1/21/2022 Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 21, 2022

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Sunfest date pushed back to October Big-time concert weekend inserted into event’s spot to block out tuner-car rally

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Ocean City’s official-unofficial summer wrap-up event is moving further into the shoulder season to make room for a Lollapalooza-style concert that leaders

hope will deter droves of motorists from bringing their small tuner cars to the resort this fall.

Council members voted unanimously on Tuesday to change the date of Sunfest, which is typically held as a last hoorah of the summer season, from the end of September to Oct. 20-23.

The move followed a discussion at a recent tourism commission meeting when members determined that Sun-

fest, OC Bikefest and a new C3 music festival could not coexist on back-toback weekends in September.

While the transition from BikeFest on the second weekend in September to C3 on the third is not a heavy lift because many of the same elements are used for the events, Sunfest did not jive.

Members recommended that Sunfest instead move to the end of October because of the difficulty of tearing

down C3 in time to set up for it.

“Three days won’t cut it … to get Sunfest up and running if it were to stay on the weekend after C3,” said Tom Perlozzo, the director of tourism and business development, of the turnaround. “The only option is to move it and the best particular date recommended from special events was [Oct. 20-23].”

The C3 festival dictated the See SUNFEST’S Page 8

McGean appointment officially announced Long-time city engineer signs two-year agreement to serve as city manager

GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Crews began ripping up the planks near Jolly Roger at the Pier on Monday as the second phase of re-decking the Boardwalk got underway. According to City Engineer and City Manager designate Terry McGean, work is expected to continue into April, at which point they will take a break until the fall to finish the section between Fourth and 15th streets.

Boardwalk work turns south, project to go on hold in April

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Delmarva Veteran Builder crews began ripping up and replacing the planks along the southern end of the Boardwalk this week, as they continue to get through the bulk of the boards before the summer season kicks in.

City Engineer and City Manager

designate Terry McGean said last week that crews replaced all the boards between 27th and 22nd streets, torn up to 14th Street, and the seawall had been coated to 20th Street. He added that the wall had been sandblasted to 19th Street.

“That’s all going very well,” McGean said, noting that there were See BOARDWALK Page 3

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) After a seemingly quick negotiation period, longtime City Engineer Terry McGean has inked his name on a two-year contract beginning Feb. 1 to become Ocean City’s next city manager.

“I’m honored, I look forward to the challenge,” McGean, 58, said this week of his new post, which was announced late last week and confirmed during a City Council meeting Tuesday. “I’m looking forward to the responsibility.”

With more than 31 years under his belt working both behind and in front of the scenes of countless projects across the resort, McGean say he is ready to step into the bigger, more prestigious administrative role.

“I’m ready to hit the ground running and looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

Council President Matt James said in an email Wednesday that McGean’s salary will be $180,000 annually and that he will keep the

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

City Engineer Terry McGean was officially named the new city manager at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. He will take over for City Manager Doug Miller, who is leaving at the end of the month.

same pension plan he has as city engineer. McGean’s current salary is $159,000.

Word of McGean’s hiring got out prematurely on Jan. 12 without confirmation from McGean or Council See COUNCIL Page 3

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

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Ocean City Today

PAGE 3

Council formally names McGean to top post Continued from Page 1 James. But within a couple of days everything was official and McGean is preparing now to switch gears.

The transition will be a pretty big one, as McGean will be going from directly overseeing about five employees in the engineering department, to being the man at the top of the entire city workforce pyramid.

James said in a news release announcing McGean’s new position last week that the elected officials are “eager and excited” to begin working with him in the new role.

“Terry’s efforts in the town have

shown the dedication and commitment he has to run all operations as city manager,” he said.

And although McGean has not directly managed a huge number of people, his involvement with resort projects and policies is extensive.

As city engineer, McGean has had a heavy hand in large projects like the beach replenishment program, flooding mitigation, public building expansions and renovations, boat ramp constructions and more road projects than one can count. He has also been an integral part of the ongoing restoration of Baltimore Avenue and

Boardwalk project heads south Continued from Page 1 some delays in the project because temperatures need to be above 50 degrees for the seawall coating to set.

Work on the south end began on Monday, and crews were seen ripping the boards from their foundation next to Jolly Roger at the Pier.

The Boardwalk was last rebuilt in 2012 and 2013 and was funded by bonds in 2012 for $6.1 million.

Even though the life expectancy of the Boardwalk’s structure is roughly 20 years, the planks that visitors walk each year are only expected to last 10 years.

Work should have started last year but the lumber was unavailable.

The total cost to complete the work is expected to be close to $2.1 million, but according to McGean, a little over $1 million will come from the pier franchise.

Delmarva Veteran Builders submitted a bid to do the work for $1,171,500, slightly under the official budget of $1,185,000, and started the

first phase in October.

The first phase of the project was to re-deck the Boardwalk between 27th and 15th street with 41,076 boards. The total number of planks for the project reaches closer to 100,000, all of which will be provided

by Long Life Treated Lumber, which submitted a bid for $503,000.

Though the city only budgeted $428,000 for the construction materials, the supplies were available and the pricing at the time was volatile.

In addition to wood replacement, the steel sheet pile of the seawall got recoated by another crew. To do that, boards needed to be removed and sand needed to be excavated on the seaside and landward side of the wall.

Crews are expected to continue the re-decking of the Boardwalk between the inlet and pier through April 14, before taking a break until next fall, when the rest of the planks will be replaced.

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handles the capital projects list each budget year. Small projects like speed limit adjustments and cigarette butt cleanups also fall to McGean and his staff, rounding out the variety of responsibilities he has held.

As for who will step into the shoes he is leaving, McGean said it is too early to talk about.

“I expect to have a hand in that and we are working on the details of that now,” he said of his successor.

“When we’re ready to make that announcement we will make it.”

A Fairfax, Virginia, native, McGean started working for the city in 1990 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Texas A&M University. He started out simply as an engineer but moved up quickly to the highest position in the department within two years of his hire, where he has remained since.

Until McGean takes on his role, City Manager Doug Miller will finish his tenure of more than six years in the position. Miller announced his resignation late last month with a final work day of Jan 31.

During Tuesday’s council meeting when James officially announced McGean as Miller’s successor, he also thanked the exiting city manager for his time in the position.

Councilman John Gehrig said a

few words about Miller as well.

“Where you started and where the organization is when you leave that’s kind of an indication of how well you did,” he said, “We’re lucky to have you here in Ocean City.”

He added that Miller has what he considers “the greatest human trait” in that he is consistently described as a good, nice guy. Mayor Rick Meehan reiterated that sentiment, along with an homage to Miller’s contributions to the city.

“Doug, you brought professionalism and dignity and experience to the office,” Meehan said. “And you’ve been here during some of the most difficult times than any of us could imagine over the last three years. And helped navigate us through a pandemic and leave us in a financial position that I think most municipalities are envious of, and that’s no small task.”

Meehan also officially welcomed McGean to his new position.

“Your track record through the city, again like Mr. Miller, you have the respect of everybody in this room, and I think all the city employees, and I think everybody is looking forward to the time when you take over and where you take us,” Meehan said. “I think we’re all in good hands. We’ve been in good hands and we continue to be in good hands.”

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Margaritaville resort plans back on track in south OC

RENDERING COURTESY BECKER MORGAN GROUP

Plans for a Margaritaville Resort complete with hotel, conference, restaurant and retail space at the former Phillips Beach Plaza properties on 13th and 14th streets are back on after a short hiatus.

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Plans for a Margaritaville resort at the former Phillips Beach Plaza property are no longer wasting away.

This week, local attorney Hugh Cropper, who represents the developer of the proposed 13-story amenity-rich hotel, said his clients are now moving full speed ahead on their plans for the parcel between 13th and 14th streets on the Boardwalk. “[The developers] asked that the application no longer be placed on hold and that it move forward as expeditiously as possible,” Cropper said Monday.

The plans seemed to be moving

along swimmingly in the fall, with a tentative completion and opening date set not too far into the future.

However, the process came to a quick halt early last month just before the development team was set to go before the Ocean City Council for approval of a request to abandon an alley needed to make the project work.

Cropper said he did not know why his clients put the plans on hold at the time, nor why they decided to revive them this week.

“They made some minor revisions to the project to address … comments to the planning commission,” he said.

“Some related to landscape and facade and those types of things.”

The plans call for a 265-room hotel bearing the famous Margaritaville label, 20,000 square feet of upscale retail space, three restaurants, multiple swimming pools, meeting and conference areas, and other attractions on the two former Phillips lots.

City staff members expect it will stand out significantly at the confluence of the more historic buildings in southern Ocean City, and newer high-rises to the north.

To make a project of that scope work, the developers need to establish a planned overlay district, or POD, over the proposed development area. The zoning designation will allow for more design flexibility, with room for compromise between the developer and city officials.

To make it happen, though, City Council members must allow the developer to incorporate the 16-foot alley to create a contiguous parcel.

The alley, between Baltimore Avenue and the Boardwalk and 13th and 14th streets, is formally known as Washington Lane.

Elected officials have given no indication that the abandonment would be an issue, although members of the planning commission, who are tasked with making a recommendation to the City Council, have expressed some concerns about other aspects of the project.

The concerns involve parking, traffic patterns, and size of the retail area. But now, with some of the concerns addressed, Cropper said the developers are ready to bring it back to the planning commission for a recommendation.

He said he asked to have the project added to the agenda of the commission’s next regular meeting on Feb. 1, but has yet to receive confirmation.

After going to the planning commission, the alley abandonment request will move to the City Council for a vote. If it is approved, the developers will return to the planning commission for site plan approval.

See TOO EARLY Page 5

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 5

Ocean City Today

OC Council advances cell tower legislation

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) As the result of a federal lawsuit hangs in the balance, Ocean City officials are still pushing back against the construction of what they consider to be invasive cell towers.

Council members have expressed concerns about the tall, at times unsightly, structures popping up across the resort, namely in residential areas such as Montego Bay in north Ocean City, and have pushed back against efforts to erect them.

The efforts continued Tuesday with unanimous approval of a new utility installation agreement and first readings of ordinances that will enhance the legal tools officials have to keep

Too early to know project’s timeline Continued from Page 4 Cropper said that he had a pretty clear timeline for the project’s completion before the recent hiccup, but that he is unsure of when it might come to fruition now.

“I think it’s a little too early for me to predict the timeline,” he said.

tall towers from going up in residential areas where they do not mesh with the aesthetics.

For example, about 1,560 lots exist in Montego Bay. The neighborhood’s utilities are currently underground and height restrictions are in place for all new structures.

Last year, Crown Castle, a company that erects cell towers, proposed installation of three roughly 30-foot 5G towers in Montego Bay, and another three on Marlin Drive, and Old Landing and Bering roads. The requests were made to bring reliable wireless service to the areas, which, according to Crown Castle, don’t have it.

And while some of the residents in the areas would welcome the service, the City Council denied the applications after other community members protested what they saw as a breach of the community’s aesthetics and ambiance.

The city’s zoning code also does not allow for construction of the tall towers in the districts they are proposed.

“They are completely out of character with the neighborhood,” City Engineer and City Manager Designate Terry McGean said.

And despite two pending federal lawsuits Crown Castle filed in an effort to erect the towers anyway, council members are developing new

A roughy 30-foot, 5G cell tower in Caine Woods looms over homes and vehicles along 142nd Street. Council members are working on solidifying regulations for erecting these types of towers around town to help protect the aesthetics and ambiance of certain neighborhoods.

MALLORY PANUSKA/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

utility installation agreements and ordinances that pose strict regulations on all towers put up in city rights of way, easements or properties.

The changes, which were voted on Tuesday, were proposed during a work session last month and included adding definitions, clarifying who can install what in the rights of way, and clarifying when a utility installation agreement is not necessary. Language was also added to clarify the requirement for companies to comply with city codes, among other details.

The approvals are not the end-all, be-all of the debate, as Crown Castle’s lawsuits are still alive, but McGean said the approvals “enhance” the regulatory process.

“The policy we had is perfectly ac-

ceptable,” he explained. “But moving forward we thought it would be better … [to] enhance this, make language a little bit stronger, solidify everything.”

He said one important element of the proposed ordinances addresses the proliferation of the towers. For example, he said Crown Castle, which does not share the names of its providers, is not the only company that puts up towers around town. The changes moving through the council ranks would set minimum spacing requirements for all towers to ensure multiple structures are not put up right next to each other.

The ordinance changes are up for second and final reading at a future meeting following Tuesday’s approvals.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

JANUARY 21, 2022

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Ocean City Today

CLEARANCE

In-person meetings encouraged Worcester’s legislators say face-to-face testimony can make significant difference

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) The first week of the Maryland General Assembly’s 2022 session is in the books and though the week dealt with much of the typical housekeeping to be expected in the early days of a session, Del. Wayne Hartman and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, both Republicans, started laying the groundwork for the work they hope to accomplish over the next three months.

Perhaps the biggest development to come out of the first week was the news that Hartman would serve as the new chief deputy minority whip, a position that’s responsible for leading the whip structure and overseeing the discourse on pieces of legislation that make their way to the House floor.

“This position is certainly going to give me more opportunity to give input into steering legislation that the caucus focuses on,” Hartman said.

“I’m also concerned about the focus on the 2022 election as far as optimizing the number of Republican seats we can secure in the House.

Gov. Larry Hogan’s announced legislative agenda so far has focused on a couple of issues: public safety, police funding and retiree benefits and tax relief.

Hogan’s public safety initiative includes the resurrected “Violent Firearms Offender Act,” a bill that would enhance penalties for using guns in violent crime and for illegally sellWayne Hartman Mary Beth Carozza ing and possessing firearms, Those two things will be my priority.” and the “Judicial Transparency Act,” Both elected officials spoke of their which would require the tracking and support for in-person committee pushing of comprehensive informameetings. Each said that one of the tion on sentences that judges hand more noteworthy impacts of virtual down for violent crime. meetings is how difficult they make it It’s been an uphill battle getting for their constituents on the Eastern each bill passed into law in recent Shore to participate in the debate and years. formulation of vital legislation.

“Public safety remains job number “I cannot underscore enough the one, especially with violent crime on importance of having folks from the the rise,” Carozza stated. “We should shore come to testify in person once do everything we can to ensure that we open up public hearings and to our law enforcement is supported share the real impacts these policies and that Marylanders are safe in their have on their businesses and lives. homes and communities.”

There is just no substitute,” Carozza Hartman called the package “comsaid in a statement. mon-sense legislation” before focusHartman added that there’s “noth- ing on Hogan’s attempts to persuade ing better” for making one’s point Maryland retirees from migrating to than to testify in person. sunnier, cheaper alternatives.

“It’s very obvious that this session “We lose a lot of residents to our See COUNTY’S Page 8 will look much like last year,” he said.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Sunfest’s shift into October expected to extend season Continued from Page 1 changes. Officials committed to hold it on the weekend typically pinned for the unsanctioned — and heavily unwelcomed — pop-up car rally with hopes of filling up the hotels with concert-goers and deterring the tuner car owners from the resort.

And while the move of Sunfest was mainly logistical, Jessica Waters, the communications manager and acting tourism director, said it also feeds into the tourism department’s goal to extend the summer season.

“Going back to the purpose of Sunfest, 40-plus years ago, was to extend the season,” she said. “And as our season continues to grow, it continues to be that anchor for the town to kind of roll up the traditional season and kind of move into our fall events.”

The date change also forces the move of the annual Wine on the Beach event to the weekend after C3, which Perlozzo said works out because the organizer wanted to move it anyway.

The council members also voted during Tuesday’s meeting to bring live fireworks back to Northside Park for the summer’s Sundaes in the Park and move the 12 drone shows, which had replaced the live shows, downtown.

Perlozzo said that tourism officials heard feedback that people did not like the drone shows in the park and that there were concerns about the drones flying over the water there. He also said that other events may join

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, talked to City Council members Tuesday about moving Sunfest to Oct. 20-23 this year, along with several other event requests.

the Sundaes in the Park roster.

“We might be coming back to you saying we got hot air balloons, tether rides; fireworks and hot air balloons at the same time,” he said. “The idea is to build on events, and add the attractions, continue to grow the event to make it something special for our folks to come visit and enjoy. As we evolve I think that’s what you’re going to hear.”

The council also voted to add new events, including Broadway Down the Ocean and OC Tribute Tours, to this year’s performing arts center calendar.

County’s delegation wants to see in-person testimony Continued from Page 7 neighboring Delaware and of course other places like Florida where it’s much more affordable for retirees,” he said. “I’m supportive of anything we can do to reduce the subtraction for the benefit of retirees, taxes and so forth.”

On the committee side of their agendas, both Carozza and Hartman had their first meetings with the respective committees and delegations to which they belong.

Carozza’s statement said that the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee’s Jan. 13 briefing focused on an issue with covid-19 vaccine spoilage — which was remedied by giving an opportunity to those involved to reschedule for a supplemental dose — and cybersecurity efforts stemming from a recent hack that targeted the Maryland Department of Health. The department has since taken action to restore all operations to prevent a future attack.

The senator also attended an East-

ern Shore Delegation briefing on Jan. 14 that focused on the current status of the state’s pandemic response.

Sixty-two percent of the 750,000 hospitalizations for covid-19 in Maryland during December were those who were unvaccinated, according to the statement.

Hartman said that legislation regarding tax credits for veterans programs and energy initiatives are being brought to the Ways and Means Committee’s attention, which he supports.

This week, the focus will be on the details of the legislative agenda. The deadline for any bills Hartman and Carozza are sponsoring was Tuesday.

“Session is going to gear up as far as committee hearings and so forth.

We’ll have a lot more talk through committee,” Hartman said. “(After filing our bills), from there, it’s just building support for those bills, having the bill hearings and getting folks onboard to testify.”

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 9

Ocean City Today

OC Council holds off on raising fund reserve

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Although the Town of Ocean City has plenty of money in its budget to bump up its required savings, no financial thresholds will be officially raised until at least after fiscal 2023 budget talks.

In a slim majority vote Tuesday, City Council members agreed to hold off increasing the city’s general fund reserves from 15 to 20 percent until after they view and discuss the up-

coming budget.

The 4-3 vote came after a discussion about where the request to increase the reserve fund originated, and a backand-forth between Councilmen John Gehrig and Tony DeLuca about why it was voted on and not removed from the agenda following that discussion.

“You’re forcing me now to vote against it. I don’t understand why you won’t pull it as a professional courtesy,” Gehrig said after explaining that he

supports raising the percentage, but prefers to wait until after the budget is discussed.

“I support it, I’m just asking that we wait,” he said.

DeLuca called for a vote almost immediately after Finance Director Chuck Bireley and Budget Manager Jennie Knapp presented details of the request, which they said stemmed from an inquiry from the council.

“We were just bringing it to you because we thought that See REQUEST Page 10

Ocean City Finance Director Chuck Bireley and Budget Director Jennie Knapp discussed the details of increasing the town’s general fund reserves from 15 to 20 percent at a council meeting Tuesday. The elected officials opted not to move forward with the change until after budget talks.

MALLORY PANUSKA/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

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PAGE 10

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Routine sand replenishment project finishes on schedule

GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Crews with Weeks Marine out of New Jersey wrapped up beach replenishment efforts by Dec. 31, meeting the company’s goal of completing the addition of sand to the nearly 10 miles of oceanfront shoreline. As of Monday, the equipment used for the project was on the beach near 30th Street.

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) If you haven’t noticed, the nearly 10 miles of beach in Ocean City are a bit wider than they were last year.

That’s because crews from the New Jersey-based Weeks Marine completed a $15.7 million replenishment project that pumped 800,000 cubic yards of sand to the beach, right on time.

City Engineer and City Manager designate Terry McGean said Weeks wrapped up work on the project on Dec. 31.

The efforts were part of a bigger project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that state and local officials say has prevented nearly $1 billion in damages along the stretch.

Nine years after Hurricane Gloria ate up Ocean City’s beach in 1985, the resort’s first beach replenishment program was completed. It widened

and raised the beach from Third Street to the Maryland-Delaware state line, while adding a vegetated sand dune that stretched from the north end of the Boardwalk for 6.9 miles.

As part of the project, renourishment of the sand was to take place every four years until 2044.

The last time crews replenished the sand was in 2017, when they pumped 900,000 cubic yards of sand onto the shoreline for $12.7 million.

Starting just after Labor Day, workers began pumping sand from the Weaver Shoal, located approximately 3 miles offshore.

Nearly every week, visitors turned to social media to ask what the long floating pipes and small boats were doing. These inquiries were followed up with factual answers as well as silly responses. Some of the responses included things like Ocean See DREDGING Page 11

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Continued from Page 9 was the direction the council wanted to go in,” Knapp said.

Bireley added that he did not recall who made the inquiry, but that one of the elected officials asked for it in October when he was giving the end-ofyear financial report.

Gehrig and Councilman Mark Paddack, who were two of the four people who voted against proceeding with the increase at this time, said they did not know where it came from nor why it needed to be brought up now.

“When I opened this packet up and I saw this here I said, ‘When did we talk about this? Where did this come from?,’” Paddack said.

The city’s reserves are currently well above 15 percent of the general fund, according to numbers that Knapp and Bireley presented, and Knapp said projections show that they will remain high into the upcoming budget year.

The chunk of money held in reserve is not allocated for any specific needs and is available for things like unforeseen emergencies, nonrecurring unplanned expenses and unexpected service cost increases.

In the existing fiscal 2022 budget, the amount is nearly $29 million, or nearly 37 percent of the overall general fund. Bireley said in October that the fund experienced “the largest single year increase in the history of the town” from fiscal 2021 to 2022.

The city’s current policy requires 15 percent of the overall general fund to be set aside for reserves, which for fiscal 2022 was a little more than $13

million. To increase the amount to 20 percent, more than $4.34 million would be needed for a total nearly $18 million.

Deluca and Council President Matt James pointed out that council members have been discussing increasing the reserve amount, which is suggested but not legally required, for several years. James added that city officials have actually been setting aside 20 percent in reserves for some time.

“This has been the unofficial policy of the council probably before I was on the council,” he said. “I remember [former City Manager] Dennis Dare bringing it up in strategic planning, incrementally bringing it up above 20 percent.”

James said that he understands waiting on making it official until after council members have had a chance to look over the fiscal 2023 budget, though, and voted along with Paddack and Gherig to delay approval. Councilman Peter Buas was the fourth vote against approving the request Tuesday, while Deluca and Councilmen Frank Knight and Lloyd Martin voted in favor of it.

DeLuca said council members have talked about raising the reserve percentage “a lot” and that now is the time to do it.

He also responded to Gehrig’s criticism of his quick move to bring the request to a motion.

“You always say I’m the motion guy, I’m the action guy,” DeLuca told Gehrig in defense of his actions, adding, “There’s people that do and there’s people that review.”

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 11

Ocean City Today

Housing issues stunting workforce

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Although the number of foreign seasonal workers permitted to take shifts in Ocean City for summer 2022 is expected to bounce back to almost pre-covid levels, a lack of housing may keep “We’re Hiring” signs plastered generously across the resort.

“At this point as of today we remain open to employers in Ocean City that are able to produce their own summer housing for the J1 program,” United Work and Travel President Kasey Simon said of the outlook for J1 student workers this summer. “Outside of that, we will be forced to — and we don’t want to do it — we will be forced to push students in other directions where the full service program that provides housing can support them.”

United Work and Travel is one of several groups that places foreign workers in resort towns for summer work and travel.

Before the pandemic, the company and others like it placed thousands of foreign employees — both J1 students and H-2B non-immigrant workers — in Ocean City to live and work during the summer and shoulder seasons.

But when covid-fueled restrictions put a stop to all overseas travel in 2020, the business owners who relied on the workers struggled with staffing issues.

The problem continued last year with fewer visas approved.

Running parallel to the covid issues, many of the owners of the residences where the foreign students lived took their properties off the market for various reasons over the last two years, leaving few options for housing upon their return.

For this summer, the travel restrictions have been all but lifted, but workers can only come if employers provide their lodging.

“The challenge this year will not necessarily be if the J-1 Summer Work Travel students want to visit Ocean City and participate in the exchange experience, it will be can they find housing for their stay,” said Lachelle Scarlato, the executive director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, in an email. “Ocean City has always been a top destination for

international students participating in the program. The greatest challenge presently is available seasonal workforce housing to accommodate the interest of participants in Ocean City.”

To try to address the issue, Simon sent a letter to Mayor Rick Meehan in November asking for help finding a solution to the housing dilemma. At the time, the number of beds secured for foreign workers was about 415.

Simon said this week that the number has improved to 812, but that he is still about 400 beds short of his goal.

He said he and representatives from several other employee placement companies recently told members of the chamber that their numbers would be down 30 to 35 percent for summer 2022.

“We have a set number of visas that we have for our entire program and at some point we will make the decision to pivot those interested — that the employers cannot provide housing to — to other seasonal and resort towns across the U.S.,” Simon said.

Other placement locations include Virginia Beach, Myrtle Beach and beaches in Florida, Texas and out west, which he said are not as “desirable” as Ocean City but have the means to house workers.

Simon also said that he did not receive a direct response to the letter, only a statement that worker housing is not a city government issue, but an employer problem.

“Which I don’t necessarily disagree with,” he said of the statement. “The employers are the ones gaining most of the benefit from the seasonal workforce whether it be J1 or H-2B. But in the scenario without any support or guidance from the town, the numbers will be significantly short for summer 2022.”

Despite that, members of the city’s planning commission discussed some of the contents of Simon’s letter at a meeting Wednesday. The commissioners have talked before about some code amendments to help encourage more workforce housing, and recognize that lack of housing is an issue.

Scarlato and City Manager Doug Miller have also been working on trying to bring a larger solution to the forefront.

In May, Scarlato presented plans

for a set of residence hall-style buildings with nearly 1,000 beds for not only foreign seasonal workers, but summer lifeguards and public safety aides that work for the city. The project, which would come to fruition through a partnership with Wisconsin-based Holtz Builders Inc., has its challenges, though, namely the existence of a viable location.

The project is not expected to come together for this summer but Miller has said it is still on the table.

Another potential hiccup that does not have to do with housing is the restriction on the number of H-2B visas granted throughout the country. Right now, the number of visas accepted is capped at 33,000, which is a mere fraction of the roughly 136,000 applications filed.

Eastern Shore crab-picking houses typically rely on H-2B workers, who are usually older adults who stay for longer periods of time. Some Ocean City businesses have also tapped into the program to help fill out their employee payrolls in the absence of J1s.

“I can’t say specifically to the town how many are coming,” Simon said of the number of H-2B workers expected in the resort this summer. “I know we have some of our employees that they will be coming for. [But] the overall employer pool will not be as satisfied.”

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Dredging sparks conspiracies Continued from Page 10 City was being invaded, Jimmy Hoffa’s body was dumped there, the Loch Ness Monster was on vacation, and a suggestion that the pipes could be Olympic hurdles for dolphins.

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Last week, equipment used for the project was spotted on the beach near 30th street, though temporarily.

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PAGE 12

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Umbrella impalement case claims dropped against OC

A U.S. District Court judge dismissed claims against Ocean City this month, which were filed against the resort by a woman who was impaled by an umbrella that was pulled from the sand by a strong gust of wind in 2018.

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) A U.S. District Court judge granted a request from Ocean City this week to dismiss claims against the resort made by a Pennsylvania woman who made national headlines in 2018 after a stray beach umbrella impaled her while she tanned on the beach.

Jill Mendygral of Kingston, Pennsylvania filed a lawsuit against the city and 85 ‘N Sunny, a local umbrella company, in June, seeking more than $75,000 in damages stemming from the incident, which occurred on July 22, 2018.

That day, just after 3 p.m., the Ocean City Beach Patrol responded to an incident near 54th Street, when an unattended rental umbrella pierced Mendygral’s upper chest.

As a result, she was loaded onto a helicopter and flown to Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury and treated for her injuries.

The injuries suffered included a chest wound that required surgery and led to pelvic pain, recurring numbness in her right arm and hand, fevers, gross hematuria, radiating back pain, adjustment disorder, depression, and anxiety.

In the lawsuit, Mendygral argued the city and umbrella company were responsible for the care of the beach

at the time of the incident. As part of those responsibilities, she claimed the city was responsible for monitoring the forecast, wind gusts, and ensuring umbrellas are unfolded into the downward position to prevent them from being pulled out of the sand and flying into the air.

On the day of the incident, witnesses said a sudden gust of wind lifted the umbrella into the air with the wooden pole crashing downward into Mendygral’s chest.

In July, Ocean City filed papers with the courts to dismiss Mendygral’s single claim against the resort for negligence.

According to court documents, Mendygral claimed that Ocean City allowed a known “dangerous condition” to exist on the beach, failed to warn her that the dangerous condition existed, and failed to “inspect the beach” during windy conditions.

In its response to dismiss the claims, the city said Mendygral failed to clearly state a claim against the city, and that it had governmental immunity with regards to the incident.

Also, no employees were named as defendants, and no judgement was entered against any city employees.

Siding with the resort, the judge dismissed the claims against Ocean City.

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By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) A handful of Berlin residents told the Worcester County Commissioners Tuesday they oppose a zoning change that would reclassify 8.34 acres on Stephen Decatur Highway from resource conservation area (RCA) to limited development area (LDA).

For the last few months, representatives for Ayres Creek Farm LLC, which owns the parcel on which the Maryland Coastal Bays Program offices sits, have been meeting with and working their way through the necessary county boards to have the matter voted on by the commissioners Tuesday. Now, they’ll have to wait a few more weeks.

“We’ve been handed a heck of a lot of information that we didn’t have before today, in addition to testimony from people who really care about the outcome of this one way or the other,” Commissioner Josh Nordstrom said at the end of the hearing.

“I’d ask that we table this for a couple of weeks so we can go through all of this information and ask questions of our staff and other people so that we

can make the most informed decision possible.”

The commissioners unanimously agreed to table the vote for now.

The crux of the issue for the residents was what they see as the continued degradation of protected lands in Worcester County. By approving this reclassification to pass, they argued, the commissioners would be allowing the landowner to develop the land in ways that would exacerbate traffic congestion issues and the loss of natural habitat along the scenic drive that takes motorists to the Assateague seashore.

South Point resident Diane Stelzner said the essence of the RCA classification is to “preserve our most critical natural resources and to manage future development (on land with the) critical areas designation.”

A sticking point for representatives of the landowner — Ayres Creek owner Todd Burbage — and the residents is the history of the land.

The 8.34 acres are part of a much larger plot that was originally farmland, part of a 99.06-acre assemblage known in the county tax record as See RECLASSIFICATION Page 13

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 13

Ocean City Today

Reclassification argued at county Continued from Page 12 Parcel 80. In 1996, the planning commission approved site plans to turn Parcel 80 into a golf course, which eventually became the former Pine Shore South Golf Course. Today, its former clubhouse serves as the headquarters for the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

In his remarks to the commissioner, Ayres Creek attorney Hugh Cropper argued that the property should have been designated as LDA when the Critical Area maps were created because the property and area within the Critical Area Zone included a clubhouse that served an adjacent golf course.

Not so, according to the residents.

“The critical area designations are not like zoning areas,” Stelzner said.

“Zoning and other related land use proposed by the developers are by design subject to change as the county directs population growth over time.

(This lot), as designated by the applicant, did not exist when the critical area map was created … Critical areas designations are based on land characteristics and the land use on June 1, 2002. They are intended to preserve and protect critical land and uses as they existed because the designated areas provide environmental protec-

South Point resident Diane Stelzner states her case against the reclassification of land owned

by Ayres Farm Creek off Route 611 from resource conservation area to limited development area during a public hearing at the Worcester County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday. Opponents to the reclassification say that it’ll continue to degrade the critical areas along the corridor and exacerbate already existing traffic congestion during the busy summer months.

JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY

tions that have benefit all of us.”

Stelzner went on to argue that the uses available to the developer at the time of his purchase — in 2016 — have not been affected by the RCA designation. Those boundaries weren’t changed by the designation and it was agreed that the buildings on the property could be used by a legitimate environmental organization, such as MCBP. While Cropper said there are no plans to his knowledge for MCBP to move off the property, Stelzner remained skeptical that the reclassification would be the final straw to allow much more development — potentially from one building per 20 acres to 36.

“Please don’t be swayed today by false truths and manipulated facts,” Stelzner said. “No mistake was made in the initial mapping. And the changes proposed by the developer

are much more than a simple refinement. The validity of the map has stood since 2002. … No further action by the County Commissioners is justified.”

Resident Jan Amchak focused on what more development along the corridor could mean for traffic.

“Especially with Waze and (other GPS map services), everybody is using that Assateague Road (to Route 611) to get away from Route 50 and go around to go to Ocean City (and points along Route 611).

Amchak concluded by citing the 2006 Worcester County Comprehensive Development Plan, which she said states that future planning along Route 611 should “continue to preserve the road’s rural and coastal character, particularly from Route 376 to Assateague Island. Roads along the corridor should be limited to the sensitivity of thereby land and

the limited capacities of the area’s road system.”

In his rebuttal, Cropper focused on whether there was a legally existing, permitted clubhouse and parking area in place on June 1, 2002.

“Certainly, yes, there was,” Cropper said. “And the code says the clubhouse should be excluded from the RCA. There’s no question about that.

Do we meet the other requirements?

I think, yes, we do because it’s not an area dominated by open space and it wasn’t commercial use. The reason it has to be eight acres is if we did only 1.3 acres (that MCBP and its parking lot sit on) we’d create a nonconformity because we’d have 100 percent lot coverage. By doing the eight acres, the rest of it is unusable but that doesn’t create a nonconformity, which is what happened back in 2002 — we inadvertently created a nonconformity.”

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Commissioners reject Bay Bridge resolution

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Swiftly and unanimously, the Worcester County Commissioners rejected the Maryland Association of Counties’ request on Tuesday to adopt its bay bridge replacement resolution, which supports Queen Anne’s and Anne Arundel’s goal of having the current two-span bridge replaced with a single-span, two-way bridge with four lanes on each side.

“Worcester County needs something done to the Route 50 bridge (and) we’re looking at Route 90, which is years down the road. And they’re asking every county to do this?” Commissioner Jim Bunting said. “(Unless) they want to include that they do something about Route 50 bridge and Route 90 that helps us here, all they’re going to do is get the people here quicker and we’re going to have bigger backups on 589 and Route 50. I can’t support it the way it’s written.”

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Joseph Parker said the focus of the two-

bound lanes. Eastbound traffic getting onto the bridge during the summer often backs up to Interstate 97, which causes backups on Route 50 that have been known to stretch all the way to neighboring Prince George’s County and on Interstate 97 for Jim Bunting Chip Bertino Josh Nordstrom miles before the intersection. county initiative is to improve the corriBut if Worcester County is to endorse dor between the intersection of Inter- the concept for an all-new bridge that alstate 97 and Route 50 in Anne Arundel leviates traffic en route to Ocean City, the County and where Routes 50 and 301 commissioners feel that more has to be split in Queen Anne’s County. done at the terminus for all that traffic.

Both areas are notorious chokepoints “Route 589, Route 90 and Route 50 during the busy summer months — on are in major need and to promote an intop of the backups to get on the bridge it- flux of even more traffic down here beself. The intersection of Interstate 97 and fore the state has fixed our problems Route 50 is where traffic from Baltimore down here, my goodness, it’s only going and points north merges with traffic to multiply many times over,” Commisfrom Washington, D.C. and points west sioner Chip Bertino said. “Until that’s and south, while Route 50 funnels down part of it, I have problems with this.” to two lanes once it splits from Route 301 Commissioner Josh Nordstrom near Queenstown, on the way to Easton. added that he understands that the reThe current two bay bridges feature quest is coming from MACo and not the three westbound lanes and just two east- Department of Transportation, which

oversees the road improvements the county requests, but all the same, it’s too much to be asked for a favor when the county is routinely brushed off.

“We’ve been ignored and things have been pushed back and we make our statement and they come here and do the dog and pony show every year. We tell them the same thing every year. We run into these folks outside the meetings and tell them the same thing every year. And what do we get? Lip service,” he lamented. “I understand that this is coming from MACo, I do … And I know this may just be a piece of paper, but again, we’re being asked to do something and we’re not getting any help.”

Commissioner President Joe Mitrecic pointed out that while his colleagues’ frustrations have merit, it’s not Queen Anne’s and Anne Arundel that have spurned Worcester. In fact, Worcester has never asked either county for endorsements of its own endeavors.

“But it’s up to you all,” he said. “I’m not going to throw myself on the train tracks, that’s for sure.”

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the following during meetings held on Tuesday and Jan. 11:

New Tourism office The commissioners unanimously approved a lease agreement from the Office of Tourism and Economic Development to relocate its officers to a new space on Green Street in Snow Hill.

The new offices will include a welcome center, five offices, a break room, kitchen, conference room and storage. The proposed rent on the 5,200-square foot space is approximately $38,800 annu-

ally with an incremental increase over a 10-year period.

Royal Farms The commissioners deadlocked 3-3 after debating a proposed amendment to the county master water and sewerage plan that would have expanded the sewer planning area of Pocomoke City to serve a Royal Farms just over the state line in New Church, Virginia.

The amendment would have allowed for the abandonment and connection of the existing conventional septic system to the existing restricted access line that abuts the property and connects to the Pocomoke City wastewater treatment plant.

Proponents of the amendment said it was vital to mitigating potential environmental hazards, as the Royal Farms is closer to treatment in Pocomoke than New Church, but opponents felt this was a problem that their Virginia neighbors should address.

Sheriff’s salary The commissioners unanimously approved county resolution 14-2, which sets Sheriff Matt Crisafulli’s salary at $88,000 per year, not including cost-ofliving increases. It’s the first update to the sheriff’s salary since 2014. According to the Maryland Association of Counties’ FY21 salary survey, the average statewide sheriff’s salary is $117,000.

The average salary among the nine Eastern Shore sheriffs is $101,333.

911 radio system The commissioners unanimously approved a $340,688.55 contract with L3Harris Technologies to perform several changes of frequencies and channels used on the public safety radio system.

The deal covers materials, program management, engineering services, FCC licensing, tropospheric testing, installation, returning and radio system testing. The intent of the project is to address interference mitigation. Funding will come from the FY21 public safety equipment budget.

Continued on Page 16

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By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Body-worn cameras are coming to police agencies all over the state of Maryland in the near future, and on Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners got a comprehensive look at what those cameras and systems will probably look like for the Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, Capt. Nate Passwaters and officials from AXON, an Arizona-based company that specializes in body-worn cameras, Tasers and accompanying data storage, presented their “Body 2” camera model and broke down how the cameras function and how recorded evidence will be processed and accessed.

“We’ve elected to proceed with AXON, which is also the vendor for all of the allied agencies here in our county,” Crisafulli said.

The package they’re offering also includes an in-car camera system. Both will be a part of a five-year deal between the county and AXON. The body camera system will cost about $1.42 million while the in-car cameras come in at $572,400. “(This camera) has gone through many military-grade tests,” AXON representative Stephanie Sapp stated.

“With our camera system, there are multiple ways that we can bring everything together ...”

AXON would appear to be a fit for the county as some of their Taser products are being used in Berlin, Snow Hill and Pocomoke City. The State’s Attorney’s Office is already using its evidence storage website.

When an officer is on duty, the cam-

PHOTO COURTESY AXON

The Axon Body 2 camera will be the model issued to the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office’s officers, pending approval from the County Commissioners. The cameras turn on automatically whenever an officer’s firearm or Taser is drawn; have the ability to turn on every other camera within 30 to 50 feet; and can upload evidence footage daily.

eras — which are typically worn on the chest — can be activated with a doubletap that elicits a beep “so everyone knows it’s recording,” Sapp said.

It takes a three-second hold to stop the camera. Other mechanisms ensure the cameras are recording crucial moments, such as automatically turning on when an officer draws their gun or Taser. When the cameras turn on, they also turn on every camera in a 30- to 50foot radius.

Officers will take the camera back to the Sheriff’s Office at the end of their shifts. There, the camera can be docked, charged and any evidence can be uploaded to the cloud service. The officer then takes a fully charged camera with them to ensure they have one on them at all times.

See COMMISSIONERS Page 18

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS Continued from Page 14

Gypsy Moth survey The commissioners approved the 2022 gypsy moth survey at an estimated cost of $85,000. This year the Maryland Department of Agriculture has identified 2,405 acres of non-state-owned lands in Worcester County where gypsy moth populations may cause defoliation. Gypsy moths are an invasive species whose larvae consume the leaves of hundreds of foliage species. It is indigenous to Europe

Sea Oaks Village The commissioners approved the allocation of 10 equivalent dwelling units (EDUs) of sanitary sewer service from the Mystic Harbour sanitary service area to serve Phase II of the development of the Sea Oaks Village planned community.

The property already has allocated to it 110 Mystic Water EDUs to serve the mixed-use community that will feature single-family homes as well as shops and retail. The commissioners also ap-

proved the turnover of documents relating to Phase I of the project.

OC room tax The commissioners opened a public hearing on Tuesday focused on modifications to a room tax bill that, if approved by state legislators, will allow Ocean City’s room tax to be raised to 6 percent.

The recommended modification defined the term “Hosting Platform” as a person or entity that sees to the rental and promotion of residential property, and then lists more specifically what that property is.

Along with the definition, “Hosting Platform” was peppered throughout the bill as needed to provide clarity on who is responsible to collect room tax.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan attended the public hearing, though he did not speak on the matter – nor did anyone else.

The commissioners then closed the public hearing with no further discussion, and the changes were approved.

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

Commissioners given glimpse of body cams Continued from Page 16 Officers can choose to dock and swap their cameras at any affiliated Worcester County police department if it’s more convenient. This comes in handy for officers who wouldn’t otherwise be traveling near the Sheriff’s Office after their shifts.

In-car cameras will upload their evidence data as soon as they pull back into the Sheriff’s Office parking lot.

Commissioner Chip Bertino asked Passwaters about his confidence that this camera system will “protect our law enforcement and protect the truth of what happened” during an arrest or altercation.

“My in-car camera has never once gotten me in trouble,” Passwaters said.

“People have made complaints about me, as most police officers get complaints, and the camera is always safe from the complaint. There have been incidents where there was no camera and it was just my word against somebody else’s. As you all know from incidents that have happened right here in our own county, video doesn’t lie. It tells the best picture it can tell based on what it sees.”

Bertino shifted to asking about the risk of being hacked or if the county could see accusations of tampering.

“For any evidence that (needs to be redacted on the website), we are always

keeping the original copy,” Sapp said.

“We are never (erasing or altering) that original copy of evidence. You will always have that set-in-stone copy if you need us to supply it.”

Bertino still pressed on what risks the county faces if AXON itself is hacked.

“We’ve seen it recently where banks and governments have been shut down,” he said. “I don’t want our people exposed unnecessarily. We need to be protected.”

The company says the appropriate documentation will be sent to the Sheriff’s Office to show how their legal team would handle such an incident, adding that AXON has never suffered a cyberattack.

As for who redacts information when necessary, that would be up to a panel chosen by the sheriff, and AXON keeps the original copies.

Crisafulli added that in many cases redactions are made to protect the identity of a minor.

“If a minor is involved or somebody that shouldn’t be … things that aren’t needed for evidence (are redacted),” he said. “Redactions (often come) against minors, any type of written documents and reports. The redacts usually fall on when there are minors involved and we can’t have their names or faces in it.”

State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser added that redactions primarily deal with any

video released on public information requests.

“We still have to give them the parts of the video that we’re obligated to,” Heiser said. “We just have to block out the parts they’re not allowed to see … If the Sheriff’s Office or my office gets a (public information request), we’d have to redact … to comply with the rules of public information.”

Deputies will not have access to

redact anything themselves, she added.

AXON reports that with their equipment, complaints are down 88 percent, use of force is down 75 percent, guilty pleas are up 20 percent and officers’ time in court has been reduced by 70 percent.

The commissioners will decide at a later date whether to accept AXON’s offer, which they said is on the table at the current pricing until July 30.

Worcester jail project won’t do cellblock air conditioning

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) The Worcester County Commissioners approved “phase two” of the county jail building improvements project on Jan. 11, which will include replacing much of the original operating equipment and upgrading the heating and ventilation around the facility.

The cellblocks themselves, however, will not be a part of those HVAC renovations, according to County Engineer and Building Administrator William Bradshaw.

“During the original construction, there had never been any provisions for cell block conditioning both in the original (facility) and the addition,” Bradshaw said when questioned about the exclusion. “I think if you talk about conditioning, it’s an order of magnitude that the facility was never designed to have. In other words, there’s no infrastructure for electric, cooling systems in those areas. Not to say that it couldn’t be done, but it was never designed nor intended to be conditioned in the living, cellblock areas.”

The roughly $12 million project phase was bid out to Delaware-based Bancroft Construction, which has a Salisbury field office.

The project will include air conditioning for corridors, offices and employee areas in the 42-year-old jail.

Other improvements include repairing

and replacing the oldest roof sections, building controls and other major maintenance items, shower enclosures to improve hygiene, LED lighting in working areas and generally bringing the building up to standard with similar county facilities.

The new estimate is roughly $20,000 more than the original project estimate.

Regardless of the many improvements the project will accomplish, the commissioners often came back to the issue of the cellblocks. Though the presentation was ostensibly about awarding the bid for phase two of the project, some commissioners took time to highlight this and other concerns.

“We’ve had issues retaining guards because of the extreme heat in the summertime,” Commissioner Ted Elder said. “Won’t we eventually be liable for unsafe conditions when we reach this extreme heat in the summertime? We had issues last year with complaints, which led to problems with some of the inmates not returning to their cells and other things. I think if we’re investing this kind of money, we should be able to get something out of it. It doesn’t have to be 70 degrees in there yearround but it shouldn’t be 103 or 110 either.”

Elder also asked if the project, as-is, could indirectly cool the cellblocks at all.

Bradshaw said it helps, but it’ll still get See COUNTY Page 20

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JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

Worcester approves agricultural tax match

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners voted 5-1 to approve a request from its Environmental Programs department to provide $188,459 in matching funds for the county’s easement acquisition program.

The program, certified by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation, allows the county to retain 75 percent of the agricultural transfer tax it collects instead of the 33-percent rate for uncertified counties.

Worcester is the only certified county on the lower Eastern Shore.

“We’ve been certified under this program for two decades now,” Environmental Programs Director Bob Mitchell said.

“This allows us to keep more of this locally Bob Mitchell generated revenue here in Worcester as opposed to returning those funds to the state to use in other counties.”

Mitchell said that the county is required periodically to commit qualifying expenditures to the program from a county source other than the transfer taxes themselves — a requirement

equal to 9 percent of the transfer taxes collected annually.

“We’re proposing to commit a contribution of $140,000 from the retained agriculture transfer taxes along with $48,459 remaining in previously approved encumbrances from 2020,” he said. “This is essentially utilizing previously approved encumbrance to fulfill the local required contribution rather than not contributing to new general fund dollars. So, (we’re looking at) no new money.”

There are eight applications in this planning cycle, Mitchell said, that represent roughly 767 acres, requiring perhaps a 60-40 match from the state,

depending on the state’s budget for the program.

“Is this something that can be backed in backward, as was used before by an attorney, that, if the number was lower there, there wouldn’t be any reasoning to use the general fund match?”

Commissioner Jim Bunting asked.

Mitchell replied no, it’s not possible.

The transfer tax is only for properties that can convert it like commercial or residential use.

“We had a largesse here because we added some large sales so we do have some extra money. We’re trying to match it. We’re going to try to parley it into more,” Mitchell said.

County jail project second phase set to start Continued from Page 18 hot in there.

Commissioner Jim Bunting saw a potential opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. Bunting has been very public in his opposition to a proposed $32 million public safety building that would house the Sheriff’s Office, emergency services and possibly other offices such as the Fire Marshal and State’s Attorney.

With the county set to lose its con-

tract with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, or ICE, to house federal immigration detainees, Bunting pondered if the space ICE uses could be retrofitted to become the new public safety building and if this could be worked into the overall jail improvement project.

Bradshaw replied that there would still be logistical obstacles with housing incoming inmates — often individuals who had been arrested that day — and

thus the ICE space still has a use for the jail itself.

In speaking about improving the entire jail, including life in the cellblocks, Commissioner Diana Purnell invoked the lesson the county learned with the multi-million-dollar Stephen Decatur Middle School addition, which would have cost a fraction of what it cost today had it been built when it was proposed with the original school in 1998.

“I don’t know what the engineer

went into and all when you first built this jail, but we do know we have a major problem with heat and different things and it’s been talked about,” Purnell said. “For the time in my term, we’ve needed to do it and we haven’t done anything. I think we need to go ahead and do what we need to do because you don’t know what the future is going to hold. We do know that it’s going to be more expensive to build as we go along.”

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Worcester BOE nixes first semester exams Calendar set for 2022-23 school year, while group looks to evening meetings

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) The Worcester County Board of Education marked a first when met for its monthly meeting on Tuesday — it was the first time the board streamed its meeting online.

The streaming worked seamlessly and never crashed, though speakers needed to be reminded at times to speak into the microphone or else the public watching online would not be able to hear them.

Along with introducing this new technology, the board made decisions on the following items: First semester final exams At the request of Superintendent Louis Taylor, board members unanimously agreed to nix final exams for the first semester of the school year, which currently count as 20 percent of a student’s grade in the class.

Dr. Annette Wallace, the chief operating officer and chief academic officer for grades 9-12 for the district told the board members that several teachers raised concerns about students being absent from daily class-

room instruction because of covid-19.

She also said there was some uncertainty regarding how many students would be quarantined when the final exams were held.

On average, 62 staff members were absent from work last week due to covid, according to Wallace. That does not include staff who were out for other reasons.

She also said the district averages 534 student absences each day for covid-related reasons.

Taylor said rather than eliminate the exams all together, teachers will be required to have a culminating event to conclude the first semester, whether it is a test or a project.

2022-2023 school calendar Carrie Sterrs, the Coordinator of Public Relations & Special Programs for the school district, presented next year’s school calendar, which was put together after taking feedback from parents, employees, and students.

The new calendar called for a mix between early release and longer, yet more frequent breaks during the school year.

The 2022-2023 school year will start on Sept. 6, includes a winter break that kicks off with a half day on Dec. 21 and lasts well over a week, and a spring break that starts with a half day on Wednesday, April 5, fol-

lowed by closures that Thursday, Good Friday, Monday after Easter, and Tuesday. The last day of school will be on June 13.

The board approved the new schedule.

Evening meetings To highlight the students more when families can attend, rather than in the middle of the day when many people work, the board unanimously agreed to hold two evening meetings this year.

The first evening board meeting will take place on March 15, starting at 6 p.m. Board members will hold a closed session earlier in the day, take a short break, then return for the 6

p.m. meeting.

The second evening will take on the same format and will take place in July.

President and vice president Superintendent Taylor opened the meeting with a request for nominations for the Board of Education president, a position held by the late Eric Cropper who died in July. Upon his death, then Vice President Elena McComas moved into the position of president and Todd Ferrante was elected by the board as vice president.

Board members nominated and unanimously approved keeping McComas and Ferrante in their current position.

County Teacher of the Year candidate names revealed

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) The 14 nominees for the Worcester County Public Schools Teacher of the Year competition were announced on Tuesday during a Board of Education meeting in Newark.

Each nominee was named “Teacher of the Year” for their respective school, and in March, they are expected to compete for the top honor in the county.

Superintendent Louis Taylor congratulated each of the teachers after reading their names during the meeting, thanking them for their impact on students and the community they serve.

“I hope the next time you enter one of our schools, you will join me in recognizing these educators,” he said.

Named Teachers of the Year were: • April Anft, Cedar Chapel Special School • Kristin Cashman, Pocomoke High School • Melanie Coleman, Ocean City El-

ementary School • Blake Cropper, Pocomoke Middle School • Steve Deakyne, Stephen Decatur High School • Danielle DiMichele, Buckingham Elementary School • Saudi Evanski, Pocomoke Elementary School • Matthew Haelig, Snow Hill High School • Lindsay Harrington, Stephen Decatur Middle School • Samantha Keyes, Showell Elementary School • Michael Levy, Worcester Technical High School • William Tignor, Snow Hill Elementary School • Olivia Tyndall, Snow Hill Middle School • Melissa Vit, Berlin Intermediate School According to the announcement posted on the school district’s Facebook page, the 2022 Worcester County Teacher of the Year will be announced on March 25.

Nonprofit government grant applications available online (Jan. 21, 2022) Worcester County Government (WCG) is accepting applications from area nonprofit agencies now through Monday, Feb. 7.

Applications are available to download as a PDF at www.co.worcester.md.us.

Once there, the link to the Non-Profit Grant Application can be found under “Important Links” on the right hand side of the web page.

Completed grant applications should be mailed to the following address: Wester County Government,

One West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill Maryland, 21863, Attention: Senior Budget Accountant Kim Reynolds.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, and applying for a nonprofit grant is not a guarantee of funding approval from WCG. Grant awards will be announced by mail following the adoption of the FY23 WCG Operating Budget in June 2022.

JANUARY 21, 2022

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Ocean City Today

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

GRAVE MARKERS General Levin Winder Chapter, DAR and the Captain John Smoot Chapter, SAR, held the dedication of memorial grave markers of two Revolutionary War patriots, Capt. Levin Handy, 5th Maryland Regiment, buried at Makemie Memorial Presbyterian Church Cemetery, and Col. Samuel Handy, Patriotic Service buried at All Hallows Episcopal Church Cemetery, in Snow Hill.

Pictured are DAR members and Maryland SAR Color Guard following the dedication and unveiling of Col. Handy’s marker.

DONATION Carol Rose of We Heart Berlin Inc., accepts a $100 donation from Worcester County NAACP President Ivory Smith, to use toward the painting of the Henry Park basketball courts.

GUEST SPEAKER Alison Webb Schweiger, right, was the keynote speaker at a recent meeting of the Worcester County Garden Club. A club member and retired florist, Schweiger demonstrated several methods for creating holiday outdoor pots using plant materials that will stay green throughout the winter. She is pictured with Club President Deb Young.

PHOTO COURTESY ROGER PACELLA

PROGRAM SUPPORT Dina Holloway accepts a check for $2,000 on Nov. 4, from Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club President Charlie Smith for the Toys for Tots program.

PHOTO COURTESY DONNA GREENWOOD PHOTO COURTESY D.J. LANDIS, SR.

CLUB VISITOR U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Commander Martin Killian recently visited the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City. He is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Tim Lund.

PRESENTATION Ocean City Lioness Lions Club President Bev Topfer, left, and Vice President Donna Greenwood present a check to Capt. Matt Trantham, a commanding officer of the Lower Shore Salvation Army, which provides youth, senior, social and disaster relief services to Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties.

PAGE 24

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 25

Ocean City Today

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

COMMENDATIONS PLACING WREATH The Worcester County Garden Club annually places a wreath on Veterans Day at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines. It was designed and created by member Mary Ellen Jefferson and placed at the site of the Blue Star Memorial marker. The Blue Star Memorial program honors all men and women that serve in the United States Armed Services. Individuals interested in learning more about Worcester County Garden Club can contact WorCtyGardenClub@gmail.com.

The Worcester County Commissioners in November, present commendations to honor Worcester Technical High School students who earned gold medals in eight individual and team categories during the SkillsUSA Maryland Virtual State Championship, held last April. Those pictured, in front include, Advisor Crystal Bunting, left, with students Matt Burns, Aryavir Sangwan and Myra Cropper, Advisors Rick Stephens and Denise Coston, student Jessica Beck, and Advisor Tammy Hearne; and in second row, students Jeff Eichelberger and William Kozma, Commissioners Bud Church, Jim Bunting and Joe Mitrecic, and student Jacob Yankalunas; and Commissioners Diana Purnell, Ted Elder, Josh Nordstrom, and Chip Bertino, Superintendent of Schools Louis Taylor, and WTHS Principal Tom Zimmer.

DRYZGA RECOGNIZED Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Tim Lund reinstated the Kiwanian of the Month Recognition Award, which is given to a member who has done a recent outstanding job.

The October recipient was Carolyn Dryzga, who was presented the award for her dedication to the club and work as the treasurer and corresponding secretary, plus numerous other responsibilities and volunteering.

DONATION

PHOTO COURTESY D.J. LANDIS, SR

The Lions Club International Foundation supports the efforts of Lions clubs in serving communities locally and globally, giving hope and impacting lives through humanitarian service projects and grants. Pictured are Ocean City Lions Director Ken Robertson, President Scott Stark and Director Doug Parks.

HONORING VETS THANKFUL In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Beverley Thompson’s Kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary discussed thankfulness. Pictured are Georgia Horner, Vivienne Oladeji, Grace Vornicu and Michael Pappas-Newhouse.

The General Levin Winder Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently placed a wreath on the Veterans Memorial in Berlin. Pictured, from left, are Jane Bunting, Pat Arata, Sharon Moak, Jackie Spurrier, Patricia Ayers, Regent Gail Weldin and Barbara Rusko. The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. For more information, visit www.dar.org.

PAGE 26

Ocean City Today

AGH patient volumes still steady

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) After issuing a pair of historic emergency declarations because of high patient numbers last week, Atlantic General Hospital officials are paying close attention to care and logistics at the Berlin facility.

“We are approaching the current influx of patients into the emergency room and hospital very strategically,” Sarah Yonker, the director of marketing at Atlantic General Hospital, said in an email Wednesday. “Our leadership team meets twice daily to evaluate the circumstances and needs for intervention/declaration.”

Early last week, a spike in patients forced hospital officials to initiate a yellow alert for the emergency room and a red alert for the overall facility.

The yellow alert prohibited ambulances from bringing patients to the ER and the red alert established an emergency within the hospital because no cardiac beds were available.

The yellow alert was lifted several hours later and the red alert remained for a couple of days.

Today, Yonker said the patient volumes at the hospital “continue to wax and wane.”

“We remain significantly above previous months,” she said. “In addition to increased COVID numbers, patients are also high acuity, placing further demands on staff and resources.”

As of Wednesday, the number of covid inpatients was down slightly from 24 last week to 19, however the number is still higher than it has been throughout the course of the two-year pandemic.

Overall, the county’s covid positivity rate is about 28 percent, which is tilting downward but still high compared to rates over the past two years.

Yonker added that omicron is reportedly the dominant covid strain right now, edging out the delta variant.

According to the hospital’s state lab partners, Yonker said 88.5 percent of recently analyzed covid positive patients across Maryland tested

positive for the omicron variant. In the hospital, 91.4 percent of covid patients have omicron statewide.

To help stop the spread across the state, Gov. Larry Hogan announced last week that officials would be distributing 20 million free N95 and KN95 masks to Maryland health facilities.

Yonker said some of them will be disbursed locally.

“The N95 and KN95 masks being distributed by state officials will be allocated to local health departments, state-run vaccine clinics, the vaccine equity task force, nursing homes, and Maryland state agencies,” she said.

She added that while Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials have announced that N95 and KN95 masks are the most effective protection against the virus, cloth masks are still better than nothing.

“The CDC recommends you wear the most protective mask you can that fits well and that you will wear consistently,” she said. “Individuals who only have access to cloth masks can still benefit from this layer of protection versus wearing nothing. In addition, for some individuals, surgical — or paper masks — [may] be better fitting and provide a more complete seal.”

Weekly vaccine numbers and testing info: • As of Thursday, Maryland providers administered more than 10.84 million covid-19 vaccines for a total of 93.9 percent of residents 18 and older with at least one dose. The percentage of residents five and older with at least one dose was 88 percent.

• As of Wednesday, 66.16 percent of the county’s population had received at least one covid vaccine and 73.15 percent were fully vaccinated.

• Atlantic General staff members administered 60 shots since last week.

• The hospital hosts vaccine clinics from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday at its pharmacy in the main lobby of the hospital. All three

types of vaccines are offered.

• The Population Health team is also holding a Pfizer clinic on Feb. 3 at Atlantic Health Center and Feb. 12 at the Barrett Building. Individuals interested in vaccines can visit agh.care/vaccine to schedule an appointment.

• The Worcester County Health Department also holds vaccine clinics weekly. For more information, visit worcesterhealth.org/protectmenu/1726-worcester-county-mdcoronavirus-covid-19 information-2020 • To address covid testing shortages, the federal government is making home tests available to every registered household address. Interested individuals can claim their test by logging on to covidtests.gov.

• Stateside, Gov. Larry Hogan continues to set up testing sites at local health care facilities throughout the area. TidalHealth in Salisbury is one of the designated locations.

• Locally, AGH has opened the Atlantic ImmediCare walk-in care clinic, on 10th Street in Ocean City, for weekend hours to provide state PCR send-out testing for asymptomatic individuals. Sick patients are evaluated to determine whether PCR rapid or send-out testing is appropriate.

Weekly covid numbers: • As of Thursday, Worcester County’s covid-19 positivity rate was 28.34 percent with 7,680 cases reported since March 2020.

• The state’s positivity rate was 18 percent Thursday with 922,361 confirmed covid cases since the start of the pandemic.

• Atlantic General Hospital reported 19 covid in-patients this week.

All of the patients were unvaccinated.

Their ages ranged from 31 to 88.

• Ocean Pines and Berlin had 3,017 cases and Ocean City had 1,688 Thursday.

• Worcester County has reported 139 covid deaths since March 2020.

Info from Gov. Larry Hogan; the Maryland Department of Health; Atlantic General; Worcester County Health Department; and the CDC. Crossword answers from page 32

JANUARY 21, 2022

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may be tempted to overspend this week, as you have a mind to remodel or redecorate your home in a major way. Try not to get carried away.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 You are ready to pour a huge investment of time and resources into a creative project that is dear to your heart, Taurus. Let the ideas flow organically instead of pushing too hard.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Phone calls and emails keep coming in, to the point where you may want to turn off your devices for the rest of the week. Find opportunities for peace and quiet.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you may feel like you have all of the answers. But you can still heed advice from those who came before you — especially in the work setting.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you have high hopes for a productive week, but you may not check off everything on your to-do list. It’s fine to let one or two things slide.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, why make things difficult for yourself when others are willing to lend a helping hand? You don’t have to chart the course alone, so accept any offers of help that come along.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, if you are feeling immense pressure to make an important decision, take all the time you need to work through every scenario. This way you’re confident in your choice.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, this week will feel like a lot of hurrying up and waiting. For a go-getter like you, this can be very frustrating. Use the down time you have productively.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 This is a good week to pursue dreams that have been put on the back burner, Sagittarius. Don’t tell yourself things are impossible. Find ways to make things happen.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 It’s fine to be goofy and playful once in a while, Capricorn. This is the week to let loose and have fun for a while.

Others may join in on your antics.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Intense dreams may crop up in the evenings this week, Aquarius. Jot down things as you remember the details so you can better reflect on their meaning.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Consider giving yourself a little rest from work, Pisces. You’ve been working hard and now you need to restore your energy levels.

JANUARY 21, 2022

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Ocean City Today

NEW MEMBERS The Coastal Association of Realtors (Coastal) welcomed 24 new members during New Member Orientation on Nov. 4. Pictured, in back, from left, are Tim Arnett of ERA Martin, Christian Bonebrake of Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s, Ryan Basch of Coldwell Banker, Lisa Jackson of Engel & Volker, Cassie Stuart of Sheppard Realty, President of the Coastal Association of Realtors Grace Masten, Kasey Riddle of Keller Williams, Lisa Lebow of Engel & Volker, Ron Harris of Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s, Amanda Manning of Coldwell Banker, Ryan Finnegan of SVN Miller, Jenny Catron of Engel & Volker, James Briddell of ERA Martin; and in front, Brandon Green of Engel & Volker, Brent Esham of Esham Real Estate, Gailynn Mullins of Keller Williams, Bethany Alaniz of Coldwell Banker, Barbara Derrickson of Coldwell Banker, Lila Goodwin of Keller Williams, Amy Coy of Berkshire Hathaway, Shelly Kingsbury of Charis Realty. (Not Pictured) Logan Burke of Keller Williams, David Capobianco of ERA Martin, Andrea Laurenzano of Keller Williams, Craig Lynch of Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s.

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Homeowners can appeal new assessments

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) With property reassessments going out last month for much of Worcester County, property owners might be wondering what their options are if they disagree with the values the county assessment office has calculated.

Assessments are normally received every three years, and your reassessment notice shows the old market value as well as the new market value. The new value reflects the current market influences, any additions or changes to structures on the property, along with any other conditions that may be affecting the property’s value since the time of its last assessment.

Appeals may be filed on three occa-

sions: 1) Appeal on Reassessment (upon receipt of an assessment notice, which is normally every three years); 2) Petition for review; and, 3) Appeal Upon Purchase (upon purchase of property between Jan. 1 and June 30).

If you decide to appeal, the first step is to file your appeal either online, or by replying to the Notice of Assessment by signing and returning the appeal form.

Appeals must be filed within 45 days of the notice date.

Depending on the volume of appeals for the jurisdiction in which the appeal is filed, every attempt is made to com-

plete all reassessment appeals by June 1.

At the time of purchase, real estate contracts in Maryland disclose to buyers a “Property Tax Notice” disclosure that a buyer has a 60-day right of appeal to dispute the taxable assessed value.

The paragraph in the contract of sale states: “If any real property is transferred after Jan. 1 and before the beginning of the next taxable year to a new owner, the new owner may submit a written appeal as to a value or classification on or before 60 days after the date of the transfer.”

To clarify, “the beginning of the next taxable year” is by June 30.

Property owners have the right to three different options when appealing: personal hearing, phone hearing, or written appeal. Appeals made in writing eliminate

the need to attend a scheduled hearing or to call in by phone (MDAT attempts to prioritize appeals made in writing).

Property owners who live in their home as the primary residence should remember to file for the Homestead Tax Credit. This credit is granted to owner occupied residential properties for annual assessment increases over a certain percentage.

If eligible, the bill reflects this credit, but if you look up your property and don’t see the notation of Homestead on it, you should file for this option to help prevent large increases in your property tax.

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

NOW PLAYING

PHIL PERDUE Seacrets: Every Fri., 5-9 p.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott 410-289-7192/7191 / Captainstableoc.com Every Friday: Phil Perdue on Piano, 5-9 p.m.

COINS 28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / www.coinspub.com Every Tuesday: Trivia Night OCEAN CLUB

101st Street, Ocean City Clarion Fontainebleau Hotel 410-524-3535 / www.clarionoc.com Jan. 21-22: The Buzzer Band, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOT

THE BUZZER BAND Ocean Club: Fri.-Sat., Jan. 21-22, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

300 Seabay Lane, Ocean City 410-723-2222 / www.ResidenceInnOC.com Every Friday: Live Music, 6-9 p.m.

Every Sunday: Karaoke, 5-8 p.m.

Every Wednesday: Live Music, 5-8 p.m.

49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Jan. 27: Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.

SEACRETS

THE VIEW AT THE CAMBRIA HOTEL

13 St. Louis Ave., Ocean City 443-856-4158 / https://www.choicehotels.com/maryland/oceancity/cambria-hotels/md310 Every Tuesday: Karaoke, 7-11 p.m.

PAGE 28

Ocean City Today

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PAGE 29

Ocean City Today

POLICE/COURTS

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

A man living in a shed on Elm Street in West Ocean City died on Monday after flames ripped through the structure. According to the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s office, the fire was caused by a space heater located too close to combustibles, adding the shed did not have working smoke detectors.

Deadly West Ocean City shed fire sparked by space heater

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) A fire sparked by a heater next to combustibles in a shed not fit for living left one man dead in West Ocean City on Monday night.

The Ocean City Fire Department was alerted to the situation just before 10:50 p.m. on Monday after a Worcester County Sheriff’s Department deputy spotted a fire in a small structure – later identified as a shed – at 9961 Elm Street in West Ocean City.

As fire crews worked to put the fire out, they searched the smoke-filled structure and found a deceased man.

The name of the victim was withheld pending identification from the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

According to a press release, the shed had no working smoke alarms, and the building is a total loss.

“Upon notifying the occupants of the property about the incident, it was learned that an adult male was living in the shed,” a press release from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s office read.

The release said the cause of the fire was determined accidental by a heating appliance located “too close to combustibles.”

Worcester County Fire Marshal Jeffrey A. McMahon reminded the public in the press release that space heaters need space, and anyone using the devices should follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to distances from items that can burn. He also reminded people to have working smoke alarms in all sleeping areas.

Continued from Page 28 both men were placed in handcuffs for the rest of the search.

Police reported discovering multiple containers of marijuana in the front and rear passenger compartments of the vehicle, several smoking devices, a wooden baton in the front passenger seat, an open can of beer, and a spring-assisted knife in the driver’s door pocket.

Police said Dougherty admitted the beer and marijuana was his, as well as the wooden baton, saying, “In case I got into trouble while working in the city.”

Police suspected Dougherty was under the influence and he was placed under arrest.

Perholtz reportedly told officers he was unaware of drugs or weapons in the vehicle. He said the duffle bag in the rear compartment of the car was his, and when asked about the firearm, he said, “I forgot about that.”

A former holder of a conceal carry permit that expired in 2011, Perholtz was placed under arrest for possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle.

Pocomoke City fire The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a fire that occurred at approximately 10:45 p.m. on Jan. 16 at 417 Walnut Street in Pocomoke City.

When firefighters from the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company arrived, they observed fire and smoke coming from the attic of a twostory building built in 1904.

The investigation found the fire was accidental and started due to faulty electrical wiring in the attic.

The property was subdivided into two apartments. All of the tenants were displaced by the fire and offered support from the American Red Cross. No injuries were reported.

DUI Bashar Kassis, 24, of Allentown, Pennsylvania was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 10:45 p.m. on Monday near 30th Street and charged with DUI, reckless driving, and other traffic violations.

Police said Kassis was seen speeding up Philadelphia Avenue near 21st Street, but when officers attempted to pull him over, he continued to drive north. With the help of additional officers, police got Kassis to stop.

When officers approached the vehicle, they allegedly saw a small cup containing what turned out to be whiskey.

Kassis told police he was coming from a pub near 8th Street and that he had two shots of Jägermeister about 10 minutes before getting behind the wheel.

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BLOOD DRIVE

Blood Control Tech 1 Ariel Alexander preps Berlin resident Tim Kelly for a whole-blood donation at the 23rd annual Ocean City Blood Drive at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on Wednesday.

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28th Street Plaza • 410-289-3100

Ocean City Today

PAGE 30

JANUARY 21, 2022

Berlin’s town chicken killed FOOD FOR THOUGHT by hit-and-run driver, Tuesday Gather family for banana cream stuffed French toast

By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) Berlin’s adopted town chicken, Althea, perished Tuesday afternoon following a hit-and-run accident on Main Street .

Mayor Zack Tyndall posted the tragic news on social media on Wednesday.

“In the fall of 2021, Althea, the town chicken, randomly showed up [and] became a local celebrity,” he said.

In short order, the inquisitive fowl was provided digs outside Health Freedom at 12 Artisans Way, where proprietor Erin Bilenki constructed a coop.

Economic & Community Development Director Ivy Wells said Althea quickly endeared herself to residents.

“The community embraced her as one of its own,” she said. “What made Althea special was the fact that she felt so comfortable downtown.”

Tyndall said the chicken, an escaped broiler, no doubt, materialized at an ideal moment in time.

“Her presence put a smile on the faces of residents, visitors and business owners when we needed one the most,” he said.

Wells said the comfort level exhibited by Althea was startling.

PHOTO COURTESY IVY WELLS

Berlin lost one of its own after Althea, the adopted town chicken, was killed by a hit-andrun driver on Tuesday afternoon on Main Street.

“She made downtown Berlin her home and went window shopping,” she said.

To highlight the presence of a unique character inhabiting town, in November Wells installed a chicken crossing sign on Main Street by Island Creamery.

“She was hit by a car right where I put the sign up,” she said.

On Wednesday morning Althea was laid to rest in Stephen Decatur Park.

“Apparently, chickens do like crossing the road even if they shouldn’t,” she said.

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) The way America eats has taken a turn toward fast food and packaged meals. Our gastronomic zeitgeist emphases ease and speed and forgoes culinary traditions.

This path toward change is partly due to the fact that both parents are forced to work to fulfill financial obligations. In addition, as children grow, sports and outside school activities become part of parent’s daily schedule.

That being said, gathering at the family table with a homemade meal is the bread and butter of this country. It nurtures and reinforces the relationship of parents with their children. This humble tradition is a must for future generations.

While we are on the subject of homemade meals, let us take a closer look at French toast. Contrary to its name, the origins of French toast have been traced back to the Roman Empire.

The name “French toast” was first used in 17th Century England. The

recipe and name were brought to America by way of the early settlers.

In France, the dish is called “pain perdu,” meaning “lost bread.” Originally, people made French toast from stale bread in order to make use of bread that otherwise would have been thrown away.

Following are a few reminders for fantastic French toast.

Adding too much dairy and sugar to the custard will result in wet, soggy bread. You want the French toast to be dry on the surface with slightly crisp edges.

It is imperative to mix the custard thoroughly. If you do not do this, pieces of egg whites and yolks will show up on your perfectly browned slices.

Choosing the right type of bread is imperative. If the bread is thin, it will be too flimsy when it is dipped in the batter. If it is too thick, it will never cook in the center. The ideal thickness is ¾ to 1 inch.

If one is going to stuff the French toast, rolls are the better choice. Brioche and challah’s textures are great choices for French bread.

Lots of home cooks quickly dip each See FRENCH Page 32

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, Ocean City 410289-7192, www. captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring seafood, steaks and poultry. Daily chef specials. Breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Friday, 8-11 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 8 p.m. to noon. Dinner and Lite fare Wednesday through Sunday, 5-9 p.m.

Dine in or carry out available.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Casual dining atmosphere for families. Soups, salads, crab cakes, hand cut steaks, fresh seafood, scallops, fresh soft crabs, and specialty dishes. Happy hour daily, 3-6 p.m. with food and drink specials. Early bird daily, 4-6 p.m. with special dinner menu. Open Monday through Thursday, Friday and Saturday at noon; Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Dine in or carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR Oceanfront and 17th St. in Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, www.coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy our hearty homestyle breakfasts starting at 6:30 a.m. daily. Lunch and dinner offering light fare of soups and salads along with our house specialty Scallops St. Croix, along with ribs, Cuban pork and steak selections.

■ THE DOUGH ROLLER S. Division Street and Boardwalk 410-2893501; 3rd Street and Boardwalk 410-2892599, www.TheDoughRoller.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar An Ocean City family tradition since 1980. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Buttermilk pancakes, fresh handmade dough pizza and Italian dinners. We have something for everyone!

■ THE VIEW RESTAURANT AND BAR AT CAMBRIA, OC Located in the Cambria Hotel, 13 St. Louis Avenue, Ocean City 410-280-1645 or 410520-4541 Open to the public with a new full menu, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Happy Hour each day from 3-9 p.m. Open 7 a.m. daily until midnight Fridays and Saturdays and until 10 p.m. all other days. Enjoy overlooking the bay with fresh baked pastries on premise. Wounder appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees and flatbreads.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open daily, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bar and lounge. Western Caribbean cuisine with a mix of traditional Eastern Shore favorites.

■ THE DOUGH ROLLER 41st Street and Coastal Highway 410-5249254; 70th Street and Coastal Highway 410524-7981, www.TheDoughRoller.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Online ordering See downtown locations for description.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-6645639, www.longboardcafe.net $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surfthemed setting with weekly specials. Featuring burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on

Tuesdays. 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.

■ RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 61st Street Bayside/2nd Floor @ Bayview Bar & Grill, Ocean City 443- 664-7043 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Bayfront dining with a casual atmosphere.

Specializing in burgers, flat breads, crab cakes, shrimp burgers and full dinner specials. Happy Hour daily, 4-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4-11 p.m. (kitchen until 10 p.m.) and NFL specials all day Sunday.

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Thursday and Friday, 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. with Island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets ■ HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT, BREAKERS PUB & LENNY’S BEACH BAR & GRILL Inside the Clarion, 101st Street, Ocean City 410-524-3535, www.clarionoc.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Serving beach-inspired dishes in our oceanfront restaurants, Horizons and Breakers Pub. All-day menu, available 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner including light fare and steamer specials.

WEST OCEAN CITY ■ COASTAL SMOKEHOUSE 12513 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 410-390-5998, coastalsmokehouse.com $$-$$$ | Full bar with 18 TVs Coastal Smokehouse caters to the steak and barbecue expert inside of us all with a menu that tours the nation's hottest barbecue destinations and a top-notch bourbon list with which to wash it all down. Open 7days a week for lunch and dinner from noon to 11 p.m.

■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro 12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-8011111, www.occhopsticks.com $$ | Beer | Premium Sake Offering a wide array of authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. Dine-in and carryout.

Lunch specials. Dinner and lite fare. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, 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 daily, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting.

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, www.OPyachtclub.com $$-$$$ | Full bar The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m.

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 31

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. 21 MINDFULNESS COLLAGE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Join Bevin Jones in creating collages of selfdiscovery using methods of peace and tranquility through mindfulness. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under “Events” or call 410-957-0878.

BERLIN BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY’ BY ERIK LARSON

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Lively discussion facilitated by Cynthia Hanagud and Gail Samis of Salisbury University. Copies of the book are available at the Berlin branch, 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org.

BINGO FOR BABIES

Ocean City Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Play every game for $24. Refreshments are available as are pull tabs and 50/50 games.

Proceeds will be dedicated to the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health in Berlin. 410-524-7994

Sat., Jan. 22 FAMILY LIBRARY DAY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10 a.m.-noon.

Spend the day at the library. Enjoy family friendly activities, games and crafts.

Fun for all ages. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

CRAFTY SATURDAY: PAPER PLATE CRAFTS

Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. Andrea Schlottman facilities this program. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under “Events.” 410-632-2600

FREE EXPUNGEMENT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4-6 p.m. Clients attend in person to receive assistance from the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service volunteers. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under “Events” or call 410-524-1818. Info: 443-783-6164

DELMARVA DANCING SUPER POWERED STEM: STRAWBERRY DNA EXTRACTION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m.

Come join the group for a fun, brand new experiment. (Materials donated by ThermoFisher Scientific) For ages 7 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

Tuesdays - Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173, 13324 Worcester Highway, Bishopville, 5:30-9 p.m. Dance to the sounds of the ’50s and ’60s. A $5 donation to benefit Veterans. Participants show proof of vaccination or wear a mask. delmarvahanddance@gmail.com, 410-208-1151

Wed., Jan. 26

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

STORY TIME ‘COOKIES’

FORGOTTEN HISTORICAL PEOPLE: NESTOR MAKHNO

FIRST STATE DETACHMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE MEETING

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a health lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157.

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Nestor Makhno, a pivotal figure of the early 20th century, freed Ukraine from outside control after World War I. Nathaniel Godfrey will facilitate. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 7:00-9:00 p.m. All ladies that love to sing invited.

Contact Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol Ludwig, 302-242-7062.

Tues., Jan. 25

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m.Come and make some creative and fun crafts to take home. For ages 4 years and older. While supplies last. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

STORY TIME ‘DRIFTING SNOWFLAKES’

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

SILLY SONGS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and fingerplays. Take-home activity included. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories about cookies. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 12 p.m. Any Marines and Navy Corpsman who have served in the Corps, living in Worcester and Sussex counties, are welcome to join fellow veterans. 410-4307181, websergeant@firststatemarines.org

Mon., Jan. 24 WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m.

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Sing and dance to silly songs. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

RETIREMENT BOOTCAMP: RETIREMENT INVESTING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. This presentation covers some basic ideas that you can implement to adjust your strategy from working life to retired life.

STORY TIME ‘AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: ERIC CARLE’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

MID-MORNING CRAFTS: MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m.

Make and take home some great musical instruments, perfect for at home sing-alongs. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

CROCHETED RUGS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2-5 p.m. Learn how to crochet a rug from old sheets.

Bring a size K, L or M crochet hook and old sheets, cotton or poly cotton fabric or clothing cut into 11/4” wide strips.

Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org.

410-632-2600

ZUMBA FOR ALL LEVELS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join certified Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under “Events.” 410-632-2600

JOB SEARCH WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3-5 p.m. Drop into the library every Wednesday to receive one-on-one guidance from library staff to strengthen you’re resume and help with your job search. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410632-2600

BEACH SINGLES

Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m.

Info: 302-436-9577 or Beachsingles.org

ONGOING EVENTS VALENTINE DINNER

PAGE TURNERS BOOK CLUB

Held via Zoom, 3:30 p.m. Kids, ages 811 years, talk about “Mercy Watson to the Rescue.” Title available on Hoopla. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9:00 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods.

Open to the public.

200 125th St., Ocean City. Held Jan 29, 6 p.m. to midnight. Featuring Gladiator Dodgeball, Laser-Tag, bowling and food.

For grades 7th and 8th. Cost is $38 for Ocean City residents and $46 for nonresidents. Register by Jan 17. 410-2500125

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5:30-7 p.m. Providing participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org.

Thurs., Jan. 27 REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR RECREATION & PARKS MIDNIGHTER Northside Park Recreation Complex,

To be held Feb. 12 from 4-7 p.m. at the Sons of the American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave. N.Y. Strip Steak & Shrimp Dinner with baked potato, vegetable, dessert and complimentary drink. Cost is $20. Tickets are available at the post or by calling 410-289-3166.

FREE WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

Free workshops dealing with hypertension, chronic pain self-management, chronic disease self-management, diabetes, fall prevention and a free 6-week workshop titled, “Building Better Caregivers.” If you would like to register for one of these workshops or you would like more information about bringing any of the workshops to your business or group, contact Jill at MAC, 410-7420505, Ext. 159 or jak@macinc.org.

PAGE 32

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

French toast traces to Romans Continued from Page 30 side of the bread in the custard before cooking it. The bread must soak in the egg mixture, so give it at least 5 minutes in the cream mixture.

There is a fine line between using too much heat or not enough. You want to develop a nice sear but do not want the French toast to burn. The custard has sugar which can promote scorching, so you need to keep an eye on it.

Finally, give the pan a light coating of neutral oil and unsalted butter. The oil will help prevent the butter from burning. Make sure to wipe out the pan after every batch, then use a fresh combination of neutral oil and butter. Otherwise, the butter will burn and the little black bits will stick to the next batch.

In closing, if you like bananas and French toast, the following banana cream stuffed French toast with a crunchy cereal crust and bruleed bananas is as decadent as it gets. Enjoy!

French Toast Batter 6 eggs ½ cup heavy cream 2 cups whole milk 2 rounded tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon almond extract ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon each ground nutmeg, allspice, cloves 1. Place all ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated, set aside.

Banana Cream 1 pound cream cheese, room temperature ¾ cup very ripe bananas 1/3 cup honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon banana extract 1. Place all ingredients in a medium bowl. Using a hand-held blender, combine all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate banana cream until ready to use. The cream will pipe easier if it is

chilled.

Bruleed Bananas 3 bananas granulated sugar butane torch 1. Slice bananas according to personal preference. Heavily coat slices with sugar. Turn the torch on and brulee the individual slice of coated bananas until the desired caramelization is achieved.

Crunchy Cereal Crust for French Toast

for as little as $21.

Secret Ingredient – Individuality. “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

CROSSWORD

3 cups favorite vanilla almond cereal 8 brioche rolls 1 stick unsalted butter 8 teaspoons canola oil 1. Place cereal on a cutting board.

Using a rolling pin, crush cereal to a medium-coarse consistence. Place crushed cereal in a pie pan.

Assembly Slice 8 brioche rolls with a serrated knife to form a pocket, but do not cut completely through. Stuff banana cream in the pocket and smooth the edges.

Heat a large sauté pan with 1/2 stick unsalted butter and 4 teaspoons canola oil over medium heat.

Dip all sides of the stuffed bread in the French toast batter and then roll in the crushed cereal.

Cook until golden brown on both sides. If you need more butter, feel free at add more. When done, remove toast from pan.

Using paper towels, wipe out the pan and repeat this process for the remaining 4 brioche rolls.

Using a serrated knife, slice French toast on a diagonal. Pipe extra banana cream filling on the plate along with bruleed bananas, add a dusting of powdered sugar, and serve with warm syrup. * Food Lion carries banana extract.

Butane torches can be purchased online

HAVE YOU BEEN CONSIDERING LISTING REDUCED WHILE IT’S PRICE STILL A SELLER’S MARKET? Let me help you get top dollar for your home!

Free, no pressure market analysis.

A TRUE MUST SEE!

UNDER

• Picturesque Waterfront Views • Piney Island Construction • 1,874 sq ft • 3BR/2.5BA + 2-Car Garage + 2 Flex Rooms • 9 ft ceilings + Open Vaulted living room • Bountiful natural light • Covered boathouse/gazebo dock • Separate Laundry Room • Lots of upgrades + storage • Fenced in Backyard + Electric Awning $749,900

T C A R T CON

Lauren Bunting Cell: 410.422.9899 lwbunting@comcast.net www.LaurenBunting.com

7510 Coastal Hwy. Ocean City, MD 410-524-0919 • Atlanticshores-sothebysrealty.com

Answers on page 26

January 21, 2022

33

Ocean City Today

Call 410-723-6397 Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Rental Office Manager Needed Full-time Position Year Round

We have two busy rental offices. We are looking for someone who can train for a Office Management position in our Ocean City office. Vacation Rentals and some Year-Round Property Management. q Real Estate License Required q References Required q Professional/Friendly q Must be willing to travel to meet with prospective owners and inspect properties as needed q Must work most weekends as needed q Administrative skills needed q Special Sales commission opportunities Please fax resumes, letters and references to or inquiries to

Hileman Real Estate, Inc. Attn: Chris to fax # 410-208-9562 or email Hilemanre@aol.com

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Work At The BEACH...

Work With The BEST!!

Top wages and excellent benefits package available to successful candidates.

Employment Opportunities: Full Time, Year Round: Server, Hostess, Maintenance, Room Attendant, Human Resources Assistant

Top Wages Excellent Benefits Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel Attn: Human Resources Dept.

10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Phone: 410-524-3535, ext. 7128 Fax: 410-723-9109 EOE M/F/D/V

CLASSIFIEDS CALL 410-723-6397

www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!

by Monday 5 p.m.

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

SEEKING CREATIVE SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST with background in graphic design, social media marketing and online sales. Familiarity with Etsy is a plus!

Good pay. Part-time.

Extremely flexible hours.

Inquiries call 433-880-2486

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr.

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

HIRING ALL POSITIONS!!

Hiring Cooks (up to $18), Audio/Video Techs, Distillery Tour Guides, Maintenance Staff, Head Distiller, Painter, & Carpenter.

Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

• • • •

Starting wages are $13.50-$15.00 depending on experience.

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

Convenient Quick No Waiting, No Calls Days, Nights & Weekends

PAGE 34

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS/ CARPENTERS Must have experience.

Competitive pay.

Call 443-856-5600 or email your resume at skylineconstructionoc@ gmail.com

Hiring ALL Positions!!

Full time & Part time Fenwick and Selbyville Locations To apply go to: www.mygcjob.com

FT/PT LIFEGUARD OPPORTUNITIES

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

COMMERCIAL

SERVICES

Montego Bay Market has positions available in Deli and stocking. One deli morning position does require cooking and salad making abilities. These are full time, year round. Please apply in person. Located in the Montego Bay Shopping Center, 12903 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City.

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

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City.

Each are approximately 1600 sq. ft.

Call 443-497-4200

WE BUY AND SELL pre-owned furniture, antiques & collectibles.

Rt. 346 Emporium, LLC, Parsonsburg, MD. 443-880-3082

Small Engine Mechanic.

Year-round. Competitive wages. 443-754-1047

at the Health and Aquatic Club in Bayside in Selbyville with competitive pay up to $15/hour, based on experience. Training & Uniforms provided.

Contact Bob Tugya: 302.988.2315

Hotel Reservationist

Experienced applicants are preferred, but not required.

We require a satisfactory pre-employment background check by all applicants.

Please contact Bob at 410-289-6846 for further information or to schedule an interview.

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

Storage West Ocean City.

2-car garage for rent w/attached work room.

Total 775 sq. ft.

Call John 410-726-0075.

www.baysideoc.com www.oceancitytoday.com

SEEKING RENTAL SEEKING RENTAL

MAINTENANCE

This is an hourly full-time position, located on site at the Castle in the Sand Hotel in Ocean City, MD. Must be available weekdays and weekends for morning or mid shifts as scheduled by supervisor. This position is seasonal with potential to become year round.

Essential Job Functions: • Answer reservation calls for a busy, unique, oceanfront resort with many different kinds of accommodations such as suites, efficiencies, condominiums, and cottages.

• Focus on providing excellent customer service on each call while kindly keeping the focus of the call on the hotel, room types, and amenities in an effort to sell the room in the most efficient amount of time as possible.

• This role will include heavily assisting with the booking.com and Expedia platforms which will consist of entering and modifying reservations, updating inventory and rates, answering guest messages in a professional manner, etc.

• Assist with reservations duties for our sister property, Barefoot Mailman, as needed • Any other duties as assigned by supervisor Requirements: • Education – High School Diploma or equivalent • Excellent customer service skills • Strong verbal and written communication skills • Reliable with an exceptional work ethic and positive attitude • Must be extremely detail oriented and possess the ability to multi-task • Good knowledge of standard computer software packages

STORAGE STORAGE

Full time, year-round position w/attractive benefits package. Reliable company & excellent work environment.

410-524-0880

New Year!

New Career!

Atlantic Shores Sotheby's Int. Realty is hiring.

Experienced Real Estate Agents, Real Estate Assistants, Transaction Coordinators, and Buyers Agents.

Thinking of a Career change?

We offer Real Estate Scholarships.

No experience necessary.

Contact Steven Diaz 410-245-1089

RENTALS RENTALS WEEKLY RENTALS AVAILABLE NOW Poolfront ................$245/wk Efficiency..............$275/wk 2BR Apartment.....$350/wk 3BR Suite .............$425/wk Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave. 410-289-8581

Charitable foundation expanding and coming to Ocean City (See TheLearnersLabFoundation. org & TherapyConnection Institute.org).

CORPORATE RENTAL NEEDED. Multiyear, minimum one year, with option to renew. NO HOA properties. Seeking 2BR, 2BA no more than $1250 monthly, including utilities or mobile home without utilities. OC/Berlin area preferred. No further out than the Bishopville-Ironshire region. Studio/1BR no more than $750-1k/monthly. No Salisbury rentals please.

Call Jerri at 202-839-7750.

DONATIONS DONATIONS

Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.

SERVICES

BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797 LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers Run your business card in our

SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK WANT TO BUY OR TRADE FREON WANTED: We pay $$$ for cylinders and cans.

R12 R500 R11 R113 R114.

Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call 312-291-9169 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation.

Top quality Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 888-814-0566.

Ask about our specials!

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs.

Senior & Military Discounts available. 877-738-0991.

MISC. SERVICES LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Call now to speak to one of our Quality Relocation Specialists: 866-314-0734.

106 papers with a circulation of 2.3 million and readership of 4.9 million!

PRINT WEB oceancitytoday.com • baysideoc.com

JANUARY 21, 2022

BLINDS & SHADES

PAGE 35

Ocean City Today

CONSTRUCTION

COSMETICS the company for women

• cosmetics • skin care • body care • fragrances • gifts • & more!

CHRISTINE BROWN independent sales representative

443-234-5262

order online: www.christinesbeautyshop.com

ELECTRICIAN

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Raymond O’Brocki Jr.

PipeLine

Master Electrician 443 691 0544 Call or Text

Home Improvement Services Company

Same Rate Day, Evening, Weekends

35 Years Experience

Contracting, LLC

HOME IMPROVEMENT

“One stop shop for Home Improvement”

Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail • Cabinets & Countertop • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • General Carpentry & Painting

• Flooring & Tile • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & Delaware Beaches

US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor

No Job Too Small! Free Estimates!

Residential/Commercial/Emergencies!

MD Lic #2268 Worcester Co Lic #M1337

(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net

HOME IMPROVEMENT

JUNK REMOVAL & HAULING

11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!

MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed

atminc4u@aol.com

MOVING SERVICES

BUDGET MOVERS

BAYSIDE BUILDERS

The Area’s #1 Moving Company

LOCAL • ENTIRE EAST COAST

COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER

Residential or Office or Commercial Packing or Loading or Unloading or Complete Move Single Item or Certain Items or Full Home

• Flat Roof Specialist • • Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Custom Homes • Additions • Repairs • Kitchens • Baths • Tile Work • Decks • Custom Inside Trim Work • Hardwood Floors

Call Maria: 443-664-5797 Female Owned & Operated

www.Facebook.com/ocbudgetmovers

Cell: 410-713-8599

PAINTING

40+ Years in Business

ROOF REPLACEMENT & REPAIRS

PAINTING

Zimmerman & Son LLC Painting & Powerwashing Interior & Exterior Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured

• CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE

Free Estimates

10% Discount with this ad.

NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!

Bill Zimmerman 410-390-5528 ~ cell 443-373-4539

ROOFING

FREE Estimates es

ROOFING

ROOFING • GUTTERS • SIDING • WINDOWS DOORS • SUN TUNNELS • SKYLIGHTS Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS DE# 2004201560 • PA#043393 • MHIC#124883

www.roofer www. roof ro roofers offers ofer rs.org .o org g

410.204.2586

Licensed & Insured

Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 10545 Friendship Road, Unit 3, Berlin, Maryland 21811 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com *Licenced in MD, DE &VA

Shingle Roofs • Metal Roofs • Flat Roofs Family Owned & Operated

FREE ESTIMATES

108 Moss Hill Ln., Salisbury, MD 410-831-3938 32295 Nassau Rd., Lewes, DE 302-200-7663

ROOFING

PAGE 36

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today / Public Notices

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 9202 PEERLESS RD. BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Edward T. Drew and Gracie Ann Drew, dated March 23, 2013 and recorded in Liber 6132, folio 399 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on JANUARY 24, 2022 AT 2:00 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

The property, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, encumbrances and agreements of record affecting the subject property, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $16,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within fifteen (15) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within fifteen days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser.

There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be

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 20, 2022 or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

Line No

Year

1448-21 1451-21 1462-21 1463-21 1480-21

2007 2001 2006 2015 2015

Make TAO CHEVY CHRYSLER FORD HONDA

Model VIPSCOOTER SILVERADO 300 F-350 CIVIC

Color

Style

BLACK GREEN BLACK BLUE BLACK

OR PICKUP SEDAN PICKUP COUPE

VIN UNKNOWN 1GCEK14W71Z156926 2C3KA53G16H126002 1FT8W3A65FEA83247 2HGFG4A54FH705879

Mileage NA NA NA NA NA

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-1/20/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit to the purchaser. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees.

Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale.

(Matter #19-602106).

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees ALEX COOPER AUCTS, INC. 908 YORK RD., TOWSON, MD 21204 410-828-4838 www.alexcooper.com OCD-1/6/3t _________________________________

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 in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: January 27, 2022 at 6:00 PM Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2 & 3), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed for several requests for a 90-room hotel. The first and second requests are pursuant to Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to waive 12 spaces for the entire project, and to design standards to provide 11 compact parking spaces at 8’6” x 18’ instead of 9’ x 20’ as required by Code. The third request is pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to the 19-foot side yard setback requirement along S. First Street (in accordance with Code Section 110903(3)a & b) for an 8-story building, providing a remaining 0-foot setback. And the fourth request is also pursuant to Section 110-95(1)(a) for a variance to the 8-foot required landscape setback also along S. First Street (Code Section 110-903(4)a), providing a remaining 0-foot setback. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0110, Parcel 2520, unnumbered lot(s), Block 21 consisting of 45,742 square feet of land area, of the Old Town Ocean City Plat; further described as located on the west side of Philadelphia Avenue and bounded by the waters of the Ocean City Inlet on the east side, and locally known as 700 S. Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: EFFIES BEACH LLC – (BZA 2608 #22-09500001) 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-1/13/2t _________________________________

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2022 At 7:00 pm Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-334(7), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the R-2, Medium Residential, Zoning District (underlying zoning district), for approval to establish a battery energy storage system (BESS) and related improvements, systems and appurtenances as part of public utilities and services. The site of the request is described as Tax Map 0116, Parcel 1864A; Lot C-1 of Parcel 20 of the Mayor and City Council Resubdivision Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway and the Worcester County Library at 10003 Coastal Highway. Known locally as 112 100th Street, currently owned by the Mayor and City Council with a PG, Public/Governmental Overlay Zone, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: RYAN SHOWALTER, ESQ., ON BEHALF

JANUARY 21, 2022 OF DELMARVA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY – (FILE #2212100001) At 7:15 pm Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-334(7), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the R-2, Medium Residential, Zoning District.to amend a permanent conditional use, PZ-739, granted by the Mayor and City Council on October 1, 1991, for an electrical substation with principal transmission lines. The amended request is to establish a battery energy storage system (BESS) and related improvements, systems and appurtenances as part of public utilities and services. The site of the request is described as Tax Map 0116, Parcel 1864A; Lot C-2 of Parcel 20 of the Mayor and City Council Resubdivision Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway and known locally as Lands of Delmarva Power & Light Company,10021 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: RYAN SHOWALTER, ESQ., ON BEHALF OF DELMARVA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY - (FILE #2212100002) No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.

Public hearings that are not com-

PAGE 37

Ocean City Today / Public Notices pleted at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.

For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PAM GREER BUCKLEY, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ATTORNEY OCD-1/13/3t _________________________________ IN THE MATTER OF: Sydney Leigh Reinhart FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: Wren Patrick Reinhart IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No.: C-23-FM-21-000275

NOTICE

FOR PUBLICATION (MINOR) (Md. Rule 15-901) The above petitioner, Samuel Reinhart has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which they seek to change the name of a minor from Sydney Leigh Reinhart to Wren

Patrick Reinhart. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: The minor is undergoing gender reassignment from female to male and has been using his new name for several years.

Any person may file an objection to the Petition for Name Change on or before 02/21/2022. 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 True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-1/20/1t _________________________________ Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, Maryland 20814 (301) 907-8000 Diane S. Rosenberg Mark D. Meyer Maurice Obrien Bradley Harris Rosenberg & Associates, LLC

LEGAL ADVERTISING 410-723-6397 legals@oceancitytoday.net

4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 Substitute Trustees Plaintiff(s) v.

Nolan R. Dove, Jr. 11311 Gum Point Road Berlin, MD 21811 Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-18-000108

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 14th day of January, 2022, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of 11311 Gum Point Road, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 14th day of January, 2022, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in a weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 7th day of February, 2022. The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $306,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-1/20/3t _________________________________

Commentary

Ocean City Today Jan. 21, 2022

Page 38

September could be exciting time Moving Sunfest from late September to October might be disconcerting for the hundreds of thousands of people who have been marking that early fall date on their calendar since the 1970s.

Many of them, over almost five decades, would bring their children, listen to music, peruse the crafts, and ply the kids with all manner of fair-style food they would never get at home. Now, it’s those children who are bringing their parents.

After a wobbly first few years following its debut in 1974, the end-of-summer celebration grew into a tradition for generations of visitors, so it is only to be expected that some will find this major shift in their travel calendars a bit unsettling.

But beyond having to becoming accustomed to circling a new date on the refrigerator calendar, these long-time patrons should find that the October date will work just fine. On average, the afternoon temperatures will be in the low 60s rather than September’s 70s, and the chance of rain will be about the same, according to historical weather data.

The greater question attached to this event-juggling exercise is whether the big concert weekend that has bumped Sunfest from its spot will do what its proponents say it will.

There’s no arguing that a music festival with major headline acts will draw large crowds to the beach. It also has the potential to be a much greater economic booster than Sunfest because it should attract a different kind of visitor.

That said, it remains to be seen whether it will prevent the tuner car set from coming to town. Those people like music too and, considering how much some of them spend on their vehicles, they can afford to get a hotel room like anyone else.

Even so, a successful large-scale concert weekend in late September promises such great rewards that its impact on the tuner car infestation is a secondary consideration. If it works, great. If not, Ocean City will still have extended its visitor season significantly.

Sunfest will carry on with its long-time fans, and September, bolstered by this new event, could rival July and August in economic terms. That would be simply outstanding.

Ocean City Today 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.

EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS .................. Greg Ellison, Greg Wehner, ..........................................Jack Chavez, Mallory Panuska ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier ..............................................................Amanda Shick 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. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, 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 2022

PUBLIC EYE

Don’t polka me there

No offense to Polkamotion, but I like the idea of Sunfest taking place in October more than I did the polka party that use to occupy those dates on the calendar a couple of decades back.

For those who don’t remember the annual accordion-fest at the Ocean City convention center, it was a gathering of crazy, wild-inthe-streets polka fans.

To be sure, they rolled out the barrel and had a barrel of fun, shouting to anyone within earshot, “I’ll polka you here, I’ll polka you By there, I’ll polka Stewart you everywhere, my little beetle.

Dobson Ha-ha-ha-ha!”

Things got so bad with people polka-ing in the streets at high rates of speed that resort officials were forced to establish “No-Polka Zones” with enhanced enforcement, which consisted of police cars blaring “The Greatest Waltzes of All Time” as counter-programming to the Eastern-style, “Uh one, an’a two” variety of what began as a Czech folk dance before the Polish-Americans appropriated their culture and made it their own.

(Attempts to establish other polka styles, incidentally, did not work out, as Heavy Metal Polka, Grunge Polka and Punk Polka failed to catch on with the masses).

Meanwhile, police records from that pe-

riod show numberous arrests of individuals for carrying concealed accordions without a permit, along with the occasional charge filed for possession of an illegal spring-assisted accordion fancied by polka outlaws.

It was a trying time.

Except, of course, that none of the above happened, and that the real Polkamotion by the Ocean was all good, clean fun (so they keep saying) held entirely indoors at the convention center in October just about the same time the Public Works Department was engaged in rolling up the streets.

For those of us driving on Coastal Highway back then, the appearance of “Polkamotion” on the convention center marquee meant that it was time to pack the freezer with the pierogies and kielbasa because this town was headed into five long months of zero activity.

As it happened, Polkamotion danced out of Ocean City in 2004 and into the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, where it continues to lay down some mean accordion tunes in the warmer, friendlier climate of mid-September.

In the meantime, Sunfest will move into what once was Polkamotion’s schedule of October days, giving us one last chance to buy something on a stick to put in the garden, and to consume enough fried food to guarantee a steady rise in the stock price of the companies that produce Crestor, Lipitor, Mevacor and other cholesterol-controlling medications.

Seriously, I do like polka music because it’s so enthusiastic. In fact, you’ll never see a sad polka dancer, unless, of course, he or she is arrested for dancing in the streets and blocking traffic.

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

Letters to the editor Stop slaughterhouses in Worcester County Editor, The Worcester County Planning Commission will hear a proposed County Code text amendment on Feb. 3 at 1 p.m. in Snow Hill that will allow the use of structures for the slaughtering and processing of livestock raised or maintained on a farm.

The processed and packaged products, as well as the livestock, may be sold from this structure. This commercial activity is currently not permitted in Worcester County A-1, Agricultural Districts.

The structure is proposed for a parcel of land that fronts Route 113 at Croppers Island Road.

This growing, residential area, comprised of 58 homes and dozens of families with children, is already subject to the commercial activity of Island Resort Campground.

Croppers Island Road is the only road used as ingress and egress for a campground that continues to obtain expansion approval.

More concerning, however, is the fact that this text amendment will open the door to slaughterhouses in any A-1 zoned area, not only near

Cropper Island Road but anywhere in Worcester County.

We urge all Worcester County residents to consider the countless concerns posed by the operation of slaughterhouses.

While environmental issues are of utmost importance, including water pollutants and toxic wastewater discharge associated with animal product processing, we must take into consideration this activity being conducted near any residential zoned area and on a corridor of Maryland’s Coast that leads directly to Assateague State Park and the beautiful beaches of Maryland and Delaware.

Please attend the Planning Commission meeting or write your district commissioner if your vision of Worcester County does not include the slaughtering of animals. The proposed text amendment affects all of us.

Diana Chavis Worcester County Concerned Citizens

Local first responders deserve proper funding Editor, I wanted to write in regards to the article in the paper where OPFD is

asking for more money for staffing.

As someone who has been an active first responder for the OCBP and the OCFD Dive Team, and has worked closely with these positions, let me share a little description of their job: The Paramedic/Firefighter/EMT: We go where no one else wants to be.

To the mangled car wreck, the elderly fall victim who has been lying on the floor covered in their own waste for days.

The end-stage cancer patient who reminds you so much of your mom, or brother or, God forbid, your child, that it makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up, or to the babbling, paranoid drug addict and we make a difference.

We leave the safety of our home or station, we leave meals uneaten and sleep unfinished because an emergency is just that — unplanned, unpredictable, and uncertain.

Sometimes we simply put someone back in their bed. Sometimes we arrive only to find there is nothing we can do.

Every now and then, we get to restart a heart, stop the bleeding, or ease the pain and suffering. Every time, we make a difference.

On an average day, people don’t typically think about the worst happening at any moment, but then a sudden pain fills your chest, a family member has an asthmatic episode, or maybe someone close to you begins

PAGE 39 to have an allergic reaction.

After a call to 911, Emergency Medical Services’ job begins.

Does response time matter? Yes! For a small subset of patients, EMS response times are a critical matter of life or death. We just don’t know if the next patient will be one of those.

The thinner the resources and longer the response standard, the more likely those outliers will happen in many communities.

As Director Daly stated, “the main concern should be how rapid emergency responders arrive” and “We, as a board, need to consider that as a sacred time” and he is absolutely correct.

The OP Board needs to seriously consider increasing staff funding for the largest community in Worcester County, Ocean Pines.

When you have an EMS unit driving to PRMC with a driver and a medic in the back taking care of the patient, what happens when another emergency comes in? Their ask of having four full-time positions on a 24/7 schedule is not asking a lot, especially when considering the safety of the community.

Possibly if the board would spend less money on legal counsel, they could positively fund something that is a true need for the OP Community.

Colby Phillips Ocean Pines Continued on Page 40

PAGE 40

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

Free expungement clinic at library Event gives citizens chance to have criminal records on file by state totally cleared GENERAL DENTISTRY Dental Cleaning • Implants Cosmetic & Whitening Procedures Restorative Dentures & Partials

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Accepting New Patients!

302-537-4500 DrLoisJames.com Route 26 • Ocean View (1 mile west of Rt. 1) Next to Wild About Birds

(Jan. 21, 2022) The Worcester County Library is offering a free expungement clinic in partnership with Maryland Volunteer Lawyer Services on Jan. 25, from 4-6 p.m. at our Ocean City Library on 104th Street.

The event will give those who qualify the opportunity to expunge their criminal record in the state of Maryland with the assistance of an attorney. Clients must qualify for services by meeting income, case type and geographic guidelines.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and to bring with them the following: income information for all members of their household; the value of the house and car (if either is owned); and the amounts in checking, savings, and/or investment accounts. Once the required forms are complete, a paralegal and an attorney will guide attendees through the expungement process.

“The library is pleased to offer an event that removes a barrier to employment and job advancement. The feedback we have received about this program has been overwhelmingly positive,” Adult Program Manager Elena Coelho said.

Space is limited to 12 individuals.

Register at WorcesterLibrary.org under “Events,” or call for assistance.

For more information on this event, contact Coelho at 443-7836164 or ecoelho@worcesterlibrary.org or call the Ocean City branch at 410-5241818.

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

Snow Hill seeks community input on potential bikeway (Jan. 21, 2022) The Town of Snow Hill is partnering with Toole Design Group to develop a new bikeway connecting key destinations in the community.

As part of the planning process, Snow Hill is seeking community input on bicycling in the town and on the proposed bicycle route. All residents and visitors are encouraged to share their thoughts via the online

survey and map, which are available at tooledesign.github.io/Snow_Hill.

Feedback from the survey and map will inform the bikeways visioning sessions being held Jan. 25-28 at the old fire hall.

More information about the upcoming bikeways meetings is available at www.snowhillmd.gov. The online survey will remain open until at least Jan. 31.

the Mayor and City Council on issues such as the offshore wind turbines.

There are few things in Ocean City that he has not touched in some manner. He leaves quite a legacy.

As city manager, he will hit the ground running because of his intimate knowledge of the town’s infrastructure, operations and issues. As an engineer, he is a problem-solver and will apply his skill set expertly.

The City Council has shown great wisdom in appointing him. I trust they will show the same wisdom in working with him in accordance with

the town’s charter as he takes on his expanded responsibilities as city manager.

To our departing City Manager Doug Miller, I thank him for his six years of dedicated service to our town.

Doug has managed our finances competently, treated our employees with respect and served the town conscientiously, especially during this ongoing pandemic. I wish him nothing but the best in whatever other interests he pursues.

Dennis W. Dare Ocean City

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 39

New city manager right person for job Editor, Congratulations to Terry McGean on his appointment as city manager for the Town of Ocean City.

Terry has served the town for more than 30 years and has been responsible not only for major projects like beach replenishment and additions to the convention center, but also for such everyday functions as bidding our electric supply and supporting

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Ocean City Today

PAGE 41

WORLD WAR II

Nazi general Rommel counter attacks Allies

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer (Jan. 21, 2022) This week, 80 years ago, Eighth Army’s new commander, Niel Ritchie, was in Palestine conferring with his boss, Gen. Claude Auchinleck (“The Auk”), commander of Commonwealth forces in the Middle East and Africa, about Eighth Army’s next offensive. While they were conferring, Germany’s vaunted “Desert Fox” Gen. Erwin Rommel, launched his counterattack against the Commonwealth Forces.

The successful “Operation Crusader”

by Commonwealth Forces in November 1941 had pushed the Axis out of Cyrenaica, lifted the siege of Tobruk, and captured Bardia, Sollom, and Halfaya Pass, on the Egyptian border, along with their garrisons, totaling 13,800.

Axis losses during that operation were, in addition to those garrisons, dead: 1,320 Italians and 1,000 Germans.

Wounded: 3,100 Italians and 3,500 Germans. Missing: 13,000 Italians and 10,100 Germans. Commonwealth losses were 2,900 killed, 7,300 wounded, and 7,500 missing.

Following the conclusion of Operation Crusader, in December 1941, both sides rearmed, reinforced and restocked.

The Axis were aided, immensely, by the transfer of the Luftwaffe’s Luftflotte 2, commanded by Field Marshal “Smiling” Albert Kesselring, from the Eastern Front to Sicily, which together with the Regia Marina Italia and the Regia Aeronautica dominated the middle Mediterranean.

This allowed the Axis to receive those much-needed reinforcements, fuel, armor, and supplies from the ports of Italy. In addition, to facilitate this, there was a daily meeting between Italian and German staffs in Rome.

Rommel had been planning a new offensive, but wanted to keep it a secret

and therefore, did not inform his superiors. On Jan. 19, 1942, Axis forces entered El Agheila, and continued on the path which they had followed a year earlier, taking Marsa el Brega and Ajdabiya.

Marsa el Brega is now a major petrochemicals center, with a population of 12,594. It is 30 miles northeast of El Agheila on the eastern side of the Gulf of Sidra. Ajdabiya is located 56 miles northeast of Marsa el Brega, and currently has a population of 416,000. It is 93 miles southwest of Benghazi and four miles from the coast. Benghazi, the largest city in, and capital of, Cyrenaica, was attacked on Jan. 21, 1942.

Once he learned that Rommel was on the move, Gen. Ugo Cavallero, Chief of Commando Supremo, on Jan. 22, flew to Libya with Lt. Gen. Enno von Rintelen, the German military attaché and Luftwaffe Field Marshal Kesselring, Wehrmacht Commander-in-Chief, South.

Gen. Cavallero met first with Gen. Ettore Bastico, commander-in-chief of all Axis forces in North Africa. The next day he met with Gens. Rommel and von Rintelen and Field Marshal Kesselring, and cautioned against any further advances.

The Desert Fox had been promoted to Col.-General and that day his command was upgraded to Panzerarmee Afrika.

The following day, the 15th and 21st Panzer Divisions, now commanded by Gustav von Vaerst and Georg von Bismarck, caught the British and destroyed, or captured, up to 117 tanks. Gens. von Vaerst and von Bismarck ascended to these commands because their predecessors had been killed during Operation Crusader.

The Panzers attacked Msus, a main British supply depot, on Jan. 25, capturing over 600 trucks, 127 guns and 280 armored fighting vehicles. Msus is located 81 miles southeast of Benghazi.

By Jan. 27, El Mechili, 170 miles east of Benghazi, and El Regima, 17 miles

Generals Curio Barbasetti di Prun, Ugo Cavallero and Ettore-Bastico, pictured, from left, in Libya, in 1942.

east of Benghazi, had been captured, as well as the Benghazi airport. More than 1,300 trucks were captured along with other equipment and fuel. That same day, Gen. Cavallero and Il Duce approved Rommel’s offensive.

Two days later, Benghazi was recaptured after which British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill cabled the British commanders, “I am much disturbed by the reports of the Eighth Army which speaks of evacuation of Benghazi and Derna. I certainly have never been led to suppose that such a situation could arise.”

Gen. Rommel had reorganized the newly named Panzerarmee Afrika. It now contained four corps: Deutsches Afrika Korps, commanded by Ludwig Crüwell, which included the two panzer divisions; the Italian XXI Infantry Corps, commanded by Enea Navarini, containing the Pavia, Trento Motorized and Sabratha infantry divisions, commanded

by Gens. Antonio Franceschini, Francesco Scotti, and Mario Soldarelli;

X Corps, commanded by Benvenuto Gioda, containing the Bologna and Brescia Infantry Divisions, commanded by Gens. Alessandro Gloria and Giacomo Lombardi; the XX Motorized Corps, under the command of Ettore Baldassare, and containing the Ariete Armoured and Trieste Motorized Infantry, Divisions, commanded by Gens.

Giuseppe De Stefanis and Arnaldo Azzi.

Gen. Soldarelli’s Sabratha Infantry Division now also contained a battalion of the elite San Marco Marines. The German 90th Light Division, commanded

by Maj. Gen. Richard Veith, served as the Panzerarmee Afrika’s reserve. On February 3, Derna was recaptured. It is located 180 miles east of Benghazi, on the Mediterranean Sea. It currently has a population in excess of 100,000. In 1805, it was the site of the first American victory on foreign soil, during The First Barbary War. Gen. Rommel flew to Rome on Feb. 16, and then on to Germany where he reContinued on Page 42

PAGE 42

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

OBITUARIES JAMES RUSSELL QUILLEN Berlin James Russell Quillen, age 67, died on Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, at his home.

Born in Berlin, he was the son of the late Joseph and Helen (Taylor) Quillen.

He is survived by his wife, Carol (Meals) Quillen; and daughter, Kerrigan Quillen. Also surviving are five brothers and six sisters.

Mr. Quillen was a family man, who loved spending time with his daughter.

He also liked working on lawn mowers, watching western movies and enjoyed cooking.

Cremation followed his death. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022, at 2 p.m., at the Church of God of Prophecyn.

A donation in his memory may be made to: Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21804.

Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

PAUL IGNATIUS KRIEGER Salisbury Paul Ignatius Krieger, age 84, died Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022, at TidalHealth Medical Center in Salisbury.

Born in Baltimore, he was the son of the late Charles Krieger and Anna Marie Dennin Krieger.

He is survived by his wife, Joanna Bianca Krieger; and children, son, Steve Krieger (Kathryn) of Waldorf,

Maryland, and daughter, Sharon Leeland (Richard) of Monkton, Maryland.

There are four grandchildren, Marissa, Gavin and Kendal Leeland, and Sydnee Krieger. There are numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in Paul Krieger death by his brothers, Charles and Gerard Krieger; and his sister, Mary Claire Reynolds.

Mr. Krieger was a graduate of Loyola College, the University of Baltimore Law school and Holy Cross Seminary in Dunkirk, New York, from 1951-1957.

He had worked as a healthcare finance administrator with the Federal Government. He was a United State Army veteran.

Paul had a strong faith and a true love for his family, direct and extended. He was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, and the Ocean City Elks. He had worked at the GlenRiddle Golf Club, and the O.C Golf & Yacht Club.

He enjoyed bowling, golfing, football, loved cooking, the beach, reading, crossword puzzles, the Simpsons and Jeopardy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Coastal Hospice at P.O Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21801.

Letters of condolence can be sent to

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PEGGY J. BISHOP Showell Peggy J. Bishop, age 87, of Showell, died Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, at Catered Living of Ocean Pines.

Peggy was born in Berlin and was the daughter of the late Milton H. and Ethel V. (Hudson) Jones.

She was a retired legal assistant from Thomas F. Johnson Peggy Bishop Attorney At Law and U.S. Finance Co. She was a charter member and first president of Showell Vol. Fire Dept.

Auxiliary and a former member of Berlin-Ocean City Soroptimist.

She is survived by one son, Wm. Bryan Bishop Jr. and wife, Amy; two daughters, Sandra B. Schlesinger and husband, Skip, and Sonia B. Baker and husband, Frank, all of Berlin; two sisters, Wina J. Patey (Donnie) and Nancy J. Carmean (Wayne); three brothers, Robert M. Jones, Kenneth Jones and David Jones (Pat); five grandsons, William “Bry” Bishop (Emily), Wyatt P. Bishop (Samantha Crescenze) Lee Baker (fiancé Noelle Dennis), Foster Schlesinger and Will Schlesinger; one great-granddaughter, Blair Bishop; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Louise Long and Ruth Shockley.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Catered Living building A and her home care assistants for all their compassion.

She was predeceased by her husband, William B. Bishop Sr., in 2005 and a sister, Norma.

A funeral service was held at noon on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, at Bishop-

Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville with Rev. Dale Brown officiating. Burial was in Bishopville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811; or Believe in Tomorrow, 13 66th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Condolences may be sent to www.bishophastingsfh.com.

ELEANOR JEAN BROWN Ocean Pines Eleanor “Jean” Brown, age 87, passed away Jan. 8, 2022.

She was born to parents, John W. Brown and Charlotte H. Brown.

She married John Michael Brown (deceased) and resided in Baltimore, Maryland, until moving to Ocean City, Maryland in 1982.

She was a successEleanor Brown ful Realtor for many years with Moore, Warfield & Glick Realtors, Century 21 New Horizons and Coldwell Banker, and worked at the Seawatch Condominium in sales and rentals for 20 years.

Jean was known by many in her community and enjoyed living at The Woodlands in Ocean Pines. She also enjoyed traveling, volunteering, playing bridge, scrapbooking and knitting.

Jean was a devoted mother of Donna Angelozzi, Debbie Dougherty, Patrick Brown and Terry Brown.

Remembering beloved children, John Michael Brown, Jr., Diane Brown and Kerry Brown; and daughter-inlaw, Susan Brown, and son-in-laws, Thomas Angelozzi and Kevin Dougherty.

Continued on Page 43

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Continued from Page 41 ceived the Swords to his Knight’s Cross from Hitler. He then spent a month at home. In March, he dined with Hitler at his headquarters in Rastenburg.

Present were: Chief of the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht, Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel; Chief of Wehrmacht Operations, Gen. Alfred Jodl; Rommel’s Chief-of-Staff Siegfried Westphal; Hitler’s adjutant, Rudolf Schmundt; and Heinrich Himmler, Reichsführer-SS. One of the topics of discussion was the elimination of the British air and naval base of Malta, which lay astride the sea routes of the convoys from Italy to Libya. Prior to this, Axis forces only received 18,000 of the 60,000 tons of monthly supplies needed to keep them competitive.

In April, Hitler hosted a conference at his vacation home, the Berghof, at Obersalzberg, in Bavaria, Germany. In attendance were: Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini; Field Marshal Kesselring; and Gen. Cavallero.

Once again, Malta was discussed. The four gave Rommel the green light to assault Tobruk in May, but that after its capture, he must halt, because the air resources would be needed to capture Malta.

The operation to capture Malta was named “Herkules,” and German commander of parachute troops, Gen. Kurt Student, was sent to Italy to assist the Italians to prepare. It was to include one German and two Italian airborne divisions, plus 70,000 amphibious troops.

The Germans also contributed landing craft. The Regia Marina Italia would be responsible for keeping the Royal Navy off the backs of the Axis attackers.

Next week: Kerch 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.

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

PAGE 43

OBITUARIES Continued from Page 42 She was preceded by her loving companion, Allen Stetson, of Ocean City.

She is survived by her brother, Bill Brown and his wife, Gail Brown; and daughter-in-laws, Jane Brown and Karen Brown.

She was a loving grandmother of 11 grandchildren, Elizabeth Angelozzi, Kristina Angelozzi, Nicholas Angelozzi, Kimberly Walsh, Todd Dougherty, Meaghan Kauffman, John Michael Brown, III, Katie Hoyle, Lacey Brown, Kaleigh Brown and Andrew Brown.

She was blessed with seven greatgrandchildren.

She was a member of St. Matthews by the Sea Methodist Church in Fenwick, Delaware.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at St. Matthews by the Sea Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, kindly send donations to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Avenue, Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com.

TERRY LYNN BURRIER Berlin Terry Lynn Burrier, age 64, died Thursday, Jan. 13, 2021, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Baltimore, she was the daughter of William Spencer McClellan and Gaynel (Ryen) McClellan.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Michael Burrier; and Terry Burrier by her two sisters, Elaine Bartko and her husband, Chester, of Dundalk, and JoAnn Julian of Hartford County.

Also surviving, are nephews Chester Bartko and Jarret Julian. A nephew, Giovani Julian, preceded her in death.

Mrs. Burrier had worked as a realtor with Hileman Realty and Berkshire Hathaway. She also had worked at the Atlantic Hotel, and the O.C. Today newspaper as the classified manager.

She volunteered with the blood drives at the Ocean City convention center, and was an Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce ambassador. She enjoyed traveling, gardening and cooking.

A memorial service will be announced at a future date. In lieu of flowers, a donation in her memory may be made to University of Maryland School of Medicine, www.medschool.umaryland.edu/give now.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

JAMES PENNOCK HARRISON, JR. Rose Valley/Seabrook Island Dr. James Pennock Harrison, Jr. of Rose Valley, Pennsylvania, and Seabrook Island, South Carolina,

passed away at the age of 95 on Jan. 14, 2022 of natural causes.

Born on Dec. 28, 1926, in the former Coatesville Hospital, he lived his final days at Harrison House of Chester County, an assisted living community founded by him and his wife, Katherine S. Harrison, after purchasing the hospital site.

Dr. Harrison was predeceased by his parents, James P. and Blanche Carlin Harrison; his brother and sister-in-law, Harry Francis and Phyllis Bond Harrison; and his James Harrison wife of 63 years, Katherine Shockley Harrison.

A native of his beloved Christiana, Pennsylvania, he attended Christiana Elementary School and graduated from Coatesville High School where he was on the baseball team. He achieved the rank of Life Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.

He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in the Italian theatre where he was stationed at the conclusion of World War II. After discharge from the service, he attended Millersville State Teachers College, which led to a successful career in public education. He later earned his Master’s Degree and Doctorate of Education from Temple University.

Dr. Harrison began his career as a teacher at Snow Hill High School on the Eastern Shore of Maryland where he

met his wife who was in nursing school.

He was a teacher of math and industrial arts in Snow Hill and Unionville, Pennsylvania, a principal in Lebanon and West Chester, Pennsylvania, and a superintendent of the Glassboro, New Jersey, and Wallingford Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, school districts.

He retired from the latter in 1977 to work full time in the longterm healthcare business he and Mrs. Harrison created: Harrison Senior Living.

The first nursing home, Harrison House of Christiana, opened 50 years ago in 1972. This was followed by skilled care and assisted living communities in Snow Hill; Delmar and Georgetown, Delaware; Salisbury, Maryland; and Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Harrison was devoted to the communities in which he and his family lived.

A lifelong Presbyterian, he was active in his churches. Among his many civic activities, he was president of the Wallingford Arts Center and a founding member of the Rose Valley Museum and Historical Society in the historic arts and crafts community of Rose Valley.

He was an avid reader and collector of art as well as vintage Mercedes Benz, which he also enjoyed driving.

Dr. Harrison is survived by his children, Ellen Harrison Saunders (Whitney) of Suffolk, Virginia, James Philip Harrison of Unionville, Pennsylvania,

and Jeffrey Carlin Harrison of Charleston, South Carolina; his grandchildren, Harrison Godwin Saunders (Rachel) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mary-Carson Saunders Stiff (Joshua) of Norfolk, Virginia, Chase Carlin Harrison of Orlando, Florida, Dylan Thomas Harrison (Mariana Su Duran) of Orlando, Florida, and Grace Whitney Saunders of Durham, North Carolina; five great-grandchildren, a niece and five nephews.

The family wishes to express their grateful appreciation to the wonderful employees of Harrison House of Chester County, many of whom he hired and mentored, for their loving and outstanding care of their father.

A graveside service will be held at Penningtonville Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 406 Main St., Atglen, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022 at 2 p.m., followed by a reception at Chantry Place, 15 N. Bridge St, Christiana, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for nursing school scholarships may be made in memory of Dr. Harrison to: The Suffolk Foundation, 110 Finney Avenue, Suite 100, Suffolk, Virginia 23434. Please note in the memo line: The Katherine S. Harrison Donor Advised Fund. Contributions may also be made online at www.suffolkfoundation.org/donate.

Shivery Funeral Home, Christiana, Pennsylvania, is assisting the family (shiveryfuneralhome.com).

Sports & Recreation

Ocean City Today Jan. 21, 2022

Page 44

www.oceancitytoday.com

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

(Left) Stephen Decatur sophomore Brycen Coleman made some big plays and scored baskets at key times during Wednesday’s game against Snow Hill in Berlin. (Right) Freshman Trybe Wise shoots while guarded by two Snow Hill players.

Decatur boys’ basketball team pulls out win over SH

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 21, 2022) The Stephen Decatur boys’ basketball team came from behind late in the game to earn a 58-55 victory over its Worcester County rival, the Snow Hill Eagles, on Wednesday in Berlin.

“Any time you play Snow Hill it’s going to be a tough game. Our kids fought tonight and it’s a big win for us,” said Decatur Coach BJ Johnson.

“We needed that. BJ Johnson We’re coming off a two-game losing streak and this was important to get this one at home. We hope to build from here. We can’t go anywhere but up.”

Snow Hill led 13-10 at the end of the first quarter. Baskets were traded in the second quarter. Sophomore Brycen Coleman broke a 26-26 tie in the final seconds, and at the halftime break, Decatur held a 28-26 advantage.

The visiting Eagles outscored the Seahawks, 19-13, in the third to pull ahead, 45-41.

Snow Hill led by a few points most of the fourth quarter. With 16 seconds

remaining, Coleman scored to bring Decatur to within one point, 54-55.

Snow Hill struggled to get the ball inbounds after the basket with Decatur players pressing, so the coach called a timeout.

After the timeout and finally getting the ball inbounds, the Eagles were fouled and stepped to the free-throw line for 1-and-1. The shot was missed and Coleman grabbed the rebound.

The ball made its way into the hands of freshman Zakhari Baker, who scored a layup with 9 seconds on the clock to put Decatur on top, 56-55.

Freshman Trybe Wise was fouled with .2 seconds remaining and sunk both free throws to give Decatur a 5855 advantage.

“We’ve been having problems finishing games and I thought our kids dug down really deep rebounding. I thought we were going to lose it there, but the one rebound that we got last late was the reason we won the game,” Johnson said. “That’s what we’ve been preaching … that we must rebound and that’s what we did tonight.

They missed the free throw, we got it and we were able to get it up and score the basket.”

Wise led Decatur with 16 points and nine rebounds. Baker and Cole-

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

man scored 14 points each. Coleman had 16 of the team’s 48 rebounds.

Decatur will host the Washington Jaguars today, Friday, at 6 p.m.

Decatur freshman Zakhari Baker made this layup in the final seconds of Wednesday’s game against Snow Hill to put his team up, 56-55.

Decatur won 58-55, the final two points from freshman Trybe Wise’s foul shots.

JANUARY 21, 2022

PAGE 45

Ocean City Today

Decatur wrestling team 4th at WOTS

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 21, 2022) The Stephen Decatur wrestling team had a busy week, which started with the annual War on the Shore tournament last weekend, followed by meets with Colonel Richardson on Tuesday and Kent Island on Wednesday.

Decatur hosted its War on the Shore competition at the Berlin school last Friday and Saturday.

Seventeen schools participated.

Decatur placed fourth overall in the highly competitive tournament, scoring 161 points.

Southern Regional won the event with 240.5 points, followed by Mt. Saint Joe’s (230.5) and Xavier (172.5).

“I was very proud of them for War on the Shore.

Twelve kids placed (out of 14 weight classes). That was the most ever. We had three in the finals, which was the most in at least 10 years,” said Decatur Coach Todd Martinek. “We wrestled well. We wrestled tough competition. We weren’t getting pinned when we lost and that’s key. Some of our guys that aren’t our studs they take seventh or eighth, that’s good because a lot of kids can’t place seventh or eighth in that tournament. And if you make it to the finals at War on the Shore, you should definitely place at states.”

Decatur senior captain Noah Reho won the 160pound War on the Shore division. He pinned all four of his opponents.

Sophomore Gavin Solito (145) and senior captain Alex Koulikov (195) came in second place in their weight class divisions.

Junior captain Logan Intrieri (132) and seniors Cody Drummond (138) and Mike Rayne (285) placed fifth, and senior Henry Brous (220) took sixth.

Sophomore Parker Intrieri (170), senior Jack Quisgard (182) and junior Evan Haworth (152) finished in seventh place, and freshmen Juan Hinojosa (106) and Aaron August (113) took eighth in their divisions.

Tuesday’s meet in Berlin lasted only about 20 minutes, with Decatur shutting out Colonel Richardson, 84-0.

PHOTO COURTESY STEPHEN DECATUR WRESTLING FACEBOOK/ERIN REHO

Stephen Decatur senior captain Noah Reho won first place in the 160-pound division of the War on the Shore tournament, held last Friday and Saturday at the Berlin school.

The Colonels forfeited eight of the 14 weight class matches. Decatur wrestlers pinned their opponents in the other six.

Earning pins were: August (113), Drummond (138), Solito (145), Koulikov (195), Brous (220) and Rayne (285).

“The guys who did wrestle they pinned their kids and that’s the best you can do, and they pinned them quick,” Martinek said.

Decatur took a trip to Stevensville to battle the Kent Island Buccaneers on Wednesday. Both teams were undefeated in the Bayside Conference going into the competition.

Kent Island took an 18-0 lead, with a Decatur forfeit at 106, followed by the Buccaneers earning a decision at 113, pin at 120 and decision at 126.

Drummond then pinned his 132-pound opponent, junior Timothy Lyons scored a 12-6 decision at 138 pounds and Solito earned a 11-3 major decision at 145 pounds to cut the lead to 18-13.

Kent Island got a pin at 152 pounds to pull

ahead 24-13, but that was the last match the team would win.

Decatur scored pins in the next five matches Parker Intrieri (160), Quisgard (170), Reho (182), Koulikov (195) and Brous (220) - to gain a 43-24 advantage.

Kent Island forfeited the 285-pound match and Decatur won the meet, 49-24.

“Kent Island came out ready to wrestle. They were tough. Their lightweights were on fire. They came out strong and put them in a position to win the meet, but our heavyweights closed it out,” Martinek said. “Gavin Solito, I thought he was the underdog in that match. He got a major decision on who I think is the best kid on their team. I think that turned the tide. It pumped our kids up.”

Decatur’s next meet is Wednesday at 5 p.m. against the Parkside Rams in Berlin.

“We got less than a month. Our goal is still being state dual meet champions. We’re just trying to get better and stay healthy,” Martinek said.

Decatur swimmers show progress

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 21, 2022) The Stephen Decatur swim teams won a number of events, but both came up a bit short overall to the Cape Henlopen Vikings on Tuesday at the Pocomoke YMCA. Decatur’s Lady Seahawks came in first place in nine of 11 events. The squad scored 43.5 points, while Cape Henlopen recorded 50.5 points.

First place for individual events was worth four points, while second was three and third was one point. In the relay events, it was six points for first, three for second and one for third place.

“We won all but two events, but lost overall. We pretty much got first and fourth in all but a few events, but in this meet there were no points for fourth place. Cape got a lot of second and third places,” said Decatur Coach Kristina Watts. “If we got first place

in individual events (four points) and they got second (three points) and third (one point) it was even.”

Decatur swimmers who won their individual events were: senior captain Sierra Wakefield (200 IM, 2:35.34; 100-yard butterfly, 1:08.37), junior captains Natalie Canham (100-yard freestyle, 59.06 seconds; 100-yard backstroke, 1:09.44) and Katelyn Pizlo (500-yard freestyle, 6:26.35), and sophomore Trista Harner (50-freestyle, 26.66 seconds; 100-yard breaststroke, 1:19.60).

Canham, Wakefield, Harner and junior Emma Coyman took first in the 200-yard medley relay race (2:04.94).

Pizlo, Canham, Wakefield and Harner were victorious in the 400yard freestyle relay race (4:08.96).

“We definitely had some of our best swims of the season and it was the most competition we had. It was

nice to have some close races,” Watts said. “It was a good, exciting, fun meet even though it didn’t turn out how we wanted it to … I think we’re making good progress.”

Cape Henlopen’s boys’ team won, 67-26.

Decatur came in first place in four events. Winning their races were: junior captain Gavin Stearn (200IM, 2:06.87; 100-yard breaststroke, 1:06.44) and sophomore Daniel Karchewski (100-yard butterfly, 56.25 seconds; 500-yard freestyle, 5:18.38).

“We had a few good times,” said Decatur Coach Steve Deakyne. “Cape had a big team - 20 boys at least - and we had six tonight. They had some good kids, but we did a good job and gave it our best.”

Decatur’s next swim meet is Tuesday at 3 p.m. against the Indian River Indians at the Pocomoke YMCA.

SD coach hoping to keep athletes healthy, competing

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 21, 2022) The Stephen Decatur boys’ indoor track team came in fourth place and the girls’ squad finished in sixth during the 11-school meet last Wednesday at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill.

“We’re just limping along here, trying to keep our kids as healthy as possible,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel, noting the Berlin school’s teams were missing some athletes due to covid and other issues. “And, it’s definitely not just us … We’re trying to get through the season, while getting the kids to improve their times, too. We’re doing as good as we can under the circumSee COACH Page 46

PAGE 46

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 21, 2022

Coach sees improvement in Decatur athletes Continued from Page 45 stances.”

Kent Island won the boys’ competition, scoring 91 points. Parkside was runner-up with 65 points, followed by Easton (54) and Decatur (51).

Decatur athletes who scored points for finishing top eight in their individual events were: seniors Tristan Dutton (1,600-meter run, first, 4:49.94 *new season record; 3,200meter run, third, 11:18.53) and Gavin McCabe (500-meter run, seventh, 1:18.07; 800-meter run, seventh, 2:25.13), sophomore Ethan Justice (1,600-meter run, third, 4:57.13; 800-meter run, third, 2:18.68) and freshman Brandon Fitzgerald (high jump, fifth, 5 feet).

The 3,200-meter relay team of Dutton, Justice, McCabe and freshman Brian Herbert took third (9:55.10).

Dutton, Fitzgerald, freshman Ethan Cowder and junior Riley Calloway finished fourth in the 1,600meter relay race (4:19.52).

The 800-meter relay team of Calloway, seniors Jay McCarter and

READ

Gavin Weeks and junior Conner Herr placed sixth (1:51.32).

Kent Island won the girls’ competition, tallying 83 points, followed by Parkside (75), James M. Bennett (70), North Caroline (53), Easton (44) and Decatur (39).

Decatur Lady Seahawks who placed eighth or better were: senior Rachel Peretz (shot put, fifth, 23 feet 5 inches), junior Carolina Novelli (1,600-meter run, fourth, 6:38.82; 800-meter run, seventh, 3:09.60), and sophomores Macy Woroniecki (3,200-meter run, second, 14:40.07) and Tiara McDonald (300-meter dash, third, 47.05 seconds; 55-meter dash, seventh, 8.20 seconds).

Novelli, Woroniecki and freshmen Clarice Piela and Rachel Plata finished third in the 3,200-meter relay race (12:54.49).

McDonald, senior Mia Schwind and sophomores Kyleigh Powell and Abigail Melito placed sixth in the 800-meter relay race (2:11.29).

Powell, Peretz, McDonald and Melito crossed the finish line sixth overall in the 1,600-meter relay race (5:23.63).

“We’re definitely seeing improvement in the athletes,” Hommel said.

“Tristan broke the season record in the one mile, Ethan continues to get better, Macy Woroniecki is showing great improvement, and Carolina

Novelli, who was out most of the cross country season, is getting stronger,” Hommel said.

The next track meet is Wednesday at the recreation center in Snow Hill at 2 p.m.

Decatur girls’ basketball squad successful over SH

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Jan. 21, 2022) The Stephen Decatur girls’ basketball team traveled up the road to Snow Hill to battle the Eagles on Tuesday, and came home with a 52-25 victory.

“Overall, we played a good game against a much improved Snow Hill team,” said Decatur Assistant Coach Dan Stearman. “We were a little sloppy in the first half, but we played really well in the second half. Our defensive pressure was great and that was what got us going offensively.”

Decatur’s Lady Seahawks held a 98 advantage at the end of the first quarter. At halftime, the Berlin squad led 26-15. After three quarters, Decatur was on top, 47-22.

The Seahawks were led by senior captain Nadia Bullock, who scored 20 points. She also had six rebounds, four steals and three assists. Junior Shelby Rosemond chipped in with 11 points, six rebounds and eight steals, and freshman Sam Boger contributed 11 points and four assists.

Decatur’s next game is on Wednesday against the Crisfield Crabbers at 4:30 p.m. in Crisfield.

LOCAL NEWS ONLINE at: OceanCityToday.com

JANUARY 21, 2022

Ocean City Today

PAGE 47

Ocean City Today

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JANUARY 21, 2022

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