By Greg Ellison

(Nov. 12, 2020) Supporters of two Worcester County nonprofit endeavors will be able to get outdoors for fresh air and exercise before tying on the holiday feedbag when the inaugural Thanksgiving “Family Gobble Wobble” stroll takes place around the South Gate Pond in Ocean Pines starting at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 26.

The event is being organized through the Facebook group, Local Help For You Worcester County, which is asking participants to consider bringing along toy donations for children or pet supplies for furry friends.

Teaming up to arrange the free walk, which is intended to solicit support for the Worcester County Humane Society and local Christmas toy collections, are Colby Phillips, Kathy McDaniel and D.J. Donnie Berkey.

“We’re asking if people can bring an unwrapped toy and or something for the Humane Society for the dogs and cats,” Phillips said.

Unwrapped toys and gifts will be distributed to area children who might otherwise get skipped by Santa, while dog and cat food donations will aid animals being cared for by the Worcester County Humane Society.

Philips said the outdoor event would be conducted in accordance with coronavirus health safety mandates currently in place.

“We ask people to wear masks and socially distance with their families,” she said.

Phillips said attendees should wear masks in areas they are around people outside of their immediate group.

Phillips said “gobble wobble” participants could walk whatever number of laps around the South Gate Pond they elect, with each totaling about three quarters of a mile.

“They can walk one or multiple laps around the pond,” she said. “Four laps would be three miles.”

To get the blood pumping further, organizers will also have exercise stations set up at various points along the trail.

The optional stop-off areas will be staffed and feature exercises for all ages like jumping jacks and squats.

Phillips said volunteers are being sought to oversee the exercise areas.

“If there’s any local kids that are looking for service hours they can email,” she said.

Inquiries should be sent to, localhelp4youwc@gmail.com.

Music accompaniment will be provided during the event to heighten the festivity.

“DJ Donnie will be spinning tunes as you walk,” she said.

To this point, the event posting on the Local Help For You Worcester County Facebook page has about 20 people attending and nearly 100 interested.

Phillips said the charity walk would also be contingent on Mother Nature.

“If it rains, it will be postponed,” she said.