1/22/2021 Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 22, 2021

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County committee to look at fire companies’ needs Money, membership woes need solutions, leaders say

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) As local fire companies beseech their governments and communities for more help with the financial and staffing problems, the answers to their appeals could come from an 11-person committee.

The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday agreed that the creation of such a panel could lead to some solutions that have so far proven elusive, especially as regards the provision of emergency medical services.

The committee will consist of three county commissioners, six members

of the fire departments and two county staffers.

Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers said funding, staff and equipment have been issues for both the firefighting and emergency medical services, and that the nearly year-long pandemic has highlighted just how fragile the system is. About 70 to 80 percent of calls are for emergency medical services, according to Bowers.

“The EMS incidents countywide has increased,” Bowers said. “The pandemic requires longer incident out-of-service times per units that are on an incident and the service lacks resiliency and capacity to respond to additional EMS calls.”

See COMMITTEE Page 2

Students return to school in waves

PHOTO COURTESY ATLANTIC GENERAL HOSPITAL

VACCINATED

Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin administered 724 doses of the coronavirus vaccine during its Jan. 16 clinic for people ages 75 and older.

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Approximately 30 percent of the county’s public school students were in the first wave of those returning to the classroom on Tuesday as part of Stage Two of the school system’s “Responsible Return” model.

Worcester County Superintendent

of Schools Lou Taylor told the Worcester County Board of Education on Tuesday that faculty and staff returned to schools last week to prepare for the first wave of students in in-person instruction.

“I continue to be so proud of the work our administrators, our teachers and our support staff are doing to See SCHOOLS Page 3

Healthcare partners set vaccine town hall Atlantic Gen., TidalHealth, health depts. will answer vaccination plan questions (Jan. 22, 2021) The flood of questions on the region’s covid-19 vaccination plan should be answered next Monday in unprecedented virtual town hall meeting conducted jointly

by Atlantic General Hospital, TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, and the Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset

health departments.

The session, billed as the TriCounty COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall, is scheduled for 4-5 p.m. and is expected to provide an update on testing and to discuss plans for the rollout of the state of Maryland’s community vaccination plan.

The town hall, which will take place via WebEx, will be moderated by Maryland State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and feature panelist presentations by Lori Brewster, health officer

for Wicomico and Somerset counties; Rebecca Jones, health officer for Worcester County; Matthew Morris, vice president of patient care services at Atlantic General Hospital; and Kathryn Fiddler, vice president of population health for TidalHealth.

A 20-minute question-and-answer will follow the panelists’ presentations. During this time, community members will have the opportunity to submit questions through the virtual platform for the panel’s response.

Those unable to attend the live town hall at 4 p.m. on Jan. 25 will have the opportunity to view a recording of the event, which will be made available on each of the partners’ websites.

To connect to the session, go to www.webex.com, then to the event number (access code) 180 843 4833, and then enter the case-sensitive password: TidalHealth.

Also available is an audio conference at 415-655-0001 and use the same access code of 180 843 4833.

PAGE 2

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

Committee will seek answers for fire depts.

Continued from Page 1 Areas that have less coverage, such as Stockton or Pocomoke City, take longer to run calls than the more populated areas because of the distance traveled. “When multiple incidents in the county occur simultaneously, large gaps in coverage develop,� Bowers said.

Girdletree and Stockton don’t run EMS calls, leaving Snow Hill or Pocomoke to respond to those areas.

Bowers asked the commissioners to create a workgroup to address emergency services funding levels, funding for staffing, training and apparatus facilities and stations, a service-wide response time goal and a comprehensive three- to five-year strategic plan for services.

David Fitzgerald, president of the

Berlin Fire Company, added that a financial workgroup should also be formed. He said that although the formula created in the 1970s to fund fire departments used to be simple, it’s become complicated. “It’s time to sit down and really review the actual cost,�

Bowers said. “Every company turns in their financials every year. As Chief Bowers Richie Bowers said, it’s time to get a team together because everybody deserves the same service.�

County Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic agreed that the workgroup was a good idea, but warned that serving on the committee would be a tough job. “You’re going to have to convince

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the citizenry that this is the right thing to do,� Mitrecic said. “Anybody that wants to serve on this committee better be ready for that, because there is no other way. Property tax dollars only go so far, so there has to be some other creative way to fund.�

County Commissioner Chip Bertino said he was concerned about the commissioners serving on the workgroup. “The workgroup could come up with a recommendation . . . the commissioners sitting there might not agree with that,� Bertino said.

Mitrecic replied that if a commissioner doesn’t approve, then they wouldn’t vote for it. “We’re the ones that ultimately represent the people, so I think a few of us should be there representing the people,� Mitrecic said.

County Commissioner Jim Bunting suggested that the three commissioners on the committee should have representation from the north end of the county, the south end and either the president or vice president of the commissioners.

County Commissioner Diana Purnell asked if a third party could be added to the workgroup. “I don’t disagree with that, possibly, the problem with that is that we’d probably have to pay them,� Mitrecic said.

He added that the county staff would provide expertise for the budget.

County Chief Administrative Officer Harold Higgins emphasized that the committee would be for the long run. “You’ve got a short-term consideration for the current budget fiscal year ... but I think the committee’s purpose

is that long-term, funding approach, Higgins said. “I really think you develop your committee, you designate your chairman, after that, you’ll have a clear presentation back to the body of what their overall approval will be.�

He added that the committee could look at studies that looked at similar issues in Maryland counties.

Bertino said that Bowers had enough experience to serve on the committee, and then added a concern regarding the budget timeline, which has already begun and will be finalized this spring. “This is a long process. This is not a two-month, three-month process to figure out what the changes need to be or how we move forward, because not only does the committee have to do its work and the commissioners have to decide how they want to go, but the public also has to be educated on what we’re trying to do,� Bertino said. “I don’t think we can do that in a few months.�

Mitrecic replied that the committee needs to start somewhere. “This is not happening just in Worcester County, just in the state of Maryland,� Mitrecic said. “This is happening all the way across the United States. This is a growing issue. We have less and less people that have time to volunteer for the fire companies or choose to do something with their time.�

He offered to serve on the committee as president of the commissioners.

Nordstrom and Bunting volunteered to serve on the committee to represent the southern and northern ends of the county, respectively.

The county and fire departments will finalize who is on the committee in the next two weeks.

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JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

PAGE 3

Schools welcoming students back to class Continued from Page 1 ensure our classrooms and our schools as a whole are safe places for learning,” he said.

In addition, as of Monday, education staff can be vaccinated as part of the Phase 1B vaccine distribution group.

“We are committed to ensuring each and every one of our employees has access to the vaccine should they choose to receive it,” Taylor said. “I want to thank our local health department for partnering with us in this endeavor.”

He added that school-based vaccine clinics are being planned for faculty and staff.

“It is still critically important for everyone to remember the four W’s: when sick, stay home; wear your masks; wash your hands; and watch your distance.” Taylor said. “These are simple acts that each one of us can do to ensure the safety of ourselves and those around us and to keep our schools safely open for in-person learning.”

In addition, Dr. Dwayne Abt, chief safety and human relations officer of the school system, provided a monthly safety update at the school board meeting.

Abt said training about covid safety protocols has been taking place for several months.

“We also have trained our school deputies back on the seventh of this month,” he said. “Our food service staff will be trained this week, and our substitute teachers will be required to watch a recorded video with training.”

The training video was emailed to all active substitute teachers on Tuesday morning.

Lou Taylor According to Taylor’s announcement to families on Jan. 15, “all students – both inperson and those engaged in distance learning – [received] a leveled training first thing on Tuesday to Kathleen Manns brush up on our health and safety procedures.”

Furthermore, Worcester County Public Schools worked with the Worcester County Health Department to offer covid-19 John McDonald drive-through testing at Stephen Decatur High School on Seahawk Road in Berlin on Jan. 13 for employees and students.

“We tested 71 staff members and 12 students,” Abt said.

As for Worcester Preparatory School on South Main Street in Berlin, Head of School Dr. John McDonald said no testing or vaccine clinics are planned on-site at this time in partnership with the local health department.

“We would be interested, but if our people are going to be able to get vaccinated [through the health department’s clinics], we may not have the need,” he said. “If they asked us, we’d be certainly happy to facilitate.”

Currently, school personnel are scheduling appointments for the health department’s clinics.

“It’s worked out well this week because in our upper and middle school we have testing, which ends at noon, so our upper and middle school teachers have been going in the afternoon,” McDonald said.

He added that about 98 percent of staff members expressed interest in receiving the vaccine and roughly 30 percent of them have received the vaccine as of Wednesday morning.

Worcester Preparatory students returned to in-person learning on Jan. 11.

There have not been any incidents of covid-19 reported at the school since transitioning back to the classroom.

“I just appreciate all our families following protocols, and we’re continuing

to do our protocols here,” McDonald said, including maintaining a six-foot distance, using air scrubbers and desk dividers and wearing masks.

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School on Racetrack Road in Berlin announced on Tuesday that a student and a staff member tested positive for the coronavirus after students returned to in-person instruction on Jan. 11. All close contacts of the student and staff member are being notified and may have to quarantine, according to a letter from Principal Kathleen Manns.

“Most Blessed Sacrament adheres to strict cleaning, social distancing, and hygiene protocols,” Manns wrote. “This is our best defense against COVID-19 and its spread. Building access continues to be restricted to students and school personnel only. Our school building is cleaned regularly throughout the day and after school hours; deep cleaning is done as a precaution when an incident occurs.”

Amanda Evans, director of admissions and advancement at the private school, said many teachers and staff have expressed interest in receiving the covid-19 vaccine.

“A few have received their appointments and will receive the vaccine this week,” she said. “At this point, we have not been asked by the health department to be a vaccine site.”

PAGE 4

JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

OC litter campaign seeks community help New effort hopes to reverse uptick of trash and debris observed in 2020 season

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Improving aesthetics and protecting the environment are the goals of the “Every Litter Bit Hurts” campaign under development in Ocean City following last summer’s problem with people tossing trash.

The anti-litter promotion took center stage during a virtual roundtable discussion hosted by the Ocean City Coastal Resources Legislative Committee, or Green Team, last Wednesday.

Mayor Rick Meehan said the amount of debris left on streets and sidewalks was stunning.

“Ocean City is famous for being a clean and safe community,” he said.

“We’ve been challenged on both ends,” he added, referring to an uptick in rowdy and sometimes illegal behavior last summer.

Paper wrappers, cigarette butts, plastic containers and glass bottles strewn about the Boardwalk and beach detracted from seasonal seaside visuals, Meehan said.

“It gives you a different kind of feeling,” he said.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who chairs the Green Team, concurred with Meehan, noting the onslaught of emails and phone calls from residents and visitors alarmed about littering.

“Everyone blamed covid and the increase in carryout,” he said.

DeLuca said three points gained focus after the public outreach campaign was initially researched.

Rick Meehan While striving to keep the campaign positive, DeLuca said the number of littering citations issued by police last year was scarcely a half-dozen and should be ramped up next season.

Tony DeLuca “It’s unacceptable, and if you litter, you’re going to get a citation,” he said.

Providing residents options to replace decrepit trashcans located on side streets and alleys was the second point made.

Lastly, cutting down weeds that sprout up along curbs and help trap

litter or cigarette butts would be among aspects included in the detailed plan.

Noting the result would benefit both residents and businesses, Meehan said while the yeoman’s share of clean-up falls to Public Works, the task also requires community involvement.

“We all have to buy in, take ownership and be part of the solution,” he said.

Harkening back to an earlier era, Meehan highlighted the “Keep America Beautiful” anti-litter campaign launched when the interstate highway system was established over a half century ago.

“It made a lasting impression on a lot of Americans,” he said.

Town Environmental Engineer Gail Blazer said polling questions had been distributed to cooperating agencies

and individuals.

“I love the slogan ... ‘Every Litter Bit Hurts,’” she said.

Blazer said recognition and rewards for participation should be incorporated into the program to aid with the promotion of Ocean City as a no-litter zone Deluca said a number of campaign details would require financing, potentially through grants, to move forward.

“Some items will have to go to the mayor and City Council,” he said.

“Half of it we could probably just do as the Green Team.”

The Green Team will revisit the effort during its next scheduled meeting in March, with timelines being developed in the interim.

“We’re going to hit the ground running,” Blazer said.

Correction Ocean City Today erroneously reported that the Beach Plaza Hotel on 13th Street and the Boardwalk was opened by the Phillips family in 1973.

The hotel was built in 1954 by Ethel Griffin Kelley and her son, former Ocean City Mayor Harry Kelley. The Phillips family has owned and operated the hotel since 1967.

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Ocean City Today

Legislative session focuses on coronavirus

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The Maryland General Assembly convened on Wednesday, Jan. 13 for a legislative session defined by the covid-19 pandemic.

Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38 C) said that only about 80 people were permitted on the House floor for the opening session to allow M. B. Carozza for social distancing.

Hartman was among those not given a seat.

“We received an email saying our services weren’t needed,” Hartman said. “That didn’t sit well with me.

I actually spoke to our Wayne Hartman caucus leadership and the speaker’s chief of staff and they made provisions for us to be outside in the rotunda — those who weren’t included and those who wanted to participate.”

During this time, several changes to House rules were up for a vote. One of those changes was allowing half of the delegates to be in the annex during debates and votes for social distancing.

Hartman said he was disappointed that he and the other delegates outside could not hear the debate inside.

“They didn’t provide any means for us to hear what was going on inside and it was pretty disheartening to see us operating in that fashion,” Hartman said. “My first vote of the session was actually a ‘nay’ vote because I didn’t know exactly what I was voting for.”

Moving on from opening session, Hartman said the Environment and Transportation Committee held a hearing for the balloon release ban last Friday.

“There was no opposition to it,”

Hartman said. “We presented the bill in the format that it was amended to last year.”

He added that he was optimistic about getting the legislation passed.

On Tuesday, a hearing was held for another one of Hartman’s bills — adding first responders to hate crime legislation.

“I think we’re going to have a good bit of local support from leadership in both fire and police,” Hartman said.

As for Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R38), a hearing was held on Tuesday for her bill Wade’s Law, which would increase penalties for life-threatening injuries caused by motor vehicles.

“Current law provides that manslaughter by vehicle by criminally negligent driving is a misdemeanor and subject to a maximum three-year imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine,” Carozza said. Yet if the victim is maimed, paralyzed, or suffers some other lifethreatening injury, that same criminally negligent driver is only liable for a $500 fine. Senate Bill 17 provides a more just penalty.”

Wade’s Law was introduced last year, but was cut short because of the General Assembly adjourning early.

Carozza also voted to sustain Gov. Larry Hogan’s vetoes from last session, such as the Public Resources Organizing to End Crime Together Program and the Maryland State Crime Plan.

“At a time when the Maryland Rainy Day Fund is being drained to combat covid-19 expenses, our state’s economic recovery simply cannot afford more spending mandates,” Carozza said. “These bills were vetoed to help protect working families, small businesses and job creators as we continue to recover from all impacts of the pandemic.”

She said she would focus on increasing public safety by working with local law enforcement, victims of crime,

school officials and business and community members.

Carozza also said she supported Hogan’s plan to move into Phase 1B of Maryland’s covid-19 vaccination plan.

This phase adds in all Marylanders over 75 years old, K-12 teachers, education staff, child care providers, anyone living in assisted living or independent living facilities and developmental disabilities and behavioral health group homes.

“We’ve been pushing together to expand the vaccines for these priority groups, and I’m grateful to hear Gov. Hogan’s announcement to move to Phase 1B . . . ” Carozza said. “Many of us especially appreciate that our elderly parents will soon be vaccinated. I encourage my constituents to receive the vaccine when it becomes available as we work together for a full covid-19 recovery.”

She also voiced support for Hogan’s RELIEF Act of 2021, $1 billion in emergency stimulus and tax relief intended to help Marylanders and small businesses that have been hit by the pandemic.

“Passing this emergency covid-19 relief and stimulus package now to assist struggling Maryland families and small businesses should be the top priority of every member of the Maryland General Assembly,” Carozza said. “I am completely committed to working with the governor and members of the legislature from both sides of the political aisle to fast track this emergency legislation, and target and move these needed funds to those who have been hardest hit by covid-19.”

The Senate also voted to limit the number of bills that senators can introduce to 25.

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JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

County commissioners discuss workforce hire New manager will replace existing education program contractual position in Wor.

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Worcester County government is considering hiring a new position to build the local workforce and to attract new businesses.

During the Worcester County Commissioner’s meeting on Tuesday, Tom Perlozzo, director of recreation and parks, economic development and tourism, said the position would work under economic development.

Part of the reason for this new position is that the covid-19 pandemic has reTom Perlozzo duced two of the county’s career preparation programs that work with local students and place them with internships with local businesses.

“Our proposal would be to grow the workforce from within, build a more competitive workforce, provide a career-ready program and provide learning base opportunities that we can develop in Worcester County,” Perlozzo said.

He clarified that the county will still have the programs, but that a workforce manager position would focus on job opportunities all year ‘round instead of just the summer.

This would replace the current career education program position, which works on a contractual basis.

According to Perlozzo, the county funds the program up to $110,000, but $70,000 of that goes toward the contractual position.

“We’re going to move that back inhouse, take the money that we’d spend on a private contractor and place that toward hiring a full-time employee,” Perlozzo said.

County Commissioner Diana Purnell said that sounded like Stacy Norton’s job as human resources director.

Perlozzo explained that the new position would have a special focus on skilled trades.

“What the county is lacking is the ability to get skilled trade workers, both from a Worcester County government standpoint, but also from a workforce in the county from Pocomoke to Ocean City,” Perlozzo said.

Purnell also wondered how successful this could be during the pandemic.

Perlozzo said he hopes the recently approved covid-19 vaccines will come through.

“I think covid will be a challenge, but long term, we will be far better off concentrating on our workforce year ‘round than traditionally just one dimension ...” Perlozzo said.

He added that there are 12,000 seasonal jobs in Worcester County and that he wants economic development to be a resource.

“There is a void,” Perlozzo said. “If I can take one of our homegrown kids or adults, and provide them with employment to keep them here and make us more attractive, I think that’s a great start for us.”

Purnell said she is optimistic about a new position, but pointed out that much of Worcester’s labor force works in the summer and then is on unemployment in the winter.

“If we’re looking for something to retain young people, they need something that’s going to give them year ‘round employment, it’s going to give them a job where they have some type of security,” Purnell said.

Perlozzo agreed and added that the new position could also work to attract larger businesses.

“With a more competitive workforce that’s out there and available, we might be able to attract better and bigger businesses to come here to Worcester County and set up shop,” Perlozzo said.

County Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom supported the idea.

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Several commissioners expressed reluctance to create the new position since some details, such as how much it would cost, were not specified.

“I think this is a good idea, but it’s just raw right now,” said County Commissioner Ted Elder. “It’s not really spelled out right.”

County Commissioner Chip Bertino agreed and wondered why another position was needed for this.

“The marketplace is going to take care of a lot of this situation as far as hiring, especially seasonal employees,” Bertino said. “That’s the mar-

ketplace that’s going to handle that, not government, so why would we want to involve ourselves in that?”

Harold Higgins, chief administrative officer, said the concern was that the county is educating students, only for them to live and work in another county.

County Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic suggested tabling the decision. He added that the new position could go into the schools and talk to students before graduation.

“Not everybody is designed to go to college,” Mitrecic said. “There are so many jobs that can be developed out there that a young man or woman could make a tremendous, tremendous living.”

The commissioners voted unanimously to have Perlozzo bring the idea back with more information at the next meeting.

County approves regional law enforcement aid agreement

By Neely James Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) While cooperation between law enforcement agencies has almost always been a matter of courtesy, the sheriff’s offices of the nine Eastern Shore counties are going much farther than that with a formal mutual aid agreement.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU), which establishes the details of this one-for-all, all-forone approach, was approved by the Worcester County Commissioners Tuesday, following a presentation from Worcester County Matt Crisafulli Sheriff Matt Crisafulli.

Crisafulli said the memorandum was prepared by him and eight other Eastern Shore sheriffs who mutually agree to share manpower and equipment, if available, for a “mass casualty incident or a natural disaster.”

Participating counties include Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset Dorchester, Talbot, Caroline, Queen Anne’s, Kent and Cecil counties.

“In today’s world, with mass casualty and breaches of law, we want to make sure we’re on the same page,” Crisafulli said.

Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis called the MOU an “unprecedented executive action taken by sheriffs on the Eastern Shore.” He explained that participating counties

have always helped each other in good faith. The MOU expands on good faith by “covering every legal avenue,” Lewis said.

Crisafulli also praised the value of neighboring county assets, like Wicomico County’s Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle with bulletproof doors and windows, which could be necessary in cases where lives are threatened.

“Sheriffs for each jurisdiction can supplement one of these jurisdictions if they’re having a crisis such as an unruly group, hostage, natural disaster, or any circumstance needing support,” he said.

“Last year has seen more civil unrest than my 37 years in law enforcement,” Lewis said in response to Crisafulli’s praise.

Lewis said he believes Ocean City will see a continued show of support from Wicomico County this year in response to the unofficial car enthusiast meetup, which is expected to challenge law enforcement again in 2021. Crisafulli confirmed that the MOU addresses short and long-term strategic planning to secure the safety of Worcester County residents, including planning for future challenges presented by pop-up car rally related activity.

Commissioner Chip Bertino asked for clarification on which entity will pay for assistance requests. Crisafulli replied that expenses, including personnel salary and overtime pay, will be paid by the county providing assistance.

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Worcester wants to trademark phrase ‘Naturally Cool’

By Neely James Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Since August 2020, the Worcester County Commissioners have embraced the environmentally friendly “Maryland’s Coast, Naturally Cool” branding initiative, which has already rolled out new commercials and billboards.

Now, Melanie Pursel, director of the Melanie Pursel Office of Tourism & Economic Development, wants to trademark the phrase for marketing, co-branding with county businesses, and protecting the “Naturally Cool” brand from inappropriate use.

To that end, the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday authorized the county’s Office of Tourism & Economic Development to engage the Salisbury’s Law Offices of Arlette Bright to pursue trademark registration.

Commissioner Chip Bertino agreed that the new brand should be protected, while commissioner Diana Purnell urged Pursel to continue work to expand the trademark to include income producing applications like Tshirts and merchandise.

PAGE 7

Ocean City Today

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BRIEFS

By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners made the following decisions during their meeting on Tuesday.

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meaning that there would be plenty available if there was a cost increase.

Bunting was the sole dissenting vote.

Diakonia, located in West Ocean City, is an emergency housing/shelter for homeless men, women and families and also offers food assistance.

The commissioners agreed to award the bid for a bathroom for Diakonia to East Coast Contracting at $9,427.

County Commissioner Jim Bunting said the second lowest bid, East Coast Construction at $10,068.75, seemed more professional and that the other bid would consider any plumbing issues as a change order.

County Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic said that since it was a new building, there shouldn’t be any plumbing issues.

He added that he said “apparent low bid” because the lowest bid could indeed increase the total cost.

Kim Reynolds, senior budget accountant, said that there was $102,000 available for the renovations,

OP operations center

Pursel intends to pursue additional trademark applications in the next fiscal year, but plans to “start out conservatively...which can probably be in the $1,200 range [to secure the trademark],” she said.

Bright’s offices may now begin ef-

forts to secure a trademark for the mark and phrase “Maryland’s Coast, Naturally Cool” for advertising, promotion, and tourism purposes.

“I think the logo is fantastic and the concept certainly is going to be great,” Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom said.

The commissioners agreed to award the bid to construct the new operations center at the Ocean Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant to Harkins Contracting.

The Salisbury-based company will construct the building for an estimated total of $949,700.

The building architect, George, Miles and Buhr, had recommended Harkins.

There is $600,000 available in the 2019 bond issue for the project.

Although that does not cover the cost, there is another $600,000 available because the scope of work changed and work was completed under budget on the Ocean Pines North Tower.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Appointment Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan recently appointed Anna G. Newton of Berlin to the board of trustees of Wor-Wic Community College.

Newton is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch in Ocean City.

She joined the board of directors of the Wor-Wic FoundaAnna Newton tion in January of 2015 and recently completed her second three-year term.

She was the foundation’s treasurer for the past three years and represented the foundation as a member of the college planning council in 2016 and 2020.

She is a member of the Ocean City Young Professionals, and the Ocean City Marlin Club and Auxiliary. She is a past president of the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce and former chair of the Ocean City Young Professionals.

Newton received her bachelor’s degree from High Point University in North Carolina.

She and her husband, Zachary, have two children, Kennedy, 2, and Carson, 11 months.

Continued on Page 9

PAGE 8

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

Phase 1B group vaccinated this week at clinics

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) All Marylanders age 65 and over are eligible to receive the covid-19 vaccine this month, Gov. Larry Hogan announced during a press conference on Jan. 14.

The state has made 50,000 doses available this week to hospitals, county health departments and federally qualified health centers to launch clinics focused on elderly populations.

“Getting vaccinated is critical to preventing more illnesses and more deaths, and it will keep you, your family, your friends and your community healthy and safe,” Hogan said.

With a limited supply of vaccines, the allocation of doses was focused on the Phase 1A group, consisting of critical healthcare workers, first responders, nursing home residents and staff.

However, Maryland entered Phase 1B on Monday, which now includes citizens who are 75 years and older; residents of assisted living, independent living, developmental disabilities or behavioral health group homes; high-risk incarcerated individuals;

continuity of government vaccinations; and education, including K-12 teachers, support staff, and childcare providers.

“For teachers and education staff, the State Superintendent of Schools (Dr. Karen Salmon) has submitted plans for how each county school system will vaccinate its teachers,” the governor said. “County school systems will begin implementing those plans in the coming weeks.”

Carrie Sterrs, the coordinator of public relations and special programs of the Worcester County school system, said school systems were not asked to submit a formal plan for vaccinating faculty and staff. “[W]e have been working in partnership with the Worcester County Health Department to register our employees for their upcoming vaccination clinics,” Sterrs said. “We are also working with the health department to design school-based clinics, so our employees can receive vaccinations on-site.”

All state hospitals and county health departments were directed to use their remaining doses from the first phase by opening Phase 1B clinics for the elderly.

“We have also activated Part B of the federal CVS and Walgreens partnership to now include assisted living and all other long-term care facilities,” the governor said.

Rona Kramer, secretary of the Maryland Department of Aging, said administrators of long-term care facilities, CVS and Walgreens will be Crossword answers from page 30

the primary coordinators of the vaccine effort.

“There is no need for anyone in a long-term care facility to leave the facility in order to obtain the vaccine,” she said. “The vaccines will come to you.”

The state is also launching a pilot program with Walmart and Giant to begin administering vaccines at their pharmacies on Jan. 25. Ten Walmart locations in Western Maryland and on the Eastern Shore, 22 Giant locations statewide and three Martin’s locations in Washington and Allegany counties will participate in the program.

“When the state begins to receive higher allocations from the federal government, we’ll then be able to rapidly expand this program to include more and more pharmacies and at many more locations across the state,” Hogan said.

In addition, an online portal, covidvax.maryland.gov, has launched to allow residents to search for vaccinations sites by their areas and contact information for the vaccinators.

At this time, vaccinations are only administered on an appointment basis.

On Jan. 25, Maryland will enter Phase 1C, which includes citizens ages 65 to 74; public health and safety workers not covered in Phase 1A and essential workers in lab services, food and agriculture production, manufacturing, the U.S. Postal Service, public transit, and grocery stores.

“We want to stress to all the vaccination providers that as part of our, what we call “Southwest Airlines” distribution model, they do not need to wait until they finish all of the people in one group before moving on to the next one,” the governor said. “Our primary goal is for them to get more shots into the arms of more people in our vulnerable populations as quickly as they can.”

Furthermore, counties have the flexibility to move to the next priority groups, but the elderly and most vulnerable should be prioritized, Hogan said.

The Maryland Department of Health and the Maryland National

Guard are also working with private sector partners to open mass vaccinations sites at central locations across the state when the federal allocation of vaccines increases.

“The National Guard has already begun dispatching emergency vaccination teams to county health departments, who have requested help in order to expand their county vaccination clinics,” Hogan added.

So far, the National Guard has assisted Prince George’s and Charles counties.

“The Guard is also serving as a force multiplier and providing support personnel to supplement licensed healthcare providers at covid-19 testing and vaccination sites,” he said.

Through the Maryland Responds Medical Reserves Corps, state health officials have recruited and allocated 771 volunteers for county vaccination clinics. Ten jurisdictions have taken advantage of this program, including Baltimore, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, and Wicomico counties, as well as Baltimore City.

Six more counties are in the process of receiving volunteers.

On Jan. 14, state health officials have issued an order authorizing outof-state practitioners to prepare and administer vaccines in Maryland.

During the press conference, Dr. Jinlene Chan also discussed the development of the treatment called monoclonal antibodies.

“This is a treatment that is laboratory made, and these are antibodies that mimic a person’s natural antibodies if they were to become infected with covid-19 to actually protect them against the infection,” Chan said.

She added that the treatment has been deployed in numerous locations in the state for people that are highrisk and have a positive covid-19 test.

Studies have shown that the treatment reduces the risk of hospitalization and emergency department visits.

“This is an IV infusion,” Chan said.

“So, that means they would need to go to a specialized healthcare setting and See NEXT Page 10

JANUARY 22, 2021

PAGE 9

Ocean City Today

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Continued from Page 7

Board members The Democratic Women’s Club of Worcester County recently announced its 2021 Board of Directors.

They are: Co-Presidents, Susan Hubbard and Joan Roache; Vice President, Laurie Brittingham; Recording Secretary, Deborah FisherReynolds; Corresponding Secretary, Sue Challis; Treasurer, Irene Daly; Members At-Large, Rosie Bean, Becky Simonds and Mary Anne Whitcomb; and Past President, Vicky Wallace.

The new board was sworn in by County Commissioner, District 1, Josh Nordstrom, at the organization’s December meeting.

The Democratic Women’s Club meets (virtually) the third Monday of each month and welcomes full- and part-time residents of Worcester County and surrounding areas. For membership forms and other information, visit www.dwcmd.org.

President’s List Gabrielle Izzett, of Berlin, was one of approximately 470 Shenandoah students to make the President’s List

for fall 2020.

Students who achieved this prestigious academic recognition attained a grade point average of at least 3.90.

Shenandoah University was established in 1875, and is headquartered in Winchester, Virginia, with additional educational sites in Clarke, Fairfax and Loudoun counties.

Dean’s List More than 2,325 students were named to the fall 2020 Dean’s List at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, including Makensie Catherine Froman

of Bishopville.

To be eligible for the Dean’s List, an undergraduate student must be registered for at least 12 credits and have a minimum grade point average of 3.60.

Chadwick Fischer, a Nichols College student from Berlin, achieved, Dean’s List status for the fall 2020 semester.

In order to be included on the Dean’s List at the Massachusetts college, a student must have a minimum average of 3.5 for at least 12 undergraduate credit-hours and must have received no grades below B- during the semester.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

Next phase begins Monday Continued from Page 8 actually receive an intravenous infusion over about an hour.”

At this time, about 90 percent of nursing homes across the state have access to obtain the monoclonal antibodies treatment for eligible residents.

“Going forward, our greatest limiting factor by far will be supply,” Hogan said.

To complete Phase 1, over 2.4 million more doses are needed from the federal government. Meanwhile, vaccinating all Marylanders will require more than 11.5 million more doses from the federal government.

In Worcester County, 3,239 people have received the first dose, or 6.2 percent of the population.

Healthcare professionals from Atlantic General Hospital, TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, and the Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset health departments, will hold a virtual covid-19 town hall Monday to provide an update on testing and discuss plans for the rollout of the state’s community vaccination plan.

“The first community covid-19 vaccine clinic went exceptionally well. It was well organized from the synchronization in the parking lot down [to] the discharge monitoring area. We were at any time at least 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled appointment time,” said Nicole Morris, registered nurse and infection prevention manager at Atlantic General Hospital.

“The community members stated their appreciation and were compliant with covid-19 precautions. It was an amazing day for our community.

AGH was happy to provide the much desired and needed service.”

At least, 100 people were moved from the waiting list to fill in the community members who did not meet the criteria for this particular clinic, which was 75 years or older. Hospital officials said the wait list does not roll over to the next clinic though.

Sarah Yonker, director of marketing for the hospital, said 724 doses were administered during the clinic last Saturday.

With a shipment of 600 doses on Wednesday, Atlantic General Hospital has received 2,690 doses so far.

“We have been able to complete the two-step vaccination series on 307 staff, with over 200 more pending in the next 10 days,” Yonker said.

As of Tuesday, the Worcester County Health Department administered 1,700 covid-19 vaccines out of 1,900 received, or 89 percent.

“We’ve held 12 clinics since Dec.28,” said Travis Brown, public affairs officer for the health department. “We have another five clinics scheduled over the next several days and will continue to schedule new clinics weekly as vaccine is secured.”

The health department’s clinics for the Phase 1B vaccine are filled, as is the current waiting list. Officials said those on the list will receive an update on open spots or other registration options soon.

Anyone in Phase 1A or Phase 1B who was not able to register for either a clinic or the waiting list should continue to monitor MarylandVax.org, WorcesterHealth.org and social media.

New registration will open up for additional clinics as vaccine doses are received.

On Thursday, the Ocean City Fire Department hosted its first Phase 1B clinic. The department had 150 vaccines to administer, with about 25 of those for frontline workers, including firefighters, EMS providers, emergency services and police.

Ashley Miller, the deputy communications manager for the Ocean City Police Department, said all employees who indicated they would like to receive the vaccine were administered the first dose at the beginning of January. Employees are scheduled to receive the second dose of the vaccine the first week of February.

As for the Berlin Police Department, Chief Arnold Downing said eight of 13 officers have received the first dose at this time. Civilian staff started receiving vaccinations on Jan. 12. Two staff members have received the first dose thus far.

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For vaccine information and resources, v i s i t covidlink.maryland.gov.

As of Thursday, Worcester’s covid-19 positivity rate was 11.78 percent, a slight d e c r e a s e from 11.99 percent last week.

That’s still higher than the state’s rate of PHOTO COURTESY ATLANTIC GENERAL HOSPITAL 7.66 percent.

W o r c e s t e r With a shipment of 600 doses on Wednesday, Atlantic General Hospital in has confirmed Berlin has received a total of 2,690 doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vac204 new cases cines so far to vaccinate staff and members of the Phase 1B distribution group. since last week.

This brings the county’s total cases since March to on Wednesdays from 1-3:30 p.m. by 2,877. appointment only. Testing dates are The Maryland Department of scheduled for Jan. 27, Feb. 3, Feb. 10, Health reported Berlin and Ocean Feb. 17 and Feb. 24.

Pines had 1,153 and Ocean City had Worcester County Health Depart749. ment offers drive-through covid testWorcester has recorded 70 deaths ing at the Pocomoke Health from covid-19, 18 of which were resi- Department site, 400 Walnut St. # A, dents of the Berlin Nursing Home Pocomoke City, Maryland 21851, by and nine of which were residents of appointment only for adults 18 years Gull Creek. and older Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 The Maryland Department of p.m. Testing is available on Jan. 25, Health reports 43 staff cases and 73 Feb. 1, Feb. 8, Feb. 15, and Feb. 22. residential cases of covid-19 at the In addition, the health department Berlin Nursing Home. As for Gull offers drive-through covid testing at Creek, an assisted living facility in the West Ocean City Park and Ride at Berlin, 24 staff cases and 27 residen- 12848 Ocean Gateway in Ocean City tial cases of the coronavirus have by appointment only on Thursdays been reported by the state health de- from 1-3:30 p.m. Testing dates are partment as of Thursday. scheduled for Jan. 28, Feb. 4, Feb. 11, As of Wednesday afternoon, 21 pa- Feb. 18 and Feb. 25. tients with coronavirus were in AtAdditionally, Saturday hours for lantic General Hospital – 15 in the covid-19 testing have been expanded medical/surgical unit and six in the at Atlantic ImmediCare urgent care intensive care unit, Yonker said. clinic on 10th Street. Individuals can Hospital staff has cared for six pa- now get a test between 8 a.m. and 2 tients who have come off a ventilator. p.m. on Saturdays. No appointment Atlantic General has discharged 184 is necessary. Weekday hours for coronavirus patients who are recov- walk-in testing continue to be 8 a.m. ering. to 5 p.m.

In the meantime, public health ofBecause of high demand for testficials are encouraging anyone who ing, anyone planning to arrive after 2 feels sick, or who may have had con- p.m. during the week is asked to call tact with someone who is to get ahead. The testing clinic can be tested. All Worcester County resi- reached at 410-289-0065. dents, employees and their children 8 Rapid tests are available for payears and older who are experiencing tients experiencing two or more covid-19 symptoms are eligible for symptoms of the coronavirus. Expotesting. sure to someone with covid-19 is not People who suspect they may have a factor for rapid testing. If a patient the virus should call their primary does not meet the criteria to have a care providers or the health depart- rapid test, they can still have the stanment. The Worcester County Health dard test. Turnaround time varies Department has a hotline Monday from 48 hours to five days. through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, to determine if a person should be visit www.agh.care/COVID19. tested. Call 410-632-1100, select opTo track Maryland cases, tion eight and then press one. visit coronavirus.maryland.gov/.

The Worcester County CommisTo report a restaurant or bar for sion on Aging at 4767 Snow Hill not following safety guidelines, call Road, in Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, the county environmental health deoffers drive-through covid-19 testing partment at 410-352-3234.

JANUARY 22, 2021

CHARTS COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin has joined Johns Hopkins University (JHU) and Caroline County to test an Early Learning Assessment project with all Pre-Kindergarten 4 students that encourages educators to more authentically assess students’ learning progressions of the skills, knowledge and behaviors.

Pre-K 4 students will be evaluated with ELA project

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin has joined Johns Hopkins University (JHU) and Caroline County to test an Early Learning Assessment project with all Pre-Kindergarten 4 students during the 2020-2021 school year.

The Early Learning Assessment is a precursor to the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA) and provides insight to students’ educational performances.

According to the presentation to the Worcester County Board of Education on Tuesday, the Early Learning Assessment, is “a unique formative assessment tool to inform instruction, a valid instrument to show development and strengths across the whole child, designed to use teacher observation, with evidence collected over time, designed to fit into the natural flow of an early childhood setting and ensures that children are on the path for kindergarten readiness.”

Todd Hall, the county school system’s early childhood specialist, said Worcester leads Maryland jurisdictions in school readiness. During the 2019-20 school year, 66 percent of students demonstrated readiness for kindergarten.

“Are we really happy with 66 percent of our students demonstrating readiness, even though it is top in the See BUCKINGHAM Page 12

Ocean City Today

PAGE 11

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

Buckingham Elem. partners with JHU and Caroline Co. Continued from Page 11 state? Yes, but no,” Hall said. “So, we’re always looking to better ourselves to take it to the next level.”

Performance results from special education students encouraged the project for Pre-Kindergarten 4 students.

Cassidy Hamborsky, the coordinator of instruction reading for language for the school system, said the project started for special education about four years ago.

“We focused on inclusion, practices and achievement data,” Hamborsky said. “We were below the state level. Through this project and the collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and Caroline County, we were able to close the achievement gap by 16 percent for our students with disabilities.”

This was achieved through Dynamic Impact, a team-based continuous improvement process through Johns Hopkins University, she added.

“What makes it different than other strategic planning is it really focuses on the UNITED Protocol,” Hamborsky said. “UNITED Protocol is a team-based approach based on implementation plans, and it really focuses on getting the right players at the table.”

The Dynamic Impact also prioritizes fidelity.

“Our team meets quarterly with Caroline County and JHU,” Hamborsky added, while the county school system coordinators meet monthly.

The presentation also included a sample of the literary learning progressions of skills, knowledge and behaviors of the Early Learning Assessment. Students would respond to questions about a text.

Levels A-D represent developmental stages and standards that precede Levels 1-5 and allow teachers to assess children who may be at earlier stages of development, including children with disabilities and children who are English learners.

Levels 1, 4 and 5 represent the milestones at approximately 3 years of age (Level 1), entry to kindergarten (Level 4) and the end of kindergarten (Level 5). Meanwhile, Levels 2 and 3 represent a child’s progress between 3 years of age and kindergarten entry.

The project encourages educators to conduct assessments authentically.

Curriculum implications of the project for literacy are: 100 Book Challenge Pre-Kindergarten Framework, which provides a designated time for “kid-watching” to intentionally assess students; Fountas and Pinnell Interactive Read Aloud and shared reading materials, which provides formative assessment “lookfors” within each lesson; Pre-Kindergarten Fundations, which increases consistency across early grade levels with letters and sounds; and skills and goals specific to curriculum materials are aligned to skills, knowledge and behaviors in curriculum document.

As for mathematics, all curriculum standards are aligned with KRA and support learning progressions of the skills, knowledge and behaviors.

“We had our teachers this past summer go through out curricular documents and label which lessons would be good to look for with [the skills, knowledge and behaviors], so before they teach a lesson, they look at the documents,” said Christina Welch, principal of Buckingham Elementary.

In addition, formative checklists have been provided to teachers to conduct authentic assessments without interrupting instruction.

The Pre-Kindergarten math assessment has also been revised, so that it could be administered with PearDeck.

Board member Elena McComas asked if students, who are behind developmentally, are given “grace.” The presenters assured her that the Early Learning Assessment project does not compare students, but rather assesses students on an individual basis.

ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Stephen Decatur Middle School Addition Selection Committee will interview Oak Contracting, Harkins Contracting and The Whiting Turner Contracting Corporation about their proposals for an addition at the school on Seahawk Road in Berlin.

Firms to be interviewed in Feb. about SDMS addition

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Oak Contracting, Harkins Contracting and The Whiting Turner Contracting Corporation will be interviewed about their proposals regarding an addition to Stephen Decatur Middle School, the Worcester County Board of Education agreed this week.

The candidate companies will be interviewed by the Stephen Decatur Middle School Addition Selection Committee in the next step a process that began in November with the school board’s request for construction management services proposals.

The request was sent to 18 construction management firms. Three additional firms obtained the documents that were posted on the school system’s website.

A pre-submission walk-through was conducted for the firms last

month at the middle school on Seahawk Road in Berlin. Joe Price, the school system’s facilities planner, said nine firms attended the walkthrough.

On Dec. 18, seven construction management firms submitted proposals to the school system.

Those submissions were reviewed and graded by the middle school addition committee, Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert, Assistant Construction Manager Rick Martens and Price.

“Points were awarded for 10 categories,” Price said.

Interviews for the three selected firms will take place on Feb. 5.

The committee’s recommendation of a firm to provide construction management services will be presented to Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor and the school board on Feb. 16.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

COVID-19 TESTING

The county school system’s Chief Safety & Human Relations Officer Dwayne Abt, left, and Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor were onsite to observe the drive-through covid-19 student and staff testing at Stephen Decatur High’s school-based testing pilot program on Jan. 13.

JANUARY 22, 2021

Wor. school board approves bus extensions, purchases

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The Worcester County Board of Education approved requests from bus contractors to extend the use of their buses to transport students beyond 12 years and agreed to requests from bus contractors to purchase replacement buses for the 202122 school year during its meeting on Jan. 19.

A & B Lewis LLC, M & N Donoway LLC, Teresa Adams and Harry Wimbrow requested a three-year extension, while Robert Reed and William Holden requested a two-year extension.

Wesley Townsend, who transports students in the northern Worcester County area, requested only a one-year extension.

“They have to do everything the other buses have to do with the exception they have an additional inspection in January,” said Kim Heiser, manager of transportation for the county school system.

With the approval of the school board, a bus contractor may operate a new bus, a bus less than 5 years old or a Worcester County school bus less than 14 years old for an assigned daily or regular route.

A new bus or a used bus less than 14

PAGE 13

Ocean City Today

years old may be put in service as a spare bus with the board’s approval.

Six contractors sought approval from the school board to replace buses that will be going out of service this year.

Kenneth Rantz, a bus contractor from the Pocomoke area, currently operates a 2007 spare bus. The last day of service for the bus is Aug. 23. Rantz sought to purchase a used replacement bus.

Jason Donoway, a bus contractor serving Snow Hill area Cedar Chapel students, currently operates a 2007 handicap-accessible bus. The last day of service for the bus is Sept. 1. He requested permission to purchase a new handicap accessible bus.

Keith Downs, a bus contractor from the northern county area, operates a 2006 regular run bus, which has a last day of operation on Sept. 1. Downs requested permission to purchase a new bus.

Susan Hutchinson, a bus contractor from the northern county area, operates a 2007 spare bus, which has a last day of operation on Sept. 1. She requested permission to purchase a used replacement bus.

Eugene MaGee, a bus contractor from the northern county area, cur-

BOARD OF EDUCATION BRIEFS

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The following took place during the Worcester County Board of Education meeting on Tuesday:

board on behalf of the Worcester County school counselors in recognition of National School Counseling Week.

New board president, VP

Senior representatives announced the Teachers of the Year from their schools. Kurt Marx, the business department chair, will represent Stephen Decatur High School, Nicholas Traud, who teaches physical science, accelerated chemistry and chemistry, will represent Snow Hill High School and English Teacher Jennifer Taylor will represent Pocomoke High School.

Eric Cropper Sr. was approved as the board president for 2021. This is Cropper’s second term as president.

Elena McComas was elected as the vice president to replace Sara Thompson, who retired from the board in December.

School Counseling Week The county school system is celebrating its school counselors from Feb. 1-5. Coordinator of Student Health Services Lauren Williams and Coordinator of Accountability, Assessment and School Counselors Amy Gallagher accepted a commendation from the rently operates a 2009 spare bus, and he requested to purchase a new bus.

It is his intention to use his current bus as a spare bus and use the new bus as his regular run bus, Heiser said.

Lastly, Ruby Baker, a bus contractor from the northern county area, operates a 2011 regular run bus, and she sought to purchase a new bus.

Teachers of the Year

Board Appreciation Month Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor presented a proclamation to the board in honor of January being Board Appreciation Month.

“We are very honored and privileged in Worcester County to have an outstanding board of education,” Taylor said. “Our school board focuses on our students and what’s best for our kids.”

Safety hotline Dr. Dwayne Abt, chief safety and human relations officer of the school system, said he will be attending an annual training for the “B SAFE” hotline.

Continued on Page 14

PAGE 14

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

OP Board looks at lower assessment increase next year

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The Ocean Pines Board of Directors conducted a review of the next fiscal year’s budget, with instant good news after learning earlier estimates for potential assessment increases have been reduced substantially.

General Manager John Viola said earlier calculations indicated a $121 assessment fee increase could be required, but that figure was readjusted based on guidance received from the Budget and Finance Committee last week.

“The increase on assessments could have been a couple hundred dollars,” he said. “It’s now in the $35 range.”

Although the final budget numbers are still taking shape, cost-trimming measures to this point have included reducing the added cost for bulkheads work from $41 to $25.

Ocean Pines Public Works is half way through a four-year bulkhead replacement program begun two years ago.

While numerous line items remain open to discussion, Viola said increases for payroll, benefits and casualty insurance leave little room for flexibility.

“Salary and benefits account for 70 percent of the assessment,” he said.

“You can’t ignore that.”

Viola said one of the larger points of debate during the Budget and Finance Committee review earlier this month was where to shift the estimated $650,000 the OPA will have netted above its budgeted bottom line.

Viola said one priority is paying off the roughly $163,000 in past operating debt.

“I believe the favorability will cover the operating deficit,” he said.

“At the end of this budget it’s gone and we covered it all.”

The association incurred roughly $1.6 million in operating budget debt

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Worcester County Clerk of Circuit Court Susan Braniecki administers the oath of office to the elected Worcester County Board of Education members on Tuesday. Pictured, from left, are Elena McComas, Dr. Jon Andes and Donald Smack.

three years ago, and Viola said that has been paid down without significant impacts on assessment rates.

Several proposed capital projects were also vetted by the Budget and Finance Committee earlier this month.

Deemed a primary project and supported

by Budget and Finance are proposed upgrades to add court space at the Manklin Meadows Racquet Frank Daly Sports Complex.

Viola said the roughly $160,000 to expand pickleball and junior tennis courts, along with fencing, could be sourced from either the new capital reserve acJohn Viola count or current year budget favorability.

“I believe over time the racquet sports will break even,” he said.

Although deemed a secondary project by Budget and Finance, Viola said costs to add T-Docks at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club should be recouped eventually.

“I believe that revenue over time will help us offset expenses,” he said.

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“There are hard calls that might have to be made here.”

OPA President Larry Perrone suggested a proposal to reallocate $350,000 from the roadways budget to subsidize the Bainbridge drainage project would require further board discussion.

Board member Frank Daly said advised caution in that respect, saying, “In the past we let facilities crumble to keep assessments from increasing.”

Daly said between government mandated payroll increases and price volatility for materials, there are budget issues over which the association lacks control.

“The assessment goes up or situations get a hell of a lot worse,” he said.

Perrone said the principal consideration is deferring road maintenance next year.

Board member Tom Janasek said if future drainage-related grants are awarded to Ocean Pines the roads funding could be reimbursed.

Agreeing was Director Doug Parks, who pointed to potential long-term benefits.

“Moving money from roads establishes a positive precedent for future grant pursuits,” he said.

Daly, who backed the reallocation recommendation, also highlighted the 5-6 miles of underground pipe in Ocean Pines that are at or near the end of their useful life.

“There’s a liability we face to replace pipe,” he said.

Daly said the cost could eclipse $30 million when addressed.

BOARD OF ED BRIEFS Continued from Page 13 “This hotline was established by the Maryland Center for School Safety a little over a year ago for anyone to report safety threats to the school system,” Abt said.

Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said the county schools have received few reports.

“The neat thing about this is if we get a report at midnight of a safety issue with a kid from the proper law enforcement it goes to Dr. Abt,” Taylor said. “They will call him 24/7, and the law enforcement will be in the home within a few hours, so that kid doesn’t bring that to school the next morning.”

The Safe Schools hotline is a 24hour service. Call in a tip at 1-833-6327233.

Final exam waiver The board agreed to waive the final exam policy for Semester One courses for the 2020-21 academic year because of the impacts of distance learning during the coronavirus pandemic.

Showell update Joe Price, the school system’s facilities planner, said the current payments to date on the new Showell Elementary School project total approximately $37.7 million. The remaining balance is $2.1 million.

With the unanimous approval of the requisition, Price said nine of the 15 contractors will be fully paid.

JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

Royal Farms store near Ocean Pines preliminary review

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The Worcester County Technical Review Committee met virtually on Jan. 13 to discuss a site plan of a 5,154-square-foot Royal Farms convenience store near Ocean Pines with a 1,248-square-foot car wash and eight gasoline pumping stations under canopy.

The proposed Royal Farms will be located at 11073 Cathell Road next to the Walgreens just off Jeff Harman Route 589.

The property is zoned for the C-2 General Commercial District and is owned by Delmarva Real Estate Holdings LLC.Becker Morgan Group, Inc. is the engineer for the project.

“The car wash has more than adequate stacking for lining up without any interference with any of the onsite traffic circulation,” said Jeff Harman of the Becker Morgan Group.

The State Highway Administration has completed an access feasibility study and a traffic impact study and reached approval for both studies.

“We’ve done much negotiation with them on the access from 589, and they have agreed to the entrance shown, and we are in the process of having the necessary break in right of way controls for us to be allowed to have that access,” Harman said.

“We’re part way through that process.

We have part of our approvals, but we’re waiting for Board of Public Works with the state to finalize their approval.”

Then, construction drawings will be submitted for approval.

“We have two further entrances off of Cathell Road. Both of them come into the site off full access entrances,” Harman said. “We have a shared entrance for the northwest part of the site there that goes to the Hileman Real Estate. That is an existing entrance, and that entrance is currently shared. It currently straddles the property line. We are moving it completely onto Royal Farms property, but we will be providing the cross-access easement to Hileman Real Estate.”

A cross-connection to the Royal Farms will also be provided to the neighboring Walgreens.

In addition, the site plan shows 49 parking spaces were provided with two handicapped spaces.

The minimum number of parking spaces required is 25.77 spaces and the maximum is 51.4 spaces.

The project also has the necessary stormwater management subject to the Worcester County Stormwater Ordinance.

PAGE 15 The Worcester County Technical Review Committee discussed plans for the development of a Royal Farms convenience store on Cathell Road near Ocean Pines with a car wash and eight gasoline pumping stations under canopy on Jan. 13.

The Technical Review Committee recommended that numerous items be addressed on the site plan before an approval could be granted.

ALLY LANASA/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

“We do have concept stormwater management plan approval from Bobby Shockley (who reviews stormwater management plans for the county),” Harman said. “We’re working on final approvals of that as well.”

Harman said he also spoke with Frank Adkins with the Roads Division of Public Works, who requested some additions to the plan.

“We’ve got some striping and some storm drainage changes that we’re going to be making on there,” he said.

Kristen Tremblay, zoning administrator for the county, asked if the Viper lamps will continuously be energized, or turned on constantly. Harman replied that he will have to contact the electrical engineer for the answer.

“If they’re continuously energized, we do have a height restriction. It cannot exceed 18 feet,” Tremblay. “If that’s what you’re going to indicate that they are, just have that adjusted on the site plans, OK?” The Viper lamps will be off during the daytime.

Daniel Wilson, D-1 access management regional engineer from the State Highway Administration, added that the project is also currently in the process of plat review.

Furthermore, Harman said the loading space was purposefully not included in the site plan.

“The way Royal Farms loads into their store is through their front door.

They don’t have a rear delivery door,” he said. “So, there isn’t a need for a loading space because they have off hours delivery times.”

Tremblay said because the project site plan is a minor site plan, it is not necessary to go through the county Planning Commission for approval regarding the omission of a loading zone.

“Additionally, on the loading zone, as long as you’re showing it on the site plan whether it’s used or not that’s all I need in order to meet the requirements,” she said.

She added that a loading zone could be included on the eastern side

of the project.

According to zoning laws, planting areas must be placed at each end of a parking row around the main building and the edges of the parking area needs to be curbed or buffered.

Curbed islands are required adjacent to parking. Harman said there is a safety concern about islands in those locations because of tripping hazards.

“To have a landscaped island with curbing around it creates a liability for [Royal Farms] that they try to eliminate because it is a safety concern for them. Most of their stores do

not have that,” he said. “Is there any way that you can eliminate those and do additional landscaping elsewhere on-site?”

Tremblay responded that there does not have to be a curb in this case. The island just has to be curbed or buffered.

“If you want to do something that’s flush and has the space for the vegetation, that’s more than welcome too,” she added.

The Technical Review Committee recommended that numerous items be addressed on the site plan before an approval could be granted.

PAGE 16

JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

Hotel with 52 units proposed for Berlin area Planning Commission must approve plans to develop Shorepoint Cottage Court

By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The Worcester County Technical Review Committee reviewed plans for a proposed hotel/motel called Shorepoint Cottage Court located at 9543 Stephen Decatur Highway in Berlin during a teleconference on Jan. 13.

The development would have 52 units, each 390 square feet.

The property is zoned C-2 General Commercial District and is owned by West OC Properties, LLC. R.D. Hand and Associates Inc. will serve as the engineer of the project.

Land planner Bob Hand and Attorney Hugh Cropper were present on behalf of the applicant.

The site plan shows that a pool, deck and “beach” amenities will be provided in the center of the property.

According to a letter from District Engineer James Meredith from the State Highway Administration, the development proposes to use the existing access along Stephen Decatur Highway. That access will need to be brought to state standard, with accompanying acceleration/decelera-

tion lanes and widening for a bike lane, Meredith wrote.

In addition, a trip generation report will be provided. After the report is reviewed, State Highway Administration officials will determine if any further traffic study is necessary.

When the traffic assessment has been completed, the project will require a commercial access permit through the District 1 office.

The technical review committee staff report stated that bicycle lanes will need to be provided and indicated on the site plan.

“If you’d like to show me where you’d like them, I can indicate them, but basically they’d be all over the parking lot,” Hand said.

Tremblay responded that they can discuss a solution for that.

Staff also requested clarification where the 122 grass plantings (Panicum virgatum) will be placed in the report.

“They’re shown on the typical detail in the lower corner. Once again we didn’t want to show them all on

the smaller version of the site plan because it would get too muddy, but it’s clearly shown on the little detail.”

The plantings will provide landscaping around the 52 units.

The property is located within the Seaside Architectural Tradition of the county’s design guidelines. Needs that should be established and ready for explanation before the project goes before the county Planning Commission include, establishing the proper pitch for the roofs, materials used, signs, lighting and a 35-footdeep landscape buffer in the setback area.

Hand argued that the 35-foot-deep landscape buffer in the front yard setback is not required because of the location of the site.

“It’s in the West Ocean City area, which is exempt from the 35-foot,” he said.

The project also lies in the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area program boundary designated Intense Development Area and is non-waterfront.

A critical area report must be pro-

vided, including showing the limits of disturbance, existing and proposed lot coverage numbers and any clearing or grading on the lot. Also required are documents that will show the site will meet the 10 percent pollution reduction requirements and 15 percent afforestation requirement.

The stormwater concept plan approval has been received.

Currently, the site has eight water EDUs (equivalent dwelling units) from the Mystic Harbour Sanitary Service Area but no sewer EDUs. The proposed project requires 17 EDUs of water and sewer from the Mystic Harbour Sanitary Service Area.

Following the Technical Review Committee’s major site plan review process, an EDU allocation from the county commissioners must occur prior to the project applying to the Planning Commission for site plan approval.

The project is a major site plan review project, which requires the Planning Commission approval to move forward.

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Ocean City Today

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

‘Gifts Fulfilled’ sees more growth ahead for program

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Ocean Pines resident Kim Shanahan, who runs the web-based business “Gifts Fulfilled” that employs adults with intellectual disabilities, experienced an economic boost following the surge in online commerce after the onset of coronavirus last spring.

Shanahan, who is a board member with the Worcester County Kim Shanahan Development Center, relocated the previously home-based custom gift basket operation to a 1,200-sqaure-foot production center in the Taylorville Center on Racetrack Road in September.

“We grew quite a bit last year and, hopefully, will continue to grow at that rate this year,” she said.

Located in Newark, the Worcester County Development Center helps clients with intellectual disabilities cultivate job skills and provides varying levels of supervised residential housing.

After developing a business concept several years ago to employ people with disabilities to produce handmade gift baskets and care packages, giftsfulfilled.com’s profile with the buying public went up considerably last year when it linked up with Amazon, Shanahan said.

“We were able to meet their requirements and get certified as an Amazon Prime shipper,” she said.

“That’s what enabled me to grow out of the home and into the production center.”

The global marketplace proved lucrative, with the Amazon listing luring in requests for wholesale orders.

The outcome was far different than Shanahan envisioned when the pandemic struck last March.

“I thought business would take a hit because people would stop spending but then online shopping blew up,” she said.

Her expectations shifted after an unanticipated spate of orders were received over Easter weekend in midApril.

“On Easter, I had everybody out and nobody was working except for me,” she said.

After handling that holiday surge singlehandedly, Shanahan recognized the situation would likely intensify during the Christmas shopping season.

By June, Shanahan began scouting commercial properties but found limited options before finding a suitable vacancy in Taylorville Center.

“I look at every business decision from the realm of does this serve the company mission, which is to employ people that have disabilities,” she said.

“That’s how everything is guided.”

What originally guided Shanahan to establish the company was heightened health concerns before delivering her final child at 40 years of age.

Although advised of developmental risks associated with older-age pregnancy’s Shanahan opted against genetic testing determined to love her newborn regardless of outcomes.

“It gave me time to think about if this child’s born with a disability what’s that’s going to look like,” she said.

While Shanahan eventually delivered a healthy son, currently 10, contemplating the possibilities caused her to think of less fortunate parents.

“I’m worried once they hit adulthood,” she said. “If I’m not around, and he’s an adult, is he going to be in a home or institution?”

It was also evident to Shanahan that adults with developmental challenges have limited job options and face monumental challenges finding appropriate housing.

“All of these things that we face as adults if you have a disability — it’s a thousand times more difficult to navigate that whole process,” she said.

In 2017, Shanahan’s family settled in Ocean Pines after years of recurring relocations as a military spouse, at which point the business concept began to take life.

“My son was not born with a disability but I just had that belief that’s sort of what I was meant to be doing with this idea,” she said. “I was meant to take it further and not just let it die away.”

With decades of experience preparing gift baskets and care packages under her belt, Shanahan decided to stick to familiar ground.

“I could take what I know about the gift basket industry and start a

PHOTO COURTESY KIM SHANAHAN

Gifts Fulfilled offers a wide array of seasonal and holiday-themed keepsakes including Valentine’s Day items.

business to create jobs for people with disabilities,” she said.

In short order, Shanahan crossed paths with Karen Waggoner, formerly business development manager at WCDC, at an Eastern Shore marketing event.

“I told her, ‘I’m new to the area and the goal of my business is to employ people with disabilities.’ She said ‘you are in luck,’” she said.

Waggoner invited Shanahan to visit Worcester County Development Center and engage their clients to assess skill levels and adapt production methods accordingly.

“They gave me a chance to come in and set up projects and test things out with the clients,” she said

The proving ground helped Shanahan confirm basket-making processes could be adjusted appropriately.

“I can adapt things to meet the skill levels of the people I was going to hire and not have it effect the quality of the product,” she said.

Looking ahead, Shanahan hopes to find a larger production facility in the near future and expand staffing, but remains indebted for the initial assistance from the Worcester County Development Center.

“Taking my knowledge and then being able to put it to real world practice at WCDC, that was a gift for them to let me come in there and try this out,” she said.

Big Brothers, Sisters credits mentors for selfless efforts (Jan. 22, 2021) During National Mentoring Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore wants to recognize the selfless dedication and commitment of countless mentors across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

As they devote their time and energy to help guide the next generation of leaders, they enrich the lives of others, strengthen the Eastern Shore community, and build a better future for all.

From faith leaders and coaches to educators and business professionals, mentors show devotion for bettering the lives of others as they nurture and

lead youth.

These mentors instill compassion, responsibility and generosity as they lead young people to pursue their dreams.

Throughout this month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore encourages the community to reach out and become a mentor. Together, the community can defend potential and inspire youth, creating a longlasting positive change.

For information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore or sign up as a mentor, visit www.shorebiglittle.org or call 410-543-2447.

JANUARY 22, 2021

PAGE 19

Ocean City Today

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Pizza dip presented in bread VA Loan obtainable through bowl gives appetizer option mortgage companies, banks

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) The definition of habit is characterized as an automatic, unconscious action as opposed to an intentional, goal-related objective.

We are two-thirds of the way through January and my New Year’s resolutions are already on the back burner. I find myself repeating the same old routine and my best intentions have been reduced to a mere wish.

Sometimes we need to pick ourselves up and see the delightful things on our daily plate.

For example, I am sure you have ordered an appetizer on numerous occasions. Does one know the history of an appetizer? Do you know the difference between an amuse-bouche, canape, hors d’oeuvre and appetizer?

Entertaining is an art that encompasses a cornucopia of knowledge.

Collecting recipes that tickles one’s taste buds is just a start.

Science and history are important and should be included in one’s repertoire of comprehension. With that thought in mind, let us review the tantalizing antiquity of one of my favorite courses for consumption.

If we want to know the origins, we have to turn the pages of time to the ancient Greeks and Romans. These food enthusiasts were famous for sampling a variety of fabulous foods.

In fact, ancient Romans would regurgitate lavish meals so they could return to the table for more. You can see where the smaller portions and more selections would “feed” such gluttony.

Wealthy Frenchmen started a trend from the lavish sit-down dinners by incorporating petite plates for a meticulous presentation, which ul-

timately included more courses.

In the 1860s, the term “appetizers” seems to have appeared simultaneously in England and America. Historians believe this was an anglophone equivalent for the French word “hors d’oeuvres.”

In 1920, the laws of Prohibition advanced the concept of appetizers. As bars and taverns were shut down, secret watering holes began appearing all over America.

One way of ensuring patrons did not leave inebriated and draw unwanted attention to the secret saloons was to serve small portions of food throughout the night.

Once again, appetizers were introduced to Americans which popularized the tiny portions to new levels of acceptance and predilection.

As time progressed and depending on one’s geographic location, the term “appetizers” and “hors d’oeuvres” became synonymous. However, perfectionists of culinary terms know there is a difference.

A review is necessary for those who covet perfection.

An amuse-bouche is a single bite of food that is perfectly presented. Generally, it is an offering that is intended to wet your appetite and show off the chef’s skills.

Canapes are savory hors d’ oeuvres made on a bread base, like a cracker, that allows one to pick up the delicious delight with one’s fingers.

Hors d’oeuvres are generally presented to guests while waiting on their main course. Typically, an hors d’oeuvre is one to two bites.

If one attends a cocktail party and dinner is not included, chances are hors d’oeuvres will be provided instead.

Appetizers are the first course served at a meal. They are not considered an hors d’oeuvre since they are See PIZZA Page 20

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Most people are familiar with the VA Loan, which is a loan program through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

These loans are available to veterans and active-duty military members and they offer no down payment requirements, no mortgage insurance, lower than average interest rates, limits on closing costs and more lenient credit requirements than traditional financing.

To qualify for a VA Loan, you need to have served 90 consecutive days during wartime, 181 consecutive days on active duty during peacetime, six or more years in the National Guard or Reserves. Also, some spouses of military members who died in the line of duty are eligible to apply for a VA Loan.

VA Home Loans are provided by private lenders, such as banks and mortgage companies. VA guarantees a portion of the loan, enabling the lender to provide the home buyer with more favorable terms.

In addition to the service eligibility requirements above, home buyers must also have satisfactory credit, sufficient income to meet the expected monthly obligations, and a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on the property. The COE verifies to the lender that you are eligible for a VA backed loan.

Generally, all veterans using the VA Home Loan Guaranty benefit must pay a funding fee.

The funding fee is a percentage of the loan amount, which varies based on the type of loan and your military category, if you are a first-time or subsequent loan user, and whether you make a down payment.

You have the option to finance the VA funding fee or pay it in cash, but the funding fee must be paid at closing time.

Another benefit for disabled veterans with a permanent and total service connected disability rated 100 percent disabled by the VA may receive a complete exemption from real property taxes. Each state will have a form that disabled veterans must submit to qualify for this property tax exemption.

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

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Ocean City Today

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

WORLD WAR II

Pizza dip in bread bowl for football snacking pleasure

Battle of Derna first in series of power struggles

Continued from Page 19 created to harmonize with the following courses.

They do not have to be eaten with one’s fingers and are not limited to one or two bites.

Football playoffs are finally here.

For most fans, this means covering countertops and coffee tables with a variety of tasty, finger food.

Unforgettable occasions depend on memorable menus. Pizza dip served in a crusty bread bowl is sure way to get the crowd going.

A crispy bread bowl is hollowed out, filled with your favorite marinara sauce, and smothered with gooey cheese and a smorgasbord of pizza toppings.

If you are going to include sausage, pepperoni, or bacon, precook the meats for the allotted cooking time will not be sufficient.

Get creative with the dip and do not feel one has to conform to tradition. Pineapple, spinach, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives and roasted garlic are just a few suggestions.

You might even want to serve a smoke salmon pizza dip with crème fraiche, slivers of red onions, capers and fresh dill. In other words, there is no limit to the possibilities.

Waste should never be an option in any kitchen. The bread that is hollowed out can be sliced and toasted for the dip. Crackers and the addition of toasted slices of bread give your guests options.

While we are on the subject of bread, do not be limited to a round loaf. A rectangular shaped loaf or even a baguette will also work.

The only criteria are the bread must be crispy and able to handle the variety of fillings.

Slices of cucumbers, carrot sticks, celery sticks and Belgium endive, can be used instead of utensils. This dip is messy, so make sure there are small plates and cocktail napkins readily

available.

A sharp knife should be served with the dip, the bread is quite crunchy and thick in diameter.

The following recipe is just meant to be a guide. Have fun, enjoy the games, and know this dip is sure to score a touchdown. Enjoy!

Pizza Dip Presented in a Bread Bowl Ingredients 1 large Italian or French bread bowl 3 cups favorite marinara sauce 1 ½ cups Italian style cheeses 2 cups favorite pizza toppings 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped (garnish) finely grated parmesan cheese (garnish( freshly ground coarse black pepper (garnish) 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Place bread bowl onto a foil lined baking sheet. Carefully hollow out the middle. Do not go through the bottom or sides of the bread.

3. Pour marinara sauce into the bread bowl. Top bread bowl with toppings and cheese. Tent foil loosely over the top of the bread bowl, you do not want it to touch the cheese. Bake for 30 minutes. You can also toast the leftover bread at this time. It should only take about 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bread.

4. Remove bread bowl from the oven, discard the tin foil, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes.

5. Broil for the final browning process. This will only take a few minutes, so you need to watch it closely.

6. Garnish with fresh basil, a light dusting of parmesan cheese and black pepper.

7. Serve with an assortment of crackers and veggies.

Secret Ingredient – Small Portions.

“Real success comes in small portions day by day.”

– Denis Waitley

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) This week, 80 years ago, the Australians continued their pursuit of the beaten Italian Tenth Army, now under the command of Lt.Gen. Giuseppe Tellera, after capturing Tobruk.

The next stop was Derna, a small port 90 miles west of Tobruk on the Mediterranean.

The commander of Derna’s defenses was Lt.-Gen. Annibale Bergonzoli who had escaped, first from Sidi Barrani to Bardia, then to Tobruk, and now to Derna.

Because of his beard, Gen. Bergonzoli was known as “Barba Elettrica” (“Electric Beard”). Barba Elettrica had commanded the Littorio Division in the Spanish Civil War, and in the recent invasion of Egypt, was commander of the XXIII Corps.

At the time, Derna had a population of about 10,000. Today, its population tops 100,000. The city is located at the eastern end of Jebel Akhdar (“Green Mountain”), making it the rare forested area in Libya. There has been a city at that site for more than 2,000 years.

Of interest to Americans is that the Battle of Derna, in 1805, was the first time American soldiers had been deployed on foreign soil.

The incident arose during the fourth year of the First Barbary War. It was also the first American attempt at “regime change.” Sadly, it was not the last.

The U.S. sought to overthrow the ruler of Tripoli, Yusuf Karamanli. It sent William Eaton, “Naval Agent to the Barbary States,” to Alexandria, Egypt, and he recruited Yusuf’s brother, Hamet, who had been deposed by Yusuf in 1793. The two began to assemble an “army.”

Most of the 500 soldiers were Arab, Greek, and Levantine, with eight U.S. Marines led by 1st Lt. Presley O’Ban-

JANUARY 22, 2021

Lt. Gen. Annibale Bergonzoli

non and Midshipman Pascal Peck.

The new army departed Alexandria on March 8, 1805, following the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, with stops at El Alamein and Tobruk, where it was resupplied by U.S. warships, Argus, Hornet, and Nautilus, under the command of Isaac Hull.

The little army arrived at Derna on April 25, and after taking on more supplies and resting, began plotting its next move. On the afternoon of April 27, Eaton launched an assault which, ultimately, was successful. Of the Marines, two were killed and two wounded.

This action was the basis of the line “...to the shores of Tripoli...” in the Marine Hymn, “The Halls of Montezuma.” Shortly after the invaders occupied Derna and Hamet was installed as the Pasha, an army from Tripoli arrived.

It was then learned that peace had been concluded. Hamet and the Americans were secretly removed by the Continued on Page 21

JANUARY 22, 2021

PAGE 21

Ocean City Today

WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 20 U.S. Navy, leaving the rest to their fate.

At Derna, Barba Elettrica’s forces included elements of Sabratha, Pavia, and Brescia Infantry Divisions commanded by Gens. Guido Della Bono, Pietro Zaglio, and Giuseppe Cremascoli.

In the Italian Army, most infantry divisions had no transportation, so that wherever they went, they walked!

The task of capturing Derna fell to the 6th Australian Division, commanded by Gen. Iven Mackay, which had already captured Bardia and Tobruk.

At the same time, units of the British 7th Armored Division, commanded by Gen. Sir Michael O’Moore Creagh, were ordered to the small, desert village of El Mechili, 50 miles south of Derna, on the southern side of Jebel Akhdar, in an effort to outflank the Italian position at Derna. El Mechili was an old Turkish fort with water.

To prevent the Aussies from outflanking his position, Barba Elettrica placed Gen. Della Bono’s Sabratha Infantry Division, together with a small Libyan parachute unit, between the city and the Derna airport, which was south of Derna.

For the defense of El Mechili, which was further south, the Italians were able to pull together: the “Babini” Group, which included 1,000 of the elite Bersaglieri, the Brigata Corazzata Speciale (Special Armored Brigade),

which included 57 medium tanks, a regiment of 75mm guns, and was commanded by Brig.-Gen. Valentino Babini; the “Piana” Group, containing 2,500 soldiers, commanded by Mario Piana; the “Bignami” Column, with two battalions of the elite, motorized, Bersaglieri, commanded by Brig.-Gen. Mario Bignami.

On Jan. 23, the Italians launched a tank attack against the British armor, driving it back. That same day, the 4th Armoured Brigade of the 7th Armoured Division reached Fort Mechili in the desert, but was unable to take it because of the strength of Italian defenses, requiring the assistance of the rest of the division.

The two armored forces met on the morning of Jan. 24, and fought to a draw. Two days later, the Aussies took on Gen. Della Bono’s Sabratha Division, which had been reinforced by the 10th Bersaglieri Regiment from General Babini’s Group, at the Derna airfield.

With the aid of the Regia Aeronauctica, the Italians held. On the night of Jan. 26, in the face of the entire Australian armored division, the Italians abandoned Fort Mechili.

Two days later, Gen. Bergonzoli, having been out-flanked, ordered the abandonment of the defense of Derna, once again escaping the clutches of the Aussies! They would meet again, in a few days, at Beda Fomm.

The remnants of Gen. Tellera’s Italian Tenth Army began retreating south

ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

BLOOD DRIVE

Blood donors celebrate National Blood Donor Month by giving on Tuesday afternoon. The three-day Ocean City Blood Drive at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street, had 630 people sign up, including 245 on Tuesday and 231 on Wednesday. Walk-ins were accepted, but appointments were encouraged because of the coronavirus.

along the coast of the Gulf of Sirte, on the Via Balbia, first to Benghazi, the capital of the eastern Libyan province of Cyrenaica,. Benghazi had a peacetime population of 65,000, 20,000 of whom were Italians.

As for Derna, it changed hands four more times in World War II, and several times in the Civil War, following the American-led regime-change of

the Quadafi government.

Next week: Keren 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.

Open Weekends

PAGE 22

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS SCHOLARSHIPS The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Foundation awarded six workforce scholarships to local recipients totaling $6,000. Pictured, from left, are Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lachelle Scarlato; Ruth Waters, president of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board of Directors and Director of Sales for Harrison Group; and recipients Karly Arment, Kara Mihavetz, Melissa Bennett, Logan Dillon and Robert Dixon. Not pictured: Danielle Simpkins.

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Foundation developed the Eunice Q. Sorin Scholarship in 2011 to enhance workforce and economic development in the region.

THANK YOU PROCLAMATION Worcester County Commissioner President Joe Mitrecic, left, presents a proclamation marking January as the 19th anniversary of National Mentoring Month to Commissioner Josh Nordstrom, who serves on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore Board of Directors.

In honor of Veterans Day in November, Melanie Coleman’s first grade class at Ocean City Elementary sent thank you letters to her cousin, Wilbur Scott Oles' Marine squadron. Oles is the lieutenant colonel of VMM-163 Evil Eyes at Miramar Military Base in San Diego, California. Recently, her class got a special surprise – a visit from Lt. Col. Oles during their class Zoom. He told the class that he distributed the letters to his squadron and they have them hanging all around their building.

GIVING BACK Worcester Preparatory School students and faculty did not let the pandemic stop them from giving back to the community this past holiday season. From virtual concerts and food drives throughout Maryland and Delaware to handmade cards for local and international assisted living residents, the WPS family united to help make the holidays a little brighter. (Left) Even with a year full of challenges, WPS creative team - made up of Lower School music director Joanie Brittingham and art teacher Rebecca Tittermary, along with Middle/Upper School music director Christopher Buzby and art teacher George Zaiser - coordinated efforts to produce multiple virtual programs combining art and music to share the gifts of their student artists and choral vocalists. Students are pictured while filming the manger scene for Brittingham’s virtual Lower School musical, “Just One Candle.” (Right) Pictured are first graders who created colorful cards for the residents of Peak Healthcare at Hartley Hall Nursing Home in Pocomoke City with teachers Angie Bunting and Cheryl Marshall.

JANUARY 22, 2021

PAGE 23

Ocean City Today

PLUNGE FUNDRAISER

About a dozen members of the Mr. Peanuts Frozen Chozen Polar Bear Plunge Team from the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area and the Bearded Men’s Society of Ocean City took a dip in the ocean near the pier downtown to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland on Saturday, Jan. 16. With a 50/50 raffle, live auction at the Cork Bar on Wicomico Street and donations, the group raised $9,500. The Bearded Men’s Society has joined the Plunge Team in the fundraising event for about five years. Society President Robb Dunne said he is in talks with Special Olympics Maryland to help grow the event next year.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

GENERAL DENTISTRY Dental Cleaning • Implants Cosmetic & Whitening Procedures Restorative Dentures & Partials PHOTO COURTESY ROBB DUNNE

County arts council provides grant program for nonprofits (Jan. 22, 2021) In response to the covid-19 pandemic and its severe impact on the community, the Worcester County Arts Council announces the Art Resiliency Grant program.

The Art Resiliency Operating Grant program is intended to support and strengthen Worcester County arts and cultural organizations.

This grant program is administered by the Worcester County Arts Council, a not-for-profit organization. Funds distributed through this program are provided by the Maryland State Arts Council.

The Art Resiliency Grant program was created to provide unrestricted operating support grants to nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Worcester County. An organization may apply for up to $1,000.

Organizations may use this unrestricted funding as they see fit on an array of expenses, including program

costs, salaries, administration, office expenses, technology, or to meet other operational needs.

Due to the limited funding that may be available, eligibility for the Art Resiliency Grant is limited to organizations that were funded by the Worcester County Arts Council through the Community Arts Development Grant program in fiscal year 2020 and 2021.

Eligible applicants must be actively creating or presenting mission-related programming through live, virtual, or other mediums to be considered for funding.

Program guidelines and application form are available on the Arts Council website www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org. Application submission deadline is Feb. 8.

For more information about this grant program and eligibility, contact Anna Mullis, executive director, at anna@worcestercountyartscouncil.org.

Md. basic boating safety course to take place online (Jan. 22, 2021) The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a virtual Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course, Feb. 2-4, from 6-9 p.m.

The Maryland Safe Boating Certificate is required for all boat operators born after July 1, 1972, and is awarded after successful completion of the course.

The class includes piloting in local waters, tying nautical knots, foul weather tactics, legal issues, updated Maryland regulations, and common marine maintenance.

The cost is $20 for all three evenings.

Checks should be made payable to: “USGCAUX 12-05” and mailed to: USCGAUX 12-05. P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Payment via PayPAL is also accepted.

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JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

Letters to the editor Remembering John Smack Jr.

Editor, It was with considerable sadness that I read of the passing of John Dale Smack, Jr. I was town attorney for Berlin during the time in which Mr. Smack served on the Berlin Council, from 1980 to 1988.

As has been noted, Mr. Smack was the first African-American to serve on Berlin’s Council. During his two terms in office, Mr. Smack served with dignity and dedication to service for all of Berlin’s citizens.

If memory serves me correctly, in those pre-district days where all council members were elected at-large by all town voters, Mr. Smack at least once garnered more votes than any other member.

His service to the town and his outstanding contribution to the wellbeing of its citizens should be memorialized, and I try to shed some light on his service in this modest tribute.

He is a community leader who will be sorely missed.

Very truly yours, Joseph E. Moore Berlin

Education about Martin Luther King Jr.

Editor, The other day as I helped a Walmart employee load groceries into my car, Dr. [Martin Luther] King was on my mind.

I'm white, the employee was black, and so I said to her she should be getting hazard pay during the pandemic since she's an "essential worker."

This was on Dr. King's birthday, and I said to her, "You know why they shot Dr. King?" She said she didn't.

I said, "Because his next work was going to be in organizing the poor: he'd gotten the Voter's Rights and Civil Rights Bills passed through Congress, but his next march on Washington was for the poor."

"Do you know where he was when he got shot?" She said "No." So I told her he was in Memphis because garbagemen were on strike.

Garbagemen, another essential worker.

I told her he was there because two garbagemen had been killed; it was raining one day, and the white garbagemen refused to let them inside.

The two men climbed into the back of a garbage truck, and when the rain

shorted the motor, the compactor came down and crushed them.

So Dr. King went to Memphis to support the garbagemen.

I was disappointed that this young, black girl was unaware of these very important historical facts.

But I'm more disappointed in her teachers. I'm a teacher. I'm disappointed in our American education system.

I see where we fail to get into depth when teaching history...when the most some kids know about Native Americans is the First Thanksgiving, or the only speech they know of Dr King's is "I Have a Dream.”

Yeah.... We're getting rid of one bad hombre in the White House.

But it sure didn't start with him.

And they don't end it.

If we don't pressure them, the same kind of stupid history just repeats itself.

We the people.

Happy Dr. King's Day Robert Carr Willards

AGH Phase 1B vaccine clinic

Editor, A lot of people in the 1B over 75 age group were not aware that they would be able to receive the first covid vaccine shots in the entire state of Maryland when Atlantic General Hospital offered that opportunity on Saturday, Jan. 16.

No doubt the news was confusing to many when first released to the press on Monday afternoon, but by Tuesday morning the slots were filled.

Most of the proactive information I saw was disseminated on OceanPinesForum.com operated by Joe Reynolds which enabled many to sign up on Monday evening.

My wife and I were concerned, especially after seeing long lines in other areas of the country, how AGH would handle the hundreds of people signed up for their Saturday clinic at the Barrett building in Berlin.

Would we be driving into an unorganized mess? That fear proved to be unfounded as we drove into Healthway Drive and were met by AGH volunteers. The operation would have made the military proud.

As we drove in from the street, your vaccination time was checked. If early, you were directed to the parking lot across the street at the new Cancer Center.

About 10 minutes prior to your shot time, you were released and drove across street to Barrett parking lot and directed to come into the building five minutes prior to your shot time. Volunteers roamed the lot to coordinate arrivals and answer any questions.

Inside, you were quickly processed after showing ID and moved into the room where shots were given at multiple stations.

After the shot was given you were moved down the line to wait for 15 Continued on Page 27

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JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

PAGE 25

Commentary

Ocean City Today Jan. 22, 2021

Page 26

Time has come for fire districts Volunteer fire companies, once the heart and soul of small towns across the country, are suffering a decline, as once tight-knit communities become increasingly less so.

The days when everyone knew everyone else and families tended to stay put for generations have long-since ended, as young people depart for better economic opportunities, and older people without those traditional ties to the community replace them.

Then, too, the sense of civic responsibility that sometimes created backlogs of people waiting to join fire companies has faded over the years.

In the meantime, residents expect more from their emergency services, while also believing that it’s up to their governments to cover the costs, without any additional expense to them.

Bluntly put, that’s not going to work, considering that half of this county’s 10 volunteer fire companies are based in unincorporated areas and have only the county government to turn to for financial assistance when donations and fundraisers don’t cover the bills.

Meanwhile, those companies that do receive aid from their towns or community associations, as well as the county, are being called on more and more to serve the expanding populations outside their communities.

In essence, fire and emergency response jurisdictions have long since grown well beyond the confines of their communities.

As a result, the Worcester County Commissioners have but one option, as they explore how these critical services can obtain the financial support they desperately need: the creation of tax-supported fire districts that reflect the actual jurisdictions and populations these companies serve.

Although that might not be popular with residents, they must acknowledge that the alternative would be to bet their lives that these services will figure out how to make do with what they have and continue to function at peak levels.

That’s not a bet most logical people would want to make.

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

EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS ..............Greg Ellison, Elizabeth Bonin, ............................................Ally Lanasa, Neely James ASSISTANT PUBLISHER .......................... Elaine Brady ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTIST .................................... Kelly Brown PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts 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.

Copyright 2021

PUBLIC EYE

Cull resumes easy way

As I wade once again through the national hiring pool, following the routine departure of reporters who have a fascination with something called career advancement, I find myself flooded with applications from people whose chances of success are about the same as an underwater shoeshine stand.

True, we do get good resumes among the dozens submitted, but we also receive plenty of applications that begin like this: “Dear Sir: I’m currently a By goat herder-poet in Spitbucket, Stewart North Dakota, and wish to utiDobson lize my skills at your newspaper.

Enclosed is a copy of my work: I have a sheepdog name of Harry, I have a goat I’d like to marry.

I have a campfire nice and hot, We sit by it and smoke pot.

Most applicants, incidentally, want to “utilize” their skills. They don’t want to “use” their skills, “apply” their skills, or “employ” their skills, they want to “utilize” them, which sounds to me like they have various skills hanging on their belts, along with pliers, a hammer, a two-way radio and maybe a Batrope.

My problem is I don’t like to hurt people’s feelings when they haven’t done anything to me, and therefore I hate sending letters of rejection to otherwise harmless individuals.

In this particular circumstance — the job, not the goat-herding poet — I’m not looking for just any reporter, but a City Hall reporter, which means someone with the ability to suppress laughter during official discussions of critical is-

sues.

Official: “I move that we authorize police to ...”

Reporter: “You gotta be kidding! Bwaaa hahahahahahah! Wheeze. Stop it. You’re killing me!”

This is not the way to gain the confidence of elected officials, so I’ve come up with a feelingssparing way to cut through the stack of resumes: “Thanks for applying for the position of City Hall reporter. Below is a brief questionnaire that will help you understand who we are and help us understand whether you’d be a good fit.

Please answer the following: 1. How do you feel about group steam baths as a team motivator?

2. Do you like gladiator movies?

3. Because we sometimes have people working here with the same first names, we assign nicknames to everyone. We have two available.

Which would you prefer — “Ratboy?” Or “Bubbles?”

4. Have you ever been on a date with your first cousin?

5. What’s the last thing you read? How big were the pictures?

6. Have you ever posted a video of yourself doing jumping jacks naked?

7. Are you smarter than everyone else, like the rest of us here?

Please answer all the above and return it to us by the end of the week. Hope to hear from you soon.

This approach seems to have worked well, as the very few applicants who do reply are full-out crazy, and therefore may be ignored completely.

The sane but unqualified ones won’t reply, and that is that. Almost.

The only thing I have to do now is respond to their lawyers.

JANUARY 22, 2021

PAGE 27

Ocean City Today

Artists occupy studios on 94th St. (Jan. 22, 2021) Ten artists working in a variety of media are now occupying the resident artist studios at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street, with two new artists opening their studios in January.

“Since the Art League opened the doors of the Arts Center in 2013, it has been part of our vision to be a cultural center for the community,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “Providing studio space to 10 artists gives them a beautiful and inspiring place to create artwork and exhibit what they create. Visitors get to personally know the artists and come away with an overview of the breadth of their work.”

Two new artists-in-residence occupy Studio A, donated by the Calvin B. Taylor Bank and Insurance Management Group.

Marian Bickerstaff of Ocean Pines, paints in oils that convey a sense of place, light and luminosity. She also experiments with acrylics, mixed media, surface treatments and digital photography.

Bickerstaff serves on the Art League’s board of directors as past president. After retiring from a 37-year banking executive career in Pennsylvania, she set a goal to devote more time to art and joined the Art League for classes and workshops to experiment with various media.

Clay artist Dot Truitt of Salisbury, shares Studio A with Bickerstaff.

Influenced by childhood coloring

books, Esther Williams bathing caps, and the acrobats of Cirque du Soleil, she makes whimsical objects for the home, many shaped like animals. Her pottery work includes fan pulls, finials for lamp shades, bottle stoppers and bells.

Truitt, who fires her work in her own kiln, uses high-fire stoneware clay and low-fire glazes to get a wide range of colors.

Two painters share Studio B, sponsored as a memorial to artist Toni Howard.

Gerilyn Gaskill of Georgetown, Delaware, who says art consumes her every waking moment, has a passion for capturing the beauty of the Delaware coastline and Delmarva landscapes in watercolor, oil and acrylics.

A member of several local arts organizations, she is also a regular instructor at the Art League of Ocean City, the Rehoboth Art League, and community group paint nights. Gerilyn also volunteers a great deal of her time educating youth in the arts.

Sharing Studio B is painter Gail Zinar of Lewes, Delaware, who says she lives life through her art.

Trained at the Corcoran School of Art, she has worked as a cartoonist, a visual artist for the government, a book illustrator and author, an adjunct art instructor for Catonsville Community College, and a private instructor of demos and workshops.

She is a signature member of the Baltimore Watercolor Society, the Washington Watercolor Association, the Delaware Watercolor Society, and the Maryland Pastel Society.

Three artists working in different media share Studio C, donated by Junis Adkins.

Mitzi Ash of Berlin, is a visual artist recognized for her large-scale, organic paintings that suggest the natural world.

Using luxurious white silk and colorrich dyes, Mitzi invites us to marvel at the beauty of flowers, leaves and trees through her use of shape, form and color, capturing at once their simplicity and complexity.

She is a member of the Worcester County Arts Council, the Art League of Ocean City, the Rehoboth Art League, and Silk Painters International.

Glass artist Jeffrey Auxer, who blows his own glass in his studio in Berlin, incorporates Venetian glass techniques and handmade tools to produce unique, one-of-a-kind works of art that blend functionality with practical use.

His bowls, chandeliers, ornaments, plates and other hand-blown objects blend vibrant colors and contemporary shapes Peter Gibson of Ocean Pines, uses fused glass to create vibrantly-colored jewelry and decorative works of art. Retired from the National Ocean Service, See TEN Page 28

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 24 minutes to check for any adverse reaction then released out the side door.

Nurses and staff were pleasant, impressive and amazingly efficient.

I understand more than 700 shots may have been given that day. Kudos to AGH for being proactive in getting these shots out ahead of everyone else and for their staff who made sure it was a success. They should be a model for every other operation in the state.

Jack Barnes Ocean Pines

AGH vaccine clinic successful

Editor, I would like to publicly thank Atlantic General Hospital personnel for the administering of the vaccine [Saturday, Jan. 16].

The efficiency and expediency I saw were nothing like the lines of cars we have seen on TV newscasts. From the men directing you into the parking lot, to the people who guided you into the building…. the painless injection and aftercare were beyond my expectations.

AGH knows how to get the job done and we should all be thankful for their planning and carrying out of this procedure…So often we take things for granted. I personally am very grateful.

Blanche Deasy Ocean Pines

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Ocean City Today

Ten artists work in studios at Center for the Arts in OC Continued from Page 27 Gibson uses his own kiln to work with his iridescent fused glass, and in 2017, began teaching fused classes at the Arts Center.

He continues his love for glass, working in both fused and stained glass.

Three artists also share Studio D, donated by the family and friends of Shirley Hall.

Ocean City native and Parsonsburg resident, David Simpson, holds degrees from Salisbury University in philosophy and fine arts as well as a masters in the Art of Teaching from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

The subjects of his oil paintings are focused on the human figure, landscapes and seascapes. Simpson teaches classes in drawing and painting at the Art League.

Robert Johnson and Sarah Halcott of Amused Studios in Salisbury, use clay as their medium and create a colorful eclectic mix of functional and decorative pottery.

Johnson is the Art Center’s pottery studio manager and teaches both wheel and thrown pottery. Inspired by Southwestern Native Americans who use a micaceous clay body in their pottery, Johnson’s work focuses on throwing classical shapes and altering them with various techniques and finishes.

Joseph Scukanec of Snow Hill, developed a passion for photography during his career in the U.S. Navy as a way to record and share his experiences as he traveled throughout the world.

He enjoys photographing local events, still life, landscape, nature and close-ups. Using both macro, landscape and digitally-composited photos, his goal is to lead the viewer beyond the photograph into a visual journey through an artistic impression.

JANUARY 22, 2021

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you will get great satisfaction from various activities this week.

Therefore, fill your schedule with plenty of things. Take initiative and invite friends along for an adventure.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Take care of yourself this week, Taurus. Practicing self-care may mean booking a spa treatment or simply catching up on a little rest and recuperation.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 A few different scenarios may play out in the days to come. They may be greatly influenced by how you interact with other people, Gemini. You are the catalyst for action.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Studio E, donated by the Katherine Ellen Brown Fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, is reserved for monthly exhibits by Art League member and guest artists.

The artists’ studios are open daily during regular Arts Center hours. For inquiries about becoming an artist-in-residence, artists may contact gallery manager Katie Brown at katie@artleagueofoceancity.org.

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 410-524-9433 or ArtLeagueOfOceanCity.org.

Cancer be careful with the way you behave and present yourself this week. You just don’t know who may be watching what you do. Keep a low profile.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Receiving mixed messages, Leo? Enlist a trusted advisor to help you sort through the hazy level of communication that is coming your way. Another perspective is handy.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, this week the stars may be playing tricks on you. You may stumble though a few things, but it won’t take long to get back on the right path.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, as soon as things get serious this week, you may be ready to make a fast exit. It’s better if you stick around and lend your opinion to the situation at hand.

Marian Bickerstaff, bottom, and Dot Truitt are the new artists-in-residence for Studio A at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street.

NOW PLAYING

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 A lot of unknown factors have been slowing you down over the last few weeks, Scorpio. Now that you are no longer impeded, you can put a plan in motion.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 You may get caught up in some conflicts that you’re either not ready for or have no interest to deal with, Sagittarius. Take it all in quietly for now.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Don’t try to rationalize the feelings that are moving through you this week, Capricorn. There is no right or wrong way to feel. Acknowledge the emotions as they come.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

FULL CIRCLE Seacrets: Saturday, Jan. 23, 5-9 p.m.

KONO NATION DUO Seacrets: Friday, Jan. 22, 5-9 p.m.

Aquarius, do not hide your feelings in a particularly moving situation. Others will empathize with you and appreciate your emotional honesty.

SEACRETS

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Jan. 22: Kono Nation Duo, 5-9 p.m.

Jan. 23: Full Circle, 5-9 p.m.

Jan. 28: Full Circle, 4:30-8:30 p.m.

This week you may want to get away from it all to have a different perspective on your life, Pisces. You may travel even further than first imagined.

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

Suspect in August armed robbery to serve prison time

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) James Watson, 17, of Alexandria, Virginia was sentenced last week to a handful of years in prison for multiple counts of second-degree assault tied to a shotgun robbery involving three other suspects on the Boardwalk in August.

Watson pleaded guilty on Jan. 13 to James Watson three counts of seconddegree assault and was sentenced to 12 years, with all but five suspended. Prosecutors dropped felony charges for armed robbery and three counts of first-degree assault.

Also implicated in the armed assault were Alexis Cabrera, 17, and Joshua Benitez, 17, both of Lorton, Virginia and Micah Younger, 18, of Manassas, Virginia.

On Aug. 26 just after 2 a.m. police responded to an assault involving a weapon on the Boardwalk by 12th Street.

Police said a woman and her 10-yearold niece were approached by Watson who pointed a shotgun at the pair and demanded the child’s cell phone.

Responding in fight or flight mode, the woman quickly snatched the phone

PAGE 29

June beating suspect seeks plea

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 22, 2021) Marcus Butler, 27, of Cambridge, who was among five men charged in a Boardwalk beating in June that left the victim with permanent physical injuries and lasting psychological trauma, appeared for a status hearing last Friday in Worcester Circuit Court.

Butler faces charges including firstand second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, theft under $1,500 and pubic consumption of alcohol.

Butler’s attorney Andrew Illuminati asked Judge Brian Shockley to reschedule the hearing in roughly five weeks as details are being fleshed out for a potential plea deal with state prosecutors.

Butler was among a group of up to 10 people who attacked a man on June

9 about 10:15 p.m. on the Boardwalk near 11th Street.

Already sentenced for the altercation is Marquis Demby, 22, of Lincoln, Delaware, Marcus Butler who was also implicated in a June 9 stabbing on the Boardwalk near 15th Street. Demby was sentenced for the attack and received a 10-year prison term for second-degree assault on Nov. 23.

Additionally, Davione Cephas, 20, of Cambridge was sentenced last month to serve six years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree assault. He also will serve three-years of probation upon release Two additional suspects, both residents of Cambridge, are still facing

charges of reckless endangerment, along with first- and second-degree assault. Orlando Nichols Jr., 20, has a motion hearing on Jan. 27, and Xavier Spence, 19, has a jury trial on March 3.

During Cephas’ sentencing hearing, prosecutor Paul Haskell presented two videos of the Boardwalk melee, including footage that was posted on YouTube and later discovered online by police.

Videos revealed the victim was struck in the head with a skateboard that caused two cuts to his right temple, along with swollen eyes and severe shoulder damage.

Haskell also presented a videotaped victim impact statement in which the man recollects details of the gang attack.

“I was hit so hard with an object that I thought it was a 2x4,” he said. “I don’t remember much after that.”

from the child and had her flee the scene.

The victim said she tried to call the police, as Watson gave the weapon to Cabrera, but that, another suspect, later identified as Benitez, assaulted her and grabbed the phone.

Benitez also tried to steal the woman’s wallet, but she managed to run and foil the attempt.

Once the incident was reported, Watson was spotted by bicycle police near

Baltimore Avenue and was detained.

Witnesses told investigators that Cabrera, Benitez and Younger had jumped into a vehicle and left the area in possession of the shotgun. The trio made it as far as West Ocean City before Maryland State Troopers stopped the silver Honda and found all three suspects with the shotgun visible inside the vehicle.

Watson, Cabrera, Benitez and Younger were each charged with armed

robbery and multiple counts of first- and second-degree assault.

On Jan. 7, charges against Cabrera were placed on the stet docket and became inactive but were not dropped.

In November, felony charges against Younger were dismissed, with a trial for the second-degree assault charges scheduled on Feb. 17.

Benitez faces a juvenile waiver hearing on Feb. 1.

$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring homemade pizzas, 18 gourmet pizzas, a variety of calzones, subs, burgers, sandwiches and jumbo wings with 20 different sauces. Open everyday, 11 a.m. to 10 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 410524-4900, 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, 59 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 410-2892525, 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 410524-7575, 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 410-5247981, www.TheDoughRoller.com An Ocean City family tradition since 1980. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. From our buttermilk pancakes, fresh handmade dough pizza, and Italian dinners, we have something for everyone!

■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 56th Street, Ocean City 410723-5600, www.johnnyspizzapub.com

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.

PAGE 30

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021

POLICE/COURTS

Knife assault Timothy Fugate, 58, of Ocean City, was arrested Saturday, Jan. 16, and charged with first- and second-degree assault involving a knife that created “substantial risk of death or serious injury” to one of his victims.

Police officers responded to reports of victims of a knife assault at mid-town Timothy Fugate pizzeria, where the male and female victims, a boyfriend and girlfriend, are regular customers at the restaurant and bar.

Police said Fugate was also a regular there and that the couple and Fugate had met while patronizing the bar during the previous week and had engaged in heated political conversa-

tions.

On the day of the alleged assault, the loud debates between the couple and Fugate were also reported to be political in nature. According to police, the arguments escalated to physical threats when Fugate threatened to get his “boys” to confront the female “Pelosi fan.”

Fugate allegedly shouted “she’s Antifa” to the woman, and then attempted to punch her boyfriend.

When Fugate was held back by another bar patron, he continued to threaten the couple and attempted to photograph them as they exited the bar, police said.

As the couple moved towards the bar’s front door, Fugate is reported to have grabbed the woman’s upper body, at which point she attempted to put him in a headlock. As they continued to fight, the woman suffered a deep, 3-4 inch knife wound to her

inner thigh, dangerously close to her femoral artery, according to police.

She also suffered an inch-long knife wound to her hand.

The victim’s boyfriend ultimately pulled his girlfriend and Fugate apart.

He told police he saw Fugate cut his girlfriend with a knife similar to a “box cutter.” Fugate was then reported to have waved the “box cutter” in the air before attacking the boyfriend, cutting a 3-4 inch laceration in his upper arm.

The couple told police that Fugate, screaming obscenities, fled the bar in a 2017 Jeep Wrangler. Using the listed MVA address, officers found Fu-

gate sitting in the car in front of his Ocean City home. The woman was driven from to Fugate’s home, where she positively identified him as the attacker, police said.

Fugate reportedly admitted to the fight and that he had been drinking, but refused field sobriety and alcohol concentration tests.

He was then charged with DWI taken to the Public Safety Building.

Police confirmed that Fugate had at least four previous alcohol related driving offenses on his record and active J-Alcohol restrictions on his license with “indefinite end” dates, leading to additional charges.

CROSSWORD

Holland ascends to warden role at Worcester County Jail (Jan. 22, 2021) Fulton Holland will be the new warden for the Worcester County Jail, the Worcester County Commissioners announced this week.

“Holland’s strong leadership skills and experience managing operations coupled with his professional and courteous treatment of all staff, inmates, and detainees Fulton Holland make him ideally suited for this new role,” Commissioner President Mitrecic said.

Holland, a certified corrections officer with 23 years of experience in law enforcement and correctional services, has a proven record of success overseeing Worcester County Jail operations, a statement from the county said He is skilled in negotiation, investigation, de-escalation, and conflict resolution and strives to maintain productive communications with inmates and detainees to appropriately review their various needs and make effective recommendations on their behalf.

He is part of the team that has earned the Worcester County Jail a Recognition of Achievement Award from the Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards for achieving 100 percent compliance for 18 consecutive years.

“I’m eager to begin my journey as the warden and would like to thank the Commissioners, Chief Administrative Officer Harold Higgins, and retiring Warden Donna Bounds for

trusting me to fulfill the duties of the warden,” Holland said. “Thank you to the employees for their willingness to follow me, as I lead them by example with ethics, morals, and values as the foundation. We are a family, and I will operate the facility as such. I will focus on employee retention, empowerment, and development to ensure that everyone is operating at their full potential for the betterment of the jail.”

In 2019, Holland graduated summa cum laude from East Coast Polytechnic Institute with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

He is also Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) certified by the Department of Justice and earned certifications in ServSafe, weapons, first line supervisor, and Live Scan.

He began his career with the Worcester County Jail in 1997, was named Officer of the Year in 2009, and was promoted to assistant warden of classification and correctional services in 2012.

He is the PREA coordinator and investigator for the Worcester County Jail and the liaison between the jail and allied agencies, including the State’s Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, and criminal court system.

Outside of his professional life, he dedicates his time to family and friends, playing the keyboard, and working on motorcycles.

He is a lifelong Worcester County resident who was born and raised in Bishopville. Holland will take over for current Warden Donna Bounds who will retire this February.

Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com

Answers on page 8

JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today

PAGE 31

OBITUARIES JOHN WILLIAM D’AMATO Berlin John William D’Amato, age 72, died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021, at Gull Creek Assisted Living in Berlin.

Born in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late Frederick Salvadore D’Amato and Ruth Moore D’Amato Driggers.

He is survived by his wife, Antoinette John D’Amato “Toni” D’Amato; and daughter, Patricia “Tricia” Anne McCloud and her husband, John McCloud, of Glen Burnie; and also, their late son, James Nicholas D’Amato.

There is one granddaughter, Tiffany Anne McCloud.

Mr. D’Amato had been vice president of printing at Senoda, Inc. before retiring to Ocean Pines. He enjoyed golfing, boating and traveling.

Cremation followed his death. No formal services are planned at this time.

A donation in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1850 York Rd, suite D, Timonium, Maryland 21093. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

JULIE ANN SCHMIDT Bishopville Julie Ann Schmidt, age 56, of Bishopville, Maryland, passed away on Jan. 12, 2021.

Born on Nov. 17, 1964, she was the daughter of the late J. Bernard and Ann Schmidt.

Julie, who was born and grew up in Harrisburg, PennsylJulie Schmidt vania, graduated from Harrisburg Academy in 1982.

She attended Southern Seminary College in Buena Vista, Virginia, where she studied Equine Science & Management and was a member of the 1983 and 1984 IHSA National Champion Equestrian teams.

In the late 1980’s Julie moved to Ocean City, Maryland, where she started a decades-long career in real estate, most notably, a 25-year career with O’Connor, Piper and Flynn/Coldwell Banker.

Julie loved everything about beach life and lived it to the fullest.

She is survived by her fiancée, Kevin Wagner, and his three sons, Derek, Andrew and Brendan; her brothers, J. Bernard Schmidt Jr. of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Steven Schmidt of Boyds, Maryland; and her nieces, nephews and cousins who all have the fondest memories of the fun beach times “Aunt Julie” arranged when they came to visit.

A memorial for Julie will be held in Ocean City, Maryland, at a date to be

determined. Her remains will be buried in the Schmidt family plot in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Worcester County Humane Society Incorporated-Memorial Donations (networkforgood.com).

SUSAN WITHERS MONIGLE Ocean Pines Susan Withers Monigle, age 87, died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021.

Born in Washington D.C., she was the daughter of the late Paul Gresham Withers and Georgia Carney Withers.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur Thomas Monigle; grandson, Robert Hall Ballard III; and two brothers, Paul George and Eugene Floyd Withers.

She is survived by her family, daughter, Linda Monigle Guerrieri and her husband, Michael, of Ocean City; and her daughter, Susan Monigle Villanova and her husband, Vic, of Harvey, Louisiana.

Also surviving are her two grandsons, Patrick Arthur Ballard (and his wife, Melissa) and Michael Shaw Guerrieri, Jr., who she loved dearly and brought her much joy.

She leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews and godchildren.

Susan attended McKinley High School and treasured her friends and sorority sisters there throughout her

life.

She attended the University of Maryland and was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. It was there that she met her husband, Art. They both enjoyed the Terrapin Club and became lifetime members of The University of Maryland Alumni Association.

Church was always an important part of Susan’s life. If she wasn’t in town she “visited” churches where ever she went.

She had been a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Salisbury, Maryland, and became a member of St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Ocean City, in 1985. She served on the Alter Guild and was involved in many church activities.

Susan had many dear friends on the Eastern Shore and enjoyed their friendships. She lived her whole life secure in the knowledge and love of God and her family. She was a much beloved wife, mother and grandmother.

Interment will be in the St. Paul’s by-the-Sea columbarium. A service to celebrate Susan’s life will be determined in the future.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in her memory may be made to: St. Paul’sby-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 302 N. Baltimore Ave, 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.

DIANE SMITH BAYLESS Ocean View Diane Smith Bayless, age 74, of Ocean View, Delaware, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 9, 2021.

She is survived by Vicki Szimanski Forster, Joell Sanders Bacchieri, Prudence Sanders Downes and her husband, John Michael (Mickey) Downes.

Diane Bayless She is preceded in death by Robert Craig, Mildred Tauber Smith and Ellsworth Smith, and her doting husband, Thomas Hunt Bayless.

For 31 years she worked for Coldwell Banker Rentals and retired in 2017.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, William and Sarah Szimanski and Leo and Max Bacchieri, as well as her beloved animals.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to be made in Diane Smith Bayless’ name to: Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, Inc., 100 W. 10th Street, Suite 209, Wilmington, Delaware 19801.

Online condolences can be made by visiting www.melsonfuneralservies.com. Services will be private.

PAGE 32

JANUARY 22, 2021

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.

Fri., Jan. 22

scoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520

STORY TIME - SNOWMEN

Worcester Connects and the Art League of Ocean City have teamed to present the Courageous Arts Showcase on Zoom for high school students, 12:30 PM 2:00 PM. Ash’iz Cuffee will guide students through Expressing Your Voice Through Spoken Word Poetry. Pre-register: 410-641-4598.

Held via Facebook, 10:30 AM. Frosty stories, poems, finger plays and movement followed by a craft. For 2-5 year olds. No registration required.

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘AN UNKINDNESS OF GHOSTS’ BY RIVERS SOLOMON Meeting via Zoom, 2:00 PM. Books are available on Hoopla (hoopladigital.com). Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.

STRONG BONES VIRTUAL WORKSHOP ON FACEBOOK

During the week of Jan. 18-22, Atlantic General will be hosting a Strong Bones Virtual Workshop with a series of engaging and educational posts on the Atlantic General Hospital Facebook page.

AGH providers will be presenting on a number of osteoporosis-related topics.

Visit www.facebook.com/atlanticgeneralhospital to view the videos.

Sat., Jan. 23 OPEN SKATE

Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144.

Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520

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.

Sun., Jan. 24 OPEN SKATE

Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144.

Allen Swiger, aswiger@maryland-

COURAGEOUS ARTS SHOWCASE

Mon., Jan. 25 STORY TIME - BEDTIME BEARS AND NIGHT TIME TALES

Held via Facebook, 10:30 AM. Bedtime stories about bears and nightmares and how the sun and moon get along. See the Craft Kit to Go for this week. For ages 37 years old. No registration required.

INTELLIGENCE2: BATTLE OF THE ANCIENTS Meeting via Zoom, 2:00 PM. Listen as two historians debate about Greece vs.

Rome and decide who you think created the better civilization.

VIRTUAL COVID-19 TOWN HALL MEETING

The hour-long town hall, which will take place via WebEx at 4:00 PM, will be moderated by Maryland State Senator Mary Beth Carozza and feature panelist presentations by healthcare workers from the following partners: Atlantic General Hospital, TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and the Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset health departments. Those unable to attend the live meeting will have the opportunity to view a recording available on each of the partners’ websites. To join: www.webex.com; event number (access code), 180 843 4833; Password, TidalHealth (case sensitive). Or join audio conference at 415-655-0001, event number (access code), 180 843 4833.

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. 26 OPEN SKATE

Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price in-

DELMARVA APPRENTICESHIP: EARN WHILE YOU LEARN

shops or you would like more information about bringing any of the workshops to your business or group, contact Jill at MAC, 410-742-0505, Ext. 159 or jak@macinc.org. Another workshop, titled “Building Better Caregivers” has been added. It’s a free, 6-week workshop for caregivers of those with TBI, PTSD, dementia and other conditions that affect memory.

NOTES ON THE BEACH: THE MUSIC OF TIN PAN ALLEY

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

To submit, visit www.ocmuseum.org.

Info: Christine@ocmuseum.org.

cludes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144.

Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520

Meeting via Zoom, 1:00 PM. Join the Maryland Department of Labor and Lower Shore Workforce Alliance for a live Apprenticeship Virtual Fair. Learn about opportunities available on Delmarva and how to apply. Learn more about local industries and employers. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.

Meeting via Zoom, 7:00 PM. Jeff played bass at the Kennedy Center, National and Ford’s theaters, Wolf Trap and on Broadway for more than 40 years. Glen has performed at the White House, Vice President’s residence, Kennedy Center, Smithsonian, as well as countless embassies, galleries and private homes.

Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.

‘SAVE OUR STORIES’

WINTER READING CHALLENGE

Beginning Dec. 1, log your books, attend virtual programs and explore activities to earn badges and chances to win the grand prizes. Sign up for free at https://worcesterlibrary.beanstack.org.

NEW RESOURCE: BRAINHQ

Wed., Jan. 27

BrainHQ offers 29 online exercises for your brain. Work out attention, brain speed, memory, people skills, navigation and intelligence. Sign up for free: https://worcester.discoverlocal.io.

READ WOKE AFRICAN AMERICAN VOICES MEET UP

PROGRAMS TO GO

Meeting via Zoom, 7:00 PM. Teens, register on Beanstack for the Read Woke Challenge at WorcesterLibrary.Beanstack.org.

Choose a book from African American Voices to read and discuss at the Zoom Meet Up. Every Read Woke Book you read and every Meet Up you attend earns badges. Each badge gives participants a chance to win one of two $500 grand prizes. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events.

Thurs., Jan. 28 OPEN SKATE

Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144. Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520

ONGOING EVENTS FREE WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

Free workshops dealing with hypertension, chronic pain self-management, chronic disease self-management, diabetes and fall prevention. If you would like to register for one of these work-

New kits available every Monday.

STEM, crafts, writing and more. Call any branch of the Worcester County Library to reserve your kit (while supplies last) or reserve them online at https://worcesterlibrary.libwizard.com/ f/ProgramToGo.

LIBRARY TO GO & PRINTING TO GO

Safe contactless pick-up of library materials at all Worcester County branches.

Call to schedule a pick-up time. Mobile printing services also available at all Worcester County branches. (Only black and white copies are available.) https://worcesterlibrary.org/article/pri nting-go

LIBRARY BY APPOINTMENT

Visitors to all Worcester County libraries must call to make an appointment for browsing, computer use (45 minute sessions), copier access and library card registration. The risk of entering a public facility is your own. Face covering and a screening form will also be mandatory. www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIAL-A-STORY

Call 888-964-2686 to hear a children’s book read by a librarian. Updated every week on Wednesday.

CONFERENCE CALL BINGO

Held every third, fourth and fifth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. Call 410632-1277 (access code 0151394#)

JANUARY 22, 2021

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

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

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 ASSISTANT PM MANAGER Immediate Opening Harrison Group is currently seeking an Experienced Manager to join our team.

Great career opportunity with excellent benefits Inquire at 32 Palm at Hilton Suites 3200 Baltimore Ave Ocean City, MD

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $17.50/hr.

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

Hiring ALL Positions!!

Full time & Part time To apply go to: www.mygcjob.com

HELP WANTED MAINTENANCE F/T, Y/R, 32-40 hrs./week.

Dependable. Handyman w/good skills. Must have transportation/tools.

Send resume to fred@paradiseoc.com.

RENTALS

Summer Rental Available May 10th-Sept. 10th 2021. 312 Sunset Dr. Top Unit. 2BR/1BA newly remodeled, big kitchen/living area. W/D. Sleeps up to 4. $13,500/season, you pay utilities. Security deposit $2,000.

Call 410-428-7333. www.sunsetterracerentals.com.

NOW HIRING HIRING ALL POSITIONS!!

Full time & Part time Stop by our location on 52nd street! or call 443-664-2825

Year-round Positions: • PM Line Cook Inquire within at 32 Palm at Hilton Suites 3200 Baltimore Ave Ocean City, MD

Busy bookkeeping office is now hiring for an assistant to help with misc. clerical work and vehicle registration/DMV work. We are a large automotive business with parts stores, service centers & used car dealership. Quickbooks exp. a plus and excel is a must. This is not a remote position. Location is in the Ocean View / Bethany Beach area.

Call 302-228-2353

PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT The Town of Berlin is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Public Works Superintendent. This position is responsible for daily, hands-on supervising of the maintenance, repair and reconstruction of all town streets; planning, coordinating and administrating the Town’s refuse collection and recycling program; supervising crews providing services for Town sponsored and related events. The Public Works Superintendent is also responsible for advising the Town Administrator, Mayor and Council on the proper use of traffic signage; maintaining departmental safety standards; serving as the Town’s representative on advisory committees; managing and maintaining park property and equipment; and supervising department employees. The successful candidate will possess an Associate’s Degree in Construction Management or related degree; or equivalent combination of training and experience; at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the field of public works or construction management, at least three (3) of which shall have been at the supervisory level; ability to read and interpret building and engineering plans and specifications and enforce regulations associated with the disposal of waste and the operation of the Town's recycling program. Must be able to inspect streets; be computer literate with Microsoft Office; possess exceptional written and oral communication, reading and math skills necessary to perform administrative duties with accuracy. Municipal government experience in public works is preferred. Salary will be dependent on qualifications. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a confidential Town of Berlin application for employment, a resume, and three professional references to the Town’s Administrative Manager at kjensen@berlinmd.gov. Applications can be found at www.berlinmd.gov.

TOWN OF BERLIN 10 WILLIAMS STREET BERLIN, MD 21811 410-641-2770 EOE/M/F/V/D

ssifieds la C r u o Y r e Ord

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

TOWN OF BERLIN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

RAMBLER MOTEL 9942 Elm Street, WOC (Behind Starbucks) Sleeps 4, $250 per week Manager onsite 410-213-1764

ROOMMATES ROOMMATES

Bookkeeping Assistant

COMMERCIAL

Year-Round Roommate Wanted in North OC. Must be drug free with stable income. Background check required. Rent negotiable.

Call 410-250-8595 for inquiry.

Run your business

COMMERCIAL 1096 Sq. Ft. Former Beauty Salon For Rent Starting Feb. 1.

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PAGE 34

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JANUARY 22, 2021

Ocean City Today / Public Notices

JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 8th Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842

FORECLOSURE SALE

300 ROBIN DRIVE, #311 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

PUBLIC NOTICE

By virtue of a Statement of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to an Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland in Case No. C-23-CV-20000157, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the condominium building located at 300 Robin Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, on

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.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2021 AT 9:00 AM ALL that property lying and being situate in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, more particularly designated and distinguished as Unit No. 311 in the KEY WEST VILLAS CONDOMINIUM, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and ByLaws, dated April 21, 1986, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber W.C.L. No. 1298, folio 337, et seq., and pursuant also to the plats described in said Declaration, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book W.C.L. No. 111, folio 13, et seq., and pursuant to all subsequently recorded Amendments.

The property will be sold in an AS IS condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, with no warranties or guarantees, and will be sold subject to a Deed of Trust recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber No. 2831, folio 560, said Deed of Trust having had an original principal balance of $38,475.00 on March 25, 2000. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

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

The undersigned reserves the right to waive the deposit requirements as to the purchaser representing the interest of the party secured by the Statement of Lien. Real property taxes, wastewater charges, and condominium dues will be adjusted to

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 date of sale and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All costs of conveyancing, including transfer and recordation taxes, shall be paid by the purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining possession of the property. Purchaser agrees to pay to the Seller an Attorney=s fee of $275.00 for review of any motion which may be filed with the Court to substitute a purchaser herein. In the event the undersigned is unable to convey marketable title, the sale will be null and void and the purchaser=s sole remedy will be the return of the deposit without interest.

For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr. Trustee 410-289-2323 OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________ REENA J. PATEL ESQ HEARNE & BAILEY, P.A. 126 EAST MAIN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18543 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KENNETH L. HOOPER Notice is given that Jeannine T. Hooper, 12029 Blueberry Road, Whaleyville, MD 21872, was on January 05, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth L. Hooper who died on November 28, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Jeannine T. Hooper Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 14, 2021 OCD-1/14/3t _________________________________ OFFIT KURMAN, P.A. BRIAN J. HUNDERTMARK, ESQ. 7501 WISCONSIN AVENUE, STE 1000W BETHESDA, MD 20814

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18545

Notice is given that the Circuit Court of Fairfax County, VA appointed Harold Dean Neptune, 8238 Roeland Drive, Fairfax Station, VA 22039; and Traci Ann Neptune, 3344 Stonehouse Court, Bethlehem, PA 18017 as the Co-Executors of the Estate of Yvonne Adair AKA: Yvonne Michelle Adair who died on April 6, 2020 domiciled in Virginia, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Brian J. Hundertmark whose address is 7501 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1000W, Bethesda, MD 20814.

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.

Harold Dean Neptune Traci Ann Neptune Foreign Personal Representatives Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication: January 14, 2021

JANUARY 22, 2021 OCD-1/14/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18531 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES WILLIAM BRAGG AKA: CHARLES WILLIAM BRAGG SR. Notice is given that Charles William Bragg Jr., 3719 Sand Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863, was on January 06, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles William Bragg who died on December 21, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Charles William Bragg, Jr. Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 14, 2021 OCD-1/14/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18530 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANNA EIKENBERG Notice is given that Penny Brungard, 134 Captains Quarters Road, Unit 11, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on December 22, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anna Eikenberg who died on

PAGE 37

Ocean City Today / Public Notices November 19, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of June, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Penny Brungard Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 14, 2021 OCD-1/14/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland virtually via Zoom webinar: You are invited to a Zoom webinar.

When: Jan 28, 2021 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: 01.28.21 Board of Zoning Appeals - 6:00 PM Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84058028 913

Or iPhone one-tap : US: +13017158592,,84058028913# or +16468769923,,84058028913# Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 646 876 9923 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 408 638 0968 Webinar ID: 840 5802 8913 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kd74jr51 HZ January 28, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2) and (3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(3)(a) requesting a special yard exception to raise a 7’ x 16’2” portion of the existing deck in the front yard setback for leveling with remainder of existing deck; and pursuant to Section 110-95 (1)(a) requesting a variance to the front yard setback on Atlantic Avenue (Boardwalk) to enclose the first floor covered porch providing a minimum 20’ setback, and also to enclose a 4’9” portion of the second floor covered porch providing a minimum 26’ setback instead of 32’ as required by Code Section 110-396(4); and a variance to the front yard setback on 24th Street to allow a new 6’ fence for approximately 24’ in length from existing wood fence westward midlot instead of a maximum 4’ fence height as required by Code Section 110-905. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 8, between 23rd and 24th Streets, The Village Plat; further described as located on the southeast corner of 24th Street and Atlantic Avenue (Boardwalk), and locally known as 2319 Atlantic Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: 2319 ATLANTIC AVE LLC (David Chalk, Principal) – (BZA 2577 #21-09500001) 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-1/21/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PASSAGE OF BILL 21-1 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 21-1 (Zoning – Height regulations in the A-1 and A-2 Agricultural Districts) was passed by Commissioners Church, Elder, Mitrecic, Nordstrom and Purnell on January 5, 2021.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows: §ZS 1-201(e)(1). (Adds a new subsection to establish a special exception provision for the increase in the height of residential accessory structures in the A-1 Agricultural District.) §ZS 1-202(e)(1). (Adds a new subsection to establish a special exception provision for the increase in the height of residential accessory struc-

tures in the A-2 Agricultural District.)

This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 21-2 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 21-2 (Zoning – Signs) was introduced by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Church, Elder, Mitrecic, Nordstrom and Purnell on January 5, 2021.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows: §ZS 1-338(c)(9). (Adds a new subsection to allow internal community signs within a residential development for the purpose of conveying community events, amenity and emergency information only, with standards for their placement and design.)

A Public Hearing will be held on Bill 21-2 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 10:30 a.m.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-1/21/2t _________________________________ MORGAN A. FISHER ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18561 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MANFRED E. GERSBACH Notice is given that Joan M. Gersbach, 13217 Colonial Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on January 14,

PAGE 38

Ocean City Today / Public Notices

2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Manfred E. Gersbach who died on November 5, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Joan M. Gersbach Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________ GARY S. TOSADORI, ESQ LAW OFFICES OF PETER G. ANGELOS 110 N. CHARLES ST., 22FL BALTMORE, MD 21201 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18562 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DONALD K. HAWKINS SR. Notice is given that Paul Hawkins, 631 Bayshore Drive, Apt. G, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on January 14, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Donald K. Hawkins Sr. who died on April 15, 2017, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Paul Hawkins Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/1t _________________________________ GARY S. TOSADORI, ESQ LAW OFFICES OF PETER G. ANGELOS 110 N. CHARLES ST., 22FL BALTMORE, MD 21201 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18563 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF YOLANDA HAWKINS Notice is given that Paul Hawkins, 631 Bayshore Drive, Apt. G, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on January 14, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Yolanda Hawkins who died on September 18, 2017, without a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims

on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Paul Hawkins Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/1t _________________________________

NOTICE

of Public Hearings Town of Berlin, MD Board of Zoning Appeals Wednesday, February 3, 2021 5:30 PM Currently, meetings of the Board of Zoning Appeals are being held virtually with no in-person attendance by the Board, applicants or the public, HOWEVER, this meeting will be open to public participation via Zoom or call-in. Details regarding access will be available one week prior to the scheduled meeting on the Town website under Boards and Commissions, or by calling 410-6414143 or emailing dengelhart@berlinmd.gov.

The Town of Berlin Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to consider two appeals pursuant to Town Code Sections 108-165 and 108-191 as follow: 1. An Appeal from Donald S. and Helen T. Ferguson, for Lot #3, Mount Pleasant, Broad Street for a Special Exception for a Variance from the rear setback requirement specified on the plat for Lot #3, Worcester County Tax Map No. 300, Parcel 1231. The proposed dwelling to be constructed on site represents an encroachment of 9 feet into the platted 40 foot rear Building Restricted Line.

2. An Appeal from Giovanni Pino Tomasello for 15 Harrison Avenue for a Special Exception for a Condi-

JANUARY 22, 2021 tional Use to hold outdoor events for up to 100 guests, temporary tents and mobile restrooms, in addition to a request to modify a previously authorized Conditional Use allowing up to 30 dinner guests inside be increased to 50 guests at the Bed and Breakfast facility formerly known as the Waystead Inn. OCD-1/21/1t _________________________________ IN THE MATTER 0F: James Michael Meashey FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: Jay Michael Meashey CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Located at 1 W. Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21864 Case No. C-23-FM-21-000010

NOTICE

FOR PUBLICATION (ADULT) (Md. Rule 15-901) The above petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name they seek to change their name from James Michael Meashey to Jay Micheal Meashey. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: My Father is also named James (Alfred) and during therapy I found traumatic emotional damage associated with him. I use Jay in all personal and most professional relationships.

I graduate from SU in May 2021 and want my diploma and all future documents in the name Jay. Any person may file an objection to the Petition for Name Change on or before 02/22/21.

The objection must be supported by an affidavit (written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation) and served upon all parties (Md. Rule 1-321). If no timely objection is filed, the court may enter a default judgment or grant the name change.

A copy of this notice must 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 of the Circuit Court OCD-1/21/1t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18550 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DIANNE CHRISTY TULL AKA: DIANNE C. TULL Notice is given that Bryan Christopher Tull, 625 Oxford Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, was on January 08, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dianne Christy Tull who died on February 26, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present

JANUARY 22, 2021 the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Bryan Christopher Tull Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18557 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA LOU MALINOWSKI Notice is given that John C. Malinowski III 43 Hingham Lane, Berlin, MD 21811, was on January 11, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Lou Malinowski who died on March 17, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other de-

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

John C. Malinowski III Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18558 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LYNN RUSSELL WODKINS Notice is given that Jo Ann Scott, 3250 Johnson Road, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, was on January 13, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lynn Russell Wodkins who died on December 15, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Jo Ann Scott Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18555 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HENRY HUNGERFORD Notice is given that Bryant C. Hungerford, 981 East EAU Gallie Blvd., PMB 13004, Satellite Beach, FL 32937, was on January 11, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Henry Hungerford who died on December 3, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of July, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to

the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Bryant C. Hungerford Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 21, 2021 OCD-1/21/3t _________________________________

OCEAN CITY TODAY Legal Advertising Call NANCY MACCUBBIN 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 22, 2021