14-15.

The Beach Volleyball Series will fill the sands between Talbot Street and N. Division Street starting on Thu. May 20 through May 23.

The volleyball event is the first of seven comparable competitions produced by We Build You Play Sports, with subsequent dates including: June 12-13, June 24, July 15, July 29, Sept. 11-12 and Sept. 25-26.

Brining a slightly larger event footprint, Cruisin’ Ocean City will also be held from May 20-23 throughout the resort.

Worcester Youth postpones ‘Winter Blues Staycation’ (Jan. 8, 2021) Due to the rise in concern for covid-19, Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services will be postponing its Nominate a Family for a “Winter Blues Staycation.”

The organization wishes to continue encouraging mental wellness and self-care however, it must put the safety of the community members first.

Worcester Youth will continue to prepare its Parent Survival Toolboxes, filled with items to help parents relax and cope at home during these tough winter months. Some of the items included are movie rental gift cards, snacks and at-home spa items.

Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services’ mission is to empowers all people, of all ages, toward leading capable, purposeful, responsible, fulfilled lives in healthy families and communities.

For more information, visit http://gowoyo.org or call the Berlin office at 410-641-4598.

Ocean City Today

PAGE 11

OC beach equipment contracts Md. lawmakers

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Ocean City will net about $3,000 less from three-year contracts for mid-town beach equipment rental franchise parcels auctioned last month.

The auction on Dec. 2 involved 14 locations between 28th and 84th Streets, with contracts for four other parcels renewed for a second three-year period at a rate 10 percent higher than previously paid.

In total, the dozen-and-a-half beach equipment contracts netted just over $225,000, down from more than $228,000 under the prior terms.

The total franchise fees collected for beach equipment rental stands in Ocean City tops $1.3 million.

Bidders for the 14 parcels were Pat McLaughlin [five locations], Caje Berry Knight [three locations], Jonathan Layton [two locations], as well as Will Ed-

munds, Bill Rolleston, Frank Dougherty and Bluewater Development each with one spot.

The largest price variance over prior contracts was for the 45th-47th Streets parcel auctioned to Bluewater Development for $24,000, which is 82 percent higher than the previous price of $13,200.

Renewing mid-town beach equipment rental contracts were Christopher Dorsey, Patrice Murrell and William Rolleston.

The franchise contract procedures required minimum bids of $500 along with a nonrefundable $1,000 deposit, with 20 percent of the annual fee due by Dec. 11 or paid in full when auctioned if under $1,000.

In addition to submitting a credit report with references, applicants were required to provide a concise management plan and proof of insurance.

start off 2021

Continued from Page 10 reopening as well as potentially shutting down businesses that had reopened. Jobs and income are impacted, and increased costs to the business also lead to higher prices to the customer.”

She will also be working on the Senate Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee and promises to advocate for Eastern Shore priorities. “These include covid-19 recovery on all fronts, expansion of broadband access, policing and public safety, and fairness in representation to ensure the Shore voice is heard,” Carozza said.

Carozza also pre-filed Senate Bill 139 to increase access to occupational therapy and telehealth programs Senate Bill 355 to increase protections for children during custody court proceedings.

PAGE 12

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

Commission gives OK for 120th St. retail, residential

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission approved a site plan this week for a project that would convert the former Coldwell Banker building near 120th Street into a nearly 6,000-squarefoot retail store with dormitory style employee housing.

Project applicants Avi and & Terry Sibony, principals for A&T Retail, proposed an adaptive reuse of the existing commercial structure to include a 5,950-square-foot store, with onsite housing for 28 employees.

Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy, who said roughly 102 parking spaces would be required for the project, noted the proposed plan includes a total of 162 spots.

Commission member Peck Miller, who lauded the inclusion of parking beyond the minimum required, said the location has been problematic at time for neighbors.

“In the past, that parking lot behind the Coldwell Banker building has been somewhat of a nuisance for many years to a lot of people,” he said.

Miller said the redevelopment

IMAGE COURTESY OCEAN CITY PLANNING AND ZONING

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission approved a project for the former Coldwell Banker building near 120th Street to include a new retail venture with onsite employee housing.

could make the area easier to monitor and have a positive effect on adjacent properties.

A letter contesting the Sibony’s request was sent to the commission by the Swarthmore Homeowners Association, which represents roughly 150 residents and 60 homes in the vicinity.

Among other concerns, the letter cites the potential need for police presence in the area due to increased behavior problems.

To quell those concerns, Avi Sibony noted a three-bedroom unit on the third floor would be reserved for a property manager charged with oversight of employee housing rooms.

“Somebody that would be in charge and watch all those kids un-

derneath,” he said.

Commission member Pam Buckley said that consideration would likely be welcome news for neighbors.

“One of the things that might help the Swarthmore people is to know there’s an onsite person,” she said.

Commission member Palmer Gillis asked about flooding issues tied to a small basement section in the building.

Sibony, who only became aware of the subterranean section after purchasing the property, noted twin sum p pumps are employed to minimize moisture.

Sibony agreed to a condition suggested by Gillis to deem the basement section as uninhabitable.

The commission voted unanimously to approve the site plan.

PZ reviews plan changes for project

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission conducted an online meeting with attorney Regan Smith and architect Jeff Schoellkopf on Tuesday night to discuss proposed amendment options for the Sanibel Seas condominium project.

The proposed townhouses, to be known as Sanibel Sea, would encompass a swath of land on the west side of Coastal Highway and the east side of Sinepuxent Avenue between 144th and 145th streets.

The original site plan was approved on May 19, 2020.

Members of the Ocean City Board of Zoning of Appeals were invited to listen to the discussion, but because the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting was not advertised as a joint meeting an open conversation could not take place.

“Unless they want to just speak as individuals and not on behalf of the BZA,” said Bill Neville, director of planning and community development.

Schoellkopf said the project currently has nine duplexes. The revised site plan shows 15 duplexes.

“So, it’s essentially the same plan with just smaller spacing, a little bit

less parking and more broken up,” Schoellkopf said.

Smith said many people have been requesting home offices, especially during the pandemic. Home offices could be created in some of the 36foot units by moving the door to one side.

“We know that the planning staff and everybody has always treated a home office as a bedroom,” Smith said. “At the moment, we have the seven four-bedroom and the remaining three-bedroom units of the total 59 that are approved. It’s a code compliant project as requested, so we have the approved site plan that you all approved.”

He added that the duplexes do not change the number of units or the footprint of the units, but it does increase the parking requirement because the units are transformed to multi-family units from townhouses.

Schoellkopf said additional parking requirements are not actually required, but the parking spaces between the buildings in the approved site plan will be lost in the revised plan.

“We’re not asking for approval of this plan at this point,” he added. “We know that to do this we need to go to the BZA and ask for a reduction of the spacing between buildings from the

required 10 feet to a 6-foot minimum, and we know we need to ask for a parking exception in order to do this.”

He defended the design, saying the neighborhood has a lot of available street parking, even during in-season.

In addition, Schoellkopf said breaking up the buildings will allow the roofs to turn in.

The developer is interested in retaining 59 units for the multi-family condominium project as well as the large green space in the center, rather than using it for parking.

Schoellkopf said the parking space reduction would be about 10 percent of the standard.

Responding to Commission member Peck Miller, Schoellkopf said if the project retained the seven fourbedrooms, a parking exception of 9 spaces would be necessary.

Although the commission favored greater separation of the units, the greater concern was about more parking reductions.

Commission members argued that car garages will likely be used for storage rather than parking spaces if the units are residential and not rentals. There was also concern that there are not driveways in front of the garages.

See REVISED Page 13

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

Revised design includes less parking, separation of units Continued from Page 12 Miller and Commission member Palmer Gillis said the parking issue is intensified by the possible inclusion of home offices, which are fourth bedrooms and would require more parking spaces.

Schoellkopf replied that the city code is not clear about the definition of a bedroom versus a nook for an office space.

The main purpose of the discussion was for clarification of codes and to respond to requests previously

made at a hearing, Schoellkopf said.

Commission member Chris Shanahan and Gillis agreed that the revised plan is a better product.

“We all agree that the separation of making it a duplex is a better architectural design, it’s a better marketing design, it’ll probably add more value to the unit,” Gillis said.

The next step is to have the revised plan approved by the planning commission, even if the board of zoning of appeals approves the parking exceptions.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners made the following decisions during their meeting on Tuesday.

New roof

would spend $93,973 for the three vehicles.

County Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom expressed disappointment that the vehicles would not be purchased from a Worcester County company.

Stephen Decatur Middle School will receive a new roof following damages from Tropical Storm Isaias on Aug. 4. The estimated cost is about $240,000. The insurance carrier estimated it would cover $48,000, leaving the county to cover $192,000.

Superintendent Lou Taylor asked the commissioners to reallocate the $200,000 for HVAC for the new roof.

The commissioners agreed that the new roof was necessary, but instead took the remainder from the fund balance and kept the $200,000 for HVAC.

Courthouse

Trucks

The commissioners rejected a request for emergency legislation from the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. The chamber asked the county place a cap on the amount of fees third-party delivery companies, such as Uber Eats, can collect.

In a memo, the chamber stated that since most delivery services typically charge a 30 percent fee, this is negatively affecting restaurants that are already suffering under the covid19 pandemic. It suggested adjusting the fee with the provider to avoid paying the driver less.

Without much discussion and without a representative from the chamber, the commissioners rejected the proposal.

Two county departments, emergency services and public works, received approval to purchase trucks off the lot from Pittsville Ford, under the assumption that they would negotiate lower prices.

Emergency services requested a three-quarter ton truck to be designated as a special emergency response vehicle, not for everyday use.

The price was listed at $40,069 and can be paid for through a Homeland Security Grant.

The Department Of Public Works requested permission to buy three replacement vehicles - one utility truck and two pick-up trucks. It estimated it

The commissioners rejected a request from the courthouse to replace the carpet. Although the courthouse intended to use Value Carpet One as the sole provider for a total of $58,725, the commissioners asked for the courthouse to put the project out to bid instead.

The commissioners added that they would rather have the project completed by a Worcester County company.

Legislation

PAGE 13

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

County will maintain 19 emergency sirens

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) With some emergency sirens nearly 100 hundred years old, the Worcester County Commissioners will have the 19 sirens in the county evaluated, and will take over responsibility for their maintenance.

Last month, the department of emerBilly Birch gency services found that sirens were out of service in Ocean Pines, Bishopville and Pocomoke. Ocean City handles its own emergency siren system.

According to Billy Birch, director of emergency services, the county is responsible for the siren control box and the system that supports activation, while the volunteer fire departments are responsible for the siren itself and the power.

During the Worcester County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, Birch said he was looking for direction from the commissioners and was seeking approval to have the sirens evaluated. The previous vendor for the sirens is no longer available.

James Hamilton, emergency services assistant director, explained that a manufacturer from the Midwest would work on the sirens for a week.

“The intention is basically top-tobottom maintenance, evaluation, and anything that can be fixed during the trip, to have it fixed,” Hamilton said.

Several commissioners expressed surprise that evaluating the sirens would cost $14,050.

“In reading this proposal, it seems outrageous, and I understand that sometimes it’s because there’s not a lot of competition out there,” Nordstrom said.

Hamilton said that the old vendor was bought out and that another option in New Jersey may have gone out of business, leaving the county with Federal Signal out of Illinois.

Birch added that this could be an opportunity to centralize the system, and that some sirens had been in place since 1925.

Commissioner Jim Bunting questioned the need for the county to take over responsibility for the sirens.

“We don’t have to do everything, we just have to repair the ones that

need repairing,” Bunting said.

Commissioner Chip Bertino said although $14,000 was a sizable sum, a working siren system was necessary.

“I believe we should have a system that if an emergency comes up, tornado, hurricane, whatever it might be, that we have an avenue that we can alert our citizenry because a lot of folks that come into our community aren’t necessarily tied into our red alert system through emergency services,” Bertino said.

Commissioner Ted Elder agreed, and added that they couldn’t move forward unless they knew what was wrong with the sirens.

“I understand it’s a lot of money, but sometimes you’ve just got to invest in that,” Elder said.

Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic reassured other commissioners that the price for evaluating the sirens is not necessarily out of order.

“To climb up to get to them and get

a lift . . . it does cost a little bit,” Mitrecic said. “$14,000 may seem like a large number, but in the scope of things, what has to be done to get to them alone is an expensive venture.”

As for the timeframe, Hamilton said the vendor might be able to arrive in the next 60 to 90 days, pending covid-19, and that the service would be an over-expenditure.

The commissioners also wondered why two sirens in Ocean Pines weren’t connected.

Hamilton explained that one siren was mechanically damaged and another had a wiring problem and that overall, it was a miscommunication that they were not replaced.

Bertino suggested the county take over responsibility of the sirens to avoid malfunctions during an emergency.

The motions to take funds from the county fund balance to have the sirens evaluated and for the county to take over the sirens passed unanimously.

WGP hosts shoe drive to support recovery in Wor.

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Worcester Goes Purple and Worcester Warriors are conducting a shoe drive to raise funds to continue their fight against opioid addiction in the county.

Men’s, women’s and children’s boots, sneakers, dress shoes, athletic shoes, flip flops and sandals are all accepted in usable condition.

“Our goal is to collect 5,000 pairs of shoes,” said Debbie Smullen, the events coordinator for Worcester Goes Purple.

Worcester Goes Purple Warriors earn funds based on the total weight of the pairs of collected, which will then be applied to recovery efforts in Worcester and Wicomico counties.

All donated shoes will be redistributed throughout Funds2Orgs network of micro-enterprise, or small business, partners.

According to its website, Funds2Orgs helps groups create lucrative fundraisers while also providing “an economic opportunity for micro-entrepreneurs in developing nations and [helping] the environment by repurposing shoes.”

Proceeds from the sales of the shoes collected in shoe drive fundraisers are used to feed, clothe and house families.

“We are excited about our shoe drive,” Smullen said. “We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like to donate to us. By doing so, we raise money for those struggling with the disease of

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER YOUTH AND FAMILY COUNSELING SERVICES

Worcester Goes Purple aims to collect 5,000 pairs of shoes to raise funds for recovery in Worcester and Wicomico counties. Gently worn, used and new shoes can be donated at Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services at 124 N. Main St. in Berlin, Ocean Pines Community Center at 235 Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines and Worcester County Health Department Outer Lobby at 6040 Public Landing Road in Snow Hill.

addiction, and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities.

It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Gently worn, used and new shoes can be donated at Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services at 124 N. Main St. in Berlin, Ocean Pines Community Center at 235 Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines and Worcester County Health Department Outer Lobby at 6040 Public Landing Road in Snow Hill.

Contactless drive-throughs are also scheduled on Saturdays from 911 a.m. throughout Worcester and Wicomico counties: Wicomico Youth and Civic Center on Jan. 30, Pocomoke Walmart parking lot on Feb. 6, Ocean Pines Library parking

lot on Feb. 13, Snow Hill High School parking lot on Feb. 20 and Berlin Walmart parking lot on Feb. 27.

If any local organizations are interested in hosting a personal shoe drive or serving as a drop-off location, contact Debbie Smullen at wgpwarriors2021@gmail.com or call 410-870-5161.

Shoes will be collected until Feb. 28.

“The recovery community has suffered during the current pandemic with social isolation,” Smullen added.

“Funds are needed to help people get into recovery, educate the public and reduce the stigma associated with addiction.”

For more information about Funds2Orgs, visit funds2orgs.com.

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

PAGE 15

Annual Media Expo honors WCPS students’ creations

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Since 1975, Worcester County’s public schools have celebrated students’ creative communication through media and technology to local and global communities with the annual Media Expo.

“In the late 1970s, the Maryland state library media organization began promoting media production in Maryland public schools,” said Deb Peccia, a retired county schools media specialist. “The first few years of competition were film festivals and were celebrated at the county, state, and national levels. Technologies that were present at the times were filmstrips, videotaping using Beta and VHS, 8mm film, and U-film. The film competition became a media festival in the 1980s, when photography was added as an entry category.”

In the 1990s, the media festival became Tech Fest with the advent of computer-generated entries, Peccia added.

Although state and national competitions no longer occur, county school librarians continue to celebrate student work at the local level with what is now the Media Expo.

According to the website, Media Expo aims to: “inspire students to try innovative forms of technology as a way to express their talents, knowledge, and understandings; foster a sense of pride and confidence in their technological skills; encourage collaboration between students, teachers, parents and community and allow community members the opportunity

to have a greater understanding of [the county school system’s] continuing technology goals.”

There are six categories in Media Expo: “Computer Programming,” “On Screen,” “Online,” “On Paper,” “Through CAD” and “Through the Lens.”

“The Media Expo categories have evolved over the years to better fit the changing technology in our students’ lives,” said Jennifer Beach, the Pocomoke Middle School media specialist.

“Most recently, ‘Computer Programming’ and Computer Aided Design (CAD) categories were added, allowing us to showcase our students digital design skills,” she continued.

“Even categories that have been part of Media Expo since its inception, such as ‘Through the Lens,’ have evolved to include digital enhancements.”

According to the website, “Through the Lens” entries may be the work of an individual, a group or a class. If students from more than one grade division work on an entry, the entry must be entered in the grade division of the oldest student participating.

Students are grouped into grade level bands for each category: PK-2, 35, 6-8, and 9-12.

All entries must be submitted using the online entry form at https://www.wcpsmediaexpo.com.

Each Worcester public school with a student population less than 500 can submit four entries in each grade division of each competition. Public schools with a population over 500 in See GALLERY Page 16

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Helena Shelton, a first grader at Pocomoke Elementary, won a gold medal for her “Through the Lens” entry called “Pinecone Land” at the 2020 Media Expo. Abbott Eschenburg, a second grader at Ocean City Elementary, received a silver medal for his “Through the Lens” entry called “Plant Life,” last year. The students are pictured with Superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools Lou Taylor.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Angelle Ayres, a sixth grader at Snow Hill Middle School, won a gold medal at last year’s Media Expo for her piece “An Artist’s Sunrise.”

PAGE 16

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

Gallery viewing, ceremony virtual

PHOTO COURTESY COLBY PHILLIPS

Wrapping Christmas gifts for a local family in need, from left, are Brooke Fitzgerald, Delaney McDaniel, Sadie Kauffman and Addison McDaniel.

Needy family assured holiday gifts

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) An outpouring of last-minute donations saved the day for four children who are being raised by their grandmother and weren’t going to receive Christmas gifts this year because of tight finances.

The family’s plight came to light after contacting members of the Community Church at Ocean Pines and parishioner Larry Walton, who reached out to Colby Phillips on Dec. 22 to inquire about providing yuletide cheer.

“He asked if I had any toys leftover,” she said.

Phillips, who was involved in numerous charitable efforts this holiday season, assured Walton a number of people had made contact in hopes of lending aid for those still in need this Christmas.

“A lot of times people want to help but they don’t know where to start … or where to go,” she said.

Phillips, who helped found the Facebook page Local Help for You Worcester County, put out a social media alert the following day seeking assistance.

“Within hours I had almost $1,000,” she said. “It was unbelievable.”

Dozens of concerned souls jumped on board after learning about the grandmother who could assure a visit from Santa. Donations came in the form of toys and cash donations made through Venmo, a mobile payment service owned by PayPal. “I gave out my Venmo because a lot of people want to help but they can’t get to the store or don’t feel comfortable going to the store with covid,” she said.

With the clock ticking and Christmas quickly approaching, Phillips enlisted help from her daughter, Sadie Kauffman, who also obtained assistance from three friends: Delaney and Addison McDaniel and Brooke

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Fitzgerald, who are all freshman classmates at Stephen Decatur High School.

“The girls and I were willing to go do the shopping,” she said.

In addition to having enough money to buy gifts for two boys, ages one and five, and two girls, ages seven and nine, a gift card was purchased with the remaining donations to help the grandmother defray costs for raising the children.

“We had a lot of fun picking out the toys,” she said. “I don’t get to buy toys anymore so it was fun for me.”

One of the primary requests from the family was for cold weather gear.

Phillips said that need was almost instantly responded to by Skip and Sandra Schlesinger.

“Anytime we have families in need, they’re very quick to act,” she said.

“They immediately went out and got all the kids coats, hats and PJ’s.”

Phillips said upwards of 40 people tagged on the social media post were fast to lend aid.

“Within 24 hours we were able to See LAST Page 18 Crossword answers from page 40

Continued from Page 15 each age division may add an entry for each additional 100 students.

Media Expo entries are due Jan. 15 for Pocomoke Elementary School and Ocean City Elementary School. The other 12 public schools in the county are accepting entries until Jan. 20.

For more information about project deadlines, visit https://www.wcpsmediaexpo.com/schools.

Beach said each year, county students submit over 400 entries to Media Expo.

Virtual entry judging will take place between Feb. 11 and Feb. 18.

Jack Cleveland, librarian at Pocomoke High School, said judging will be based on how the content achieves purpose, how suitable the content is to the audience, creativity and originality, organization and structure, overall effectiveness and presentation and appropriate design techniques and resources.

“Media Expo judges are community members who volunteer their time each year to evaluate and provide feedback to our students,” Cleveland said.

He added that the judges are professionals involved in areas of journalism, photography and graphic design, as well as members of the schools staff and faculty.

Brittany Tignor, librarian at Snow Hill High School, said the event coordinators are staying true to traditions while adapting for coronavirus concerns.

“This year, we are still providing students an opportunity to share their work with the community and receive recognition for their hard work, but all events will be held virtually,” Tignor said. “From 3-6 p.m. on Feb. 25, students, families, and community members will be able to view projects and entries and participate in a virtual event.”

The county school system librarians will moderate the chat of the virtual event.

“At 6 p.m., the award ceremony will begin,” she added. “Gold and silver medal winners will be celebrated during a Facebook premiere event. Winning entries will be highlighted, and students will receive their medals from the librarians following the ceremony.”

In addition, Worcester County media specialists recognize one or more students with The Media Specialists’ Award.

“This award is reserved for any entry of exceptional quality or an entry which demonstrates the use of technology in a highly creative or sophisticated way to suit its purpose,” said Beau Williams, librarian at Snow Hill Middle School. “The award may also be given to a student whose body of work in the Worcester County Media Expo has shown continuous growth and excellence.”

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

Last-second push garners donations for holiday cheer Continued from Page 16 provide for that … it was overwhelming,” she said.

Phillips said the display of community kindness was had an effect on her daughter and friends who helped purchase and wrap the gifts delivered

by Santa.

“They were my elves in Santa’s workshop,” she said. “They spent 2-3 hours wrapping.”

Sadie Kauffman said witnessing the rapid community response was an eye-opening experience.

“It’s important because you need to make sure everybody has what they need and [are] happy,” she said. “It felt good giving to other people.”

Delaney McDaniel concurred with

that perspective.

“I always volunteer,” she said. “I always enjoy it and it makes me feel good to help other people.”

Phillips said answering a call for help is generally a powerful experience.

“The biggest reward is what you get in giving and the smile on their face,” she said. “That’s our purpose in life … to do for others.”

While the financial backing offered was tangible, Phillips was quick to note that people who cannot afford to donate can still lend support in other forms.

“Praying for people that are in need is also a way that you can contribute,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be material.”

ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Thirteen eateries will offer special meal prices from Jan. 11-17 for Berlin Restaurant Week, including Baked Dessert Café, which will have deals on savory and sweet items. All sustainable wines will be 20 percent off at the bakery as well.

Restaurant Week offers good deals on meals in Berlin

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Thirteen dining locations will offer special meal prices from Jan. 11-17 for the fifth annual Berlin Restaurant Week sponsored by Bunting Realty.

Cam Bunting, the event founder and owner of Bunting Realty on Broad Street, decided to bring restaurant week to Berlin after experiencing one in Bethesda, where she was visiting her daughter.

“It’s worked out really well,” Bunting said. “Everybody enjoys it.

We get a lot of people that come to town, and some of the restaurants try something different that they normally maybe wouldn’t try to see how that goes over.”

The 13 businesses participating are Crush N Crab, The Atlantic Hotel, Fins Ale House and Raw Bar, Blacksmith, Burn Wood Fired Pizza, J & M Meat Market, Baked Dessert Café, Main Street Deli, Rayne’s Reef Soda Fountain and Grill, Boxcar on Main, The Globe Gastro Theatre, Pop’s Kitchen and On What Grounds?

“The restaurants change, and a lot of times people don’t know what’s here unless they come here and see,” Bunting said. “We actually have a couple new ones.”

Boxcar on Main, which opened last month, will offer a three-course meal for $37 with a choice of four roasted oysters, pork belly or baked brie and homemade preserves for an appetizer, a caesar or caprese salad and a main course of roast pork tenderloin, shrimp and grits, Kauaian salmon, or Brazilian grilled sirloin with chimichurri. Vegetarian options are also available upon request.

Boxcar on Main is open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Pop’s Kitchen, another new restaurant in downtown Berlin, will offer pizza packages, $2 off a quart of soup and a small crab pizza for $12.95. In See RESTAURANT Page 19

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 19

Ocean City Today

Restaurant Week full menus on social media Continued from Page 18 addition, customers will get a cup of soup for $2.95 when they purchase a sub or cheese steak at regular price.

Pop’s Kitchen is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Globe Gastro Theatre will offer $10 boxed lunches with a sandwich, side and a drink. Sandwich options are pulled pork, smoked chicken salad or smoked turkey sandwich. Side options are succotash, power slaw, collard greens or mac and cheese.

The Globe is open Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday from 12-10 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 4-10 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 12-10 p.m.

On What Grounds? will have a made-to-order breakfast sandwich and small coffee deal for $6. Customers can upgrade to any other drink and get $1 off the additional price.

On What Grounds? is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Main Street Deli will serve chicken pot pie for $6.50, while Rayne’s Reef Soda Fountain & Grill will offer a free ice cream with the purchase of a sandwich, fries and a drink.

Main Street Deli is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The operating hours of Rayne’s Reef Soda Fountain & Grill are Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Crush N Crab will have a lunch special on a bowl of soup and a sandwich for $14.99 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. throughout restaurant week. The soup options are chili, cream of crab, Maryland crab or chicken and dumplings.

The sandwich options are BLT, sixinch cheesesteak or chicken cheesesteak or tuna salad.

Featured specials available all day at Crush N Crab are a crab cake sandwich for $10, crabby fries for $10 and four pieces of fried chicken for $10 Crush N Crab will also offer dinner specials between 3-9 p.m., including

Chef’s Special, two orange crushes, crabby fries, two pieces of fried chicken, and one pound of steamed shrimp, two mini crab cakes and a dessert for $60; a fried seafood platter with fish, clam strips, shrimp and oysters for $20; a crab cake platter for $20 and a steamed seafood platter with a half-pound of shrimp, a pound of mussels and a halfpound of Snow Crab legs for $30.

All dinner platters are served with two sides and bread.

All food specials are available for curbCam Bunting side pickup, carryout or limited inside dining.

Crush N Crab will also have drink specials for carryout only, including a four-pack of orange crushes for $20, a four-pack of Barefoot wine for $15 and a six-pack of Bud Light Orange for $6.

The restaurant is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Baked Dessert Café will be participating in restaurant week from Jan. 12-16. The bakery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. those days.

Customers have a choice of savory items for $6.99 each: sweet potato biscuit sliders stuffed with ham, pepper jack cheese and homemade mustard served with a side salad; Maryland Crab stew with a choice of sweet potato biscuit or scone served with a side salad; buffalo chicken croissant with pulled chicken in a spicy sauce with hints of blue cheese served with a side salad or a roasted vegetable penne pasta bake made with tender gluten free pasta, roasted vegetables and five Italian cheeses served with a side salad.

Baked Dessert Café will also offer a $4.99 dessert sampler plate, which includes The Original Peach Dumpling, a “croclair” (a croissant and an éclair combined), cupcake bread pudding and a chocolate bomb.

All sustainable wines will be 20

percent off as well.

The specials are offered for carryout, limited indoor seating and limited outdoor seating, weather dependent.

Free delivery to downtown Berlin will be available on Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Customers must call 24 hours ahead.

The Atlantic Hotel, which has participated in Berlin Restaurant Week since its inception, will have a lunch special of fish and chips with cole slaw for $12.

The Atlantic Hotel will also offer a three-course dinner for $35, consisting of an Atlantic House salad made with spring greens, fresh vegetables and a choice of house-made dressings, Salmon Oscar served with big lumps of crab meat, jumbo asparagus and bearnaise sauce and a Lemon Lust dessert that has layers of lemon and cream on a pecan crust.

The restaurant week specials are available for dine-in and carry-out.

Reservations are not required but accepted.

The Atlantic Hotel is currently closed through Jan. 14 for deep cleaning but will reopen 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Burn Wood Fired Pizza will have a side house or caesar salad, crab toast

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Christmas tree recycling at landfill and in Ocean City (Jan. 8, 2021) The Solid Waste Division of Worcester County will host its annual collection of Christmas trees through Jan. 15.

Area residents can drop off Christmas trees at the Central Landfill in Newark and the Berlin, Pocomoke, and Snow Hill Homeowners Convenience Centers at no cost.

Businesses and organizations that sold trees will not be permitted to drop off trees at the convenience centers, but may take them to the Central

Landfill where applicable tipping fees will be assessed.

For more info, contact Recycling Manager Mike McClung at 410-6323177.

In addition, the Town of Ocean City is providing a Christmas tree drop-off site at the 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot through Jan. 15.

Remove all tinsel, ornaments and other non-wooden items from the tree. Trees are taken to the county landfill where they are recycled.

appetizer and chicken barbarossa entree for $20 for dine-in only. No reservations are required.

The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The full list of restaurant week menus will be posted on social media.

“It’s good for the restaurants, which is good for the town,” Bunting added.

Customers can compete for a chance to win restaurant gift cards and $100 donated by Bunting by dining at three different participating locations and having their Berlin Restaurant Week passports stamped at all three eateries.

Diners can pick up Berlin Restaurant Week passports at either the Berlin Welcome Center on 14 S. Main St., Bunting Realty on 24 Broad St. or at any of the participating restaurants.

Then, diners will place copies of their receipts stapled to their passports in the drop box in the foyer of the Berlin Welcome Center.

The drawing will take place shortly after restaurant week, and the winner will be announced online.

For more information about the event, visit the “Berlin Restaurant Week” Facebook page or berlinmainstreet.com.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

Holiday open house at OC Life-Saving Station Museum Angel Kontra Contributing Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Many observe the holiday season by putting up Christmas trees, setting up their menorahs or going to see light displays. Some members of the Ocean City community and visitors, however, greeted the season masked and socially distanced at the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum.

The museum, located at the southern end of the Boardwalk, held its annual holiday open house on Sunday, PHOTO COURTESY ANGEL KONTRA

Gregory and Wendy Santiago look at the books and candles available in the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum store during their recent visit.

Dec. 6. The event consisted of free admission to browse the exhibits, special deals and mystery gifts in the museum’s store section.

The purpose of the open house is to invite residents and visitors to celebrate the holidays and to help the museum become a part of the community’s festivities.

Museum Aide Robin Breeden helped to wrap and coordinate the items from the museum store that went into the mystery gifts for the event. This was the first time Christmas mystery gifts were offered.

She said she coupled merchandise together for both adults and children, and that the money from the purchased gifts would go back into the museum.

The event is a chance for people to learn about the cultural and natural history of Ocean City, including the men and women who started the resort, and the inhabitants of the coastal bays and oceans.

Cathy Siegel, who owns property in the resort and normally visits for the winter, attended the event for the first time with her husband.

She said she had passed the museum many times either walking or biking on the Boardwalk but had never come inside. She said she thinks it is interesting to learn about how the area was and wonders what it will be like in the future.

“I just think it’s nice to know about your past,” Siegel said.

Susan Newland, another property owner, said she found out about the event while walking on the Boardwalk.

She said the event made her feel more connected to the community because she sees the similarities between the people of the past and those in the present.

“They still had their struggles and they still had their joys,” Newland said. “It’s basically what it is today.”

Wendy and Gregory Santiago, who were visiting their Berlin property, had never been to the open house event, but had visited the museum.

Wendy Santiago said her favorite part was looking at all the old photographs, and Gregory said learning about the number of women proprietors and builders in the city’s history was an eye-opener for him.

Both agreed that the event made them feel closer to their community.

Gregory Santiago said he felt the outreach to the community was positive.

“It’s good. We need to connect,” Gregory Santiago said.

Museum Curator Christine Okerblom moved from Salisbury to Berlin, where she now lives with her husband. She said she has always enjoyed the museum work and being a part of the informal education setSee ANNUAL Page 21

JANUARY 8, 2021

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Ocean City Today

Annual museum event connects residents, visitors

Modified Penguin Swim on New Year’s Day successful

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 8, 2021) More than 400 “penguins” took a dip into the 47-degree ocean during the 27th annual New Year’s Day Penguin Swim to benefit Atlantic General Hospital. “[A total of] 389 registered directly for the Penguin Swim, with an additional 130 through Bull on the Beach,” said Director of Marketing for Atlantic General Hospital, Sarah Yonker.

“Overall, I think the event went swimmingly well,” said Michael Franklin, president and CEO of Atlantic General Hospital, who participated in the swim with his children, Nick and Lilli. “There was a lot of positive energy on the beach. The multiple-block registration setup kept people safe and moving, the PA system used in the lifeguard stands kept everyone informed and engaged while waiting to jump in, and the weather cooperated once again.”

Typically, the event takes place on the beach and in the water on 91st Street. This year, the swim area was increased from 91st to 94th streets because of covid-19 and social distancing restrictions. Masks needed to be worn while on the beach, but not required when in the water.

Cones were also set up along the beach to promote social distancing.

“The cone setup was a great idea. It was very straightforward, and clearly demonstrated the expectations for keeping everyone safe,” Franklin said.

“It appeared to me that everyone respected the rules and the spacing because of the cones. It also made it helpful to find your stuff when coming back out of the ocean. I believe this was

a very successful event in the midst of difficult circumstances.”

“We didn’t assign individual cones, but we had registrants assigned to different beach entrances to keep the event more orderly and to enhance social distancing efforts,” Yonker added.

“Once participants and their spectators were on the beach, they were asked to choose a cone and stay with it … Ocean City Beach Patrol did a wonderful job distancing the cones so there was a 25foot radius around each one.”

Colby Phillips, a sergeant and longtime member of the Ocean City Beach Patrol, was again the Penguin Swim emcee and helped set up the beach in the 48-degree weather, for the event.

“I actually liked the setup this year better,” she said. “From where I was, which is in the guard stand in the middle, having everyone spread out along several blocks really was nice because people were not running into each other. Everyone was very respectful of the spacing and staying in their groups and wearing their masks when not running into the ocean, which was awesome.”

Phillips took the plunge for the first time in 1999 with the OCBP. She started assisting with the event the next year.

She has been the emcee since 2009 and a member of the event committee for several years.

“I think it went great. With covid being a factor, for safety the staff and committee did a fabulous job with all of the details,” Phillips said. “This event takes a long time to prepare for every year and covid added challenges, but it went off great and safe and that was the See OVER Page 22

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Participants were spread out this year to adhere to social distancing guidelines during the 27th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim, held between 91st and 94th streets on New Year’s Day.

Continued from Page 20 ting.

“Working here, looking at old photographs, artifacts and really getting a feel for the commitment, the resiliency and the entrepreneurship that’s present in Ocean City makes you feel more connected and proud to be working here,” Okerblom said.

The museum, open for events like the holiday open house and on weekends, helps to provide the community with something safe to do, she said. It is currently operating at 50 percent capacity and is abiding by government covid safety directives.

“We take a lot of pride in that,” Okerblom said.

Those restrictions forced the cancellation of some aspects of the open house, but Okerblom said the event still worked.

“We’re not disappointed,” Okerblom said. “We feel like we’re just adapting and doing what’s necessary to keep people safe.”

For more information about the museum, visit www.ocmuseum.org or call 410-289-4991.

Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com

PAGE 22

Ocean City Today

PENGUIN SWIM 2021 TOP FUND RAISERS

Attendees enjoy walk-through event

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 8, 2021) Guests seemed to enjoy the revamped Winterfest of Lights this year as 74,201 visited the displays at Northside Park on 125th Street.

“We, as a department, are very pleased in how Winterfest succeeded during a very trying year for events,” said Lisa Mitchell, private event coordinator for the Town of Ocean City.

“The feedback from staff and attendees was very, very positive.”

Winterfest of Lights looked a bit different than in past years as visitors had the opportunity to walk through the park to view the light displays rather than take a 12-minute tram ride around, because of covid-19 restrictions.

“A majority of our attendees loved the walk-through. Some comments from our guests were they appreciated the ability to stop and get photos of the lights and really take their time looking at the lights and walking through at their own pace,” Mitchell said.

“They were able to socially distance, keeping to their own group on the path.”

The 28th annual festival opened on Nov. 19 and the final day was Jan. 2. Winterfest was open Wednesday through Sunday and was closed four nights because of poor weather. It was in operation a total of 29 nights.

“People have asked before, ‘Can’t I just walk through?’” Special Event Coordinator Brenda Moore said after opening weekend, but since there were trams consistently rolling through the park each year, safetywise, it just wasn’t feasible to have people walking around as well.

Opening weekend drew 6,637 vis-

itors, a marginal 9 percent decrease compared to last year’s attendance.

Jessica Waters, acting tourism director/communications manager, visited the park on opening night with her family.

“I think the new Winterfest walkthrough event is fantastic. Not only is there plenty of space to spread out and safely social distance, but it also allows families to take their time and check out each individual light display,” she said after her experience.

“My family ordered hot chocolate and strolled through the park, taking photos and stopping at our favorite displays along the way.”

Opening night alone of the 28th annual event drew 1,156 guests.

“In a year that has been filled with canceled events, it feels great to celebrate the holiday season in a safe and responsible way,” Waters said. “Our special events department did a fantastic job making sure that this year was not only safe for families, but would be a dose of much needed joy for all this holiday season.”

Thanksgiving weekend also saw a large turnout, with 12,265 total guests. The largest crowd visited the park on Saturday, Dec. 12, which recorded an attendance of 6,137.

And despite rain closing Winterfest on Friday, Jan. 1, the event still attracted 5,318 guests during the final weekend. The last night of operation was Saturday, Jan. 2.

This year Wednesday was “Furry Friends Day,” where pets were welcome. Hot chocolate was again available for purchase and there was a gift shop, located inside the recreation complex this year. Santa was also inside for visitors to greet. Visitors had their temperature taken upon entry

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into the shop and masks were required.

Attendees could also participate in a scavenger hunt, which included looking for reindeer in flight, a famous furry friend and some sparkly bling. There was also a “Junior Reindeer Navigation Test Maze,” a large fire truck to check out and several stops for photo opportunities.

For 27 years Winterfest was viewed by tram, but with the success of the walk-through event this year, organizers will look into it as an option next year.

“We haven’t begun discussions on what next year’s Winterfest will look like, but with the positive reviews the walk-through Winterfest received, we will definitely brainstorm what our options are moving forward with Winterfest 2021, possibly seeing if we can somehow create a new hybrid of this longstanding holiday tradition,” Mitchell said.

JANUARY 8, 2021

Over $72K raised so far to support Atlantic General Continued from Page 21 goal.

“I love this event, not just because it’s funny to watch people run into freezing cold water screaming, and I enjoy having a microphone and an audience,” she added laughing, “but AGH is a fabulous hospital with an amazing team of many different people in many roles and seeing the community come together to support the hospital is really cool.”

Those who were unable to participate in the Ocean City event, had an opportunity to do a virtual swim, where they could go into the water wherever they were and post videos and photos on social media using #OCPenguinSwim.

The net fundraising goal this year was $80,000. As of early this week, the event raised $72,000, with $12,000 of that coming from Bull on the Beach, Yonker said. Money still trickles in for a few weeks after the event, she added.

Bull on the Beach on 94th Street, has been participating since the first year.

The team has raised more than $642,000 for the Berlin hospital.

Overall, nearly $1.6 million has been generated through the swim since its inception.

“The Penguin Swim is one of our largest fundraisers in support of Atlantic General Hospital’s mission to provide a coordinated care system with access to quality care, personalized service and education to create a healthy community. All proceeds benefit Atlantic General Hospital Foundation,” Yonker said.

An awards ceremony recognizing top fund raisers in several categories is usually held each year inside the Princess Royale on 91st Street, but because of covid, a virtual event will take place instead next week.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

More than 74,000 guests visited the walk-through Winterfest of Lights this year at Northside Park on 125th Street.

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 23

Ocean City Today

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Cheesesteak meatloaf with bacon crust gives fresh take

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) Choices are a fact of life and sometimes selections come in the most unusual situations.

For years I have defended the name, “Steak and Cheese,” as my co-workers insist “Cheesesteak” is the proper term.

I have argued my point diligently and cannot understand their persistence of correctness. In order to resolve this issue, one must delve into the history of a Philly cheesesteak.

According to Philadelphia’s official tourism site, Pat Olivieri invented the classic Philly cheesesteak in the 1930s.

Olivieri was a hot dog vendor in south Philadelphia who, as the story goes, decided to grill slices of beef with onions and pack it on an Italian roll. A cab driver caught a whiff, and decided to order it.

Word spread rapidly and the steak sandwich was an instant hit.

Olivieri eventually opened up Pat’s King of Steaks on 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue. Cheese was added to the mix in the 40s by Pat’s manager, Joe Lorenza, according to Philadelphia Magazine.

A classic Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced sauteed ribeye, sauteed onions, and Cheese Whiz encased in a long, crusty Italian roll.

The recipe is simple, so each ingredient stands out and at the same time compliments each other. Any additions, subtractions, or substitutions, and the famous Pennsylvania title will no longer be deemed authentic.

Steak sandwiches that do not include the classic ingredients are referred to as a cheesesteak, steak and cheese, or steak sandwich.

The art of entertaining is all about the element of surprise. A simple variation of one’s menu can make a memorable occasion.

A cheesesteak meatloaf encrusted with a layer of crispy bacon sounds yummy.

A traditional meatloaf is stuffed with sauteed onions, green peppers, mushrooms and gooey cheese. A crown of crunchy bacon not only adds flavor and texture, but is the final step for a fabulous presentation.

A few secrets follow to ensure a delicious cheesesteak meatloaf.

An even amount of ground beef, ground pork and ground veal are the best combinations of meat for a juicy, flavorful meatloaf. The beef is the foundation of the dish, the pork gives it flavor and the veal adds tenderness.

You can purchase packs of already prepared meatloaf mixture; however,

the ratio will not be divided evenly. In other words, the cheapest meat will be the main ingredient.

Meatloaf needs seasoning, do not skimp on the salt and pepper.

Onions, garlic, celery and green pepper are the standard vegetables that are added to the meat mixture.

But if you include them in the cheesesteak filling, you will want to omit them in the actual meat mixture.

Bread crumbs or stale bread is the next consideration. If you decide to use stale bread, you must soak it in milk or the bread will absorb the moisture from the meat.

It is also difficult to distribute the clumps of soggy bread evenly throughout the meat mixture. This is why breadcrumbs are the preferred choice.

Most meatloaf recipes contain an egg protein. The ratio of eggs to meat is 1 egg per 2 pounds of meat. For every egg that is used, whisk in 1 teaspoon of milk to thin out the richness of the egg.

Typically, meatloaf is covered with a tomato or brown sauce. Forgo the sauce because it will interfere with the crispiness of the bacon and take away from the theme of the dish.

Always allow meatloaf to rest after it comes out of the oven. This gives the juices a chance to be redistributed throughout the meat.

Cheesesteak meatloaf can be served on toasted Italian bread or with a side of mashed potatoes. If you like cheesesteaks, meatloaf, and bacon, you must give this recipe a try. Enjoy!

to 350 degrees.

4. In a small bowl, whisk egg, milk and Worcestershire sauce.

5. In another small bowl, combine bread crumbs, salt and pepper.

6. In a medium sauté pan over medium high heat, cook green peppers, onions and mushrooms in olive oil for 7 minutes.

7. In a large bowl, combine meat, garlic, celery and egg mixture. Add bread crumb mixture to the meat, and again mix thoroughly.

8. Place a sheet of tin foil on an 11 x 14-inch sheet pan. Make sure the

edges of the foil are snug against the edges of the pan. Remember, this is going to be the mold for the meatloaf.

9. Spread the meat mixture evenly over the entire sheet pan.

10. Top meat mixture with cheese, then add the sauteed veggies over the cheese.

11. Gently lift the tin foil and roll the meat from the smaller end of the rectangle to form a large cylinder shape.

12. Carefully, transfer the bacon strips to another large sheet of tin foil.

See CHEESESTEAK Page 24

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Cheesesteak Meatloaf Encased in a Bacon Crust Ingredients 1 (12 oz.) package thick sliced bacon 2 pounds meatloaf mixture 1 large egg 1 teaspoon whole milk 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 3 large cloves garlic, minced 1 ½ stalks celery (leaves included), finely chopped ½ cup plain breadcrumbs 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 large green peppers, seeded, stems removed, and finely sliced 1 ½ yellow onions, finely sliced 2 cups baby portobellos, stems removed and finely sliced 8 ounces of shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese 1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

2. Arrange bacon slices so they are slightly overlapping on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Cook for 15 minutes, remove from the oven and allow to cool. Using paper towels, blot any excess grease. Set aside.

3. Increase the oven temperature

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

WORLD WAR II

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Gen. Mackay leads Australia in assault on Tobruk fortress

Cheesesteak gets new culinary spin involving meatloaf

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) This week 80 years ago, after the 6th Australian Division, commanded by Gen. Iven Mackay, completed the capture of Libyan port of Bardia, it continued its westward advance and began the assault on the fortress of Tobruk.

Tobruk is a port city on Libya’s eastern Mediterranean coast near the border of Egypt. It is 75 miles west of Bardia and 290 miles east of Benghazi via the highway that Marshal Italo Balbo built, named Via Balbia.

As a port, it was very important as it was so much closer than Benghazi or worse, Tripoli, which was about a 1,200mile drive. There has been a city there for more than 2,000 years. Currently, the city has a population of 120,000.

Gen. Mackay’s Aussies were joined by the 7th Armoured Division, commanded by Maj.-Gen. Michael O’Moore Creagh, which had been ordered to bypass Tobruk and threaten it from the west.

By Jan. 6, the 7th Armoured had occupied El Adem, which is 14 miles south of Tobruk, and is currently the site of the Tobruk International Airport.

The Tobruk garrison was com-

manded by Enrico Pitassi Mannella. It had been reinforced by Sirte Infantry Division, commanded by Vincenzo della Mura. Of the Tenth Army’s nine divisions, it was the only one that remained and was now commanded by Guiseppe Tellera.

Tobruk’s defenses included 25,000 Italian soldiers with 45 light and 20 medium tanks, 200 guns, antitank ditches, Forts Solaro and Pilastrino, and several other strong points, together with the 10-inch guns of the Cruiser San Giorgio.

By the next day, the port was surrounded. Marshal Rodolfo Graziani, overall commander of Italian forces in Libya, wired Il Duce, that, “This morning the investment of the position by enemy armored vehicles has begun. Afterwards, the various episodes of the new drama are easily predictable.”

The marshal explained that the 22,000-man garrison was insufficient to properly man the 34-mile perimeter.

On Jan. 9, the marshal informed Gen. Mannella that there would be no relief. The marshal also ordered Gen. Tellera to withdraw with the Sabratha Division to a line between Derna and Berta.

Gen. Mannella divided the remain-

General Iven Mackay

ing defenders into two sectors. The Eastern sector was commanded by Brig.

Gen. Umberto Barberis, while the Western sector was commanded by Brig.

Gen. della Mura. Gen. Mannella assigned 123 of his guns to Gen. Barberis and 97 to Gen. della Mura. In addition there were two 4.7-inch shore batteries.

Beginning at midnight, on Jan. 21, the defenders were subjected to a twohour naval bombardment by the Royal Navy’s HMS Terror and three smaller ships.

After 2 a.m., RAF bombers took over.

At 5:40 a.m. British artillery opened up.

At dawn, the Australians started forward. They were followed at 7 a.m. by 18 Matilda II tanks. The Italian defense was hampered by lack of communication.

Continued on Page 27

Continued from Page 23 Do not disrupt the pattern of the bacon.

Carefully lift the meatloaf onto the bacon. The bacon slices should be perpendicular to the length of the meatloaf.

Lift the tin foil and gently roll the meatloaf onto the bacon strips. You may have to tighten the meatloaf as you go.

The seam of the bacon strips should end up on the bottom. Secure the meatloaf in the tin foil and make sure the ends are sealed. Cook for 30 minutes.

13. Remove meatloaf from the oven. Using paper towels, blot any excess grease.

Carefully remove tin foil, and cook for another 45 minutes. Again, make sure the seam side of the bacon is on the bottom.

If the bacon crust is not fully cooked, place under the broiler for a few minutes.

14. Allow meat to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

PAGE 25

Commentary

Ocean City Today Jan. 8, 2021

Page 26

Objections, mobs and then what?

The question national election doubters continue to ask is what would have been the harm of having a federal commission look at the results in key states to determine if voting fraud occurred?

The easy answer is that it would turn the constitution on its head by federalizing the elections, blow apart the concept of state’s rights, and possibly result in the dismantling of the Electoral College.

The constitution grants the legislatures of each state the authority to conduct elections as long as they do not breach other constitutional guarantees such as the right to vote. The states also have the power to name their own elections officials, such as the secretaries of state, who also are bound by state and federal laws.

To impose a higher level of oversight such as a congressionally appointed commission to examine how the states, their legislatures and elections officials did their jobs would nullify the states’ exclusive control over elections and their voting verification processes. In other words, it would suggest that the bipartisan state legislatures can’t be trusted, while the federal government can be. Ahem.

It would also mean that ballots cast in any targeted state would not count until the federal government says they do. Equally disturbing is that this commission proposal offered no acceptable “then what?” solution, as in if the commission found a problem, then what?

If that problem didn’t change the electoral vote count, nothing would happen. But if objections to electoral votes, such as those lodged Wednesday by members of the Senate and House, including Rep. Andy Harris, were validated by a commission’s findings and affirmed by Congress, no one would like what comes next.

If the number of electoral votes thrown out resulted in no candidate meeting the minimum 270 electoral vote requirement, all voters in the nation would be disenfranchised, because the House of Representatives would get to decide who, of the top three electoral vote recipients, would be president.

Obviously, the objectors in Congress on Wednesday didn’t think anything like that would occur. Then again, they also didn’t think an inflamed mob would break into the Capitol Building and defile the “temple of our democracy.”

The harm, as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said, is that “The voters, the courts, and the states have all spoken. If we overrule them all, it would damage our republic forever. If this election were overturned by mere allegations from the losing side, our democracy would enter a death spiral. We'd never see the whole nation accept an election again.”

EDITOR Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS Greg Ellison, Joshua Kim, Elizabeth Bonin, Ally Lanasa ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Elaine Brady ACCOUNT MANAGERS Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier

PUBLIC EYE

No politics for me

People have asked, over the years, whether I ever considered running for political office, and my response always has been I’m not that into self-loathing.

I beat myself up enough as it is for saying stupid things, occasionally (or frequently, depending on whom you ask), so I certainly don’t need to make it a full-time pursuit by saying even more stupid things just to keep people happy.

Besides, there’s quite a bit By about government and poliStewart tics that I know nothing Dobson about, not that this particular shortcoming has prevented any number of other people from ascending to seats of power.

But take the Electoral College for instance.

I have been opposed to it for most of my adult life, figuring that we didn’t need a middleman, so to speak, to vote for us after we had already voted.

To me, it’s like writing down a prayer and sending it to the preacher with a note that says, “Please forward.”

I just didn’t get it. Until recently. Now, I have become the great defender of this institution.

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS Nancy MacCubbin SENIOR DESIGNER Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTIST Kelly Brown PUBLISHER Christine Brown ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Gini Tufts Copyright 2021

Here’s why: California has something like 10 million more people of voting age than any other state in the country.

Meanwhile, we have the Electoral College, which is kind of like a voltage regulator that tamps down the surges and boosts the low points.

In other words, if we didn’t have an Electoral College, California voters could just about decide for the rest of us who the president would be.

That would not be good in so many respects, not the least of which would be the possibility of them choosing someone from the Tofu Party, followed by a presidential executive order declaring that nuts, berries and almond milk will be the required diet.

And then there’s the strong possibility of the appointment of at least one Kardashian to the Supreme Court, or maybe as the secretary of the new Department of the Exterior, wherever they’d look best and get the most exposure.

No thanks. I’ll stick with the system we have. I’ll also try not to say stupid things quite as frequently as I have been, just to be sure that no one mistakes me for a member of the political class.

As President John Adams said, “In my many years I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a congress.”

Ocean City Today P.O. Box 3500, Ocean City, Md. 21843 Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.

Ocean City Today is published weekly by FLAG Publications, Inc. at 8200 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Md. 21842.

Ocean City Today is available by subscription at $150 a year.

Visit us on the Web at www.oceancitytoday.com.

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 27

Ocean City Today

WORLD WAR II

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 24 Phone lines had been cut by the bombardments and there weren’t enough radios. It wasn’t until 8:30 a.m. that Gen. Mannella learned of the attack. He informed Graziani at 11:50 a.m. that most of his Eastern sector had been destroyed.

Meanwhile, the RAF sent 56 sorties of Blenheim bombers against the city. At 4 p.m., Fort Pilastrino was assaulted.

The Italian headquarters at Fort Solaro had been abandoned. By 6:30 p.m., Gen. Mannella and his staff surrendered.

Adm. Massimiliano Vietina organized the defense of the harbor after Marshal Graziani denied his request for a suicide attack against the British ships outside the harbor.

The crew of San Georgio scuttled it in the harbor at 4:15 a.m. on Jan. 22. At 8:30 a.m., Adm. Vietina surrendered the harbor and its defenses to Gen. Horace Robertson of the 19th Australian Infantry Brigade. Gen. della Mura surrendered Fort Pilastrino and the Sirte Infantry Division shortly thereafter. By 4 p.m. all was quiet.

Once again, Barba Elettrica, having escaped the debacle at Sidi Barrani the previous month, and then the surrender of Bardia after promising Il Duce, “In Bardia we are and here we stay,” was able to make his escape, once again, making his way to Derna, where he assumed command of that garrison.

After the capture of Bardia, in which 36,000 Italians were captured, British

Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, inspired by the Prime Minister’s famous speech about the RAF during the Battle of Britain, quipped that, “Never has so much been surrendered by so many to so few!”

The next day an Australian soldier lowered the green and red flag of the Kingdom of Italy and replaced it with a “digger’s” hat. In the defense of Tobruk, 18 Italian officers and 750 Italian soldiers had been killed and 30 Italian officers and 2,250 men had been wounded.

More than 20,000 Italian soldiers and sailors had become prisoners of war.

The Australians captured 208 guns and 87 tanks. The Commonwealth suffered 400 casualties, 355 of which were Australian.

The day after Tobruk’s surrender, Marshal Graziani wired Commando Supremo, claiming that he had faced not one, but 17 divisions, saying that, “I had a vision of the future. I saw that it was not possible to avoid the fatality of the future! I am more or less in the position of a captain in command of his ship which is on the point of sinking because errors are present on all sides.”

After requesting more armor, and — correctly — explaining that, “In this theatre of operations, a single armored division is more important than an entire army,” Marshal Graziani received a telegram from Mussolini, on Jan. 27,, saying that, “I want you to know, dear Marshal, that we are eating out our liver, day and night, to send you the neces-

Warriors Against Opiates joins forces with Wor. Goes Purple Editor, In 2016 two mothers, Jackie Ball and Heidi McNeeley, joined forces to battle opiate addiction in Worcester County and to provide resources and support to people dealing with addiction whether in themselves or in people that they loved.

The citizens of Worcester County, along with the Worcester County Health Department, embraced these moms, and the nonprofit organization Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction was born.

Articles of incorporation were written, by-laws were approved and a passionate, talented board of directors came together.

Monthly "town hall" meetings were held and valuable resources were introduced to the community. Over five years, the Warriors grew to 300 registered members and countless business owners and politicians who joined the battle.

Because of the generosity of the Humphrey's Foundation, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore

and numerous local citizens, over $100,000 has been raised by the Warriors in five years' time.

That money has been used almost exclusively for funding recovery for more than 150 people.

This year, the Warriors are excited to announce that they will be merging with the organization, Worcester Goes Purple (WGP).

WGP was started with grant funding from the Opioid Operational Command Center grant which was facilitated by the Worcester County Board of Education.

Partnering with the Worcester County Health Department and Atlantic General Hospital, WGP was born.

Led by Debbie Smullen, Worcester Goes Purple has been an important player in the battle against all addiction.

Debbie has led the charge in reducing stigma and bringing awareness to the addiction of Worcester County.

Debbie will continue her leadership of the new organization, Worcester Goes Purple Warriors Against Addiction.

Jackie and Heidi will continue to support Debbie and will always be passionate fighters against addiction everywhere.

Continued on Page 28

saries for this arduous battle.”

Next week: Battle of Koh-Chang 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.

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Presented free as a courtesy to Licensed REALTORS® who are regular Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. For all other REALTORS®, there is a weekly charge of $10 per listing.

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Ocean City Today

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 27 For more information please contact Debbie at wgpwarriors2021@gmail.com.

Heidi A. McNeeley, President Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction

Ocean Pines resident voices concerns with leaf removal Editor, We have lived and owned property in Ocean Pines for almost 31 years and I have never seen the streets/roads look so bad with trash an debris, tree branches, leaves in the ditches and raked leaves just lie on the streets/roads.

When the residents of Ocean Pines take their time to rake the leaves, they should be collected, not just left out there to eventually blow back into ditches.

Tree branches should be collected, not just left on the roads, maybe trim and cut

JANUARY 8, 2021

REAL ESTATE REPORT back the trees.

You have code enforcement, press the construction sites to clean up instead of having trash blowing down the streets. I clean up the area in our neighborhood, it is no big deal, maybe come up with a fun incentive program to get everybody involved. We should take pride in our neighborhood and community.

Instead of spending money on another capital project, I think you need to focus on making Ocean Pines look a little better. I have no problem with an increase in annual dues if it is used properly. Maybe the general manager and board members should take a ride in the neighborhoods, you should be embarrassed, I know, I am. Just take a ride down Ocean Parkway, you don’t even have to ride down the side streets/roads.

Thank you.

Wayne Littleton Ocean Pines

Real estate market closes strong despite 2020 chaos

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) The year 2020 in real estate ended very strong. Here’s an “at a glance” recap of some of the various market stats.

• The average sales prices varied monthly throughout the year, but June had the highest sales price average increase for Worcester county at 20 percent higher than last year, and the month of November showed sales price averages at $347,572.

• The most recently reported figure for the month of November

showed months of inventory is at 1.6 months, compared to this time last year where the months of inventory average was 5.3.

• In 2019, the active inventory during November was 1,055 units; in 2020 it was 391.

• As of the first week in 2021, there are only 35 total units actively listed for sale in the MLS that are direct oceanfront.

• The luxury market posted 29 sales in 2020 over the $1 million mark. This is compared to last year where there were 15 sales over $1 million.

• The majority of the luxury homes sold in 2020 were in the town limits of Ocean City, which saw 18 of the 29 sales.

• The highest priced sale was for a bayside waterfront home in Heron Harbour at $3,300,000, and this home had been listed on and off the market since 2009.

• As of the first week in 2021, there were only four active single-family homes in Ocean Pines actively listed for sale in the MLS between the price range of $300,000-400,000.

• In 2020, there were 133 new construction units sold versus 103 in 2019.

– Lauren Bunting is a licensed Associate Broker with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s International Realty in Ocean City.

www ww.oceancitytodayy.com

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

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WYFCS modifies celebration on Jan. 15, watch on YouTube (Jan. 8, 2021) During Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services’ 45th annual celebration, the organization will focus to what has been gained in 2020.

Worcester Youth adapted to the changes the pandemic imposed and continued serving the community with the help of some individuals, who donated their time and services to contribute to its mission.

Worcester Youth’s annual celebration will look a little different this year and will be hosted virtually on Jan. 15 at noon during a recorded Zoom meeting. It will be posted on YouTube for viewing after.

The organization will highlight what it accomplished despite the pandemic, and honor those who helped make it possible.

Every year Worcester Youth dedicates a “Sun Award” to people and organizations in the community who have contributed to the organization in significant ways.

This year three people will be given a Sun Award for their contributions to WYFCS and the community – Gee Williams, Robin Walter and Adriano “Bubba” Almony.

Williams, former mayor of Berlin, will be honored as an “Outstanding Supporter.”

He has devoted much time over the past 45 years to civic and political service to improve the quality of life for his community.

He served for 12 years as Berlin’s mayor until this fall. Under his leadership, he has supported Worcester Youth in many ways.

From being available for simple phone calls to advocating for Worcester Youth’s community office in Berlin, Williams has been a significant part of why the organization is what it is today.

Most significantly, he supported Town of Berlin funding for the organization’s youth programs and has been a leading influence with the Berlin Youth Club.

Walter is being recognized as the “Outstanding Contributor” Honoree.

Walter was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, and moved to Maryland after retiring from 38 years in public school education.

She became a Worcester Youth Board member in January 2016, and then served as its president from July of 2019-July 2020.

In this role, she assisted with fundraising, agency planning and staff support.

She helped develop the most recent strategic plan for the agency and helped guide Worcester Youth in a positive direction to meet its mission and vision.

Her leadership and compassion helped the agency remain stable and productive.

Almony will receive the “Distinguished Advocate” Honoree award.

Almony was born in Hanover,

Pennsylvania, however, he grew up in Ocean City, and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 2012.

He is a celebrity bodyguard, founder of Bubba’s Celebrity Basketball Game, humanitarian, and U.S. chairman for Bodyguards Against Bullying.

In his mission to give back to his hometown, Almony has been very supportive of Worcester Youth and Family.

He has promoted its mission and vision through social media and his podcast.

He also hosted a presentation for children in its youth programs and the community about bullying and the importance of having a mentor.

Almony has been a true advocate for the agency, and has inspired youth to be kind, have healthy relationships, and find positive support systems.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

TREE DROP-OFF

The Town of Ocean City is providing a Christmas tree drop-off site at the 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot through Jan. 15. Remove all tinsel, ornaments and other non-wooden items from the tree.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

AGH PENGUIN SWIM

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Snuggling up before the 27th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim on New Year’s Day, from left, are Shayla Hayes, Jazmin Mayfield, Serenity Phillips, Kiley Harant and Jennifer Curry, of Bethany Beach.

Nick and Lilli Franklin again join their father, Michael, president and CEO of Atlantic General Hospital, for a dip in the ocean during the 27th annual Penguin Swim on New Year’s Day.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Members of the Bull on the Beach Penguin Swim team are all smiles before the New Year’s Day event.

Butch, left, and Tristan Lorditch of Denver, Pennsylvania, are all decked out for the 27th annual Penguin Swim on New Year’s Day.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

“Angels,” from left, Brooke and Brodie, 9, Berezowski, of Hebron, and Loretta Pramov of Selbyville, and “devil” Maverick Berezowski, 6, took part in the 27th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim for the third year.

Members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol and Ocean City Fire Department gather for a photo after the 27th annual Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim on the beach between 91st and 94th streets on New Year’s Day. Pictured, from left, are OCBP First Lt. Skip Lee and Lt. Ward Kovacs; fire fighter/paramedics Eric Olson and Steve Twilley; OCBP Sgt. Colby Phillips; OCFD Battalion Chief David Peterson and fighter/paramedic Corey Brown.

JANUARY 8, 2021

Maryland comptroller gives extension for business taxes (Jan. 8, 2021) Comptroller Peter Franchot announced this week that his agency has extended filing and payment deadlines for certain Maryland business taxes and quarterly estimated income tax returns and payments that would be due in January, February and March 2021 until April 15.

The action is similar to an extension granted last year to businesses during the early stages of the covid19 pandemic. No interest or penalties will be assessed and there is no need to file a request for extension.

“My directive for a tax forbearance that is interest- and penalty-free is a direct and immediate economic stimulus for Maryland businesses and workers — a decision that we estimate keeps more than $1 billion in consumers’ pockets and helps businesses keep their lights on,” Franchot said.

Businesses and self-employed individuals or independent contractors with estimated income tax returns and payments due on Jan. 15, 2021 also will be granted an extension until April 15.

“As businesses await approval of applications for grants and loans, receipt of funds and additional federal government action, these tax exten-

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Ocean City Today

sions immediately alleviate financial pressures during challenging times,” Franchot said. “Just like last year when we gave businesses a breather, after 90 days, taxpayers will remit what is due, ensuring this action is budget neutral for the State of Maryland.”

Employers must complete their 2020 withholding tax returns and payments due by Jan. 31, 2021, ensuring that W-2s will be delivered on time for taxpayers to file when the tax season begins at the end of January.

Any state withholding returns and payments originally due between Feb. 1, and April 14, 2021 may be submitted by April 15, 2021 without incurring interest and penalties.

Employers must still file and pay Federal withholding taxes.

The extension applies to business taxes administered by the comptroller: sales and use, admissions and amusement, alcohol, tobacco, and motor fuel tax, as well as tire recycling fee and bay restoration fee returns and payments with due dates between Jan. 1, and April 14.

Franchot also sent a letter to IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig requesting the same forbearance period for federal monthly business tax payments.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Dean’s List Kai McGovern, class of 2023, has been named to the dean’s list for the fall 2020 semester at the University of Vermont. McGovern from Berlin, is enrolled in the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources.

To be named to the dean’s list, students must have a gradepoint average of 3.0 or better and rank in the top 20 percent of their class in their respective college or school.

McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland, recently announced its fall 2020 dean’s list, recognizing full-time undergraduate students for outstanding academic achievement.

The list includes James Church of Ocean City, recognized with honors (grade point average of 3.90 or higher), and Hannah Burke, also of Ocean City, recognized with highest honors (grade point average of 3.70-3.89).

Recognition Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore (BBBSES) has presented Dan Ervin, Ph. D., Professor of Finance at Salisbury University and board chair, as its 2020 Board Member of the Year.

This prestigious honor recognizes Dr. Ervin’s unwavering commitment to empower youth to achieve their full potential at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore.

Dr. Ervin joined the BBSES Board of

Directors in January of 2017.

While he is currently board chair, Dr. Ervin has long dedicated unwavering support to the Dan Ervin organization through financial counseling and visionary leadership.

He has been instrumental in the concept, construction and launch of programs and services provided to the community by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore.

His role as board chair has become more vital in 2020. The covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly challenged BBBSES to provide mentoring, resources, and enrichment to the community.

Although the service delivery method of providing essential support to families in the community has changed, Big Brothers Big Sisters with the steadfast board leadership of Dr. Ervin, will continue to support the Eastern Shore community in overcoming adversity through leadership and collaboration.

Retired After 39 years of dedicated service as a member of the board of trustees of Wor-Wic Community College, William H. Kerbin of Pocomoke City recently reContinued on Page 32

Open Weekends

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

Outlets OC gets 3-D retail window (Jan. 8, 2021) Customers at Outlets Ocean City won’t need their passports to take this year’s holiday photos (free) in front of Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower or an Alpine location.

The outlet center is one of seven sites featuring the first multi-level, interactive engagement 3D retail windows in the world.

The new Window Wonderland Getaway promotion integrates clickworthy walls, QR-accessed virtual animations, games and promotions to allow customers to “travel” virtually, create photos for their own social media and enter layered contests with awards including weekly prizes, a $500 shopping spree and trips to Europe.

Designed to look like Paris, London and a “mystery” Alpine location, the 3D windows invite the customer to pose in front of the 3D scene for a fun photo opportunity to share on their social channels.

Signage encourages customers to enter contests to win weekly prizes or

a trip to Paris, London or the “mystery” Alpine location, which will be revealed in the spring.

They can “Pose. Post. Play” in social media, or “Pick. Scan. Play” using an innovative QR code-enabled mechanism.

Either system enters them into the outlet center’s engagement platforms and are supported by onsite graphics, social media and advertising.

Scanning the QR code also activates an animated scene on the customer’s phone.

Outlets Ocean City is one of seven outlet centers that have premiered the innovative new windows, which were developed by The Outlet Resource Group (TORG) and their design team, including 3DWD from the Netherlands and the Funnel Design Group and SLM Consulting from the US. “Every single shopping center in the world has some empty window or windows, so we decided to use our windows to create an engagement

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Local News • Enter tainment • Spor ts Classifieds • Obituaries • Business Legals • Calendar • Lifestyle • Opinion www ww.oceancity itytoday. t d y.com

tool for our customers to interact with us in a touchless way, through the first and only 3D interactive windows in a retail setting in the world,” said Lisa Quier Wagner, principal of TORG. ”We were able to create a promotional activity using that space and enticing our customers to use their imaginations to fantasize about a post-covid adventure, dressing our windows to create a visual ‘journey’ to Paris, London and the Alps in a beautiful wintery scene, escaping reality for a flight of fancy.”

TORG is deploying this unique program as an alternative to any sort of a crowd-generating holiday event, which would not be appropriate during these times.

The Window Wonderland Getaway allows customers to interact with the centers on their own timeline and comfort level.

“Of course, we want them to visit and patronize the stores, but this promotion allows them to participate even if they do not elect to enter a store, but merely to enter our digital space,” Wagner said.

“The outlet industry is seeing 33 percent better traffic than indoor malls, with sales meeting and exceeding last year, even before Black Friday,“ Wagner said. “We think our promotion will enhance the success of our centers’ seasons and set us up for a successful 2021.”

The Window Wonderland Getaway will operate until March 15, 2021.

Located right on Route 50, just one mile west of the beach in Ocean City, the center has over 30 stores and restaurants, including Adidas, American Eagle Outfitters, Carter’s Babies and Kids, Coach, Crocs, Eddie Bauer, HomeGoods, J. Crew Factory, Michael Kors, Nike Clearance Store and Old Navy.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Continued from Page 31 tired from the board.

Kerbin has the distinction of being the longest serving board member. He joined the board of trustees in 1981 and served as chair from 1984-85 and 199799, and as vice chair from 1995-97 and 2015-17.

He promoted the William Kerbin college and the benefits of higher education in his personal life, as well as in his membership in community groups, such as the MDDC Press Association, the Sinepuxent Lodge AF&AM, the American Legion, the Pocomoke Rotary Club and the Pocomoke City Chamber of Commerce.

Other members of Wor-Wic’s board of trustees are Russell W. Blake of Pocomoke City, chairperson, Kimberly C. Gillis, vice chairperson, Andrew W. Booth, Morgan Hazel and Martin T. Neat of Salisbury, and Lorraine PurnellAyres of Snow Hill.

Fundraiser The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City is conducting a fundraiser to support vital community projects.

The club is selling handcrafted masks for $10 each, or $25 for three.

Four sizes are available: adult large, medium (for women and teenagers) child (for 7- 12 years old) and small child (3-6 years old).

They are made in Maryland with fabric and supplies from other small businesses in the community. The masks come with an adjustable elastic band.

There are a variety of themes to choose from including sports teams, music groups, nautical and animal motifs. Contact Steve Cohen at 301-6673099 or stevecohenjd@gmail.com for purchase information.

Downtown Association joins forces to partner with OCDC (Jan. 8, 2021) For the past 20 years, the Downtown Association and Ocean City Development Corporation have partnered on various downtown projects.

As of Jan. 1, the two nonprofit organizations will merge, whereby Ocean City Development Corporation will remain the lead entity with the Downtown Association becoming an active committee under it.

It will be known as the Downtown Association Committee.

The two organizations have decided to join forces to maximize their resources in an effort to continue their good works with downtown revitalization, in an effort to spur economic development; along with

special events, public art, and placemaking.

To that end, the popular Ocean City Development Corporation Façade Improvement Program and other renovation programs will continue, as well as staffing of the Boardwalk Information Cottage.

Many of the special events that take place annually, such as the Sunset Park Party Nights music series, After Dark socials, OCtoberfest Craft Beer Festival, Granville Trimper Pancake Breakfast, and the Art Davis Memorial Golf Tournament will continue.

Other events and fundraisers will also continue and expand under this continued partnership.

JANUARY 8, 2021

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Ocean City Today

THE OC RAVENS ROOST #44 PENGUIN SWIM TEAM Thanks all of those who donated to our efforts in raising over $8,000+ in support of Atlantic General Hospital’s 27th Annual Penguin Swim, including George & Tracey Economas Jamie & Jeff Kormann Edwin Schillo Rick & Lisa MacEwan Mike & Tracy Carpenter Cory Anastasi Sarah Nesbitt Peggy Atkins Erik Skon Darlene Murphy Kathleen Gonze Thomas Atkins Russ & Anita Roberts Kenneth Smedley Walter and Lynn Henss Don McMullen Herbert Roe Barbara Knickman Ronald Skon Mike Cihak Marc & Patti Grimes

Duane Geruschat Paul and Trish Nea Bill Cordwell Jim McKendrick Michael & Victoria Healy Martha Furman Larry Mitchell Jennifer McCall Bob & Carol Munroe Sandy Taras Thomas Elliott Lary & Dale Miller Kari Story Mary Marta Daryl Carpenter Barbara Ferger Richard & Janet Witte Bill & Donn Croff Phil Houck Laurence Mitchell Sharon O’Hare

Joe White @The Shrimp Boat Ruth’s Chris Steak House Crabs to Go Embers/Blue Crab House & Raw Bar Hooper’s Crab House Coastal Salt Ocean Pines Yacht Club

Thomas Maly Toni Keiser Darlene Jameson Michele Sardelis Ken & Sandy Taras Martin & Carol Baer Lew & Sue Welsch Mary Martinez Julie Lonoconus Kellie Duckett Darlene Stabile Robin Wolinski Patti Lookner Steve Smith Tim Henn Cheryl Jacobs Jim Manfuso Sheila Harding Donna & Dale White Phillip & Michelle White

Pitt Stop Beer & Wine Burley Oak Brewing Carl M. Freeman Foundation Hi Tide Dispensary Ocean City Ravens Roost #44 OC Ravens Roost #44 Ocean City Today/Bayside Gazette

And The Team; Rob Carpenter, Dennis Faber, Joanne Faber, Cindi Brought, Lew Furman, Jim McKendrick, Maggie Miller, Gary Miller, Mark Miller, Lilly White, Bob Rose, & Member Emeritus, Paul Neal

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

WPS TEAM AWARDS Worcester Prep Upper School students presented team awards during the fall sports season were: C.C. Lizas (volleyball, MVP), Sophia Ludt and Moorea Phillips (volleyball, Co-Coaches Award), Maddy Warren and Sara Freih (volleyball, Co-Most Improved), Caitlyn Hoen (girls’ cross country, MVP), Caroline Anderson (girls’ cross country, Coaches Award), Sydney Lamson-Reich and Natalie Foxwell (girls’ cross country, Co-Most Improved); Graham McColgan (boys’ cross country, MVP) and Sajiv Satyal (boys’ cross country, Most Improved); and in back, Claire Williams (field hockey, MVP), Caitlin Williams (field hockey, Coaches Award), Elaina Elrick (field hockey, Most Improved), Morgan White (girls’ soccer, MVP), Ava Nally (girls’ soccer, Coaches Award), Myranda Beebe (girls’ soccer Most Improved), Michael Wehberg (boys’ soccer, MVP), Brice Richins (boys’ soccer, Coaches Award), Vishnu Mohan (boys’ soccer, Most Improved), T.J. Bescak (golf, MVP), Vanesska Hall (golf, Coaches Award) and Riley Schoch (golf, Most Improved). Not pictured: Riley Moyer (boys’ cross country, Coaches Award).

PLAYERS RECOGNIZED A number of Worcester Prep students received Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference honors in cross country, field hockey, golf, soccer and volleyball during the fall season. Award recipients are: boys soccer, Dylan McGovern (honorable mention), Vishnu Mohan, Brice Richins, Michael Wehberg, Logan Ginnavan and Jack Gardner (also championship game MVP); golf, Harrison Humes, Griffin Jones, Kaden Mault, Vanesska Hall and T.J. Bescak; cross country, Connor Carpenter, Graham McColgan (Male Runner of the Year) and Caitlyn Hoen (Female Runner of the Year); and in back, field hockey, Carly Young (honorable mention) and Claire Williams; girls’ soccer, Ava Nally, Morgan White (championship game MVP), Ansley Gardner, Claire Windrow (honorable mention), Anna McDonald and Lily Baeurle; and volleyball, Sophia Ludt (honorable mention) and C.C. Lizas.

VIRTUAL LEARNING Ocean City Elementary School fourth grader Opal Hambury from Lynn Wrench’s class, and her brother, Hayden, from Stephen Decatur Middle School, enjoy the afternoon sun as they virtually learn with their faithful companion, Bernie.

NEW OFFICERS At a small gathering in December, the Atlantic General Hospital Auxiliary celebrated the installation of its new officers for 2021. Pictured, from left, are Jackie Choate, recording/corresponding secretary; Bob Gresehover, treasurer; Ken Waters, outgoing president; Cindy Roman, incoming president; and Ann Hamilton, vice president.

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Recognition Marinas.com recently announced the winners of its 2020 Boater’s Choice Awards and several Maryland marinas made the list, including Sunset Marina in West Ocean City.

Every marina is eligible to earn a Boaters’ Choice Award, which is based on the number of reviews and average star-rating on Marinas.com.

Because the award relies on reviews submitted throughout a marina’s season, all boaters had an equal opportunity to determine the outcome of the Boaters’ Choice Awards and mari-

SURF REPORT nas were assessed based on an unbiased measurement of their standing in the boating community.

Marinas with at least five reviews in 2020 and an average rating of at least four stars received the accolade of being a 2020 Boaters’ Choice marina. A total of 366 businesses received this award, up 61 percent from 2019.

Ninety businesses received Elite Fleet status, up 73 percent from 2019. Any marina with at least 10 reviews in 2020 and an average rating of at least 4.8 stars earned Elite Fleet status.

Vascular Laboratory at AGH gets additional accreditation (Jan. 8, 2021) Atlantic General Hospital Vascular Laboratory has been granted an additional threeyear term of accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in Echocardiography in the area(s) of Adult Transthoracic.

This latest accreditation awarded to Atlantic General Hospital Vascular Laboratory demonstrates the facility’s ongoing commitment to providing quality patient care in echocardiography.

Accreditation by the IAC means that Atlantic General Hospital Vascular Laboratory has undergone an intensive application and review process and is found to be in compliance with the published standards, thus demonstrating a commitment to quality patient care in echocardiography.

Composed of a detailed self-evaluation followed by a thorough review by a panel of medical experts, the IAC accreditation process enables both the critical operational and technical components of the applicant facility to be assessed, including representative case studies and their corresponding final reports.

Echocardiography is used to assess different areas of the heart and can

PAGE 35

detect heart disease or signs of serious conditions.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, followed closely by stroke as the fourthhighest cause of death.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), more than 2,150 Americans die each day from cardiovascular disease, which amounts to about one every 40 seconds.

There are many factors that contribute to an accurate diagnosis based on echocardiography.

The training and experience of the sonographer performing the procedure, the type of equipment used and the quality assessment metrics each facility is required to measure, all contribute to a positive patient outcome.

IAC accreditation is a “seal of approval” that patients can rely on as an indicator of consistent quality care and a dedication to continuous improvement.

Atlantic General Hospital has been providing quality health care to the residents of Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties in Maryland, and Sussex County, Delaware, since May 1993.

Built by the commitment and generosity of a dedicated community, the

Winter surfing requires care to prepare for cold weather

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Jan. 8, 2021) We’re coming off a nice fall season. The weather was good and the waves consistent.

Even into the first part of December we had some warm days.

I was in the water on the second Sunday of December with a 4/3, light boots and no gloves. The water was in the low 50s, but the air in the 60s. Not bad for December, not bad at all.

I can remember a November when it snowed twice before Thanksgiving and winter had yet to officially start.

December of that year was also brutally cold.

But all of the above is behind us now and winter is here. It is both a boon and a bane for the surfer.

Traffic is light, parking abundan, and the only restrictions are self-imposed. That’s the upside of winter surfing.

The downside is, well, the cold and all that it implies.

More wetsuit gear is needed. A thicker suit, boots, gloves and a wetsuit cap or hood become standard equipment.

Even a surfboard that provides more floatation for the extra weight of the wetsuit gear and the frequent larger wave conditions that winter offers can be most beneficial.

Little “tricks” can aid in this winter surfing quest: parking in the sun to have a warm spot to go to post session, making sure to have a wind block to get out of all that wetsuit

gear when leaving the water, and even taking warm water along in a container that will keep it warm, and another container to put all that salty wet gear into so as not to turn your trunk or pick-up bed to rust.

I used to jump into my truck, after a session, fully wet-suited. Even though I lined everything with towels the floor board still rusted despite being covered with a contoured insulated pad.

Needless to say, anymore, I get out of all wetsuit gear post session if driving somewhere to surf.

A couple of large thick towels or even a blanket can help with the transition from cold to warm.

I like to refer to winter surfing as “counter intuitive.”

What knucklehead is going to delve into the ocean, for any purpose, in the cold winter? Those who know the secret thrill of surfing will.

It’s a bit of a stretch but this area could almost be considered a winter surfing paradise.

No, it’s not the tropics. Yes, one has to prepare more and yes, developing the mental aspect of knowing that you’ll be warmer in the water than standing on the beach will be most helpful.

Plus, you’ll be in tune and ready to go when the warm air and water return in a few months.

Don’t be surprised that when the summer crowds and restrictions return you’ll be wishing it was winter again. Knuckleheads indeed!

– Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.

hospital’s state-of-the-art facility in Berlin, combines old-fashioned personal attention with the latest in technology and services.

Atlantic General Health System, its network of more than 25 primary

care provider and specialist offices, care for residents and visitors throughout the region. For more information about Atlantic General Hospital, visit www.atlanticgeneral.org.

Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 8, 2021

Art League exhibitions extended to Jan. 14 (Jan. 8, 2021) Two of the Art League of Ocean City’s December art shows will be extended to Jan. 14, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

These exhibitions include the annual Members Juried Group Show and the Best of 2020 Group Show. Also extended through Jan. 30 are the Small Works show in Studio E and artisan Laura Ellison in the showcase.

On Jan. 17, the annual “Shared Visions” show opens in the Thaler Gallery at the Arts Center, where visual artists and writers collaborate and inspire each other.

The show opens during regular hours at the Arts Center on 94th Street and will also be previewed on Facebook.

“Shared Visions” is the annual partnership between the Art League of Ocean City and the Ocean City branch of the Worcester County Library, home of the Ocean City Writers Group, headed by Ruth Wanberg-Alcorn.

The artists submit images they hope will inspire the writers, and the writers select their inspiration and compose an accompanying poem or short prose. Both sides will be on exhibit until Feb. 28.

“This is the eighth year for the collaboration,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It is an inspired coming-together of words and images and demonstrates the different forms of self-expression.”

On Jan. 19 at 6 p.m., the Ocean City Writers Group will read their work and discuss what inspired them during a free Zoom event, and the public is invited.

“Hope & Healing,” showcasing artwork and events to lift the spirits, opens Jan. 17 and ties in with the Town of Ocean City’s Winter Wellness theme.

The event runs Jan. 17-Feb. 27, and includes an in-person art exhibition at the Arts Center where artists share what inspired them to stay positive and make art.

The Art League is also offering special classes both in-person and online including creating an art journal, collage creation, and drawing. There will be free heART & Soul classes on Jan. 28 and Feb. 25 at the Arts Center, and reservations are required.

“Through times of challenge, art can be an act of hope and healing for both the artist and viewer,” Thaler said. “For artists, the creative process can be meditative, cathartic, or illuminating. As a viewer, art can bring feelings of comfort and connection.”

Joanne Guilfoil of Selbyville, is the Spotlight artist for January and February. Raised in New York and Maryland, she trained as a painter and art teacher in Lexington, Kentucky.

Guilfoil retired as professor emeritus from Eastern Kentucky University in

2009 after 20 years of service. She moved to Selbyville in 2014 and teaches painting and exhibits her work in Ocean City, while devoting her time to large and small writing projects about things, people and places on the shore.

Admission is always free to the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502

94th Street, home of the Art League of Ocean City, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects.

More information is available at 410524-9433 or ArtLeagueOfOceanCity.org.

County offering adult fitness classes in winter and spring (Jan. 8, 2021) Adult fitness classes are being offered by Worcester County Recreation and Parks this winter and spring.

Registration will be on a first come first serve basis, and class space is limited.

Early Bird Morning Fitness, open to those ages 45 and older, includes a variety of activities of cardio, strength balance and floor workouts. It will be held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 9-9:40 a.m. from Jan. 11 to April 2.

Yoga, open to ages 18 and older, is back with Instructor Carol Jenkins-Pike, RYT 500.

This program will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The classes will run Jan. 19 to Feb. 25.

All equipment is provided. This program is built on three main structures: exercise, breathing and meditation.

Total Body Bootcamp is open to those ages 18 and older. Participants will be utilizing free weights, their body weight and stability balls.

This fitness class will meet on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. from Feb. 16 to March 26.

For more information on these upcoming fitness programs, contact Program Manager Myro Small at 410-632-2144 x2512 or msmall@marylandscoast.org.

The cost for each program is $45 and will cover all weeks of classes. For more information or to sign up, visit www.WorcesterRecAndParks.org.

and jumbo wings with 20 different sauces. Open everyday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in, pickup, carryout and delivery.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-664-5639, www.longboardcafe.net $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surf-themed setting with weekly specials. Featuring burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more. Closed on Tuesday.

Dine-in and curbside pick-up.

■ MARLIN MOON Located in the Double Tree Hotel, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-1201, www.marlinmoonocmd.com $$ Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.to 10 p.m. Restaurant and bar with fresh seafood, small plates, desserts and cocktails.

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-5244900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Thursday, 4-11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Island atmosphere. Soups, salads, Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood. Outdoor dining.

Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted ———————————————

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside The Courtyard by Marriott 410-289-7192/7191, www. captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Breakfast served Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner and lite fare served Friday through Tuesday, 5-9 p.m., featuring seafood, steaks and poultry. Daily chef specials.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open daily, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bar and lounge. Western Caribbean cuisine with a mix of traditional Eastern Shore favorites.

■ BJ’S ON THE WATER 75th Street, Ocean City 410-5247575, www.bjsonthewater.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Entire dining menu served Thursday through Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., year-round. Dine in or carry out. Daily specials, daily duck feeding. Bayside venue with deck seating. Serving pub grub and seafood.

■ THE DOUGH ROLLER 41st Street and Coastal Highway 410-524-9254; 70th Street and Coastal Highway 410-524-7981 Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday. See description under downtown location. Breakfast served daily at 41st, and 70th streets. Carryout available at all locations. Order online for 41st, 70th and WOC at www.TheDoughRoller.com.

■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 56th Street, Ocean City 410-7235600, www.johnnyspizzapub.com $ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring homemade pizzas, 18 gourmet pizzas, a variety of calzones, subs, burgers, sandwiches

WEST OCEAN CITY ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER West Ocean City, 12849 Ocean Gateway 410-213-7655 Hours are Friday through Monday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (no breakfast). See description under midtown location.

OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar With sweeping views of the 18th hole, the new Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items. Full bar.

Open Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting.

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 37

Ocean City Today

Court appoints trio of new Del. police identify car crash advocates for abused youth victim near Lazy Lagoon Rd. (Jan. 8, 2021) Three new Court Appointed Special Advocates were sworn in as friends of the court by Judge Margaret Kent and Magistrate Cathi Coates during CASA of the Lower Shore’s first-ever Zoom swearing-in cereKelley Allmond mony on Sept. 30.

The swearing-in ceremony, which was modified to allow for proper social distancing, was the final step for these community members to become Court Appointed SpeK. T. Harman cial Advocates.

The new advocates – Kelley Allmond, Kathleen Taylor Harman and Sanford Abrams – took an oath before the judge following their completion of a 32-hour Sanford Abrams training course, which covered topics like trauma, resiliency, poverty, mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence and the role of the CASA vol-

unteer.

These volunteers are now ready to advocate for abused and neglected children in Worcester County during their time in the child welfare system.

Each volunteer will be assigned to an open juvenile case so that they may speak up for and advocate on behalf of the child or children involved in the case.

CASA continues to work on behalf of the most vulnerable children in the community, even during covid-19.

While advocates are not currently engaging in in-person meetings with the children on their cases, they are staying in touch with families by phone, FaceTime, and Skype while working remotely to complete court reports.

Because of covid-19, children who are at risk for abuse or neglect are now more vulnerable because of the additional stress that parents are under.

CASA’s work is especially important during this time, and CASA of the Lower Shore seeks more community members to become volunteers.

Interested parties are encouraged to visit https://gowoyo.org/volunteers and submit a volunteer application. Call 410-641-4598, or email bnortheimer@gowoyo.org for more information.

GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY

FLOODING

Vehicles lacking ample ground clearance had a slow go rounding the corner of N. Division Street at St. Louis Avenue due to rainy weather on Tuesday.

(Jan. 8, 2021) Delaware State Police have identified the name of the person killed in a Jan. 4 car crash on DuPont Boulevard at Lazy Lagoon Road as 68-year-old Dianna L. Jones of Frankford, Delaware.

The crash continues to remain under investigation by the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit and they are seeking the public’s assistance with identifying the vehicle that fled the scene after the initial crash. The vehicle is believed to be an older model tractor-trailer with no sleeper and a grain trailer with a black tarp covering the load. The vehicle continued traveling north on DuPont Boulevard.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective K. Argo with the Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit by calling 302-703-3267.

Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.

According to police, on Jan. 4, at approximately 6:44 a.m., a 2018 Subaru CrossTrek, operated by Jones, was traveling west on Lazy Lagoon Road approaching the intersection of DuPont Boulevard.

For unknown reasons, the Subaru attempted to cross through the intersection while an unknown vehicle was traveling north on DuPont Boulevard passing by.

As a result, the front of the Subaru struck the right side of the unknown vehicle within the left travel lane of northbound DuPont Boulevard. Police said the force of the impact caused the Subaru to rotate 180 degrees before coming to rest within the northbound lanes of DuPont Boulevard.

After the collision, the unknown

vehicle fled the scene and continued traveling northbound on DuPont Boulevard.

After the collision, a 2011 Lexus RX350 operated by an unnamed 61year-old man of Selbyville approached the scene traveling north on DuPont Boulevard. It came to a complete stop in the road the left travel lane.

The man and his male passenger of Selbyville exited the Lexus to help the Subaru operator. But then, according to police, a 2020 Acura RDX operated by a 61-year-old Berlin woman was approaching the scene traveling north in the left travel lane of DuPont Boulevard.

As the Acura reached the scene, the front of her vehicle struck the rear of the Lexus, which was pushed into the crossover between the northbound and southbound lanes.

At that point, a 2002 Ford Explorer operated by a 67-year-old Ocean City man, approached the scene from the south and struck the left side of the Acura. That collision sent the Acura into the left side of the Subaru, and both cars skidded across to road and struck the Subaru operator and occupants of the Lexus, all of whom had exited their vehicles and were in the roadway.

The operator of the Subaru sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene, police said.

The operator of the Lexus was taken to an area hospital by ambulance and admitted in critical condition, while the passenger of the Lexus was taken to an area hospital by ambulance with minor injuries.

The operator of the Acura was transported to an area hospital by ambulance with serious injuries.

The operator of the Ford was transported to an area hospital by ambulance with minor injuries.

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PAGE 38

Ocean City Today

POLICE/COURTS

OBITUARIES

Hotel fight Jose Martinez, 57, of Silver Spring was arrested for second-degree assault on Dec. 27 at 4:51 a.m.

Police responded to a domestic dispute at a hotel in the 4300 block of Coastal Highway, where hotel staff directed police to a room where a loud argument had been taking place.

Police said a woman, who was soaking wet and whose face was swelling answered the door.

The woman told police she had an argument with her husband, Martinez, at a nearby bar, after which he left the drinking establishment first and locked her out of their hotel room.

After several hours, the woman managed to convince Martinez to let her inside to sleep.

After falling asleep on the couch the woman was awakened when Martinez reportedly began kicking her before pouring a beer over her head.

Police said Martinez denied the assault and alleged his wife hit first.

Crack Ricky Kapoor, 26, of Salisbury was arrested for DUI, speeding, drug possession and theft under $1,500 on Dec. 30 at 11:43 p.m.

Police tracked a 2017 Hyundai Elantra driving 54 mph in a 35 mph zone on Philadelphia Avenue and conducted a traffic stop near 20th Street.

Police said Kapoor admitted to consuming one drink.

Police said Kapoor performed poorly on field sobriety tests and blew a .13 BAC on a Breathalyzer, and that a search of the vehicle uncovered a stolen front license plate, suspected crack cocaine paraphernalia, and 33 small plastic containers with drug residue.

Doggone Aleh Matveyeu, 41, of Ocean City was arrested for disorderly conduct on Dec. 31 at 3:22 p.m. after police responded to a dog bite incident on

the Boardwalk by Second Street.

Police said they encountered Matveyeu sitting on a bench with a trickle of blood on his nose.

Matveyeu exhibited signs of intoxication, police reported.

Matveyeu allegedly became combative with paramedics who responded and eventually refused medical treatment.

After this, police said Matveyeu began yelling and wandering aimlessly on the Boardwalk.

When asked to calm down, Matveyeu reportedly hurled racial insults at officers and was arrested.

Double dose Eric Swensen, 24, of Freeland was arrested for DUI, speeding, negligent driving, open alcohol container, drug possession and concealed weapons charges on Jan. 2 just after 10 p.m.

Patrick Wetzelberger, 26, of Parkton, a passenger in the vehicle, was also arrested for dug possession.

Police clocked a 2012 Jeep Wrangler driving 57 mph in a 40 mph zone and conducted a traffic stop by 83rd Street.

Police detected the smell of alcohol and cannabis when making contact with the driver, Swensen, and noticed a plastic cup with a mixed drink by the driver and beer containers in the back seat.

When questioned by police, Swensen reportedly admitted to consuming several alcoholic beverages and performed poorly on field sobriety tests.

A search of his person revealed a small baggie of suspected cocaine, police said.

Police also found a small amount of suspected cocaine on Wetzelberger.

Police reported a subsequent vehicle search yielded psychedelic mushrooms, brass knuckles and a spring-assisted knife.

Irate

SANDRA MUMFORD QUILLIN Bishopville Sandra Mumford Quillin, age 82, died on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Salisbury, she was the daughter of the late Owen F. Mumford and Frances Elliott Mumford.

She is survived by her husband, J.D. Quillin, and children, Sandra Quillin Jeffrey B. Quillin of Bishopville, and Courtney L. Hurley of Pittsville.

There are three grandchildren, Justin Pusey, and Megan and Emily Hurley. Also surviving is a brother, Jeff Mumford, wife Marsha, and their son, Stephan, of Ocean City.

Mrs. Quillin was a graduate of Washington College and had been part owner/operator of the Satellite Motel, Surf and Sands, and the French Quarter.

In her spare time she raised parrots, and was happiest when she was at home with her birds.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020, in Evergreen Cemetery near Berlin. Rev. Olin Shockley officiated.

A donation in her memory may be made to: Atlantic United Methodist Continued on Page 39 Taysha Maddox, 31, of Salisbury was arrested for disorderly conduct and failure to obey a lawful order on Jan. 2 at 11:48 p.m.

Police were contacted about an assault at a hotel in 12300 block of Coastal Highway and upon arrival saw people and vehicles exiting the area.

Police identified Maddox as a suspect in the assault and confronted her in the parking lot.

According to police, Maddox repeatedly stated, “I didn’t do nothing.”

Police said Maddox grew increasingly irate while being detained and was arrested after ignoring police instructions to calm herself.

Dead body on beach ruled suicide (Jan. 8, 2021) The Ocean City police have closed the case regarding the body of a man found on the beach on Oct. 27.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Maryland has ruled the cause of death as a suicide.

Detectives assigned to the Major Crimes Unit were able to identify the deceased and determined there was no evidence of a criminal event during their portion of the investigation.

Traditionally, police do not release

the names of suicide victims, nor do newspapers publish them unless there are extreme circumstances.

The deceased was a 76-year-old man from Ocean City.

On Tuesday, Oct. 27, the Ocean City police started the investigation regarding the death of an unidentified adult male after a Public Works employee located the body in the surf off 14th Street.

Public Works crews, who were sur-

veying the beach due to the recent oil spill in Delaware, reported finding the man at 7:15 a.m.

Detectives of the Ocean City Police Department, Criminal Investigation Division – Major Crimes Unit responded to the scene to take over the investigation. The body was taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy, which determined that suicide was the cause of death.

Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com

JANUARY 8, 2021

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may be tempted to loosen up and show more of your personality at work this week. Just remember to exercise discretion in situations that call for professional demeanor.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Think before you speak this week, Taurus; otherwise, you may let go of something you had preferred to keep to yourself. Carefully think over your comments.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, try to balance your feelings by focusing on the facts rather than “what ifs.” It’s alright to feel anxious, but try not to let it overwhelm you the next few days.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you may finally get the answer to a problem or situation that has been on your mind for some time.

It will be a relief to finally let this go and focus on new possibilities.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, take some time this week to brainstorm creatively. How would you change things if time and money were no issue? Speculating can provide inspiration.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, even when under pressure, you manage to present yourself as capable of getting the job done. Always put your best foot forward and portray yourself as someone who is steady.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, playing it casual and projecting your friendly charm simply isn’t going to cut it at work this week. You will have to make it clear that you’re ready for a serious discussion.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, temptation is around every corner. Figure out a way to stay grounded and on a successful track.

Friends and family are ready and willing to help.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 An issue that has to be addressed this week, Sagittarius, even though you would rather it just disappear. Focus on a plan and then get others to back you.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, you are generous with your time, and now many people are asking for help. You may start to feel burdened. Learn how to say “no” with tact.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, check in with a friend if you have an emotional issue that needs working through. It won’t be helpful to keep your feelings bottled up inside for too long.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Being in a relationship is a balance of give and take, Pisces. You may feel uncomfortable asking for what you need, but you shouldn’t.

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

PAGE 39

OBITUARIES Continued from Page 38 Church, 105 4th St. Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

LUCILLE HUDSON BROWN Berlin Lucille Hudson Brown, age 83, died Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, at her home in Berlin.

Born in Berlin, she was the daughter of the late William S. Hudson and Elizabeth Hastings Hudson.

She was preceded in death by her former husband and father of Lucille Brown her children, William Brown. Also preceding her in death was her longtime companion, Clyde Powell.

She is survived by her children, Denise Gardner (Richard) of Salisbury, Maryland, Dayna Schiff (David) of Lewes, Delaware, and Ken Brown (Carrie) of Snow Hill; and five grandchildren, Reese, Myles, Hunter Pennington, Rachael Phillos (Clint), and Christopher Brown.

Mrs. Brown was in the first graduating class of Stephen Decatur High School in 1955. She was a lifetime member of the Buckingham Presbyterian Church in Berlin, and was on the board of Sunset Memorial Park.

Mrs. Brown was a devoted mother, and her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed lunches with her long-time classmates.

A graveside service will be private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 South Main Street Berlin, Maryland 21811. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

RITA R. CHAPMAN Ocean City Rita R. Chapman, age 97, of Ocean City, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020, at Gull Creek in Berlin. She was born in Baltimore, and was the daughter of the late John and Agnes (Studzinska) Markiewicz.

Rita was an original Rosie the Riveter at the Martins Plant in Baltimore during WWII. Later, she worked as a telephone answering operator Rita Chapman for 40 years.

Rita was an active member of Ocean City Polish Club, and past secretary of Baltimore Chapter USPS Carrier Association.

She is survived by her husband, Robert J. Chapman Sr. of Ocean City; two sons, Dennis J. Chapman Sr. and wife, Patricia, of Ellicott City, Maryland, and Robert J. Chapman Jr. and

wife, Glenda, of Eden, Maryland; two grandchildren, Denny Chapman Jr. of Baltimore, and Lisa Gaskin of Long Island, New York; and three greatgrandchildren, Tyler, Cody and Hayden Gaskin.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Edward Markiewicz, and two sisters, Marion Thompson and Irene CarperBolden.

Services will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

SIDNEY MERRILL BECKSTEAD Ocean City On Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, Sidney Merrill Beckstead, loving husband to Sherrie Beckstead and proud father of three children – Jessica, Sara and Harrison – passed away peacefully, in his home, following a gallantly fought battle with esophageal cancer.

Sidney was born on Feb. 3, 1950, in Swan Lake, Idaho, to parents Perry and Bernice Beckstead. He was raised in Salt Lake S. Beckstead City, Utah with his two brothers, Jay and Richard.

Sidney received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Utah.

Sidney’s adventurous and entrepreneurial spirit brought him to Ocean

City, Maryland in 1978, when Sidney’s college friend, Tom Liljenquist, called him to join in a business venture.

Best friend turned, business partner, Tom and Sid established Liljenquist & Beckstead Jewelers and Lenkersdorfer Fine Jewelers.

Over 40 years in business, the once small Maryland jewelry shop blossomed into five flourishing luxury boutiques in the Washington Metropolitan area.

Sidney was a true renaissance man; a gentleman, an artist, an entrepreneur, and along with his wife, Sherrie, a dedicated philanthropist.

Sidney had a passion for painting, creating extraordinary art, furniture and jewelry. He was also an avid music lover and fly fisherman.

He was known for his good humor, his infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

Sidney is survived by his wife of 35 years, Sherrie; his three children, Jessica, Sara and Harrison; his two standard poodles, Sookii and Henri; his brothers, Richard and Jay; sisters-inlaw, Paula and Kathleen, along with several nieces and a nephew.

In light of covid-19, the Beckstead family will announce a spring date to honor and celebrate the life of Sidney.

The family asks in lieu of flowers or gifts that donations be made to one of the charitable organizations that the family supports in honor of Sidney: The Trust for the National Mall

(https://nationalmall.org/support), Historic St. Martin’s Church Museum Foundation (https://historicstmartinschurch.org/), Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program (https://www.nvtrp.org/) or Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center (https://lombardi.georgetown.edu/).

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

WARREN L. STONE Ocean City Warren L. Stone of Ocean City, Maryland, passed away on Dec. 29, 2020.

Warren was born to Lyman and Beatrice Stone.

He graduated from Lafayette College in 1955 with a Bachelor Degree. He served his country in the U.S. Warren Stone Army and received an honorable discharge.

Warren went on to marry Anna in 1962 and began working at the Office of Social Security, where he worked for 25 years. He later retired and they both moved to Ocean City, Maryland.

Warren loved playing bridge and was very involved in the game. He directed and played for many years and Continued on Page 40

PAGE 40

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021

OBITUARIES Continued from Page 39 eventually earned enough points to become a Gold Life Master.

He is survived by his loving wife, Anna; sister, Connie and husband, Harry Rubin; his nephew, David Rubin, wife, Abby, and their children, Liam and Desmond; and his nephew, Adam Bruno and wife, Tina, and their children, Madison and Ashleigh.

Private funeral services will be held for the family at a later day. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

BERNADINE ANITA VILSACK Ocean Pines Bernadine Anita Vilsack, age 86, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Vincent and Margaret Trocheck.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 65 years, Bernard A. Vilsack, and daughters, Catherine A. Vilsack of B. Vilsack Edgewater, Maryland, Cheri L. Simpson and her husband, Michael, of Union Bridge, Maryland, and her estranged daughter, Mari C. Cummings of Solomons Island, Maryland.

She was an adored grandmother to four grandchildren, Eric Hajducsek, Crystal Lowe (Mike), Theresa Alexander (Wade) and Samantha Greenberg (Tim), and five great-grandchildren.

In addition, she is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Vilsack was a 1952 graduate of North Union High School where she was a cheerleader. She later became employed briefly by a textile factory, which made clothing.

She spent her life as a homemaker raising her family and grandchildren.

Upon moving to Ocean Pines, she became a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, the Red Hat Society, and the Northside Park Line Dancers, which has been performing at Springfest and Sunfest for 20 years.

She also enjoyed bowling with the O.C. Bowling League and was an avid card player.

A mass of Christian Burial was held at Holy Savior Catholic Church in Ocean City, on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021. Rev. John Solomon officiated. Interment followed in Garden in the Pines in Berlin.

A donation in her memory may be made to: Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 218021722, or donate online at StansellHouse.org.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

SANTO ANTHONY TROMBINO Ocean Pines Santo Anthony “Tony” Trombino,

age 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020, at his home following a brief and sudden illness.

Born in Sicily, Italy, he, along with his parents and two brothers, immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island in 1951.

The family settled in the Lower East Side of New York City and A. Trombino later Brooklyn and Queens, New York.

He was the son of the late Joseph and Antonina Trombino.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Susan Trombino, and children from a previous marriage, Annette Swan and husband, Steve Swan of Annandale, New Jersey, and Anthony Trombino of Groveville, New Jersey.

He was an adored grandfather to two grandchildren, Margaret and Abigail Swan.

Also surviving is his brother, James Trombino of Ocean City, and sister-inlaw, Patricia Trombino of Princeton, New Jersey.

He was preceded in death by his older brother, Michael Trombino, in 2018.

Mr. Trombino worked in New York City and Princeton, New Jersey, as a trade association manager with the Metal Powder Industries Federation.

He founded and later retired from his own publishing and typesetting business, Century Graphics, in Princeton.

He enjoyed visiting Ocean City over the years, owning oceanfront condos and later retiring and building a home in Ocean Pines.

He and Sue enjoyed the OC restaurant scene where they made many friends.

Tony was also an accomplished professional drummer, playing in various rock bands and music halls in New York City.

In retirement, he enjoyed tinkering, building almost anything in his workshop.

An avid baseball fan, he followed the New York Mets and the Washington Nationals. He also enjoyed playing golf with close friends.

Cremation followed his death. Due to covid-19 precautions, services will be private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory to: Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, 9733 Healthway Dr., Berlin, Maryland 21811.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

BETTY LOUISE BUNTING Berlin Betty Louise Bunting, age 93, died Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Pittsville, she was the daughter of the late Lawrence Parsons and Luette Sterling Parsons.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph R. Bunting Sr., and by

her son, Ralph R. Bunting Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Rencher and her husband, John, and son, Robert P. Bunting and his wife, Holly, all of Berlin.

Also surviving are grandchildren, Ralph Bunting, Laurie Petrino, Christopher Bunting and Erin, Jessica Bunting, and Jenny Bobenko and Nick.

She was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Allison Novelli.

There are six great grandchildren.

Mrs. Bunting was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and homemaker.

She has been a member of the

Holly Chapter Order of Eastern Star Chapter #48 and a Rainbow Girls Mother Advisor. She enjoyed cooking, gardening and her flowers. She was a member of the Buckingham Presbyterian Church in Berlin.

Cremation followed her death. A private service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Buckingham Presbyterian, Church 20 South Main Street, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Letters of condolences may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

CROSSWORD

Answers on page 16

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 41

Ocean City Today

Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net.

Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Sat., Jan. 9 FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Mon., Jan. 11 BERLIN RESTAURANT WEEK Many restaurants will be offering carryout options to keep participants safe.

Check the event on Facebook for menus as they come in. Dine 3 Times to Win is back. Staple copies of 3 receipts from 3 different participating restaurants to the entry card and drop into the collection box located at the Berlin Welcome Center.

Prizes are restaurant gift cards and $100 cash. Entry cards are located at each participating restaurant and in the Berlin Welcome Center vestibule.

STORY TIME - WINTERTIME AND SNOWY FUN Meeting via Zoom, 10:30 AM. Interactive stories, songs and rhymes about the winter season. For children ages 2-5 years. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events.

TRAVELING THROUGH BOOKS WITH KIKI AND FIFI Held via Facebook, 2:00 PM. Join the group for a laugh-out-load episode of the popular book talk show, with special guest, Texas Sean. http://www.worcesterlibrary.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY MEETING Meeting via conference call, 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM. Dial 605-472-5789, wait for voice command, then press 944874. TOPS is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and healthy lifestyle. Berlin group No. 169. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157

Tues., Jan. 12 BERLIN RESTAURANT WEEK Many restaurants will be offering carryout options to keep participants safe.

Check the event on Facebook for menus as they come in. Dine 3 Times to Win is back. Staple copies of 3 receipts from 3 different participating restaurants to the entry card and drop into the collection box located at the Berlin Welcome Center. Prizes are restaurant gift cards and $100 cash. Entry cards are located at each participating restaurant and in the Berlin Welcome Center vestibule.

SWEATER CONTEST PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Merchants of the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market on Dec. 19, donned “ugly” holiday sweaters adorned with everything from wacky elves to melting snowmen, and even cracked-up nut crackers. Margareth Legaspi, owner of a marketplace boutique shop, was named the winner.

Meeting via video call, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Group provides discussions and mutual support, as well as education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Kay Kinnikin, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org, 410-6414765, http://www.delmarvaparkinsonsalliance.org

CREATIVE JOURNALING: PART 1 Meeting via Zoom, 6:00 PM. Sacred, creative and fun ways to stimulate your brain to bring forth truth on the tips of your soul pen. No experience necessary. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.

Wed., Jan, 13 BERLIN RESTAURANT WEEK Many restaurants will be offering carryout options to keep participants safe.

Check the event on Facebook for menus as they come in. Dine 3 Times to Win is back. Staple copies of 3 receipts from 3 different participating restaurants to the entry card and drop into the collection box located at the Berlin Welcome Center. Prizes are restaurant gift cards and $100 cash. Entry cards are located at each participating restaurant and in the Berlin Welcome Center vestibule.

ZOOM WITH YOUR BABY Meeting via Zoom, 10:30 AM. Babies less than 2 years old and their caregivers are welcome to join in for songs, rhymes and stories. Optional: have a scarf and rattle/shaker handy for interactive rhymes. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events.

SIT ‘N STITCH Meeting via Zoom, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM. Drop in and join others for an afternoon of knitting, crocheting and other needle arts. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.

LOOKING AT ART: PART 2 Meeting via Zoom, 6:00 PM. In part 2 the group will lean the basics of talking about art also called the language of art.

Learn about line, color, space and elements of composition. For beginners.

Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.

Thurs., Jan. 14 CPAP MASK FITTING Atlantic General Hospital Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway

PHOTO COURTESY JACK BARNES

TOP ANGLERS The Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association recognized its 2020 Angler of the Year in both bay and ocean divisions at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club recently. The Angler of the Year award is presented to the fisherman who catches the biggest fish of most species during the year. Pictured, from left, are Angler of the Year, Ocean Division, Dale Christensen of Ocean Pines; ACSA Secretary John McFalls; and Angler of the Year, Bay Division, Budd Heim of Ocean Pines..

Drive. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. By appointment only: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.

BERLIN RESTAURANT WEEK Many restaurants will be offering carryout options to keep participants safe.

Check the event on Facebook for menus as they come in. Dine 3 Times to Win is back. Staple copies of 3 receipts from 3 different participating restaurants to the entry card and drop into the collection box located at the Berlin Welcome Center. Prizes are restaurant gift cards and $100 cash. Entry cards are located at each participating restaurant and in the

Berlin Welcome Center vestibule.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, NEW EARTH Meeting via Zoom, 2:00 PM. Join licensed therapist, Bevin Jones, as she leads participants through an hour of mindfulness exercises. Start the year being mindfully present. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org.

TEEN DISCORD HANGOUT Held via Discord, 7:00 PM. The library’s Discord server is a moderated, virtual hangout space for teens ages 13-17, to connect and chat with other teens. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libguides.com/di scord.

42

JANUARY 8, 2021 Classifieds now appear in Ocean City Today & the Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com and baysideoc.com.

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED Ocean City Florist now hiring PT Delivery Driver.

GPS knowledge a plus.

Company vehicle provided.

Clean driving record required. 410-250-1636

Hiring ALL Positions!!

Full time & Part time To apply go to: www.mygcjob.com

MD STATE INSPECTOR We have an opening for an Automotive Maryland State Inspector at our Ocean Pines Goodyear.

Exc. Pay & Benefits.

Please call - 302-344-9846

Become a Better You in 2021!

To Order Product Call Christine 443-880-8397 or email: snowhillavon@ comcast.net To Become an Avon Representative Sign Up at www.

ChristinesBeautyShop.com

MAINTENANCE F/T, Y/R, 32-40 hrs./week.

Dependable. Handyman w/good skills. Must have transportation/tools.

Send resume to fred@paradiseoc.com.

HIRING ALL POSITIONS!!

Full time & Part time Stop by our location on 52nd street! or call 443-664-2825

HELP WANTED Local Law Office and Tax Preparation Office seeking individual for part-time employment, three 8-hour days (flexible). Must be people oriented with computer skills and math skills.

Excellent opportunity to gain office experience and/or exposure to the legal and accounting professions.

Please send resume to lyndaj0331@comcast.net

RENTALS RENTALS Seeking Year-Round & Seasonal Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555

RAMBLER MOTEL

NOW HIRING Year-round Positions: • PM Manager • PM Line Cook Inquire within at 32 Palm at Hilton Suites 3200 Baltimore Ave Ocean City, MD

9942 Elm Street, WOC (Behind Starbucks) Sleeps 4, $250 per week Manager onsite 410-213-1764

WEEKLY RENTALS AVAILABLE NOW Pool Front Room ...$215/wk Efficiency..............$245/wk Family Room ........$265/wk 2BR Apartment.....$350/wk Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave. 410-289-8581

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $17.50/hr.

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com Classifieds 410-723-6397

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

Worcester County Health Department COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE II - Full Time, State Benefits.

Occasional weekends and evenings required. Duties include but not limited to providing community health nursing services in Emergency Preparedness (EP) and Communicable Disease (CD) programs to individuals and/or families in the community, through the use of the nursing process. Services provided include, but are not limited to health promotion, health maintenance, health education and management, coordination, and continuity of care in a holistic approach to the management of the health care of individuals, families and groups in the community.

Emergency Preparedness planning will be conducted and documented in written plans in collaboration with other EP Staff with this position maintaining a focus on medical needs assessment, collaboration with partners on medical responses, assurances of appropriate supplies and medical standards of care as related to mitigation, response and recover from all hazards events for the community at large.

Must possess a current license as a Registered Nurse from the Maryland State Board of Nursing. Valid driver’s license required. Background check & drug screening required.

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md

1096 Sq. Ft. Former Beauty Salon For Rent

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.

ssifieds la C r u o Y r e Ord

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.

FOR SALE FOR SALE

Office Copier – Sharp MX B402SC – 4 drawers.

Excellent condition – regularly maintained. Best Offer. Please submit offer and/or questions to lyndaj0331@comcast.net

Online

Starting Feb. 1.

Trader Lee’s Village Corner of 611 and Route 50, West OC. This location has more than 8 million cars per year going by on Rt. 50 & 611.

For more information call Bob Jester, 410-430-4480

BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797 LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers Run your business card in our SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!

COMMERCIAL

Ocean City, MD

Restaurant for Lease 203 seat restaurant located on landmark corner & prime hotel row. 5,730 sq ft newly renovated building, plenty of parking, upgraded HVAC, full liquor license, plenty of walk-ins & freezer space.

Ideal for crab house, Mexican, BBQ, sports bar, or Ale House concept.

Contact Mark Mayers @ 410-289-4444 mayers@harrisongp.com

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL 1 Office/Retail Space & 1 Warehouse Unit available in West Ocean City.

Call 443-497-4200

SERVICES

DONATIONS

Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.

BUSINESS SERVICES Increase the digital presence of your business! Contact MARYLAND STATEWIDE MDDC Ad Services to receive a FREE Digital Footprint ConCLASSIFIED ADVERTISING sultation for your business NETWORK from a TOP PERFORMING advertising agency!

AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS Call 443-508-1936, DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, www.mddcadservices.com.

RVs Lutheran Mission Society HOME IMPROVEMENT of MD. Compassion Place SERVICES ministries help local families NEED NEW WINDOW with food, clothing, counselTREATMENTS? ing. Tax deductible. MVA Call Empire Today® to license #W1044. schedule a FREE in-home 410-636-0123, estimate on blinds & shades. www.CompassionPlace.org Call Today! 866-479-2321.

www.oceancitytoday.com

Convenient, quick, no waiting, no calls ~ Days, nights and weekends

FINANCIAL SERVICES Over $10K in Debt? Be debt free in 24 to 48 months. No upfront fees to enroll. A+ BBB rated. Call National Debt Relief 855-670-0681.

MISC. SERVICES BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work … You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 833-343-1370.

MDDC 410-723-6397

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 43

Ocean City Today

BLINDS & SHADES

COSMETICS the company for women

ELECTRICIAN

• cosmetics • skin care • body care • fragrances • gifts • & more!

Master Electrician 443 691 0544 Call or Text Same Rate Day, Evening, Weekends

35 Years Experience

order online: www.christinesbeautyshop.com

443-234-5262

No Job Too Small! Free Estimates!

Residential/Commercial/Emergencies!

MD Lic #2268 Worcester Co Lic #M1337

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

CHRISTINE BROWN independent sales representative

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Raymond O’Brocki Jr.

SINGER CONTRACTING LLC Doug Singer EST. 1970 Licensed & Insured O.C.#30544 DE#1999201949 Fenwick Island, DE# 04-1489

MHIC#68306

Interior Trim & Finish Hardwood Floors • Car Ports Structural Repair • Regular & Custom Wood Trim Additions Kitchens • Baths • Ceramic Tile Decks • Windows & Doors

410-208-9159 E-mail: singerco45@gmail.com Cell: 410-726-1040 QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AT SENSIBLE PRICES

atminc4u@aol.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

BAYSIDE BUILDERS

COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER

• Flat Roof Specialist • • Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Custom Homes • Additions • Repairs • Kitchens • Baths • Tile Work • Decks • Custom Inside Trim Work • Hardwood Floors

Cell: 410-713-8599

HOME IMPROVEMENT

PipeLine

Contracting, LLC

Painting & Powerwashing Interior & Exterior Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured

Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail • Cabinets & Countertop • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • General Carpentry & Painting

• Flooring & Tile • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & Delaware Beaches

US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor

11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!

(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

• CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE

Free Estimates

10% Discount with this ad.

“One stop shop for Home Improvement”

Home Improvement Services Company

PAINTING

Zimmerman & Son LLC

PAINTING

NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!

Bill Zimmerman 410-390-5528 ~ cell 443-373-4539

ROOF REPLACEMENT & REPAIRS

OC REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT, INC.

410-524-5781

• Online Financial Management • Real Time Accounting • Board of Directors Reports • On-Site Personnel Options

Managing Properties Since 1983

• Contract Review / Administration • Community Web-Portal • Preventive Maintenance Association Specific Software

• Community Inspection • Free 24 Hr. Emergency Service • Secure Lockbox System

www.oc-rem.com • info@oc-rem.com

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE

5901 Coastal Hwy Suite C • Ocean City, MD 21842 Serving: MD & DE

ROOFING

CMCA® AMS® PCAM®

ROOFING

FREE Written Estimates Over 31 Years of Roofing You!

• The BEST Warranties • Locally Owned & Operated • Over 20k Served • GAF Master Elite Certified • 5 Star Skylight Specialists • Financing g Ava.

Shingle Roofs • Metal Roofs • Flat Roofs Family Owned & Operated

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108 Moss Hill Ln., Salisbury, MD 410-831-3938 32295 Nassau Rd., Lewes, DE 302-200-7663

www.roofers www. ww roofer roof ro roofer offers rs.o .org .org g

410.204.2586 410 204 2586

TRIPLE

CROWN

PAGE 44

JANUARY 8, 2021

Ocean City Today

ROOFING Gutter Cleaning BOGO Sale

ROOFING “Super Stu”

info@stewartenterprisesinc.com

443-203-0001 Ocean City, MD Office 302-232-6900 Selbyville, DE Office 410-798-9898 Edgewater, MD Office 410-255-6900 Baltimore, MD Office

Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS

stewartenterprisesinc.com FULL SERVICE Established in 1977

Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 MHIC 131180

Windows, Roofing, Siding, Patio & Decks, Gutters & Gutter Cleaning, Additions, Garages & Sheds, Kitchens & Baths

10545 Friendship Road, Unit 3, Berlin, Maryland 21811 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com *Licenced in MD, DE &VA

YOUR BUSINESS

Your Business Card Here!

Call Nancy 410-723-6397

PRINT WEB oceancitytoday.com • baysideoc.com

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 45

Ocean City Today / Public Notices

Law Offices of Jeffrey Nadel 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 200 Calverton, Maryland 20705 Jeffrey Nadel Scott Nadel Daniel Menchel Doreen Strothman 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 200 Calverton, MD 20705 Substitute Trustees Plaintiff v.

Scott A. Mitchell 1510 Cedar Street Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-20-000191

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 16th day of December, 2020, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 18th day of January, 2021, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in a weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 11th day of January, 2021.

The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $103,191.17. The property sold herein is known as 1510 Cedar Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-12/24/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2021 Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Masks and social distancing will be required.

6:30 p.m.

Case No. 21-2, on the lands of Rosemary Patricelli, requesting a variance to the Ordinance prescribed rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1.6 feet (an encroachment of 3.4 feet) associated with a proposed deck and stairs in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(19), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318, located at 8306 South Longboat Way, approximately 113 feet west of Assateague Way, Tax Map 33, Parcel 347, Lot 321, of Assateague Pointe Resort, in

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 beginning January 7, 2021 or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

Line No 1291-20 1305-20 1307-20 1311-20 1319-20 1323-20

Year 1993 2006 2002 2004 2003 2008

Make TOYOTA VOLKS KARAVAN MITSUBISHI CHEVY NISSAN

Model COROLLA JETTA TRAILER ENDEAVOR TRLBLAZER ALTIMA

Color BLACK GRAY N/A RED GREEN BLACK

Style 4D 4S TRL TK UT SD

VIN 2T1AE04E1PC019992 3VWST71K76M634787 5A4XGHL1422000373 4A4MM21S84E081171 1GNDS13S432223088 1N4AL21E78N487493

Mileage 184335 N/A N/A N/A 201244 N/A

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

AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police OCD-1/7/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m.

Case No. 21-3, on the lands of Philip & Angela Houck, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the Ordinance prescribed side yard setback from 6.55 feet to 6.1 feet (an encroachment of 0.45 feet) associated with the second story of an existing single family dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 12619 Rumgate Road, on the northwest corner at the intersection with Marlowe Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 18, Lot 12, in the Cape Isle of Wight Subdivision, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m.

Case No. 21-4, on the lands of Kathy Ferguson, requesting a variance to the Ordinance prescribed side yard setback from 6 feet to 1.3 feet (an encroachment of 4.7 feet) associated with a proposed shed in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 12539 Torquay Road, approximately 92 feet east of Keyser Point Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 6, Lot 2, of the Cape Isle of Wight Subdivision, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m.

Case No. 21-5, on the lands of Salt Grass Point Farms, LLC, requesting a variance to the Ordinance prescribed front yard setback from 50 feet off a minor collector to 45 feet (an encroachment of 5 feet) associated with proposed architectural features in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210(b)(3), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325, located on Stephen Decatur Highway (MD Route 611), approximately 95 feet north of Assateague Way, Tax

Map 33, Parcel 136, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m.

Case No. 21-6, on the lands of Baywater Landing, LLC, requesting a special exception to allow a landing, storage and processing facility for seafood associated with a proposed marina in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1-116(c)(3) and ZS 1-210(c)(4), located at 3908 Bayside Road, approximately 720 feet north of Stagg Road, Tax Map 73, Parcel 85, in the Second Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS OCD-12/31/2t _________________________________

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: January 14th, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(5), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed requesting the board to review the existing record for determination of noncon-

formity of parking. Should the board approve the existing parking nonconformity, the applicant is also requesting, pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2) and Section 11094(2)b, a special parking exception to waive twenty (20) parking spaces to change the use of a portion of The Inlet Village from retail to restaurant uses. The site of the appeal is described as Map 110, Parcel 2605, Block 2 of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat; further described as located next to the inlet on the north side of S. 2nd Street, on the west side of Atlantic Avenue (boardwalk) and east side of S. Baltimore Avenue, and locally known as The Inlet Village, 806 S. Atlantic Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: WINDSOR RESORT INCORPORATED – (BZA 2575 20-07200001) at 6:10 P.M. 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 parking space per unit (2 total parking spaces) that are required for the proposed third floor addition. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 11 & 12, Parcel 4481 of the Runaway Bay II Plat, further described as located on the North West side of 32nd Street, and known locally as 510 & 512 32nd Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANTS: THE MAUCK FAMILY TRUST (JOELY & TREY MAUK, PRINCIPAL), & SHEILA AND COLIN WITHERS, PRINCIPALS– (BZA 2576 #20-09400021) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Alfred Harrison, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-12/31/2t _________________________________

PAGE 46

Ocean City Today / Public Notices

CLOWER, PARRACK & SEAMAN, LLC DENNIS S. CLOWER, ESQ. 226 EAST MAIN STREET ELKTON, MD 21921

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18522 Notice is given that the Register of Wills court of New Castle County, DE appointed Patricia A. Lester, 34 E. Champlain Avenue, Apt. B, Wilmington, DE 19804 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Michael R. Shaw who died on April 14, 2019 domiciled in Delaware, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Ada J. Winkowski whose address is 110 Bowling Lane, Elkton, MD 21921.

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

that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Patricia A. Lester Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication: December 31, 2020 OCD-12/31/3t _________________________________

A copy of this notice shall be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an objection.

Susan R. Braniecki CLERK True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-1/7/1t _________________________________

IN THE MATTER OF: Jermaine Xavier Starks FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: Jermaine Xavier IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No.: C-23-FM-20-000405

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: Paul Gregory Suplee, 12011 Sunflower Court, Bishopville, Maryland 21813; Luke Americus Rommel, 224 West Main Street, Salisbury. Maryland 21801.

For: Boxcar 40 Berlin, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Boxcar On Main 104 North Main Street Berlin, Maryland 21811 Formerly: The Perfect Fig, LLC T/A Difebo's Berlin There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: January 20, 2021 @ 1:00 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

Due to the currect COVID-19 pandemic, and in lieu of public appearance, notice is hereby given that the public hearing will be held re-

NOTICE

(Adult) (DOM REL 61) The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he/she seeks to change his/her name from Jermaine Xavier Starks to Jermaine Xavier. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: The proposed name fits me better, I would like to be known by this name in all my personal and business affairs.

Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or before the 26th day of January, 2021. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321.

Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought.

LEGAL ADVERTISING 410-723-6397 legals@oceancitytoday.net

NOTICE

JANUARY 8, 2021

motely by conference call with the Board of License Commissioners for Worcester County. Directions for joining and participating in the hearing will be posted on the County website on: January 20, 2021.

OCD-1/7/2t _________________________________

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: Zina Sbih, 12648 Whisper Trace Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: 56th Street Market, Inc. For the premises known as and located at: T/A: 56th Street Beer and Wine 5601 Coastal Highway, Unit 3 and 4 Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: GN Enterprises, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: January 20, 2021 @ 1:35 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

Due to the currect COVID-19 pandemic, and in lieu of public appearance, notice is hereby given that the public hearing will be held remotely by conference call with the Board of License Commissioners for Worcester County. Directions for joining and participating in the hearing will be posted on the County website on: January 20, 2021.

OCD-1/7/2t _________________________________

JANUARY 8, 2021

PAGE 47

Ocean City Today

Wh W hy Yo You SHOULD Adv ve erti rtiis rt se w wiitth h Communitty y New ws spaperrs s: 6

LOCAL CONTENT: No otth her med diia, including social media sourrc ces, can prro ovide tth he hy yp perr--local new ws s and inffo orrm mattiion easilly y ffo ound as in communitty y new ws spaperrs s.

1

CREDIBILITY: Readerrs s deem communitty y new ws spaperrs s to be a crre ediib ble sourrc ce of inffo orrm mation – ffo or both new ws s and advertiis sing content.

2

TA T ARGETED: Communitty y new ws spaperrs s tarrg get those most interre ested in local businesses and serrv vices – those most likelly y to rre espond.

3

IMMEDIACY OF MESSAGE: Communitty y new ws spaperrs s brriing the iim mmediacy of y yo our message and thousand ds s of page view ws s.

4

STRONG READERSHIP: Unlike rre egional dailly y new ws spaperrs s, communitty y new ws spaper rre eaderrs shiip p iis s grro owing ffo or both new ws s and advertiis sing content.

5

EASE OF USE: 72% of rre esidentts s prre effe er rre eading advertiis sementts s in theiirr local paper than online.

7

COST T--EFFECTIVE REACH: Communitty y new ws spaperrs s brriing y yo our message to morre e people at one of tth he low we est costts s per tth housand of any media.

8

CUSTOMER SER RV VICE: Yo Your adv ve ertiis sing iis s handled by local account ex xe ecuttiives who know tth heiirr communittiies and w wiill hellp p adv viise y yo ou.

9

CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY: Local new ws spaperrs s arre e rra ated as one of the best means of connecting people and theiirr communities by prro oviding the new ws s & inffo orrm mation iim mporrttant to rre eader ’’s s everry yday lives.

10

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Local newssp paperrss have long sup pp porrtted business efffo orttss in theiirr communittiies – not onllyy hellp ping tto o publiciizze local businesses and orrg ganizattiions but allsso by championing grro owtth h and prro osperriittyyy..

Show ST TR RONG RE EA ADE DER RSH HIIIP P & Communitty y Reliia ance Communittiies servve ed by newspaperrss conttiinue to demonstrra ate heavvyy rre elliiance u up pon llo ocal paperrss ffo or new wss and inffo orrm mattiion.

Ad ds s Get T TH HOUSA SANDS of

Page V Pa Viiew ws s Ea Each We Week

41% keep their

communittyy newspaperrss siixx or morree dayyss

of adults read their community newspaper of all web searches start with a print ad Took action from a print ad To

Based on Scarrb borro ough Researrc ch & Rey yn nold ds s Jourrn nalism Inst.

51.8% tshaeidir cpormimmaurnyitsyonuerwcsepaffooprers are

DA AY YS Y S SHELF LIFE

78 47.2% 81%

%

Communitty y new ws spaper rre ead de errs s, on av ve erra age, sharre e tth heiirr paper w wiith

3.2 PERSONS

Readerrs s spend about

local inffo or mation, as compared to:

7.4% from the internet 38.95 MINUTES 13.2% from TV rre ea d diing tth heir local 6% from Radio new ws spaperrs s The remainder rely on family and friends

PAGE 48

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 8, 2021