Today on DelmarvaLife –

The back image of the graduates wearing a yellow tassel hat.
Graduation looked a lot different this year. Families have had to get creative in the way they celebrate. Parties, but in a safe and socially distanced way, of course. But, we’re sticking with the topic of safety. We talk with Managing Partner Esquire, Kelly Gelof about some of the risks involved with these celebrations.

Earlier this year, we had the privilege surprising a few Wicomico County teachers (along with Superintendent Donna Hanlin) with the award for the 2020-2021 Wicomico Teacher of the Year. Hemaltha Bhaskaran took the title. Since then, the accolades have kept coming -with her most recently being honored with the highest award given by the U.S. government to teachers of math and science. Today, we talk with Hema about what the honor means and what the virtual ceremony was like.

On this Wellness Wednesday, we’re focusing on hope. We’re introducing you to a place, where the message of hope rings out loud and clear. It’s a place that offers all kinds of resources and forms of support – and never closes its’ doors, even in the midst of a pandemic. Katie visited the Atlantic Club in Ocean City to learn all about their crucial part in the road to recovery.

COVID-19 forced the closure of many concerts and festivals this year. The absence of these left many people without a place to enjoy great music and performances. However, at the Freeman Stage in Selbyville, the show must go on, but with, some changes. Lisa visited the venue to find out how to enjoy the arts and stay safe at the same time.

We all know the iconic staple of Delmarva during the summer: Thrasher’s French Fries. Something so simple, yet utterly satisfying. When it comes to these world-famous french fries, less is more. Katie recently visited to explain. She’s also trying her hand in working the Thrasher’s line.

We have a real treat for you today. Chocolate Caramel Cookies are simply delightful. Made up of a buttery shortbread, ooey-gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, these cookies are guaranteed to knock your socks off. Check out the recipe below:
What You’ll Need
- 3 sticks (1-1/2 cups) butter, softened
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons water, divided
- 1 (11-ounce) package caramels
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vegetable shortening
What to Do
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat baking sheets with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat butter and confectioners’ sugar until fluffy. Add flour, salt, vanilla, and 1 tablespoon water; mix well.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut our 2-inch circles using a biscuit cutter or a small glass. Place cookies on baking sheets.
- Bake 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden on bottom. Let cool on wire rack.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and remaining 1 tablespoon water. Microwave 30 to 60 seconds or until melted, stirring occasionally. Spread caramel evenly over cookies; set aside to cool.
- Meanwhile, in a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave 60 to 75 seconds or until melted, stirring occasionally. Spread chocolate evenly over caramel and set aside until chocolate hardens.