8/4/2023 Ocean City Today

AUGUST

ANNUAL WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Week-long tournament, now in its 50th year, kicks off Monday. Find all the info starting on page 67

SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY FREE

Study group created for sportsplex

Mayor, council seek advice from 31-member body

By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) Thirty-one people with strong local ties, connections and interests have been appointed to discuss the next steps for construction of a sports complex somewhere in Worcester County.

At a work session Tuesday, City Council members voted unanimously to approve a request from Mayor Rick Meehan to approve names for a task force to consider and make recommendations for the potential project.

LOOKING UP TO LAW ENFORCEMENT

Big fish, big money, WMO at 50

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) He came out unendingly and water poured from his sides. He was bright in the sun and his head and back were dark purple and in the sun the stripes on his sides showed wide and a light lavender. His sword was as long as a baseball bat and tapered like a rapier and he rose his full length from the water and then re-entered it, smoothly, like a diver and the old man saw the great scythe-blade of his tail go under and the line commenced to race out.

— From the “Old Man and the Sea,” by Ernest Hemingway, 1952.

With “The Old Man and the Sea,” Ernest Hemingway captured audiences with the sport, beauty, commitment and sacrifice that all comes with hooking a monstrous billfish.

Though Hemingway wrote about hand-lining a blue

marlin off Cuba, the fact that Ocean City’s White Marlin Open has endured and grown for half a century seemingly proves a similar allure to chasing white marlin — and other big-time sport fish — off the mid-Atlantic coast.

Jim Motsko of Ocean City and Pete Boinis, then an Ocean City marina owner, built on that attraction when they produced the first Open in 1974. That year, 57 boats registered to chance a slice of the $20,000 in guaranteed prize money. The winner was Vince Sorenson with a 68.5 pounder.

Aug. 7 marks the beginning of the 50th annual White Marlin Open, and in the decades since the inaugural competition, Motsko has turned it into the largest billfish tournament in the world, both in participation and payouts, according to Forbes magazine and numerous blue water fishing organizations.

“White marlin come by, white marlin, blue marlin, tuna. All the pelagic fish come by Ocean City in their yearly migration, and Ocean City had been known for the

“I think what’s been indicated by the council is it’s time for Ocean City to take the lead,” Meehan said of the project, which died at the county level

See PANEL Page 7

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Ocean City Police Department hosted the 40th National Night Out on West Lagoon Field at Northside Park on Tuesday evening. Pictured is Barry Neeb, who does OCPD training and recruitment, coaching baby Rhys Bertino in cornhole. Rhys’s mother, Amanda, also works in police recruitment.

PHOTO COURTESY JIM MOTSKO Jim Motsko hands a check to the first White Marlin Open winner Vince Sorenson in 1974. See MOTSKO Page 69

A sign at Northside Park designates an area in which people are allowed to smoke. Council members are trying to eliminate smoking in all public parks because staff say people are not following the guidelines.

Ocean City advances ban on smoking in all public parks

By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) As smoking laws become more strict across the resort with the legalization of cannabis, it may soon be illegal to light up in any Ocean City park.

At a work session Tuesday, council members voted 6-1, with Councilman Peter Buas opposed, to advance an ordinance to outlaw smoking areas in all public parks.

Rec and Parks Director Susan Petito said the request derived from people not following the rules of designated smoking areas at Northside Park. She said two areas, which allow smoking within 15 feet of erected signs, were added in 2015 to accommodate smokers who participate in weekend tournaments. But the rules have been difficult to enforce.

“It’s time for us to make a clean,

across-the-board statement … that there’s no smoking in parks in Ocean City,” Petito said.

Councilman Tony DeLuca asked whether members of the Recreation and Parks Committee signed off on the proposed change. He also inquired about where people in the park will go to smoke if the ordinance passes.

Councilman John Gehrig, who chairs the rec and parks committee, said members informally discussed the matter and came to a consensus to recommend a full ban of smoking in parks to council for approval.

Petito clarified that if the measure passes, anyone who wants to smoke in a park must completely leave the premises.

Council members’ vote moves the request for the ban, which would change the original ordinance, to a first reading.

Ocean City Today

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Crossword Puzzle..............30

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Service Directory..............45

Sports..............................67

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Breathtaking 5BR/4.5BA waterfront estate on 2+ acres is coming soon! If you are looking for an incredible home on a beautiful piece of property with breathtaking views overlooking Assateague Island, look no further. This home boasts 6,482 sq.ft. of luxury. The family room overlooks the water with soaring ceilings and a beautiful custom fireplace. The chef's kitchen is amazing, with lots of room for prepping food and enjoying home cooked meals, and the spacious breakfast area is off the kitchen and provides plenty of room for family and friends. The kitchen has lovely granite countertops, a butler's pantry, mini bar, and plenty of cabinets for storage. This home also has a formal dining room and formal living room, perfect gathering space for everyone to enjoy for years to come. The large primary bedroom suite is on the first floor with beautiful views overlooking the water. There are hardwood floors throughout the home. On the second floor you will find four additional spacious bedrooms and three baths, and a home theater/game room. There is also an additional room over the garage with a full bath. Off the back of the home there is a 40'x12' brick patio facing the water, which is perfect for outdoor dining and grilling. This home also comes with a Community Dock area with assigned boat slips. Slip number three is the owners. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle, but you still want to be close to Ocean City, golf courses, and everything Assateague Island has to offer, this is the perfect home for you. Come take a tour today, put your finishing touches on it, and turn your dream of owning a Waterfront estate into reality. Your family and friends are sure to make memories that last a lifetime here. Come see for yourself. Schedule your showing today and consider making this dream home yours.

MLS MDWO2015282

This waterfront 4BR/3.5 bath custom built home in the highly desirable community of Bay Point Plantation is extraordinary. It encompasses endless water views and was built with the finest materials, custom upgrades and impressive attention to detail. Every aspect of this home is beautifully oriented to take advantage of views, sunrises and sunsets. The main floor has 10-foot ceilings and expansive water views. The gourmet chef’s kitchen has water views, custom shaker cabinets, under counter lighting, Subzero refrigerator, six burner stove, other high-end appliances, an oversize walk-in pantry, quartz countertops and a custom walnut center island. The chef in your family is going to enjoy cooking in this unbelievable gourmet kitchen. The kitchen flows to the dining area which also overlooks the water. There is a screened in deck off the kitchen, perfect for outdoor dining. An open deck at the side with a gas grill for outdoor barbecues which can be enjoyed while watching the sunset night after night. The spacious family room has water views and overlooks the pool and spa with another deck. This home has an abundance of natural light and a feeling of serenity. There is a gas fireplace to enjoy during cozy winter nights. The southern exposure brings spectacular winter sunrises into view. The wet bar with Subzero wine cooler is adjacent to the family room. The main level also has a beautiful study with built-in storage, half bath and a butler’s pantry designed for entertaining and prepping food with a second dishwasher. On the upper level is the primary bedroom suite with custom closets, lavish primary bath, upgraded tile and heated flooring. There is a deck off the primary suite for enjoying expansive water views and the natural beauty of the preserve. There is also a laundry room on this level, two additional bedrooms, a full bath and a deck off the third bedroom. The lower level has a fourth bedroom, full bath, plenty of storage, custom built-in cabinets and another laundry room. There is an elevator which goes from the lower level up to the upper level of the home. There is a two-car oversize garage on the right side of the home and an additional garage on the left side of the home. The outdoor entertaining space in this home is spectacular. There is a 30x15 saltwater in-ground heated pool with adjacent spa. There are outside Sonos speakers, ceiling fans, a golf cart storage area, custom industrial grade shades and lighting, and an irrigation system. This home has a resort feel and plenty of outdoor space to suit everyone. Enjoy the gas fire pit area off the pool in the Fall when a chill begins to take over the night air. The home comes with a boat slip at the adjacent marina with direct access to the bay you are only minutes away by boat from the inlet and West Ocean City. Bay Point Plantation is a gated community providing extra peace of mind and a close community feel. There are only 33 lots with a 142-acre nature preserve with wooded trails and spectacular views of the marsh. This stunning home is offered for sale for $2,399,900. Please ask for the upgraded features list for a complete list of upgrades. MDWO2014864

Luxury 5BR/6BA/2HBA Bayfront home with pool hits the market! This luxury home has 145 feet of water frontage with direct bay views and offers southern exposure. As you walk in the front door of this lovely home you will immediately fall in love with the attention to details and upgrades throughout. An elegant foyer with marble flooring greets you as you enter with your eyes drawn to the beautiful Bayfront views and the swimming pool in the courtyard. On the first level you will find a kitchen designed for access in and out to the pool area with plenty of seating and room for entertaining family and friends. Also on the first floor, you will find a Bay front office or playroom for the kids. This home is complete with a home elevator so either take the spiraling stairs to the second level or take the elevator up to the second level. You will be mesmerized by the amazing Bayfront views and endless sunsets this home offers. There are 6 decks off the home for privacy. On the second level you will find a professional chef’s kitchen complete with large center island, high end appliances and plenty of cabinet space adjoining a beautiful, spacious dining room overlooking the bay. The family room is also complete with a gas fireplace for chilly winter nights, making this the perfect home for year-round liv ing or a vacation home. Also, on this floor, you will find a second office, home theater room, or game room. On the third level you will enjoy waking up to the endless water views from your primary bedroom. The primary bath has custom finishes throughout with extensive tile work. The primary bedroom also has a fireplace for romantic evenings and relaxing. Also on this floor are three additional bedrooms, which are spacious and separated nicely from the primary bedroom. This home is over 6000 ft.² and is one of the few Bayfront homes available on the market. So, if you’re looking for a home at the beach, also offering all the thrill of the day with attention to detail look no further. Come take a look at 733 Bradley Rd. today before it’s sold!

11602 S. HILLS DRIVE • BERLIN MD $1,699,900

WATERFRONT WITH BOAT SLIP 2.03 ACRES!

11714 TURVILLE LANE $2,399,900

DIRECT BAYFRONT OCEAN CITY!

OPEN

NANCY REITHER-SMITH

Realtor® • Licensed in MD & DE

Office: 410-524-1203

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11604 COASTAL HIGHWAY, UNIT 1606 OCEAN CITY • $749,900

This beautiful 2BR/2BA Direct Oceanfront Fountainhead Towers condo is now available for sale! Wake up to incredible sunrises to start your day with the sound of the waves crashing onto the sand. From the minute you walk in the door you’ll fall in love with the breathtaking views and open floor plan. The kitchen with breakfast bar opens up to the family room. The dining room is off the kitchen and makes a great gathering place to enjoy home cooked meals with friends and family. The large living area is off the dining area and has four glass sliders leading to a large ocean front deck with completely unobstructed views of the beach and ocean. The balcony is huge, boasting 30 feet x 9 feet. There’s also a Bayside balcony which is approximately 14 feet x 7 feet, perfect for watching Ocean City's amazing sunsets. This is one of the few buildings that comes complete with two balconies. The primary bedroom overlooks the ocean with glass sliders for endless views of the beach and ocean. The primary bath has been redone and has a shower, closet and double vanities, and there is a second spacious bedroom and additional bath. The hot water heater and HVAC were replaced in 2018. The hurricane shutters were just replaced in June of 2023. There is a washing machine and dryer in the unit. On the bay facing balcony there is a separate owner's closet just for the use of unit 1606. This condo is located at 116th St. The condo has an outdoor swimming pool on the beach side, which you are sure to love. The condo also has tennis and pickleball courts. The condo is conveniently located close to restaurants, shops and entertainment, and has easy access into and out of Ocean City. The condo is being sold fully furnished. The condo association is on site and there is also on-site year-round security. Come take a look today before it’s sold! MDWO2014856

#1

COLDWELL BANKER Realty 2022

Professional pictures to follow: Stunning 3BR/2BA condo with deeded deep-water slip and lift hits the market! This condo was completely renovated down to the studs in 2015. As you walk in the front doors you will fall in love with the beautiful hickory floors throughout. The kitchen has white cabinets, granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. The dining area is off the kitchen and flows into the family room with glass doors overlooking the water. You will love entertaining family and friends all year long. The primary bedroom also now has a primary bathroom. The primary bedroom overlooks the water and has glass doors to the deck to enjoy morning coffee. The primary bath has a custom tile shower. The other two bedrooms are spacious as well and the second bath also has a tile shower. This condo comes with a deeded deep-water slip with a boat lift that was just purchased last year. The condo is located on the wide part of the canal. The condo is close to the beach and many restaurants. The condo association common areas have undergone major renovations that are now completed, and there is an outdoor swimming pool for relaxing or swimming after a day at the beach.

MDWO2014872

Stunning newly constructed 4BR/3.5 BA home by RBR Homes has just been completed in "America's Coolest Town". The minute you walk in you will fall in love with the custom finishes and abundance of light and outdoor space this home offers. The gourmet kitchen will delight the chef in your family with its center island and upgraded cabinetry. The family room and dining room flow off the kitchen. You will love entertaining family and friends over dinner. On the first floor there is also a wonderful bedroom with private bath. On the second floor you will find a luxurious primary bedroom and bath, and two additional bedrooms and another full bath. The outdoor space has a great patio, and the backyard is perfect for pets and little ones to play. There is a two-car detached garage and above the garage is additional space that could easily be finished off for a home office. This home is located only a short distance to restaurants and shops in downtown Berlin. You will enjoy the small town feel and way of living. The home is situated on a quiet circular street and has small town charm and curb appeal. The home is minutes from Ocean City and Assateague Island. The association fee is only $250 per year. MLS MDWO2012960

LISTING

This beautiful first floor 2BR/2BA condo is in Harbour Club in the fabulous community of Heron Harbour Isle. This unit is being sold furnished, is in pristine condition with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout and has a lovely beach décor. There is a large dining area flowing off the kitchen. The kitchen is sure to delight the chef in your family with granite countertops, new white cabinets and stainless-steel appliances. The living area is very spacious for entertaining. There is a large deck off the family room. You will enjoy spending time with family and friends enjoying the cool summer breezes. The primary bedroom is spacious, and the primary bath vanity area has been upgraded. The second bedroom is perfect for family or guests. Imagine yourself in this beautiful condo in one of the nicest communities in Ocean City. Heron Harbour Isle is amenity rich with two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a kiddie pool, fitness center, social room, sauna, locker room, two Har-Tru tennis courts, sidewalks and piers. Come take a look today and make memories that will last a lifetime. MDWO2015286

COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL LOT

Beautiful 3BR/2BA rancher in Bethany Meadows hits the market! As you pull into the driveway you will notice the beautiful yard, covered porch and attention to detail. Upon entering this home, you will see a family room that is warm, welcoming and perfect for entertaining guests and family. The kitchen is off the family room and has plenty of cabinet space and a breakfast bar, and the dining area is off the kitchen. This open concept home is perfect for the way we live today. There’s a beautiful sunroom off the dining area that leads to the side yard. The primary bedroom and bath are spacious. The other two bedrooms are also a good size and there is another full bath. In the back of the house there’s a shed for your bicycles and beach toys. This home is very well cared for and is in a sought-after community with much to offer, including an outdoor swimming pool. Come take a look today and make this beautiful home yours.

MLS DESU2044912

WATERSIDE DR BERLIN • $475,000

Are you looking to build your dream home? Look no further than this beautiful residential lot in the community of South Point Farms. This beautiful building lot is in a prime location on the corner with beautiful bay views. The lot is approximately 2.76 acres and it’s located off 611 in Berlin Maryland. At the entrance of South Point Farms is a public boat ramp and public pier with water access for boating fishing, crabbing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. If you are looking for a peaceful, tranquil location with unbelievable Bay views this is the prime spot. There are multiple world-class golf courses close by and Assateague National and State Park as well for days on the beach. No builder tie-in required. Come take a look today and enjoy the good life on South Point Farms! MDW02014122

COMMERCIAL

Prime commercial location in Selbyville of 10.09 acres. This is a rare commercial development opportunity on the busy intersection of Lighthouse Sound Rd. (Route 54) and Hudson Rd. There are already many existing new homes surrounding this property and more than 3,200 additional homes are coming soon. This is the perfect location for a shopping center, multiple smaller retail businesses, and/or medical or other professional offices to serve these homes and the entire Selbyville, Bayside, Fenwick, Ocean City area. The Seller will finance up to 70% of the purchase price at 1 percent below the current prime lending rate for up to 5 years. If you are interested in only the highly visible corner piece on Hudson Rd. and RT 54 seller will sell a 2-acre parcel on that corner for $1.28 million. At $640,000 per acre this is an incredible business opportunity. The property is located 8 miles from the beach. DESU2044978

COMMERCIAL

TAXID 533-17.00-156.07

S ROUTE 54 • SELBYVILLE, DE $990,000

of Coastal Villages. 1,000 feet of road frontage. Also available for sale is Tax ID 533-17.00-156.04 which has 7.29 acres for $490,000 (MLS- DESU2028756) this has a density of 16 lots. Both pieces are served by water and sewer in Selbyville. OWNER FINANCING IS AVAILABLE! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS DESU2028754

OCEAN BLOCK 3BR/2BA

349 WALNUT HILL DRIVE BERLIN • $724,900

WATERFRONT WITH BOAT LIFT HERON HARBOUR ISLE NEW

NEW - DIRECT OCEAN FRONT

Hearing to be set to abandon alley for Margaritaville

By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) As a smaller project advances at the planning level, original plans for a massive downtown Ocean City Margaritaville resort are still hanging on with a familiar request regarding an alley.

Ocean City Council members voted 4-3 at a work session Tuesday to set a public hearing for abandonment of a portion of Washington Lane between 13th and 14th streets needed to develop the larger, Jimmy Buffetthemed resort.

Ocean City attorney Hugh Cropper, who represents the developers, argued that Washington Lane, which runs parallel to Baltimore Avenue from Division to 33rd Street, is “an alley to nowhere.”

“If I started at Division Street and tried to drive through the alley to 33rd Street, I’d never make it,” Cropper said in his push to convince council members to set the hearing for the abandonment.

“I would have to weave and go out on the road,” he continued, referring to Baltimore Avenue. “Probably more of it is blocked than exists.”

For more than two years, the developers have hit snag after snag trying to obtain necessary approvals for a 257-room, 12-story, amenity-rich resort hotel and conference center at the former Phillips Beach Plaza property.

The biggest holdup turned out to be securing enough contiguous square footage of land to create a planned overlay district, or POD, to develop the project they wanted. The zoning designation, which requires 90,000 square feet of contiguous space, allows for more compromise and flexibility between the developer and city officials than building the project through a traditional site plan.

The developers own about 84,000 square feet, but need another roughly 6,000, which they initially were set to obtain through a right-of-way along Baltimore Avenue. A petition for referendum filed in the fall nixed those plans, though, which essentially pushed the project back to square one.

But now, with plans also filed for a smaller resort containing less conference space and fewer amenities than the original, developers are shooting a Hail Mary of sorts for the larger project.

Cropper asked council members Tuesday to set a public hearing to abandon the 16-foot-wide portion of Washington Lane and allow his client to buy it at market value.

He floated a similar request in 2021, but withdrew it before it could go to the public hearing stage. At the

Panel to research, make

Continued from Page 1

in November after a majority of commissioners voted not to sell bonds to develop a complex on a site near Stephen Decatur High School.

“I think the mayor and council feels strongly that this discussion should move forward,” Meehan continued. “And have asked me to put together a task force to look at why, how and where a sports complex can be built in close proximity to Ocean City.”

Members of the group come from Ocean City, West Ocean City, Ocean Pines, Berlin and Bishopville and have interests in government, politics, business and local sports.

Meehan said the group will look at details such as the size, scope, location, and funding sources for the project, and make recommendations to council members on how to proceed.

“Each person is very vested in the community,” Meehan said. “I believe this group will be able to analyze all information presented and make well-thought-out recommendations to the mayor and council.”

He compared the group to the blue-ribbon task force that formed years ago to look into expansion of the Ocean City convention center.

Officials also said the group’s

meetings will be public and could include comments from people who are not on the task force with interest in the project.

The members, as approved Tuesday, are:

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan

Ocean City Council President Matt

James

Ocean City Councilwoman Carol Proctor

Ocean City Councilman John Gehrig

Worcester County Commissioner

Diane Purnell

Worcester County Commissioner

Joe Mitrecic

Berlin Councilman Steve Green

Berlin Councilwoman Shaneka

Nichols

Berlin Mayor Zach Tyndall

Ocean Pines Association Past President Doug Parks

Jack Burbage-Blue Water Development

Tim King-Bayshore Development

Leighton Moore-Seacrets

John Fager-Fager’s Island

Ruth Waters-Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association and Harrison Group

Ben Seidel-Real Hospitality Group

Sal Fasano-LaQuinta, and Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Bob Ciprietti-Touch of Italy

Leonard Berger-Integral member

of convention center blue-ribbon committee

Martin Branigan-Ocean City resident

Billy Regan-West Ocean City resident, business owner, former member of county recreation advisory committee

Ron Strickler-Worcester County resident, Beach Lacrosse Club board member

Jerry Greenspan-Ocean City residdent

Al “Hondo” Handy-Berlin resident, member of county recreation

advisory committee

Lloyd Martin-Ocean City resident, former Ocean City councilman

Chris Klebe-Bishopville resident, OC Tri-Running president, organizer of a number of events

City Manager Terry McGean

Tom Perlozzo, Ocean City director of tourism and business development

Don Abramson, Ocean City sports marketing manager

Jessica Waters, Ocean City communication and marketing director

Lauren Davis, executive assistant to Ocean City mayor

Portion of Washington Lane needed for massive resort

Continued from Page 6

time, planning commissioners suggested instead that the developers ask for air rights above the alley in exchange for improving it and keeping it a city right-of-way.

Council members approved the air rights and accompanying plans, but when the Baltimore Avenue right-ofway fell through, Cropper changed the proposal.

He told the council Tuesday that the alley is now needed for the overlay district, which he said the planning commission supports, leading to the request for the abandonment.

And while staff members have said they technically do not support the abandonment of the alley, Cropper believes he has evidence to prove the throughway is not used or needed, and intends to share the details at the upcoming public hearing.

At Tuesday’s work session, Councilwoman Carol Proctor, as well as Councilman Frank Knight, expressed support for Cropper’s theory before voting in favor of setting the hearing.

Proctor said she pulled the deeds of all of the properties along Washington Lane and learned that several of them are no longer considered public rights-of-way. She also said

she attempted to travel straight along the alley, but was unsuccessful.

“You’re going to zig zag. It is not consistent,” Proctor said. “To say we need it for public use, I just don’t see why we would say we need it for public use. It is just not a consistent alley and it has already been closed for 13 out of 33 streets.”

Councilmen Tony DeLuca and Will Savage were the other two votes in favor of setting the public hearing. Savage, however, said he is not sure he agrees that the alley is not needed for public use, but believes there is “too much ambiguity” to not hear from the public.

Councilman Peter Buas, who voted Tuesday against setting the hearing along with Councilman John Gehrig and Council President Matt James, said he supports the project and the overlay district, but could not get on board with abandoning the alley.

Mayor Rick Meehan also pointed out that staff and planning documents state the alley is currently used by the public.

City Manager Terry McGean said the public hearing will be set for a later date, with a minimum of 20 days needed for advertisement and scheduling.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BRIEFS

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the following during their meeting on Tuesday:

Pocomoke library

The commissioners unanimously approved the design of a new Pocomoke City library. The request made by the Worcester County Library calls for a 12,500-square-foot building that includes stacks, staff office space, community meeting rooms, a

children’s library, and reading spaces. JSD Inc. will provide professional services to develop the building, site, and utility plan, along with specifications for future bidding on the new facility. The service fee amounts to $468,301 and includes a detailed design, construction documents, bidding support and construction administration.

The building construction cost estimate is $8,664,271 or $691.32 per square foot, which includes the estimated demolition costs of the existing building and $1,003,262 in contingency and escalation. The state will pay for 50 percent of the project and will dispense funding over several fiscal years. There is currently $5.3 million available in assigned funds for the project, covering design costs as well as the county’s 50 percent match.

Speed study

The commissioners unanimously approved a reduction in the speed limit on Marshall Creek Road from 50 mph to 30 mph. Currently, there is no speed limit posted on Marshall Creek Road, making a 50 mph the default limit

The county roads division conducted a speed study in response to a concerned citizen.

Out of the 1,242 vehicles in the study, nine were shown to have a speed 50 mph or greater, and the remaining 1,233 kept speed limits under 50 mph. The average speed was 31.8 mph. The study was conducted from July 11-18.

The road leads to a county-owned boat landing, causing an increase of recreational traffic during the summer season.

Disaster debris contract

The commissioners unanimously approved teh award of a disaster debris management contract to Ceres Environmental Services Inc.

The recommendation was made by

RENDERING COURTESY BECKER MORGAN GROUP

A rendering shows how the developer of a proposed Margaritaville resort at the former Phillips Beach Plaza property in downtown Ocean City plans to improve an existing 16-foot, city-owned alley between 13th and 14th streets, and Baltimore Avenue and the Boardwalk. Council members voted this week to set a public hearing on a request to abandon an alley for the project.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BRIEFS

Continued

The Department of Emergency Services and the county procurement officer.

A secondary award was also requested to be offered to DRC Emergency Services. The due date to submit a proposal was April 19, with seven being received. An evaluation team consisting of three members reviewed each individual proposal before establishing an overall group.

The one submitted by Ceres Environmental Services, they agreed, represented the best value to Worcester County. The debris management request was reviewed and approved by the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and will qualify the county for Federal Emergency Management Agency funding compensation under the Stafford Act and other disaster-related federal programs.

After the contract is enacted, official will work with them to develop and release a request for proposals for a debris monitoring contract.

Utility easement

The commissioners unanimously approved a request made by the Department of Public Works to provide Chesapeake Utilities with a permanent utility easement at 13450 Madison Avenue in Ocean City.

The five-by-five foot-easement will be located in the corner of the property. They also requested a temporary construction easement slightly larger than the permanent utility easement that will last six months beginning at the start of construction.

Public Works stated in a memo that Chesapeake Utilities needs an area to place a meter to monitor flow in the area. The site, part of the Nantucket Subdivision, is currently a sewage pump station that captures flow and conveys it to the Sussex County Sewer.

Public Works is responsible for pump station and maintenance of the property, with the requested area being grassed and having no utility conflicts.

ATM placement

The commissioners unanimously approved a lease for a 4-by-5-foot space in the front lobby of the Government Center at 1 West St. in Snow Hill. The space will be used to operate and maintain a State Employees Credit Union of Maryland Automated Teller Machine.

This ATM will be a cash dispenser only and not accept deposits. The five-year lease can be renewed at twoyear increments. Snow Hill Government employees can use the ATM, with no payment required.

City OKs $57K for conv. center parking study

By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) As Ocean City’s aggressive marketing strategy results in increased bookings at the convention

and performing arts centers, a longtime issue with parking could be nearing a solution.

Council members voted unanimously at a work session Tuesday to

pay $57,500 for the Maryland Stadium Authority to work with Crossroads Consulting Services to create a master plan and parking study at the 40th Street facility.

Officials have been discussing concerns about parking during busy events for a while, with the most recent talks conducted during a budget work session earlier this year.

While no money was allocated in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget to address convention center parking, City Manager Terry McGean said staff re-

visited the subject, which led to him asking council members to approve money from the city’s fund balance for the consultant.

McGean said the two-pronged approach will start with a master plan of the property.

“We want to make sure we don’t box ourselves with any future expansion of the building,” he explained.

With completion of the plan, the consultants will complete a parking study to determine near-, mid- and long-term solutions.

Playground, golf cart lease, solar station bids advance

By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) Several Ocean City projects advanced this week with the opening and awarding of bids.

From solar energy accessories to the Downtown Recreation Complex playground, the list of proposals that City Council members approved and remanded to staff for review are as follows:

Solar-powered pay stations

City Manager Terry McGean and Councilman Tony DeLuca, who serves

as council secretary, opened four bids at a work session Tuesday for provision of 85 solar powered pay-by-plate pay stations and accompanying amenities.

McGean said the existing pay stations will be “exceeding their useful life,” prompting staff’s call for bids.

The bid was not typical, though, in that the amounts were not publicly shared during the work session.

McGean said the proposals were expected to come in with different financing options, such as subscription-based

See CARTS Page 16

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A map shows three new “Wind Energy Areas” (A-2, B-1 and C-1) in the Atlantic Ocean that officials with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Managemnt identified this week for potential future wind farms.

Three new spots identified for wind farms off Atlantic

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) The public and elected officials will have the opportunity to express opinions on the prospect of more offshore wind farm development in the month ahead as the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management begins an environmental assessment of three additional proposed “Wind Energy Areas” in the Atlantic.

The bureau announced Monday that officials are preparing to conduct an environmental assessment, site assessment and site characterization of Wind Energy Areas off the coasts of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.

The Maryland area, or WEA (B1) as the bureau labeled it, is comprised of 78.285 acres about 23.5 nautical miles off Ocean City, and sits at a right angle a few miles southeast of the existing lease owned by US Wind.

The bureau published a Notice of Intent to prepare an environmental impact assessment in the Federal Register on Tuesday, opening a 30-day public comment period.

If the bureau proceeds with the lease sale following the assessment, another comment period would be opened as well, according to the bureau’s Monday announcement.

If the bureau’s findings and public comment support windfarm development in that location, the tract would be put out for bids, just as the section in front of it was in 2014. In that instance, US Wind paid $8.7 million to lease two sites that were eventually

Carozza named to Apprenticeship 2030 Commission

(Aug. 4, 2023) Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) has accepted an appointment made by Sen. Pres. Bill Ferguson to serve on the state’s Apprenticeship 2030 Commission.

According to a news release, the purpose of the commission, established by passage of Senate Bill 104 in the 2023 Maryland General Assembly Session, is to examine and make recommendations to reduce skill shortages in high-demand occupations and provide affordable training for career pathways for young people.

“I constantly hear about the shortage of skilled and trained employees, and this appointment will allow me to continue to work with local industry, students and community leaders with an apprenticeship focus to meet the needs of the employers while keeping our young talent right here on the Shore,” Carozza said in the release.

Carozza has worked on the general

combined into one lease.

Local officials are expected to express opinions during the bureau’s latest information gathering phase, with State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) saying Monday, “Given the ongoing concerns that many of us have been raising about the current BOEM proposals, I, along with Delegate Wayne Hartman, again plan to share these and additional concerns during the public comment period.”

Also part of the bureau’s assessment will be WEA (A2), a swath of ocean floor off the Delaware coast. Situated several miles to the east of the site leased to the Danish company Ørsted, the potential location is 101,767 acres in total area and is 26 nautical miles from Delaware Bay.

Carts, playground construction awarded bids

Continued from Page 12

versus paying up front, which would have prevented an apples to apples comparison on the totals.

McGean suggested remanding all of the bids to staff for review and analysis for the most cost-effective option, which he said could ultimately be keeping the existing machines.

In response to the request, council members unanimously voted to forward the bids to staff with no other public discussion.

The project is part of a full renovation of the complex.

Eagles Landing golf carts

On July 14, bids were opened from companies vying for a winning cart lease contract at Eagles Landing Golf Course.

On Tuesday, council members voted, upon recommendation from staff, to award the contract to Georgia-based EZ-GO Division of Textron Inc. for $143,520 a year, and a total $717,600 for five years.

The bid will cover 80 golf carts for the city-owned course at 12367 Eagles Nest Road in Berlin.

Three bids were submitted for the contract, two of which came in below

the city’s $169,000 a year projected budget, and one that was above it. Two of the respondents also submitted fiveyear bids, with all of the companies offering GPS for the carts.

Rec complex playground

A Wisconsin-based company will construct a new playground at the Downtown Recreation Complex following council’s approval of a bid that came in right on budget.

Commercial Recreation Products

LLC was one of six companies that submitted bids for the project, which consists of construction of two playgrounds at the complex on St. Louis Avenue between Third and Fourth streets. Officials opened the bids June 23.

The winning bid came in at exactly $502,000, which was the budgeted amount. All of the responses were at or close to the budget, and McGean said during the bid opening that he was not surprised because staff provided guidance for respondents to show what they could do with the budgeted amount.

Rec and Parks Director Susan Petito and Procurement Manager Scott Wagner said the bidding companies were called in to give presentations to staff to showcase their plans. And while the staff members said the decision was a tough one, Commercial Recreation Products stood out above the other companies.

“They gave us the best play value and biggest bang for our buck for the community,” Petito said.

A staff report said work on the playgrounds will begin soon after employees meet with company officials.

Goal: increasing apprenticeships

Continued from Page 15

priority with shore employers, local technology high schools, Wor-Wic Community College, and the Tri-County Council since she was elected in 2014. Carozza said workforce shortages exist in all major industries, and that her work on the apprenticeship commission will be focused on expanding registered apprenticeships to 60,000 by 2030, and reaching the goal for 45 percent of high school graduates to complete the high school level of a registered apprenticeship.

Other Maryland Senators appointed to the commission are Senate President Pro Tem Malcolm Augustine (D-47), Senate Budget Committee Vice Chair Jim Rosapepe (D-21), and Sen. Arthur Ellis (D- 28,).

The commission will report findings and recommendations to the governor and the General Assembly by Dec. 1.

Multiple groups join for OC beach clean-up

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) More than 100 volunteers descended on Ocean City to join

the Community Beach Clean-up Tuesday morning, and within two hours, they had collected 358 pounds of trash.

“It was a great community event, thanks to all the volunteers and organ-

izations,” said Debbie Dean of Assateague Coastal Trust.

Seven local nonprofits participated in the clean-up.

Ocean City has tractors that comb the beach in the evenings and at night to clear it of trash, but those large vehicles can’t get close to the shoreline or the Boardwalk. That’s where volunteers come in. The volunteers focused on those two areas, plus the Boardwalk and the streets closest to the beach to pick up debris.

“Hands in the sand, feet on the street, that’s our motto, ” Tommy Vach, president of the Ocean City Surf Club, said.

He said the most common trash is plastic water bottles, plastic bags and fishing line, but they also find dangerous items such as used needles. During this clean up, one volunteer found a bottle of paint thinner.

While anyone can go out at any time to clean up a section of beach, many opportunities are available to join others in such efforts.

Ocean City Surf Club has an Adopt Your Beach program that allows individuals, community groups and businesses to adopt a section of the beach and commit to cleaning it up four times a year.

For more information on this program visit: https://ocsurfclub.org/programs/adopt-your-beach/ Beach Heroes OC is an volunteer group that hosts cleanups every Tuesday year round. Gayle Myrta, an Ocean City resident and volunteer with the group said they clean the beaches from the Ocean City Inlet up to Delaware. The group announces its cleanups on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/569 295717454214

Myrta said 20-50 people come out each week for the clean up. Vach encouraged residents and visitors of Ocean City to join the effort.

Each of the groups involved in the cleanup said that students can get learning service hours for participating in these programs.

Since the event was so successful, the organizers hope to host more multigroup clean-ups in the future. The organizations that participated in Tuesday's event included the town of Ocean City, Ocean City Surf Club, Beach Heroes- OC, Assateague Coastal Trust, Surfrider Foundation, Ocean City MD Chapter of Restore the Shore and Go Green OC.

PHOTO COURTESY ASSATEAGUE COASTAL TRUST

Over 100 volunteers turned out for a beach clean-up in Ocean City on Tuesday where they collected 358 pounds of garbage.

Spagnola granted permit until further notice

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Capt. Marc Spagnola, owner and operator of Dusk to Dawn Fishing Charters, will be able to use the county’s South Point boat ramp with the temporary blessing of the Worcester County Commissioners.

In a unanimous vote Tuesday, with Commissioner Eric Fiori abstaining, the commissioners agreed to grant a special use permit to Spagnola until an executive decision regarding commercial use of the boat ramp can be enacted. Currently, the commissioners are undecided whether the boat ramp

should be open for all commercial use.

The permit would allow Spagnola to use the county ramps at South Point for his charter bow fishing business as he had been doing under a previous one-year permit that expired on May 16 of this year.

With the request granted, Spagnola agreed to the conditions reflected in the previous permit, and also agree to limit the number of parked vehicles at the boat ramp to two rather than four. Additionally, Spagnola agreed to never have more than one of his vessels at any boat ramp at the same time.

Spagnola also asked that the permit be extended beyond a year so he would not have to seek renewal so frequently. This was the third time this special use permit has been requested by Spagnola and his attorney, Mark Cropper.

In a July 18 public hearing, the term “commercial users” was defined as “an individual or entity using a county landing in a manner that is connected with or that furthers an ongoing profit-making activity,” and their access to the boat ramps was limited.

The proposal further stated that commercial usage would be allowed so long as no conflict arose with

other boaters and there was no risk of damaging the landing or county property.

The previous ordinance only stated that “commercial activities, including loading and unloading of produce, seafood, freight or merchandise” was prohibited.

Several South Point residents testified against Spagnola, raising concerns about how the spike in tourists travelling to South Point for the fishing charter would increase traffic in the area, thus impacting pedestrian safety.

No date was set to formally decide on the general commercial use of the public boat ramp.

The South Point Boat Ramp is shown at 5820 South Point Road in Berlin. The ramp and parking around it have been a point of contention for a while, and the Worcester County Commissioners voted this week on a temporary solution.

First-ever OC Taco Festival scheduled for this Saturday

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Mexican food fanatics will be delighted to come down and try an assortment of delicacies at the Ocean City Taco Festival.

The event runs all day on Aug. 5 and 6 at the Ocean City convention center.

This is the first year that the event is being held.

The festival is organized by A Taste of Your Town. According to their Eventbrite page, they also run taco festivals in Philadelphia, Delaware, and Texas. Other food-related festivals they are organizing include the Virginia Beach Street Food Festival and the Norfolk Mac and Cheese Festival.

Tickets can be purchased on the Ocean City Taco Festival’s Eventbrite page. General admission pricing is listed at $9.99 for pre-sale and limited, lasting from 2 to 8 p.m. VIP tickets are listed at $49.99 for pre-sale and limited, lasting from noon to 8 p.m. Children 10 and under are able to enter for free.

General admission includes entry as well as a free drink, and VIP admission includes an exclusive entry with twohour express early access, five taco vouchers, four drink vouchers and a commemorative gift bag. VIP guests get an exclusive 25 percent off merchandise.

The festivities advertised for the event include giant margarita bars, wrestling, a hot chili pepper eating contest, a kid’s fun zone that has carnival games, bounce houses and face painters, live entertainment that includes cover bands, mariachi, and DJ, as well as a cornhole tournament and tailgate games, an axe throwing trailer and a general vendor market.

The event’s webpage advertises over 20 food vendors. There will be a voucher system in place at the venue, with stations throughout. Tacos are prices at $4 each, and participants can purchase a voucher sheet of 5 for $20. Vouchers can be exchanged for any food item at the venue. Vendors will offer at least two items on their menus that can be purchased for one voucher, with a select few offering crab and lobster tacos and burritos that can be purchased for two vouchers. There will also be vendors selling cotton candy, ice cream, cakes and other dessert items.

All alcohol and beverage centers will be operating on a credit system and will serve margaritas, beers, seltzer, water and sodas. Cash will not be accepted by either the food vendors or the bars.

More information about the festival can also be found on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

For vendor and sponsorship inquiries, email OceanCityTacoFestival@gmail.com or call 888-827-8340.

POTS OF GOLD

Mother Nature provided her own spectacular light show after an early evening deluge on July 31. A beautiful cool evening followed the storm.

PHOTO COURTESY CONNIE ALDERFER

Macky’s White Marlin Open bucket challenge set Aug. 5

(Aug. 4, 2023) Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill on 54th Street recently announced the first-ever White Marlin Open Bucket Challenge that brings together the iconic fishing tournament and the bayside establishment’s popular bar drinks.

The challenge, which runs from Aug. 5-11, consists of patrons naming which boat in the 2023 open they support, ordering a Macky’s cocktail bucket and watching the leaderboard climb. At the end of the week the boat with the most buckets ordered wins.

“I’m a big fan of the White Marlin Open, and so is everyone else at Macky’s, it’s one of the best Ocean City traditions,” Macky’s Manager Rick Haney said in a news release. “Our team is really excited to celebrate our

Building DREAM HOMES

first Macky’s Bucket Challenge.”

Prizes for the winning boat include a Macky’s merchandise pack for the crew, a 2024 White Marlin Open kickoff party for 25 guests, and bragging rights.

“The White Marlin Open is an Ocean City Classic, just like our Macky’s Buckets! Family, friends, fans, and boat crew are welcome to participate,” Macky;s General Manager and Ocean City Local Julie Hemop said in the release. “Stop by and name a boat when you order your blueberry lemonade, sangria or a crush bucket and watch the leaderboard each day to see who is in the lead. Macky’s, which changed ownership this year after 45 years, officially opened for the season on April 27 and will be open through Labor Day, with themed nights on Tuesdays, DJs on Thursdays and Fridays, and trivia on Sundays. Visit mackys.com for more details and to check out the music schedule.

Salon offers free, back-to-school haircuts to kids

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Tiffany Hoffman is a mom and a hairdresser. So, she knows how important a good haircut is for kids when they are going back to school in the fall.

As a result, she is offering free haircuts for kids at her salon, Tifferson’s Beauty and Wellness Center, at 12445 Ocean Gateway, Unit 7.

“A lot of my clients have kids and some parents might not have the means right now,” Hoffman said.

She wanted to help these kids and parents, but as a small business owner, she also wanted to thank members of the community for supporting local small businesses.

Two hairdressers are cutting kid’s hair for this event: Hoffman and Jenna Danner.

Already, 56 parents have filled out the form at www.tiffersons.com/events,16 students have had their hair cut and 25 are booked for an appointment.

Tifferson’s is home to 11 small businesses, including hairdressers, colorists, cosmetologists, nail technicians and even jewelry makers.

“This gives each individual an opportunity to prosper and thrive at their own craft,” she said.

This is the first time she has offered free Kids’ Cuts. The offer will continue through early September.

To sign up for Kids Cuts, visit www.tiffersons.com/ events. Hoffman will follow up and schedule an appointment.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Members of the Macky’s team pose with the signature bucket drinks that will be part of first-ever White Marlin Open Bucket Challenge at the 54th Street bayside bar and restaurant Aug. 5-11.

Berlin’s 15th Peach Festival celebrates fruit and history

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Berlin will celebrate local sweet, juicy, delicious peaches on Aug. 5 at the 15th annual Peach Festival on the lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor Museum.

The festival, which will run from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., will provide peach treats and entertainment for young and old throughout the day.

“The focus of this year’s festival is local food and highlighting Berlin’s agricultural history,” said Melissa Reid, president of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum.

Local amateur bakers will have the opportunity to show off their baking skills in the peach pie contest.

Registration for the contest closes on Aug. 4, with just three sports left as of Tuesday. The pies will be judged by Chef Phil Cropper, Laura Sterns, manager of the Atlantic Hotel and Joyce White, of the Great Maryland Recipe Hunt. To sign up, email info@taylorhousemuseum.org

Cropper, of the Worcester Tech High School Culinary Department, will be hosting peach-based cooking demonstrations at 11 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. on the porch stage.

Peach lovers will have a plethora of

opportunities to enjoy the fruit throughout the day. And those who wish to put their eating skills to the test can enter the peach cupcake-eating contest. The contest is not about quantity but speed:the person who can eat the peach cupcake the fastest wins.

Kids and adults will have chances to enter. The winner of the children’scontest will get a gift certificate at Island Creamery. The winner of the adult contest will get a Peach festival T-shirt.

For those who would rather take their time enjoying their peaches, bags of peaches will be for sale by Harris Market for $10. They plan to bring 100 crates of peaches to the festival to sell.

Baked Dessert Café will be selling its peach dumplings on the lawn. Buckingham Presbyterian Church will be selling peach pies and Buckingham Elementary will be peddling homemade peach treats. Chesapeake Bay Farms will be serving up its peach ice cream and the museum will serve peach slushies.

“We have purchased another slushy machine so we hope we can keep up with demand this year,” Reid said.

Other activities throughout the day will include music by the Belinki Duo and the Walnut Hill Violin Studio. Sto-

See PEACH Page 28

Maryland DNR awards funds to state restoration projects

(Aug. 4, 2023) The Maryland Department of Natural Resources have announced the award of $22.9 million from the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund to 24 ecological restoration projects encompassing 95 sites throughout the state.

According to a new release, the projects were selected to improve water quality and habitat in the Chesapeake Bay watershed while building local resilience to climate impacts.

In Worcester County, the money will be used for large-scale wetland restoration to improve water quality and climate resiliency in the Chesapeake Bay.

The restoration is on an 88-acre site that was previously a golf course and then in row-crop agriculture. The practices will include 49 acres of wetland re-establishment, 10 acres of wetland rehabilitation and 29 acres of upland buffer restoration.

The release said the state projects deploy best management practices including streamside tree buffer plantings, reforestation, stream restoration, stormwater management, and wetland creation. Grants

are made possible through the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund, which targets the most cost-efficient and effective nonpoint source pollution reduction projects.

The projects awarded funds during this round will benefit local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay by removing more than 33,756 pounds of nitrogen, 4,288 pounds of phosphorus and nearly 5,765 tons of sediment. In the water, the nutrient pollutants fuel algal blooms that discolor the water and remove dissolved oxygen necessary for species, such as fish and crabs.

Through improved connections across similar grant programs, department officials are working to support more comprehensive projects that also foster healthy ecosystems, build resiliency, or providing outdoor learning experiences.

The project details for Fiscal Year 2024 grants are listed on the Department of Natural Resources website, along with other programs accessible through the Grants Gateway application process. The department is currently soliciting applications for Fiscal Year 2025.

Peach delicacies will be for sale at 15th annual festival

rytimes are scheduled throughout the day along with Magic Jack’s shows, face painting, and plenty of games.

For those who have a recipe they want to share, for peaches or anything else, the Great Maryland Recipe Hunt will have a table on the lawn. In honor of the 60th anniversary of the publication of “Maryland’s Way: The Hammond-Harwood House Cookbook,” an iconic cookbook that has sold over 100,000 copies, they are collecting recipes to go into a companion cookbook that will be published in 2024. The goal is to reflect the cultural diversity of the state since the publication of the original cookbook.

All proceeds from the Peach Festival go to the Calvin B Taylor House Museum.

“The peach festival is the biggest fundraising event we have for the museum,” Reid said.

The festival pays for the programming, including the junior historian program, storytelling, concerts and other learning opportunities as well as archiving many historic documents and artifacts.

“We hope to build capacity for a full-

time curator in the future,” Reid said. Currently, the museum is run mostly by volunteers, including Reid.

Reid said the festival is rooted in Berlin’s agricultural history. The town was home to Harrison Nursery, which used to be the largest mail order fruit orchard in the world. It was also home to a basket factory, which produced the baskets used to pick the peaches at the nursery. The local ice plant, which is still in business, provided the ice for the peaches to be shipped on the rail cars heading out of town.

All of this came to an end in the 1940s when the Harrison’s peach trees fell victim to a blight that killed them all and the Harrison family moved from orchards to investing in real estate in Ocean City.

The peach festival honors this history, said Reid, and through the funds raised, helps the Taylor House continue to tell the stories of the town for generations to come.

The museum will be open for tours during the festival, which will occur rain or shine.

For a schedule of event that day visit https://www.taylorhousemuseum.org /events

FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Attendees of the 2022 Berlin Peach Festival stand in line to buy peaches at one of the stands.

on the lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor Museum.

Worcester animal control Facebook finds pets homes

(Aug. 4, 2023) Worcester County Animal Control staff are inviting residents and animal lovers everywhere to connect with them on Facebook to find the perfect addition to their families.

“With Facebook, we’re able to reach out to a much larger audience to connect pets and people to forever homes,” Animal Control Chief Glen Grandstaff said in a news release. “Each month, funny, sociable, loving animals find their way to our facility through no fault of their own. This social media tool dramatically increases the chances that our four-legged friends will secure safe, dependable, loving families, whether that is through adoption or a lost pet being found.”

Friends of the page can find and post information about lost pets and view adoptable cats and dogs, comment on animal control happenings, and learn about upcoming rabies clinics and other programs. There are also links to partnering organizations, including both the Worcester and Wicomico county humane societies, and local pet rescue organizations.

“Believe it or not, there are still many citizens and visitors who don’t know we offer pet adoptions,” Grand-

Katie, a sweet, fun-loving, energetic girl who loves attention and is currently available for adoption, is featured on the Worcester County Animal Control Facebook page. Staff members say she is the perfect companion for anyone looking for a mid-sized dog. To meet Katie and other adoptable pets, call 410-632-1340.

staff said. “We want to spread the word that an area resident’s best, fourlegged friend may just be one click away with WCAC’s Facebook posts.”

Like the Worcester County Animal Control on Facebook to find new ways to help lost, abused and abandoned pets secure forever homes.

For information about volunteer opportunities, adoptions, or upcoming clinics, contact animal control at 410-632-1340.

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Blue Water Desalination

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Hook Optics

Maryland CPR and Safety

Okiaya

SORD Products

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Delmarva Sports Network

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East Coast IV

Easter n Title and Settlement

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Cummins Power Systems

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Henriques Yachts

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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Tomato and peach gazpacho refreshing summertime soup

By Deborah Lee Walker

Contributing Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) A theoretical point of view incorporates an intellectual unity that results when one embellishes their inquisitiveness with research and experimentation.

Gazpacho is no exception and the possibilities are a never-ending summation of delightful discoveries.

Exploring the cornucopia of choices gives one options and allows individuality to come to the forefront.

This refreshing summer soup is a

product of Andalusia, the southernmost province of Spain.

There are many varieties of the popular soup, but the most common version is a mixture of red tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, and olive oil. Since the amount of the components in the recipe are limited, details become a key factor.

Gazpacho depends on juicy, tasty tomatoes. There are many varieties of tomatoes and careful selection is always a must. Heirloom tomatoes are sweeter, fruitier, and less acidic than standard tomatoes, and are a good choice.

Grilling the vegetables introduces an

See CORNUCOPIA Page 37

CROSSWORD

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, someone in your life says they’re making changes, but when you look closely it seems like much of the same. A little encouragement on your part can help this person along.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Tread lightly if you broach a difficult conversation with someone close to you, Taurus. These are tricky waters you are navigating and you want to maintain the relationship.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Problems may seem to you to be bigger than they really are, Gemini. Step back, take a few breaths and then look at things from another perspective. Ask for a second opinion as well.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Look for the double meanings in conversations you’re having with coworkers this week, Cancer. They could be trying to tell you something, so read between the lines.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you are typically good at reading others’ moods, so use that skill this week when placed in a sensitive situation. It will help guide you on what to say and what to keep quiet for now.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

There is a lot of socializing going on in your life right now, Virgo. Enjoy the excitement while it lasts and maximize all of the events you can attend. Things may start to slow in a few weeks.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

It’s probably best to keep your head down for the next few days and just go about your normal routine, Libra. Don’t get pulled into anyone’s drama or offer your take on things.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it is time to be more proactive about getting what you want. Make a list of the things that most interest you right now, and then devise a plan to make things happen.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Figure out which stance you want to take right now, Sagittarius. Are you seeing the glass half full or half empty? Perception can affect your daily life in many ways.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Good news is on the way, Capricorn. This will leave you floating on air for some time afterwards. Surround yourself with the people you love this week so that they can share the good fortune.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

There is a lot that you have been juggling for some time, Aquarius. Unless you take a break or ask for help, one of those balls are going to fall and that could have a domino effect.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you have every right to express your opinions. Others will just have to accept what you say even if they don’t agree with it.

Blueprint education plans passed

(Aug. 4, 2023) Members of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Accountability & Implementation Board voted on July 27 to approve the initial Blueprint implementation plans from all 24 school districts.

According to a news release, the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future is the state’s commitment to transform and improve public school systems to give every student opportunity to thrive and succeed. The Blueprint, the release said, brings a holistic approach to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to become college and career ready by 10th grade and no later than 12th grade.

The accountability and implementation board was created to safeguard the Blueprint and provide oversight, support, as well as guide state and local governments to help implement spe-

cific plans to reach local students and achieve goals.

Local education agencies submitted initial Blueprint implementation plans in March 2023 to the Maryland State Department of Education and implementation board.

Following the department’s recommended approval, the board thoroughly reviewed each plan to identify they meet the Blueprint’s requirements and criteria for success. Board members also identified areas of strength and opportunities for improvement in each plan.

“This is a major step in the process that challenges Maryland’s education leaders to rethink and reimagine the way they work with students and families to ensure their education prepares students to succeed in an ever-changing

world,” Isiah “Ike” Leggett, the accountability and implementation board chair, said in the release. “The AIB will be investing in technical assistance partners for each school system to support them as they turn the Blueprint’s vision into actionable plans.”

The Blueprint is a multi-year education transformational commitment that combines innovative policies based on evidence-based practices and funding to support and empower schools and districts to create education systems that meet the needs of students and communities.

The Blueprint named five pillars of a world-class education system — Early Childhood Education, High-Quality and Diverse Teachers and Leaders, College and Career Readiness, More ReSee EQUAL Page 37

Wor-Wic announces dean’s list honors for spring term

(Aug. 4, 2023) A total of 395 WorWic Community College students, 97 of whom are Worcester County residents, have been named to the dean’s list for the recently completed spring term.

The list recognizes area students who maintained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while taking six or more credit hours during the term.

The Worcester County recipients are as follows:

Berlin: Kyra Arnold, Isabell Ashley, Jacob Bauer, Lauren Bodolus, Iyland Bonebrake, Rumina Bowers, Layla Chrysanthis, Kevin Coats, Addison Cook, Cash Cyburt, Sawyer Ellis-Gaal, Jonathan Franklin, Hayden Gable, Melina Grant, Audreyanna Heinsinger, Chakirah Henry, Charletta Henry, Juliana Jaeger, Lexi Kliphouse, William Kozma, Shyanne Markland, Connor McCracken, Tessa McNeill, Lauren Melnick, Grace Nichols, Julia Nickey, Jenna Olafsson, Katelyn Pizlo, Connor Plumley, Katherine Rimel, Daniel Scott, Michael Sellers Jr., Melissa Smack, Sarah Stephan, Stephen Wade, Jonathan Wallace, Riley Wilson and Diego Zane

Bishopville: Grant Cheynet, Andrea Cohee, Jessica Cropper, Autumn

Drew, Hunter Nelson, Kylie Record and Lance Ward

Girdletree: Kellyann Belka and Ronnie Lukens

Ocean City: Ella Ames, Dimitri Anthony, Karly Arment, Lorelei Auker, Kayla Brady, Maddox Bunting, Keeley Catrino, Timothy Chaykosky Jr., Kathleen Ewing, Renee Fohner, Lucas Franzetti, Chelsea Hale, Alexandria Harkness, Ja-Quez Harrell, Kameron Harris, Garrett Herr, Tiffany McClain, William Melgar, Jeremy Mitchell, Jean Morales, Calvin Nguyen, Willa Novelli, Peter Redding, Yasmeen Sbih, Emily Schroeder, Jon Snelson, Abigail Stabinski and Victor Willowdean

Pocomoke City: Susan Bamonto, Amber Bloomfield, Harrison Bradley, Dustin Bratten, Michelle Craig, Deyton Dean, Daijah Dickerson, Samantha Hoffman, Nicole Ludwig, Andrew Ortiz and Megan Smith

Showell: Emily Stitely

Snow Hill: Krystal Beall, Alexis Harper, Victoria Harper, Kyle Labo, Ann Lawson, David Mason, Kernighan Mitchell, Samuel St. Pierre and Lauren Tolbert

Whaleyville: Sarah Burke

NOW PLAYING

FUNK SHUE

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, Aug. 4, 9 p.m.

THE ANGLER RESTAURANT

312 Talbot St., Ocean City, 410-289-7424 / www.angleroc.net

Aug. 4: Zion, 5 p.m.

Aug. 5: Lauren Glick, 5 p.m.

Aug. 6: Aaron Howell, 5 p.m.

Aug. 7: Carly Twigg, 5 p.m.

Aug. 8: Steve Founds, 5 p.m.

Aug. 9: Sydney Smith, 5 p.m.

Aug. 10: Bilinki Duo, 5 p.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192/7191 / Captainstableoc.com

Friday & Saturday: Phil Perdue, 5-9 p.m.

CAROUSEL BEACH BAR - TSUNAMI

In the Carousel Hotel, 118th Street, Ocean City 410-524-1000 / www.carouselhotel.com

Aug. 4: DJ Nigel, 7-9 p.m.

Aug. 5: DJ Nigel, 7-9 p.m.

Aug. 6: Chino Rankin, 5-8 p.m.

Aug. 10: Chino Rankin, 5-8 p.m.

CARRIBBEAN POOL BAR

In the Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-289-6181 / www.plimplazaoc.com

Aug. 4: Naked Nation Duo, 1-5 p.m.; Pistol Whipped, 711 p.m.

Aug. 5: Royal Flush, 1-5 p.m.; Lime Green, 7-11 p.m.

Aug. 6: No Byscuyts, 1-5 p.m.; Jason Lee, 7-11 p.m.

Aug. 7: Dave Sherman, 1-5 p.m.; Ryan Jackson, 7-11 p.m.

Aug. 8: Reform School, 1-5 p.m.; Dust N Bones Duo, 711 p.m.

Aug. 9: Fil Rhythm, 1-5 p.m.; Nick Hundley, 7-11 p.m.

Aug. 10: Shane Gamble, 1-5 p.m.; One Night Stand, 7-11 p.m.

COCONUT’S BAR & GRILLE

3701 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, 21841 410-289-6846 / castleinthesand.com

Aug. 4: Darin Engh, noon to 4 p.m.; The Rogue Citizens, 5-9 p.m.

Aug. 5: Endless Ember, noon to 4 p.m.; Rule G, 5-9 p.m.

Aug. 6: The Permilla Project, noon to 3 p.m.; Rick & Regina, 4-8 p.m.

Aug. 7: Sean Loomis, noon to 3 p.m.; Fil Rhythm Duo, 48 p.m.

Aug. 8: Shortcut Sunn, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Tony Baltimore, 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Aug. 9: Darren O’Neill, noon to 3 p.m.; Whiskey Train, 4-8 p.m.

Aug. 10: Carley Twigg, noon to 3 p.m.; Cool Change, 4-8 p.m.

COINS

28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / www.coinspuboc.com

Aug. 4: Identity Crisis, 8 p.m.

Every Saturday: “Jim Long” Get Off the Beach Party, 3:306:30 p.m.; First Class Trio, 8 p.m.

Every Wednesday: Support Your Local Bartender Night, w/DJ Wax, Katelinn & Danny Boy, 9 p.m.

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

19 Wicomico Street, Ocean City 443-373-2756

Aug. 4: Funk Shue, 9 p.m.

Aug. 5: Kind Villain, 8 p.m.

Aug. 6: DJ Stevie Jay, 9 p.m.

HAMMERHEADS RAW BAR & GRILL

913 Atlantic Ave. on the boardwalk, Ocean City 410-289-0006 / www.hammerheadsocmd.com

Aug. 4: Jess Arms, 7-11 p.m.

Aug. 5: Steve Bowers, 1-5 p.m.; Jon Pheasant, 7-11

p.m.

Aug. 6: Tonight’s Crush Duo, 1-5 p.m.

MACKY’S BAYSIDE BAR & GRILL

54th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-723-5565 / mackys.com

Aug. 4: DJ Casper, 10 p.m.

Aug. 5: TBD, 10 p.m.

Aug. 6: Trivia w/Brandon Myers

Aug. 8: DJ Vybe – I Love the 90’s

Aug. 10: DJ Casper, 10 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

706 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, 410-289-4891 / picklesoc.com

Aug. 4: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Aug. 5: Duneshounds, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Aug. 6: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Aug. 7: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Aug. 8: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Aug. 9: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Aug. 10: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

SEACRETS

49th Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com

Aug. 4: Bobby-O on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Full Circle 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Storm, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Night Anthem, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Aug. 5: Bobby-O on De Bay, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; DJ Tuff, noon to 2 a.m.; Dear Zoe, 1-5 p.m.; Storm, 5-9 p.m.; My Hero Zero, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Lost in Paris, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Aug. 6: DJ Connair on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 4-8 p.m.; Triple Rail Turn, 5-9 p.m.; Yawd Lynk, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; My Hero Zero, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Aug. 7: Bobby-O on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Blake Haley, 5-9 p.m.; Yawd Lynk, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; The Way Outs, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Aug. 8: Bobby-O on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Opposite Directions, 5-9 p.m.; New Direction, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.;

Screaming Monkeys, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Aug. 9: Bobby-O on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.; New Direction, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.;

Stealing Savanah, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Aug. 10: Bobby-O on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; John McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; Jah Works, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Go Go Gadjet, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

WHISKER’S BAR & GRILL

In the Ocean City Square Shopping Center, 11805 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 410-524-2609 /www.whiskersbar.com

Aug. 4: Dance w/Beats by Followers

Aug. 7: Industrial Night, 8 p.m.

Aug. 8: Ladies Night; Karaoke w/DJ Wood, 8 p.m.

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ ANGLER RESTAURANT

312 Talbot St., Ocean City 410-289-7424, www.angleroc.net

$$ | Reservations | Kid’s menu | Full bar

$6 cruise with $15 lunch or dinner food purchase. Serving lunch, dinner, and lite fare. Seafood is our specialty and great landlubber choices. Boat Bar Happy Hour is 3-6 p.m. Open daily. For lunch, dinner, and Lite fare. Dine in or carry out available.

■ ANTHONY’S CARRYOUT

1608 N Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, (corner of 17th and Coastal Hwy) 410-213-4803, anthonyscarryoutoc.com

$$ | Sandwich shop

American restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. Locally baked rolls with overstuffed and oversized subs, sandwiches, hand cut Idaho fries, fried chicken and much more. Thinly shaved slow roasted roast beef and hams daily. Breakfast sandwiches stuffed meats, eggs and cheese piled high. A must try!!! Open daily, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

■ CABANAS BEACH BAR & GRILLE

Located in the Plim Plaza Hotel, 109 N Atlantic Ave., 2nd Street & the boardwalk, Ocean City, 410-524-1776, www.cabanasoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open to the public. A full-service restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner inside and Signature smash burgers, fresh cut fries, handhelds, signature salads, and much more. Indoor and outdoor bar. Fresh squeezed crushes, frozen drinks, tropical libations. Dine in or carry out.

Open 7 days a week starting with breakfast 8-11 a.m. The kitchen is open until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at least 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The bar is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at least midnight Friday and Saturday.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-2897192, www.captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for more than 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and regional seafood. Open for breakfast and dinner every day. Happy Hour: 7 days a week, 4-6 p.m. Breakfast: Monday through Friday, 7:30-10:30 a.m.; Saturday through Sunday, 7:30-11:30 a.m. Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m.

■ CARUSO’S PIZZA & SUBS

Downtown & Boardwalk across from Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Ocean City, 410-289-1990, oceancitymdpizza.com

$$ | Kids’ menu

Pizza, subs, calzones, stromboli’s. Fresh lemonade, orange crushes and beer. Open 7 days a week. 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

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out. Ordering online www.coinspuboc.com.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, www.coralreefrestaurant.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites. Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharable, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ CRAWL STREET TAVERN

19 Wicomico Street, Ocean City 443-373-2756, @crawlstreettavern

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Come join the Crawl Street Tavern family with great food, drinks and fun. Serving breakfast,

lunch and dinner. Good home cooking from cream chip beef, pancakes to their famous crab cake sandwiches, burgers, finger foods, tacos, steamed shrimp, salads, wings, soups and much more. Open 7 days a week, 11 a.m. to 2 A.M. Dine in or take out. No delivery.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

Caroline Street, Wicomico Street and S. Division Street on the boardwalk, Ocean City www.dumsersdairyland.com

Ice Cream is made daily. Stop by any Dumser’s location for homemade ice cream, milk shakes, sundaes, floats and much more. Open 7 days a week.

■ FISHTALES BAR & GRILL

21st Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-289-

0990

$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Fishtales located in a premier outdoor beach location on the bay with the best sunsets. Come for the best local fare in town. We offer lunch and dinner with great happy hour food and drink specials. Kids play area too. So, sit back and enjoy. Open 7 days a week.

■ HAMMERHEADS RAW BAR & GRILL

913 Atlantic Ave. on the boardwalk, Ocean City, 410-289-0006, www.hammerheadsocmd.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Oceanfront deck. Try our Seafood steam pots and 1/2 lb burgers, creative cocktails like the shark and tank and rum punch bucket. Take a break from the beach with a cool frozen drink or one of our refreshing fresh squeezed fruit crushes. Open 7 Days a week, noon to 10 p.m. Dine in or carry out is available.

■ HARBOR WATCH RESTAURANT

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Boardwalk & Inlet, Ocean City 410-289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaraunt.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full bar

The highest quality seafood, unlimited sides, award-winning raw bar, certified angus beef and home to the best view of Ocean City, Inlet and Assateague Island. Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Raw Bar specials, Monday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m, featuring half priced steamed shrimp and $4 draft beer. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ OCHO RIOS JERK & TINGS

11805 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 443-664-7275, www.ochoriosjerkandtings.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Authentic Jamaican food in Ocean City. Serving lunch and dinner. Yardies’ Jerk Wings, soups, salads, chicken seafood, beef, oxtails to curry goat and coco breads. Finish off a delicious meal with Jamaican rum cake and fried sweet plantains. Vegan options are available. Open 7 days a week, Monday through Thursday, noon to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-289-4891, www.picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open daily. Serving food until 1 a.m. Free parking across the street. Daily food and drink specials. Live entertainment 6 nights a week. Lots of pool tables. Liquor store attached. Game room. 30+ drafts on tap. Dine in or carry out.

■ PIZZA MAMBO

710 Philadelphia Ave., between 7th and 8th Streets, Ocean City 410-289-1200; 7205 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410-524-0090, ocpizzamambo.com

$$ | Kids’ menu

Serving pizzas with homemade crust, sauces, and 100 percent cheese. Specialty pizzas, wings, appetizers, and salads. Also, calzone, subs, and sandwiches. Fast free delivery with 2 locations. Open year round. Order online at ocpizzamambo.com

■ TOAST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

221 Wicomico St, Downtown Ocean City, Inside Emerson Towers on the Bay 410-237-7070, www.toastocmd.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Serving NY specialty pizzas, home of the Super Slice Challenge, brunch breakfast, soups, salads, sandwiches & subs, Italian & Seafood. Relocated to Ocean City’s downtown bayfront. Check out Facebook for daily specials, days & hours open. Dine in and carry out available. Open 7 days a week. Serving brunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner 3-9 p.m. Happy Hour 1-6 p.m.

■ THE WEDGE BAR 806 S. Atlantic Ave., Boardwalk and Inlet, Ocean City www.thewedgeoc.com

$-$$ | Full bar

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and burgers grilled on Ocean City’s only Josper grill. Happy Hour, Sunday through Thursday, 3-5 p.m. Open Daily, 11:30 a.m.

MIDTOWN

■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, www.32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ THE BONFIRE

7009 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 410-524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com

$$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

The ultimate all-you-care-to-eat seafood and prime rib buffet. 150 feet of delicious food with prime rib carving to order station, chicken, ham, steamed and fried shrimp, briskets, salad and soup bars, homemade desserts, and so much more. Crab legs are available by the pound. Check out the early bird specials. A special section of foods for children when the kids are happy so are the parents. Plenty of seating for large parties. Call for reservations. Voted the best buffet in Ocean City for 6 years. Open 7 days a week, Monday through Friday, 4 p.m.; Saturday, 3 p.m.; and Sunday, 4 p.m.

■ MARLIN MOON

3301 Atlantic Ave. in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, www.marlinmoonocmd.com

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring July drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.

■ MACKY’S BAYSIDE

54th Street & The Bay, Ocean City 410-7235565, info@macky.com

$$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill, where life is good!

Macky’s is open daily during the season and features chef inspired specials, an awesome happy hour, and the best bayside sunset on the Eastern Shore. Visit mackys.com to check out our music schedule and upcoming events. Come hang out where life is good, Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill open all summer long!

■ PGN 29th Street, Ocean City, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-8380, 410-289-4083, www,pgncrabhouse.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Beer & Wine

Know for their famous steamed crabs. Dining in or carry out is available. Casual seasonal seafood stop for the all-you-can-eat specials. Steamed crabs, chicken and corn on the cob. You can find clams, ribs, crab cakes, seafood platters and more. You can call for daily specials. Open 7 days a week. 11 a.m.

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

Dinner; Bamboo Lounge, Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Bistro, Friday, 3-10 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reef 118 Restaurant, Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy cocktails in the Bamboo Lounge, Sunday through Thursday, 4-10 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

■ SQUARZ PIZZA & RESTAURANT

In Montego Bay Shopping Center, 12825 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 443-664-8149, www.squarzpizza.com,

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

New Ownership. Open 7 days a week at 4 PM. Serving soups, salads, build your own pizza, small plates, sandwiches, dinner entrees and desserts. Full bar and HH 7 days a week, 4 to 6 PM. Dine in special menu that changes weekly in addition to the regular menu. Wide variety of gluten free options. No fryers on premises, Dine in, carry out and delivery available. Check out the menu and order online. 10% of entire check excluding alcohol.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

Located on the 8th Floor of the Fenwick Inn, 13801 Coastal Highway, Ocean City VISTAROOFTOPOC.COM / @VISTAROOFTOPOC

$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Check out this beautiful restaurant overlooking the ocean, bayside view and looking down Coastal Highway. Now open. Serving lunch and dinner with a Happy Hour menu. Soups, salads, house specials, starters, fork & knife specials to fabulous deserts. The drink menu is a must including specialty cocktails, martini list to crushes. Check out the menu online for more information.

■ WHISKER’S PUB

11805 Coastal Hwy., Located in the Ocean City Square Shopping Center 410-524-2609, whiskerspub.com

$$/$$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Under new management. Serving lunch and dinner with new menu items. Finger foods, savory sandwiches, soups, salads, and delicious entrees. One of the highlights is the famous burgers. High quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. Also, serving fresh seafood, steaks, and chef’s special dishes. Open 7 days a week at 3 p.m. Happy Hour, daily, 4-7 p.m. Dine in, carry out and curbside pickup. Come for the food and stay for the fun.

OCEAN PINES

■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE

100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining

$$ | Full bar

Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday. Carry out also available.

■ 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 daily at 11 a.m.

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL

12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

■ BAHAMA’S CRAB SHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET

Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Hwy, Fenwick 302-537-5882

Premium seafood, fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Open daily at 10 am, closed Wednesdays. Seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters, and snow Crab Claws.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

Enjoy one of four restaurants in the Carousel.

Serving breakfast; The Bistro, Saturday through Sunday, 7-11 a.m. proudly serving Starbuck’s brand. Reef 118 Restaurant, Saturday through Sunday, 7-11 a.m. buffet or A la carte. Serving

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistr

12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

Authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. Dine-in and carry out. Lunch specials, dinner and lite fare. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

■ PIZZA TUGOS

9935 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City 410-524-2922, pizzatugos.com

$$ | Full bar | Celebrating 40 years in Ocean City. Offering pizza, wings, burgers, subs, salads, pasta and more! Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 2 a.m.

SRT scan most critical skill to keep all beachgoers safe

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Summer is in full swing - the beach has visiting vacationers, day trippers, and locals enjoying what Ocean City has to offer.

With a busy beach comes busy days for our lifeguards, otherwise known as surf rescue technicians, or SRTs.

Some may think an SRT’s most important skill/tool is their ability to run and swim FAST, or maybe the whistle or rescue buoy, which are all important for an SRT to do their job. However, the absolute most important skill they need to do their job of protecting you and your loved ones is the SRT scan.

The surf rescue technicians constantly perform 360-degree scans of the water and the beach. Although SRTs cannot watch every single person for every single second, they are trained to watch over the beach patrons on their beach in an effective and efficient way that allows them to see any potential problems before they manifest.

These threats include rip currents, potential water rescues, wildlife, onshore

medical emergencies, lost and found children, and dangerous ordinance infractions.

During Surf Rescue Academy, SRTs are trained on how to have a good scan and to identify non-swimmers before they even enter the water.

For example, beach patrons who are facing shore or heading towards shore are watched more closely (a person in trouble always seems to manage to be facing the beach rather than looking toward the horizon).

An SRT may ask, "Are they having any trouble coming back to the beach? Are they becoming tired and making no progress?"

Surf rescue technicians use a combination of the information they have about the water they guard and the information they gather from the behavior of the people they watch to keep everyone safe.

SRTs are responsible for the entire area around their guard stand, including all water and beach area from the stand to their north to the stand to their south, including the beach and dune area behind them.

This method of constantly looking for

Guards constantly keeping eyes on surrounding radius

Continued from Page 35

any signs of infractions, emergencies, or situations needing their attention is an active process and assures that at least two SRTs are watching every person at all times. This scan is the SRT’s primary, proactive tool that enables them to do their job effectively and is one of the most critical skills a guard can develop to help keep everyone safe.

Contrary to what many believe, the SRTs are not waiting for someone to yell or wave for help, but rather are watching for the tell-tale signs of someone who needs assistance, often before that person even realizes it.

To ensure that each SRT is performing a constant scan, they are required to stand when a Beach Patrol vehicle passes behind them showing that they are alert to all 360 degrees of their area of responsibility. You may also notice that the SRT will stand if someone approaches to begin a conversation that lasts more than a quick question like what time is it or what street am I on (most common two questions). The SRT will also keep any conversation to no more than a few minutes.

By maintaining an alert scan, the surf rescue technician will be able to warn

people away from potential danger (such as a rip current) before the person becomes a victim in need of a rescue and can follow up by educating the same patrons about the safest places to swim on their beach.

This is one of the main benefits of swimming on a guarded beach. This is also why we ask people to obey all the ordinances, so that the SRT is not required to leave the stand to enforce something that the person was already aware of.

This type of situational awareness is a skill that our surf rescue technicians learn that they then bring to their careers, which sets them above other nonBeach Patrol colleagues.

If you are interested in gaining these skills and keeping people safe, check out our upcoming August tryouts this summer, for positions on our 2024 patrol.

In the meantime, please help our SRTs with their scans and obey ordinances, be safe, and remember to “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!”

To find out more information about the “lifeguard” scan, visit the Discovery Network’s short story at youtube.com/watch?v=aarebbRFZo0.

Film screenings set for Aug. 19

(Aug. 4, 2023) The movies created during the Ocean City Film Challenge will be available to view later this month.

According to a notice from the Art League of Ocean City, all of the films entered in the challenge will be screened at the art league building on 94th street bayside at 8 p.m., Aug. 19.

During the month of July, filmmakers

created short movies in or about Ocean City and entered them in the annual film contest for recognition and prizes.

The winners of the challenge will be announced during the screening and complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served. Anyone is welcome to attend and those who want to mingle can arrive at 7 p.m.

PHOTO COURTESY KRISTIN JOSON

Ocean City Beach Patrol Surf Rescue Technician Matt Moscynski poses for a photo at his stand while scanning the beach.

Cornucopia of choices for gazpacho

Continued from Page 30

interesting twist to the standard recipe of raw veggies. Distinction is the secret in any kitchen; monotonous preparation dissipates allure.

Green peppers are a key ingredient for gazpacho. However, conventionalism does not excite one’s palate. Yellow, orange, and red open the chapter of ingenuity. They are sweeter than green peppers and the sugariness offsets the acidity of the tomatoes.

Cucumbers are the next topic at hand. It is generally suggested that one peel the skins of the cucumbers when preparing gazpacho. English cucumber skins are not tough and can be pureed into the soup. The choice is up to the individual cook.

However, I prefer not to peel the skins of cucumbers when they are being used as a garnish. The skins add a contrast in texture and color which enhances the overall dish.

Toasted bread is generally added as a thickening agent. Again, specifics equate superiority. White bread is flavorless; this is a good thing for it allows the bouquet of flavors to shine.

Olive oil gives the dish richness and cohesiveness. The trick for perfect emulsification is the technique of adding olive oil gradually. Adding the oil all at once prevents it from combining properly with the vegetables and subsequently results in an oily broth.

Garnishing depends on purpose intended. For example, if you plan to serve the gazpacho as an appetizer, a brunoise dice of the fresh vegetables is an attractive way to present this dish.

The key to a brunoise dice is the vegetables must be cut into very small, uniform pieces.

If the gazpacho is going to be served as lite fair, consider placing a few steamed shrimp on the rim of the bowl

for a more substantial meal.

Details are always a consideration, so the next question is do you want to serve the shrimp plain or should they be flavored a particular way. The point is to remember that garnishing is just as important as the actual cooking. Successful celebrations come from within: infusing your own personal style and attention to detail yields memorable events.

Tomato and peach gazpacho is a delicious twist on traditional gazpacho. It can be served as an amuse bouche, shooter, appetizer or lite fair.

In addition, it can be made at the last minute and involves no cooking and that is a good thing. Enjoy!

Tomato, Peach Gazpacho

Ingredients

2 large, very ripe peaches, skins and seeds removed

2 pounds multicolored tomatoes, seeded, chopped

1 large orange bell pepper, stem and seeds removed

1 English cucumber , skins and seeds removed

1 white onion, chopped

1 ½ cups toasted cubed white bread

3 cloves garlic

¼ jalapeño, seeded, (optional)

2 tablespoons sherry juice of one lime

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Place all of the ingredients except for the olive oil in a blender.

2. Blend until soup is smooth.

3. Gradually add the olive oil and you continue to puree the mixture.

4. Taste and adjust acid and salt if necessary

5. If you want to use the peaches, bell

peppers, and cucumber as a garnish, keep a small amount on the side and chop finely. Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme are another option for garnishing. Edible flowers are expensive but make a stunning garnish.

6. Refrigerate gazpacho for 30 minutes and serve immediately. Gazpacho should not be ice cold, the brief refrigeration time allows the flavors to come together.

Secret Ingredient – Freedom

“I know but one freedom and that is the freedom of the mind.”

— Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Equal opportunity for all students

Continued from Page 31

sources for Students to be Successful, and Governance and Accountability — that support the creation of high-performing schools that serve all of Maryland’s learners. The Blueprint aims to address historical inequities by providing students, families, communities, schools, and staff with access to resources that effectively close gaps and achieve success.

Worcester County’s plan includes efforts such as expanding quality funded and all-day pre-K, recruiting and supporting high-quality and diverse teachers, improving the education of English learners, improving education for student with disabilities, providing support for schools with a high concentration of students from low-income households, and enhancing student heath services.

To view the specific plans, visit aib.maryland.gov/Pages/local-schoolsystems.aspx.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The OCPD brought police horses to Northside Park for the National Night Out. Pictured is PFC Christian Rodden, riding horse Benson, left, and PFC Sierra Stevens, riding Storm, right.

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Ocean City Police Department hosted the 40th National Night out from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday on West Lagoon Field at Northside Park. The event featured tents and booths from many of Ocean City’s first responders. Pictured is an Ocean City firetruck at the event with a table full of equipment.

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Ocean City Fire Department’s therapy dog, Max, awaits attention at the resort’s National Night Out celebration Tuesday at Northside Park.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Berlin Police Department was just one of dozens of tents set up at Henry Park in Berlin to celebrate National Night Out. Hundreds of residents came to enjoy the food and games.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Sandra Oliver talks with, from left, Dr. Darlene Jackson-Bowman, Clara Jackson, and Glendalyn Harris of Building Mosaic Solutions, which is part of the Berlin Prevention Works Coalition.

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

County Fire Marshall Matt Owens and Deputy Fire Marshall John Atkins show off their truck and the tools they use to keep them safe battling fires at Ocean Pines’ National Night Out Tuesday.

GREEK FESTIVAL

Hundreds of people attended the annual Ocean City Greek Festival at the convention center on 40th Street last weekend for the authentic homemade food, sweet treats and to shop the vendor booths.

SCALES & TALES

SUNDAES IN THE PARK

Guys in Thin Ties perform during Sundaes in the Park at Northside Park on 125th Street on July 30. A different musical act takes the stage weekly through the summer.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Kara Holland (pictured) and Kelsey Poisal of Maryland Park Service, present the Scales & Tales program during Sundaes in the Park at Northside Park on 125th Street on July 30. Scales & Tales features live, non-releasable birds of prey and reptiles to promote stewardship of wildlife and other natural resources. (Right) Pictured is Chilly, an Eastern Box Turtle.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY Tina Veves serves salads with a smile during the annual Ocean City Greek Festival, held last weekend at the convention center on 40th Street.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Kozmas Gikurias slices meat for gyros during the annual Ocean City Greek Festival, held last weekend at the convention center on 40th Street.

Health nonprofit receives two-year, $2 million grant

(Aug. 4, 2023) Chesapeake Health Care, a leading nonprofit community healthcare organization serving Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties, recently received a two-year, $2 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration.

According to a news release, the money will support the administration’s Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies program, aimed at enhancing access to maternal and obstetrics care in rural areas.

Data shows the United States faces a maternal mortality rate that surpasses any other developed nation, with a rate more than double that of peer countries.

Chesapeake Health Care’s efforts will use the funds to implement innovative approaches, improve maternal health outcomes, and reduce disparities among the highest risk patients.

Alarmingly, Black and American Indian/Alaska Native women are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.

The release said the announcement of the grant reinforces the commitment of the Biden-Harris

Administration’s Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis, a strategic plan targeting improved maternal health, especially in medically underserved communities.

In 2022, Chesapeake Health Care provided care for more than 3,000 expectant mothers and delivered more than 2,100 babies.

One of the most important initiatives the grant is helping Chesapeake Health Care take is the establishment of the Centering Pregnancy Program.

The release said the program revolutionizes the provision of prenatal care and childbirth education for ex-

pectant women by replacing individual consultations with doctors or midwives with a group-based approach.

The primary objective is promoting the well-being of underprivileged women and their infants throughout the stages of pregnancy and postpartum. Notably, the program marks the first time the transformative initiative will be introduced in the region and stands as one of the first within the state.

Chesapeake Health Care will also use a portion of the funds to develop use of community health workers.

The workers often referred to as “frontline public health workers,” possess an intimate understanding of the communities they serve.

Acting as liaisons between health and social services and the community, community heath workers facilitate access to crucial services while enhancing the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.

Since its establishment in 1994, Chesapeake Health Care has been a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, multidisciplinary healthcare practice serving the residents of Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Staff at Chesapeake Health Care’s OB/GYN location in Salisbury pose for a photo. The healthcare organization received a $2 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration for the Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies program.

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., Aug. 4

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR 16TH ANNUAL FLOUNDER TOURNAMENT AND AUCTION

Held Aug. 5 at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club, 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines, with weigh ins from noon to 4:30 p.m. Registration cost is $55 per angler or $50 each for 2 or more. Calcuttas are $20. Register before noon, Aug. 4. https://business.oceanpineschamber.or g, 410-641-5306

PEACH FESTIVAL 2023 - FLEA MARKET ONLY

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Flea market only. https://www.stpetersoc.com/news— events.html, 410-524-7474

STEAM SOCIAL

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. An hour of open-ended STEAM activities. Build, experiment and create with a variety of materials. For ages 5 years and older. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LOCAL AUTHOR/ARTIST AT BOOK-SIGNING AND ART EXHIBIT

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Joanne K. Guilfoil will be signing her latest book, “Chickens on Delmarva: 100 Years of Backyard Flocks, Farms and Friends,” and displaying her White Marlin Open paintings. ArtLeagueOfOceanCity.org

FIRST FRIDAY BLOCK PARTY & OPENING RECEPTION

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Celebrate the Art League’s 60th birthday. Birthday cake, new art exhibits, live music, free hors d’oeuvres, artisans, book signings, raffle, community mural and more. www.artleagueofoceancity.org

Sat., Aug. 5

OCEAN CITY TACO FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-8 p.m. Featuring the area’s best restaurants and food trucks serving up their taco creations ($4 tacos), live entertainment, margarita bars, kids fun zone and more. Cash only.

OceanCityTacoFest.com

TINKER TIME: NATURE JOURNALS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Drop in anytime. Assemble your own nature journal. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STEM SATURDAYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Join in any time during the day to use your creativity and build using one of the STEM building kits. For all ages. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC CHAMBER JOLLY ROGER DAY

Jolly Roger Amusement Park, 2901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tickets cost $32 and include Splash Mountain Water Park (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), Amusement Park day rides (2-6 p.m.) and a round of miniature golf. Rain or shine. https://chamber.oceancity.org/events

OUTDOOR CRAFTY SATURDAY: CHALK ART

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in outside and decorate the sidewalk with chalk. Be prepared for a mess. For ages 4 years and older. In case of inclement weather, a different activity will be held indoors. 410-208-4014

FIRST SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ASSATEAGUE ADVENTURES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. A ranger-led adventure featuring crafts, puppets, stories and cool props from Assateague island National Seashore. A different adventure each week. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SUMMER MUSIC @ FURNACE TOWN: HOEDOWN WITH DJ KAY

Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 5-8 p.m. Tickets

Free-$10. Furnace Town is elated to welcome the incomparable DJ Kay for a post-Blessing party in the forest! It’s the Hoedown @ Furnace Town! Come on out between 5 - 8 for food, music, and

more! 410-632-2032

CHILDREN’S CRAFTS IN THE COURTYARD

Art League of Ocean City - Courtyard, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Engage in hands-on activities from painting to paper crafts and beyond. In case of inclement weather, classes will be held inside. Held every Saturday until Labor Day. artleagueofoceancity.org

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., Aug. 6

OCEAN CITY TACO FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-8 p.m. Featuring the area’s best restaurants and food trucks serving up their taco creations ($4 tacos), live entertainment, margarita bars, kids fun zone and more. Cash only. OceanCityTacoFest.com

SUNDAES IN THE PARK & FIREWORKS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Music by Mike Hines and the Look “High Energy Dance Music,” activities for children and fireworks. Ice cream and beverages for sale. Free event. Bring your picnic basket and beach chairs.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org

Mon., Aug. 7

MARLIN FEST

On the beach at the OC Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Beach party featuring a live stream of the White Marlin Open weighins, live music, food and drinks, vendors, a variety of beach activities and WMO and Marlin Fest merchandise. marlinfest.com, 410-289-9229

WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbour Island Marina, 14th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 4-9 p.m. Watch the weigh-ins of the “World’s Largest & Richest Billfish Tournament” in person from Harbour Island Marina. whitemarlinopen.com

STORY TIME: TURTLES

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Summer story time with songs, stories and plenty of fun as we learn about turtles. For ages 2-5 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MONDAY MOVIE MATINEE: SUMMER READING EDITION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Watch movies related to this year’s summer reading theme. Snacks provided. For ages 6 years and older. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES EDUCATION

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 4-6 p.m. Discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Alyce Marzola, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169 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 healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

QUARTER AUCTION

Church of the Holy Spirit Episcopal, 10001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Food available for purchase. Tickets cost $10 and include a paddle. Additional paddles are $2 each or 3 for $5. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Tickets: Jackie, 443-7354275.

OC BEACH DANCE PARTY

Caroline St. Stage, 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free event held every Monday from July 10-Aug. 28. Grab your beach chair or blanket for an evening of interactive entertainment hosted by local DJs. For all ages. www.ococean.com, 410-250-0125

FIREWORKS ALONG THE BOARDWALK

2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9:30 p.m. Dazzling spectacle of fireworks scheduled every Monday night from July 10Aug. 28. www.ococean.com

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues.,

MARLIN FEST

Aug. 8

On the beach at the OC Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Beach party featuring a live stream of the White Marlin Open weighins, live music, food and drinks, vendors, a variety of beach activities and

Continued on Page 42

CALENDAR

WMO and Marlin Fest merchandise. marlinfest.com, 410-289-9229

WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbour Island Marina, 14th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 4-9 p.m. Watch the weigh-ins of the “World’s Largest & Richest Billfish Tournament” in person from Harbour Island Marina. whitemarlinopen.com

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878

OUR LOCAL CONNECTION

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. Join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to explore how the animals, plants and people are all connected through a hands-on activity. Get up close and personal with an EnviroScape. Ages 8+. 410-641-0650

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIY BEADED BRACELETS & ANKLETS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Create your own beaded bracelet or anklet. All supplies provided. For teens and adults. 410-957-0878

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 2 years and younger. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OUR LOCAL CONNECTION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to explore how the animals, plants and people are all connected through a hands-on activity. Get up close and personal with an EnviroScape. 410-2084014

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Discussions and mutual support and education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Reserve: Kay Kinnikin, 410-641-4765, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org.

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:306:30 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-524-1818.

www.worcesterlibrary.org

SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring a song you are working on to this open collaborative. All genres welcome. Present works in progress or talk through composition issues with other songwriters. 410-641-0650

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Marine Surveyor, Capt. Tom Ottenwaelder will be the guest speaker. Dinner and refreshments available. The public is invited.

BEACH HEROES-OC

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

Wed., Aug. 9

MARLIN FEST

On the beach at the OC Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Beach party featuring a live stream of the White Marlin Open weighins, live music, food and drinks, vendors, a variety of beach activities and WMO and Marlin Fest merchandise. marlinfest.com, 410-289-9229

WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbour Island Marina, 14th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 4-9 p.m. Watch the weigh-ins of the “World’s Largest & Richest Billfish Tournament” in person from Harbour Island Marina. whitemarlinopen.com

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Held via Zoom the first and second Wednesdays of each month. For nonsurgical patients. Atlantic General

Bariatrics Center, 410-641-9568

OUR LOCAL CONNECTION

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to explore how the animals, plants and people are all connected through a hands-on activity. Get up close and personal with an EnviroScape. Ages 8+. 410-524-1818

TREASURE BOX

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Make a beautiful treasure box. For teens and adults. Sign up: 410-957-0878.

FAMILY GAME DAY

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3:30 p.m. Bring a game from home or play one of the library’s games. For all ages. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. An evening of high adventure, fantasy and magic with the world’s most famous tabletop roleplaying game. All experience levels welcome. For adults and teens. Register: 410-632-3495.

OCEAN CITY LIONS CLUB MEETING

Ocean City Lions Club, 12534 Airport Road, Berlin. Held the second Wednesday of each month. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. Dinner and meeting at 7 p.m. Guests welcome.

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays through Aug. 25 - Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Thurs., Aug. 10

MARLIN FEST

On the beach at the OC Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Beach party featuring a live stream of the White Marlin Open weighins, live music, food and drinks, vendors, a variety of beach activities and WMO and Marlin Fest merchandise. marlinfest.com, 410-289-9229

WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbour Island Marina, 14th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 4-9 p.m. Watch the weigh-ins of the “World’s Largest & Richest Billfish Tournament” in person from Harbour Island Marina. whitemarlinopen.com

OUR LOCAL CONNECTION

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to explore how the animals,

plants and people are all connected through a hands-on activity. Get up close and personal with an EnviroScape. Ages 8+. 410-632-3495

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Come to the library and bring your boards. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TRIVIA WITH THE LIBRARY

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 2 p.m. Join the Ocean City library for off site trivia. Test your knowledge and win prizes. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OUR LOCAL CONNECTION

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program to explore how the animals, plants and people are all connected through a hands-on activity. Get up close and personal with an EnviroScape. Ages 8+. 410-957-0878

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

TIDES & VINE BOOK CLUB: ‘GOOD OMENS’ BY NEIL GAIMAN AND TERRY PRATCHETT

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. Stop by the Snow Hill library to pick up a book anytime in July, then meet for an evening of books and wine. Must be 21 years or older. Limit 14. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SUNSET PARK PARTY NIGHTS

Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Free concert featuring Monkey Paw (variety). Beverages, including beer, are available for purchase. Bring your own seating. https://ocdc.org, 410-289-7739

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577, BeachSingles.org.

Crossword answers from page 30

4, 2023 Ocean City Today 43

HELP

HERKER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

An Innovative Approach to Property Maintenance

Seeking (2) full time FIELD MANAGERS for full service landscaping & property maintenance company in Frankford & Delaware beach resort areas. Salary position, benefits include partial health, Simple IRA, holidays & vacation.

(2) OFFICE ADMINISTRATORS

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Customer Service, MS Word & Excel, knowledge of Basic Office Procedures; Strong Math Skills are a plus.

WE OFFER: Full-Time, Monday - Friday, competitive pay, great benefits, paid holidays and vacation.

Email resume to Gherker@comcast.net or call 610-459-5857

WANTED HELP WANTED

HIRING Code of Enforcement & Building Official. Full-time with benefits for the Town of Selbyville. Complete job description at Selbyville.delaware.gov

Full Time Cook

Experience Required

Part Time Cleaning Help Wanted

Flexible schedule, clean kitchen, new equipment. Weekly paychecks. Friendly work environment. If interested apply in person. Open daily, 12:00 p.m.

American Legion Post #166 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, MD

PART TIME CAREGIVER

Salary & Hours Negotiable Fenwick Island, DE Call 302-988-2283

Ocean City Elks Lodge PT Cook Call Bernie Huster 410-627-1144

Thunderbird Beach Motel

HIRING NOW FOR:

- PT NIGHT AUDIT

Midnight-8am

- ROOMMASTER

Experience Preferred Apply in person

Monday-Friday, 9am-2pm. 32nd St. & Baltimore Ave.

HIRING

THE LOWER SHORE CLINIC IS GROWING!

We are building a new team and expanding our services thanks to a $4 million funding stream. We are a Certified Community Behavioral Health Center that offers integrated behavioral health services, outpatient therapy, substance abuse, and primary care services. We offer a rich benefit package, competitive salaries, and tuition assistance. We hope you join our team! Check out our website lowershoreclinic.org.

An Innovative Approach to Property Maintenance

FULL-TIME MECHANIC for a property maintenance company in Frankford, DE

Outlets Ocean City

Full-Time, Customer Service Representative

Provide exceptional customer service to shoppers, tenants, vendors and visitors to our outlet shopping destination. This person will handle customer inquiries and successfully meet marketing and operational goals to ensure a positive experience. Candidates must be able to work a flexible schedule including some nights, weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

- Assist customers/retailers/vendors with questions, route incoming phone calls appropriately

- Answer incoming phone calls, accurately maintain data bases, complete reports/logs, order supplies

- Provide vendor waivers, assist with check-ins

- Inform shoppers of promotions/special events, distribute coupon books

- Participate in special events/projects

- Able to navigate computers, complete documents in a variety of programs

- Report all accidents/incidents according to policy in absence of GM

Qualifications

- Ability to accurately use math skills, type documents, maintain databases, demonstrate attention to detail, utilize a computer effectively, assist with customer situations, multi-task, etc.

Avison Young/Outlets Ocean City is committed to employing the best talent with the most fair and equitable recruitment practices. Additional information and apply at: https://us-avisonyoung.icims.com/jobs/3743/ customer-service-representative/job

MINIMUM 3 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR Repair & maintenance for 2 & 4 cycle engines, and trucks. WE OFFER: Great, competitive pay, paid holidays and vacation, partial health and Simple IRA. Email resume to Gherker@comcast.net or call 610-459-5857

Beachwood Custom Builders Now Hiring for Experienced Full-Time Trim Carpenter. Valid Driver’s License A MUST. Vacation and Benefits. Contact Lauren@beachwoodinc.com

Snow Plowers Needed Dependable plowers with truck & insurance for services in Ocean City, Bethany, Lewes and Rehoboth areas. Call 610-459-5857

Cleaners - Vacation rentals needed for OC and the Pines. Experience preferred but not required. OC Purifiers. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email karen@ocpurifiers.com.

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

Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber, Housekeeper, Liquor Store Attendant, Boat Mates, Receivers Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

COMMERCIAL

1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

Industrial Warehouse Spaces: 2100 sq. ft., 1867 sq. ft. and 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18 ft. high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

Commercial Warehouses 600 and 800 sq. ft. spaces West Ocean City and Bishopville, MD Yearly Leases Only Call 646-812-1212

Quick

•

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. FOR

Classifieds 410-723-6397

By Monday, 5 p.m.

FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-855993-0969

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 877-738-0991.

YARD SALE

River Run Community Saturday, August 12th, 7am-11am (rain/shine). Off 589 Racetrack Road turn at Beauchamp, .8 mile River Run on your left.

VEHICLES

VEHICLES

WE BUY CARS Running or not. 302-732-3529

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

MISC. FOR SALE

DISH Network. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-855407-6870

MISC. SERVICES

FREE high-speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-888-592-5957

PETS/PET SUPPLIES

Use Happy Jack® DD-33 on dogs & cats to kill fleas and deer ticks on contact.

Biodegradable!

At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com)

PETS/PET SUPPLIES

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-888-928-1656 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/mddc

SERVICES

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC#6258

VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437

www.CompassionPlace.org

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A.

1966 Greenspring Drive, Suite LL2

Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland 21093

(410) 238-2840

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

703 141st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Purchase Money Deed of Trust from Telma Yuman and Adolfo Yuman, dated October 27, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4809, Folio 624 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $280,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Courthouse for Worcester County, Courthouse Door, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

Monday, August 21st, 2023 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Purchase Money Deed of Trust. The real property is known as 703 141st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, Tax ID #10178576. Tax Map 0118, Grid 0014, Parcel 9404A.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $22,000.00 in the form of cash, cashier’s check, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustees determine acceptable, is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the rate of 4.625% per annum from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, or front foot benefit payments, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by rat-

Call: 410-723-6397 | Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net

ification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction an assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of his deposit without interest.

NOTE: The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. Neither the auctioneer, the beneficiary of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustee nor his agents or attorneys make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of information.

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN DUE DILIGENCE WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the Substitute Trustees.

Mark H. Wittstadt and Justin T. Hoy, Substitute Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC 305

West Chesapeake Avenue,

Suite 105 Towson, Maryland 21204 410-825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

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BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

707 NINTH ST.

A/R/T/A 707 9TH ST. POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated July 30, 2019, recorded in Liber 7466, Folio 346 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $122,735.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

AUGUST 15, 2023 AT 4:07 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $12,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association

dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 361440-1) Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

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BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

5735 CASTLE HILL RD. SNOW HILL, MD 21863

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated August 7, 2002, recorded in Liber 3401, Folio 488 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $88,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on AUGUST 15, 2023 AT 4:05 PM

OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $12,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees

will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 145087-2)

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees OCD-7/27/3t

ROBINS & ROBINS, P.A.

128 East Main Street Salisbury, Maryland 2l801

TRUSTEES’ SALE

BUILDING LOT [2.34 ACRES +/-] S/S ST. MARTINS NECK ROAD

Pursuant to power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust filed for foreclosure in Case No. C-23-CV-23000161 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer the following described property for sale to the highest bidder at public auction to be held at the front steps of the Worcester County Circuit Courthouse, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, on

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2023, at the HOUR OF 10:00 A.M.

All that lot or parcel of land situate in the Fifth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, on the southerly side of and binding upon St. Martins Neck Road, containing 2.34 acres of land, more or less, and being shown and depicted as Lot 2 on plat entitled “Minor Subdivision, Lands of Edgar Grace, Jr., & Patricia Grace,” dated February 28, 2012, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Plat Book S.V.H. No. 236, Folio 72.

The property is an unimproved building lot and is more particularly identified by Tax Account Number 05-768508.

TERMS OF SALE: The property will be sold to the highest bidder at public auction. The purchaser will be required to tender on account of the bid price at the time and place of sale cash, certified funds, or cashiers payable or endorsed to the undersigned, in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00). If the party secured by the Deed of Trust is the successful bidder, no deposit will be required, and the cash deposit or price shall be credited against the obligation. The deferred portion of the bid price shall be evidenced by the Promissory Note of the Buyer, bearing no interest provided settlement is made and the full price tendered on or before fifteen days after the date of ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland; otherwise, the deferred portion of the bid price shall bear interest from the date of sale at the rate of six percent (6%) per annum. Neither the Substitute

Trustees nor the auctioneer make any representation or warranty concerning the property, the same being sold “as is”; and, if for any reason the Substitute Trustees are unable to deliver good and marketable title to the real estate, subject only to easements, rights of way and use restrictions of record, the sole and exclusive remedy of the Buyer shall be a refund of the deposit money. Neither the Substitute Trustees, auctioneer or note holder are aware of any violation of any federal, state or municipal environmental law or regulation; however, in the event any such violations exist, they are not responsible for same. All settlement costs, including, but not limited to, document preparation, recordation and transfer taxes, including agricultural transfer tax, if any, recording costs, and title examination, if any, shall be the obligation of the Buyer. State and County taxes and assessments, shall be adjusted as of the date of sale. Buyer shall be entitled to possession upon final settlement and payment of the purchase price in full, which shall occur not later than fifteen days after final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, please contact the undersigned Substitute Trustees or Auctioneer.

John B. Robins, IV

Christopher S. Robins Substitute Trustees 410-749-3791

Pete Richardson Auction Sales, Inc. 410-546-2425

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BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

14000 COASTAL HWY., UNIT #204

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated March 3, 2006, recorded in Liber 4659, Folio 534 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $560,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

AUGUST 8, 2023 AT 4:05 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and described as Unit No. 204 in the "Avalon Condominium" and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property, and any improve-

ments thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $50,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or eq-

uity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 359347-1)

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

OCD-7/20/3t _________________________________

AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A.

VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19810

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Luzerne County, PA appointed Marie Uram, 50 Forest Drive, MT Top, PA 18707 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Betty Jane Wojcik, AKA: Elizabeth Jane Wojcik who died on September 13, 2022 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Victoria L. O’Neil whose address is 6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200, Ocean City, MD 21842.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Marie Uram

Foreign Personal Representative

Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper:

Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication:

July 20, 2023

DORSEY SAMUEL TRUITT

AKA: DORSEY S. TRUITT SR.

Notice is given that Pamela B. Truitt, 12632 Sunset Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on July 11, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorsey Samuel Truitt who died on April 12, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of January, 2024.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Pamela B. Truitt Personal Representative

True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

July 20, 2023

the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Hunter W. Wooleyhan

Foreign Personal Representative

Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: July 20, 2023

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WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19813

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Sussex County, DE appointed Brett J. Abbott, 1780 Highway 56, Spartanburg, SC 29302 as the Executor of the Estate of Howard S. Abbott who died on August 05, 2022 domiciled in Delaware, USA.

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper:

Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication:

July 20, 2023

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VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO 19819

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR court of BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ appointed BARBARA

C. JONES whose address is 46 FITZGERALD LANE, COLUMBUS, NJ 08022 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of DAVID M. JONES who died on SEPTEMBER 1, 2017 domiciled in NEW JERSEY, USA

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is VICTORIA L. O'NEILL whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY., STE 200, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

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JOSEPH E. MOORE ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

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AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A.

VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 19812

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Bucks County, PA appointed Hunter W. Wooleyhan, 2928 Durham Road, P.O. Box 1118, Buckingham, PA 18912 as the Executor of the Estate of Jon Clyde Wooleyhan who died on September 11, 2020 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Victoria L. O’Neill Esq. whose address is 6200 Coastal Hwy., Suite 200, Ocean City, MD 21842.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Regan J. R. Smith whose address is 3509 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Brett J. Abbott Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WORCESTER COUNTY

BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 pm Case No. 23-61, on the lands of John Brewis, requesting a special exception to allow a 6 foot tall fence in a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-& ZS 1-305(k)(3)

located at 11201 West Marie Drive, Tax Map 10, Parcel 240, Lot 138A, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 pm Case No. 23-63, on the lands of Jacob Hirschey, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 15 feet (to encroach 10 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the R-3 Multifamily Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) & ZS 1-305 located at 12 Boston Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 47, Section 11, Lot 34, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 pm Case No. 23-62, on the lands of Ocean City Baptist Church, on the application of American Farm Foundation, requesting a special exception (transient use) to allow a special event, a Hot Air Balloon Festival, in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-105(c)(5) ZS 1-116(c)(3) and ZS 1337, located at 12637 B Ocean Gateway, Tax Map 27, Parcel 11, Lot F1, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.

The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 07/21/2023

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:

August 10, 2023 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to the front yard setback on Philadelphia Avenue to have a covered patio deck for outdoor dining leaving a minimum remaining setback of .33’. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 6-10 and Lot 43, Block 18, of the Edward Shute Plat, further described as located on the north-west corner of 15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, and locally known as 1501 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: SP BURGER, INC.

C/O BRANDON PHILLIPS – (BZA 2658 #23-09500009)

at 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting 3 after the fact variances:

All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.

(1) a variance to the north side 5’ yard setback leaving no remaining setback, (2) a variance to the rear 5’ setback leaving no remaining setback, and (3) a variance to the requirements of Section 110-422(1)(i) to allow less than 10’ between the sides of any two mobile homes or extensions thereof. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 120 of the Sundowner Park Plat; further described as located in the Sundowner Mobile Home Park located on the east side of Sinepuxent Avenue between 134th and 135th Street, and known locally as 13404 Sinepuxent Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOHN L STANTON FOR FRANK L OLIVER – (BZA 2659 23-09500010)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman

Maureen Howarth, Esq., Attorney OCD-7/27/2t

the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, August 8, 2023

At 2:00 p.m.

PW 23-057 A request has been submitted to install 65’ of replacement bulkhead, a 3.5’ x 50’ parallel platform, a 4’ x 5’ float, a 3’ x 4’ staircase down into the water and one boat lift with all associated poles, maximum channelward extension of 17’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 10609 SHIFTING SANDS

DR Parcel # 1687A-78 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Jason Miller

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 23-064 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with four associated pilings not to exceed past existing pier, maximum channelward extension 24’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 778 94TH ST UNIT 108 Parcel # 9647 -108 -1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Brenda Paddock

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

diameter stormwater outfall pipes, construction of a new rip-rap and coral boulder outfall catchment for required stormwater runoff. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 5003 COASTAL HWY Parcel # 6838 - in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER/APPLICANT: O.C. SEACRETS

PW 23-068 A request has been submitted to repair with vinyl replacement ~60lf of deteriorated timber bulkhead using batter piles; construct a 4’ x 50’ dock with a 6’ x 44’ pier and install two (2) boatlifts and two (2) PWC lifts with associated pilings a maximum of 50’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 313 OLD LANDING RD Parcel #1751A12 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland

OWNER: Marc Schneebaum

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106, ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in

PW 23-065 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings not to exceed past existing pier a maximum of 19’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 682 94TH ST UNIT 3 Parcel # 9698 -3 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: William Adams

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 23-066 A request has been submitted to reconstruct an existing ( 6’ x 59’2”) timber pier and to install a 17’ x 9.2’ platform at the end with associated poles; to install four 12”

PW 23-069 A request has been submitted to install one (1) boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 17’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 14202 LAUREL AVE Parcel # 0039B-1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Kathleen Frock

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 23-070 A request has been submitted to construct a 6’ x 13’ finger pier and install one boatlift with associated pilings a maximum 17.5’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 713 MOORING RD UNIT A Parcel # 9384 -130A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ronald & Marlene Williams

AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROGRESS OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAMS

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland will conduct a Public Hearing to provide information on the progress of Housing Rehabilitation Grant MD-23CD-25, which was funded under the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program; a federally funded program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services. The hearing will be held on:

TUESDAY, August 15, 2023

The purpose of the Public Hearing is to assess the program progress on the following CDBG grant received from the State of Maryland:

Worcester County received a

CDBG grant in the amount of $300,000 in August 2022 for the rehabilitation of 18 owner occupied homes; total household income must be in the low to moderate income category, classified as less than 80% of the County median income. To date, $265,148.66 of the combined CDBG grant and program income funding has been committed. The current CDBG grant term will end on July 31, 2024. Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 3 business days advance notice to Candace Savage, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer at 410-6321194.

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

CARRIE M. WARD, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.

BRUCE ALBERT LUKOSKIE (DECEASED)

6245 George Island Landing Road Stockton, MD 21864 Defendant(s).

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-23-000046

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 20th

day of July, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 6245 George Island Landing Road, Stockton, MD 21864, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 21st day of August, 2023, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 14th day of August, 2023.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $46,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-7/27/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MARK EDWARD DENHARD Estate No. 19822 Notice is given that CHRISTOPHER DENHARD whose address is 2100 ALLIBONE ROAD, BEL AIR, MD 21015 was on JULY 18, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARK EDWARD DENHARD who died on JULY 2, 2023 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 18th day of JANUARY, 2024

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/27/3t

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 19820

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the WILLS/ORPHAN’S court of ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PA appointed JONI FERRARA whose address is 2645 TIMBERGLEN DRIVE, WEXFORD, PA 15090 as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of CHARLES M. GIFFEN who died on JANUARY 21, 2023 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is DAVID ROBERTS whose address is REGISTERED AGENTS INC, 5000 THAYER CENTER STE. C, OAKLAND, MD 21550. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2023-13

RE: Employees of Ocean City Pension Plan and Trust

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2023-13 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of July 17, 2023. Second reading is scheduled for August 21, 2023. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the July 17, 2023, agenda packet. This ordinance allows for the purchase of prior government service credit, at full actuarial cost with eligibility upon transfer, but limits the service that can be purchased to no more than five years and to service performed as an employee of the government of the United States, or any state or political subdivision of the state, or any agency or instrumentality of the government of the United States or a state or political subdivision of a state.

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state, or any agency or instrumentality of the government of the United States or a state or political subdivision of a state.

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WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON CHRISTOPHER T.

WOODLEY ESQ.

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 19833

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate’s Court of Rockland County, NY appointed Maureen L. Hayes, 23 Kevin Drive, Orangeburg, NY 10962 as the Administrator of the Estate of Hugh J. Hayes AKA: Hugh John Joseph Hayes who died on October 20, 2019 domiciled in New York, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Christopher T. Woodley whose address is 3509 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Maureen L. Hayes

the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids.

Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

A pre-bid meeting will be held on site, 305 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD, on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 10:00pm. The last day for questions will be noon on Tuesday, August 15, 2023. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Roofing Work at the Library Annex in Snow Hill" in the lower left- hand corner.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP

Procurement Officer

Worcester County, Maryland OCD-8/3/1t

BID SOLICITATION

Roads Shop Fence in Pocomoke

ter – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Roads Shop Fence in Pocomoke" in the lower left- hand corner.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer

Worcester County, Maryland

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19297 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT CARLISLE PARKES JR.

Notice is given that Jessica Leigh Iacovazzo, 508 Mount Vernon Way, Peachtree City, GA 30269, was on July 25, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Robert Carlisle Parkes Jr. who died on April 5, 2022, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2023-14

RE: Public Safety Pension Plan and Trust

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2023-13 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of July 17, 2023. Second reading is scheduled for August 21, 2023. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the July 17, 2023, agenda packet. This ordinance allows for the purchase of prior government service credit, at full actuarial cost with eligibility upon transfer, but limits the service that can be purchased to no more than five years and to service performed as an employee of the government of the United States, or any state or political subdivision of the

Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper:

Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: August 03, 2023

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BID SOLICITATION

Roofing Work at the Library Annex in Snow Hill

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for the removal and replacement of the shingles, rake, facia, soffit, gutters and downspouts at the Library Annex, located at 305 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for the purchase and installation of fencing to be located at the Worcester County Roads Department Shop located at 2152 Groton Road, Pocomoke City, MD 21851in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

A pre-bid meeting will be held on site, 2152 Groton Road, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 1:30pm. The last day for questions will be noon on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Cen-

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Jessica Leigh Iacovazzo Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

August 03, 2023

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INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY/NEW BUSINESS VENTURE

• 8 Unit building completely remodeled with all new kitchens & baths

• Sale includes the real estate, LLC, all furniture & equipment

• Rent all units or live in one unit as an on-site manager

• Work 6 months of the year & enjoy winters off

• Great location just 1.5 blocks to Beach & Boardwalk

• Includes 6 parking spots

• Additional 3 spots can be rented from nearby property 1004 PHILADELPHIA AVE OCEAN CITY $2,199,000

REMODELED 1 BR 1 BA UNIT - ACTIVE

water heater, soft close cabinets, tile backsplash & level 5 granite

• New refrigerator and Custom Tile Shower with Roller Glass Shower Door 204 33RD ST, UNIT 205

204 33rd Street Unit 204 – ALSO AVAILABLE $250,000

INVESTORS IT’S HERE

• 8% Cap Rate!

• 4 units all 2 bed 2 baths

• All units separately metered electric

• Newly separated gas & water lines with new tankless water heaters

COMING SOON

2701 JUDLEE AVENUE SURFLIFE CONDOS OCEAN CITY

• Split system HVACs & Stackable laundry station added in 2019

• 3 of the 4 units rehabbed in 2020 with life proof flooring

• Exterior painted May of 2023

• Fully occupied with year-round tenants until April 2024

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

$900,000

204 12TH ST • SURFLIFE CONDOS • OCEAN CITY

• 8% cap rate which is hard to come by anymore

• 6 units all 2-bedroom 1 bath apartments

• Vast improvements in the last few years

• Central Air and Hardwood Floors

• Fresh exterior paint job in 2023 as well

• An OC gem with Knotty Pine interiors

• A new roof, and semi enclosed decks

PLUS 1207 DAYTON LANE OCEAN CITY $1,300,000

A GEM IN DOWNTOWN OC

• 5 BR/3 BA

• Complete Remodel 2020-2021

• 2,080 Sq Ft

• Rental Income Possibilities 106 PHILADELPHIA AVE OCEAN CITY $1,400,000

Home associations must do reserve studies

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) The Maryland General Assembly passed new legislation that went into effect Oct. 1, requiring all condominiums, homeowner associations, and housing cooperatives to undertake regular reserve studies of common area components.

Under House Bill 107, the reserve study requirement is now applicable statewide, whereas previously it was only applicable to Prince George’s

and Montgomery counties.

A community that has not had a reserve study on or after Oct. 1, 2018, must undertake one no later than Oct.1, 2023, and that study must also be updated every five years after. The Oct. 1 deadline is fast approaching as most reserve studies take two to four months to complete.

A reserve study is a study of the reserves required for future major repairs and replacement of the common elements of a cooperative or condominium, or the common areas of an HOA.

It identifies each structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing component of the common elements or areas and any other components that are the responsibility of the cooperative, condominium, or HOA to repair and replace; states the normal useful life (for cooperatives and condominiums) and the estimated remaining useful life of each identified component; states the estimated cost of repair or replacement of each identified component; and states the estimated annual reserve amount necessary to accomplish any identified future repair or replacement.

The new law requires associations to annually fund the reserve account consistent with the estimated reserve

amount called for in the study. It also requires that the reserve study is available for inspection to any unit owner. The bill requires the governing body of a cooperative, condominium, or HOA, if the most recent reserve study was an initial reserve study, to attain the annual, recommended reserve funding level within three fiscal years following the fiscal year in which the initial study was completed.

There are no exemptions based on size of association or number of condominium units. However, specific to homeowner associations versus condo associations, the law doesn’t apply to HOAs that issue bonds to meet capital expenditures, but it does apply to HOAs that have a responsibility for maintaining and repairing common areas.

Hygienist Lisa Donoway joins staff at Atlantic Dental office

(Aug. 4, 2023) Another hygienist has joined Atlantic Dental.

Lisa Donoway recently became part of the staff at the regional practice, and according to a news release adds positivity and experience. Her addition to the team has allowed the office to better meet the dental health needs of the community.

A native of the Eastern Shore, Donoway grew up in Snow Hill. She earned her bachelor’s degree of science in art education from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

After helping at a dental practice during the summer, Lisa fell in love

with dentistry. She switched gears to pursue a career in dental hygiene.

Donoway graduated from Delaware Technical and Community College in Wilmington, and returned to the shore to practice dental hygiene.

Her favorite part of her job is partnering with her patients to help them achieve optimum oral health and providing the best possible care.

Donoway lives in Princess Anne with her fiancé, Mark, three newly adopted kittens, two cats and a dog. She enjoys spoiling her furbabies, hanging out with friends and family on her boat, by the pool, at a concert, or anything in between. She also enjoys sunny beach days, cooking new recipes, and making every day count.

d.d.s.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

Lisa Donoway

Art League celebrating 60th B-day

(Aug. 4, 2023) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to an expanded First Friday opening reception that includes a first-ever neighborhood block party and 60th birthday celebration.

The event is set from 5-7 p.m. tonight, Friday, Aug. 4, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St., bayside. Admission is free.

“This is a golden opportunity to come out and meet your neighbors at our first-ever combination First Friday, block party, and birthday party,” Rina Thaler, the executive director of the Art League, said in a news release. “You’ll enjoy a big 60th birthday cake, live music, new art exhibits, hors d’oeuvre, complimentary refreshments, book signings, artisan offerings, raffles, and the chance to participate in a community mural. We invite everyone to join us.”

The First Friday event will spill into the bayfront courtyard of the arts center.

Area businesses will provide hor d’oeuvres, including Lombardi’s, Blue Fish, Coffee Beanery, and Kona Ice. PKS Investments is sponsoring complimentary beverages. David Smith and Robert Johnson will demonstrate pottery throwing techniques.

The Thaler Gallery is hosting an exhibition by three Eastern Shore

artists who are masters of realism.

The show “True to Life: Contemporary Realism,” features the work of Megan Burak-Lowe of West Ocean City; Gordon Inyard of Millville, Delaware; and John Schisler of Georgetown, Delaware.

Burak-Lowe is a contemporary realist artist working mostly in oil.

A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and Salisbury University, she has won multiple awards in juried shows and galleries around Maryland, New York, and Washington D.C.

Salisbury University purchased several of her pieces as part of a permanent collection. Her inspiration is drawn from her emotions and the world as she sees it.

Inyard, a graduate of the State University of New York, creates paintings of vintage diners and other roadside structures and signs.

He has exhibited and sold work in various galleries in New York, New Mexico and California.

Since moving to Delaware, he continues to paint similar indigenous images such as the diner in Seaford, and the Flamingo Motel in Ocean City. His preference is to use acrylic paint for its versatility.

Schisler was born in Baltimore and began painting at the Conrad Miller

Studio in Fells Point at the age of 17, where he began using Maroger mediums and the techniques of the Dutch Masters. He learned to make and use “black oil,” a basis for the mediums of such masters as Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt.

In 2011, John began to pursue a full-time career in art and by 2020 was juried into Plein Air Easton, one of the most prestigious outdoor painting events in the country.

The annual Beverly Bassford Memorial Juried Group Show will continue in The Sisson Galleria until Aug. 10, when the gallery will switch over to the Artists Paint OC annual exhibit.

The Spotlight Gallery is opening a show by three local artists honoring the August White Marlin Open fishing tournament.

Joanne Guilfoil, of Selbyville, a retired professor emeritus, completed paintings while writing the 50-year history of the White Marlin Open, a book with a planned release in fall 2023. Prints of the paintings will be on exhibition.

Jim Motsko will be exhibiting photos taken during the White Marlin Open. He has lived in Ocean City full time since 1970 and is the founder and president of the fishing tournament.

See ART Page 56

Art League block party this

Friday to celebrate 60 years

Continued from Page 55

While attending the University of Maryland College Park, he worked as a fishing boat mate in Ocean City and has been in the real estate sales business since 1970.

Lisa Marie Penn, of Ocean Pines, studied at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, and in 2005 opened 2 Hot Art Chicks Gallery in her hometown neighborhood of Hampden.

She currently works as a full-time commission artist out of her home studio and teaches painted screen workshops with the goal of passing down the traditional Baltimore art form.

Erika Forsythe, of Salisbury, is the

Studio E artist for August.

A fine art photographer, her career includes touring on the national junior tennis circuit, hosting a CNN Headline News show, and farming raspberries to become a certified jam artisan.

Georgia Tech, Forsythe’s alma mater, named her as one of the university’s greatest African American Scholar-Athletes of all time. Forsythe intends for her photos to serve as moments of Zen.

Marisa Longo, of West Ocean City, is the Artisan in Residence for August. Just Tree Creations is the marriage of art and jewelry that developed from many years at Glitter & Gold, the artist’s former location on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

Longo’s interest in jewelry is the organic nature of the many combinations of precious metals, genuine stones and shells.

The Staircase Gallery is opening a new six-month show by a mother and daughter team.

Laura Mayer Kelley, of Salisbury, changed course to focus on painting after a three-decade career in medicine and degrees from Harvard University and Emory University School of Medicine. Her daughter L. Morgan Kelley, grew up in Salisbury. She was inspired by her grandfather who was a blacksmith, and now teaches elementary art and science in Austin, Texas.

Art shows at the Art League’s satellite galleries continue through August.

Debbi Dean, of Berlin, is exhibiting her work at the Coffee Beanery on 94th Street and Coastal Highway. Barbara Stepura, of White Plains, is showing her paintings in the Princess Royale lobby at 9100 Coastal Hwy.

August 3 - August

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Megan Burak-Lowe of West Ocean City poses with her artwork on display at the Art League of Ocean City’s Thaler Gallery. The art league is hosting an exhibition with works by Burak-Lowe and three other Eastern Shore artists at a 60th birthday block party on Friday. The show is called “True to Life: Contemporary Realism.”

Lifelong service of Asst. Chief Will Savage recognized

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) This week we have the opportunity to recognize Gold Badge member and past Assistant Chief William “Will” C. Savage III.

Chief Savage grew up in Ocean City living on the corner of Seventh Street and Baltimore Avenue, across from his family’s business, the oceanfront Majestic Hotel.

Will started working in the hotel around the age of eight, working his way up through various positions in the organization, eventually becoming the general manager.

In April 2022, the Savage family sold the Majestic Hotel to pursue other interests.

Savage attended Wor-Wic Community College, where he obtained an associate degree in Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Management. He then attended Salisbury University, Perdue School of Business, where he graduated with a bachelor of science degree in finance.

Will and his wife, Candance, currently live in Ocean City with their two children. Savage has served as a councilman for the Town of Ocean City since his election in 2022.

Following in the footsteps of his Father, William “Billy” C. Savage Jr., (also a Gold Badge Member of the OCVFC) Will joined the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company as a cadet in 1993 at the age of 14.

During his nearly 30 years of service to our community, Chief Savage has held multiple operational and administrative ranks, including treasurer for four terms, emergency medical technician, rescue swimmer, rescue diver, lieutenant for six years and assistant chief for eight terms.

Savage has received numerous commendations, including Firefighter of the Year, the training award, the chief’s award and multiple incident, unit and resuscitation/rescue citations.

He has also received two Distinguished Service Awards. The first was for back-to-back surf rescues in the aftermath of a hurricane, and the second was for his part in a CPR resuscitation on a beach while on vacation in Hawaii. Chief Savage also holds the required certification to function in the Ocean City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) as an assistant fire chief or City Council member.

During his time as assistant fire chief, he was the incident commander for several major incidents and was a divisional commander during Hurricane Sandy. Chief Savage remembers the most significant event in his firefighting career as being the incident commander at the Lazy Lizard Brewpub fire in February 2015.

Chief Savage recalled, “This incident was significant because there were mul-

tiple citizens trapped upon our arrival, there was a career-ending firefighter injury and there was a MAYDAY call with deployment of the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) because a firefighter became separated from his crew.”

Savage cites his greatest accomplishment in the fire service as “witnessing members of my crew, brought up under my leadership, being promoted to leadership roles in the OCVFC.” Chief Savage takes great pride in helping his neighbors every day and keeping our community safe.

We salute and thank Assistant Chief Savage for his lifelong commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents and visitors to our Ocean City community.

For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, please visit www.ocvfc.com

William “Will” C. Savage III.

Open house for Worcester Co. UMD extension

(Aug. 4, 2023) University of Maryland Extension – Worcester County is holding an open house during the Blessing of Combines in Snow Hill this weekend.

The community event to celebrate the start of the harvest season is set from

10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 5

Staff will show how the extension office serves the community through agriculture and food systems; 4-H youth development,; and family and consumer sciences, including wellness, nutrition and finance education; home

NOTICE OF FY 2024 ADOPTED EXPENSE BUDGETS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY

The Worcester County Commissioners adopted the expense budgets for the General Fund on June 6, 2023 and Enterprise Funds on June 20, 2023, all of which became effective as of July 1, 2023.

gardening; and natural resources.

A 4-H robotics demonstration is set, as well as giveaways and lots of activities for kids and adults.

A historical exhibit of 100 years of extension in Worcester County will give attendees a glimpse into the com-

munity’s agricultural traditions of the past.

The AgFS agent, along with the 4-H educator and staff, finance educator, and master gardener volunteers will be on hand to highlight the offices extenSee 4-H Page 59

Blessing of Combines event set for Aug. 5

(Aug. 4, 2023) The 23rd annual Blessing of The combines event is set 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 5 in downtown Snow Hill.

The event brings the local farm community together, along with other locals and visitors from all over, to honor the agricultural roots of the Snow Hill area.

A parade, consisting of the Snow Hill Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corp Color Guard, antique tractors, the Shore Fun Garden Tractor club and lines of combines is set to begin at 11 a.m. The large combines will then park along Green Street for spectators to view and tour.

A “throttle thrust” will signal the master of ceremonies to begin the program with a keynote address by Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks.

The speech will be followed by a musical entertainment line-up of the County Line Band and Carly Twigg.

The event will also offer food, activities and attractions.

Amusements include various vendors, the Wheels that Heal Car Show, and an antique tractor exhibit, and kids of all ages will enjoy the petting

zoo, free pony rides, a bounce house, gigantic corn maze, games, and other activities. Local businesses will also be offering sales and specials.

The Snow Hill Blessing of the Combines is organized by a small private

committee that has been led by the Payne Family since inception. This committee is dedicated to promoting the heritage of the Snow Hill farming community and educating the public about the agriculture industry. Anyone who wants to become a sponsor of the event or has any questions, contact Becky Payne at 443-7831715 or blesscombines@gmail.com.

Services at open house Saturday

Continued from Page 58

programs.

Fresh hot popcorn and icy, cold water will be available in the air-conditioned office, where attendees can cool off as they enjoy the displays.There are plenty of outdoor activities as well.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Crowds gather during a past Blessing of the Combines event in downtown Snow Hill. This year’s event, the 23rd annual, is set for Aug. 5. sion

BOOK SIGNING

and Meet & Greet

Just Released

“Ocean City Chronicles” by Bunk Mann

Friday, August 4, 2023 • 5-7pm

Art League of Ocean City

502 94th Street

Ocean City, MD 21842

Structure fires in Worcester County attributed to storms

(Aug. 4, 2023) The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated two fires Saturday night following severe thunderstorms passing through Worcester County.

According to a news release, members of the Snow Hill Fire Department were dispatched to a reported barn fire just after 8:30 p.m., Saturday, July 29, at 7233 Whiton Road in Snow Hill.

Upon arrival, crews observed “significant fire conditions” throughout a barn, which resulted in request for assistance from several other area fire departments. Firefighters from Newark, Powellville, Willards, Parsonsburg, Pittsville, Girdletree, Stockton, Greenbackville all responded to the blaze. Crews remained on scene for about three hours bringing the fire under control.

Later that night, members of the Pocomoke Volunteer Fire Company

Ocean City Chronicles

Ocean City Chronicles is the final book in Bunk Mann’s three volume historical series which began with “Vanishing Ocean City” in 2014 and continued with “Ghosts in the Surf” in 2019. Centered around his articles in Ocean City’s award-winning newspaper, the Maryland Coast Dispatch, his latest book features 285 of the most popular ones over the past eleven years. It includes hundreds of photos of long vanished hotels and restaurants, the great storms and fires, deep sea fishing, Boardwalk attractions and amusements, and stories of the people who turned a small 19th century fishing village into a modern year-round destination. “Ocean City Chronicles” is a comprehensive history of Maryland’s famous oceanfront resort in a hardbound coffee table book featuring cover art by noted artist Paul McGehee. Supplies are limited so order your copy today!

BOOKS AVAILABLE AT THESE LOCATIONS:

OC Lifesaving Museum

Fager’s Island

Donaway Furniture

Mann Properties

Seacrets

Crabs to Go

Wockenfuss Candies

Berlin Auto Wash

M.R. Ducks

The Buzzed Word

OC Chamber of Commerce

OC Art League

Caprichos Books

Kitty’s Flowers

Victorian Charm Park Place Jewelers

Copy Central

Toy Town/Snow Hill

Ocean Gallery

Mann & Gray Insurance

Bay Country Shop

Atlantic Beverage Center

Malibu’s Surf Shop

were dispatched to a reported structure fire at 1011 Clark Ave. in Pocomoke. The call came in a little after 10:30 p.m.

After arriving, crews observed smoke coming from a two-story single-family home.

The firefighters who respond were also assisted by members of the Stockton, Girdletree and New Church departments. The release said crews remained on scene for about two hours bringing the fire under control.

Two tenants were taken for medical treatment and members of the American Red Cross responded to assist them.

Deputies from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to both incidents and conducted fire scene examinations. The exact cause of both fires remains under investigation, but deputies believe severe weather was a contributing factor in both.

Two J1 students charged in bike theft scheme

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Denis Andrei Ceara, 20, of Ocean City, received 19 charges from the Ocean City Police Department, including 16 counts of theft, being involved in a theft scheme and two counts of trespassing after stealing 35 bicycles, according to a police report.

Matei Alexandru Cruceru, 19, also of Ocean City, received 17 charges from the OCPD, including 16 counts of theft and being involved in a theft scheme after he participated in the same crime, according to reports.

The report states that from July 15-25, 35 bikes were reported stolen in the area between 130th Street and 142nd Street, with most happening East of Coastal Highway. About 23 of the bikes had their locks cut, and it was common for a few bikes in one area to all get stolen at once. Police estimated the total value of the thefts to be $13,865.

On the night of July 20, police were investigating a report of a bike having been stolen off a rack on 141st Street. The person who reported it stolen told police

they found their bike minutes after making the report on a 136th Street bike rack.

Officers found two other bikes that were reported stolen from a Fenwick bike rental company on a different rack that was on the same 136th Street block. They found several cut bike locks in a nearby dumpster.

While there, police spoke with a person riding a bike who had a J1 student work visa. The biker told police they had bought the bike on a Facebook group intended for J1 students. Another passerby told police they had seen some men selling bicycles off a 136th Street bike rack the day before.

Officers checked the posts on the J1 student Facebook page and found a post from Cruceru. It was a picture of bikes on a rack at 136th Street that was captioned “Selling bikes for cheap prices. $80.00 a piece,” according to the report.

The picture showed a pink bike that had been reported stolen two days before the post.

Police surveilled the area and saw a man exit a 136th Street condo that overlooked one of the bike racks that had stolen bikes. He looked like Cruceru, based on pictures they had seen on his Facebook, they wrote.

On July 21, detectives from the OCPD’s Special Enforcement Unit took over the investigation.

On July 23, Cruceru posted another picture advertising the sale of a bike that

had been stolen on June 21.

Police put a watch on the condo and bike rack around midnight on July 27, when they saw Cruceru sell another man a bike. The same night, police saw Cruceru take another bike from a 135th Street bike rack and ride away.

Then officers saw Ceara with two bikes leaving the same condo that Cruceru had exited and entered. Ceara appeared to sell one of the bikes to a girl then bring the other bike back inside the unit.

Around 20 minutes later, police saw Ceara and another man leave the unit and walk to a condominium on 130th Street. The two walked into a parking lot that had a no trespassing sign, and Ceara cut the lock off a bike before taking it.

Police stopped the two and Ceara admitted to stealing the bike, according to the report.

Police arrested Ceara and the other

man, and found chain cutting tools in Ceara’s backpack.

Ceara told police he had come to Ocean City with Cruceru on a J1 Visa. They were from Bucharest, Romania. He said they started stealing bikes for personal use but then started selling them for 50/50 profits. Recently, Ceara and Cruceru had been arguing over the way profits were split, Ceara told officers.

Police searched their condo on July 28 and arrested Cruceru, who allegedly asked, “is this because of the bikes?”

At the residence, police found five cut bike locks, and over $3,000 in cash.

Cruceru told police that Ceara helped him, but Cruceru had committed most of the thefts, according to the report. He told police he kept stealing the bikes because he could make more money at it than working at a restaurant, police wrote.

Matei A. Cruceru

Denis A. Ceara

Base ramp policy on greatest benefit

As the Worcester County Commissioners attempt to clarify the policy on how county-owned public boat ramps may be used, they need to consider the original reason for building them.

Just about every landing facility in the state was constructed with the financial support of the Department of Natural Resources, whose mission was to create access to the water for as many recreational boaters as possible.

The only exception to that rule is when a body of water is determined to be congested, a circumstance that rarely, if ever, has been a problem locally.

What has become congested at some landings, however, are the parking areas, which, at a few acres in total, are the small end of the funnel leading to 71,000 acres of coastal bays.

That is the problem at the South Point Boat Ramp, where residents and visitors are protesting use by a charter boat fishing operation.

The way they see it, the commercial use of public boat ramps comes secondary to the needs of recreational users, and they would be correct. One of the primary determinations in issuing grant money for boat ramp construction is how many people an installation can serve and how many boaters will benefit.

That determination is based on the availability of access, which is where the current argument is anchored. Although restrictions on commercial use of boat ramps seem more concerned about operators tying up dock and ramp space, the issue here is about who dominates the parking.

Clearly, whether area residents and visitors elect to use the landing, parking was provided primarily for recreational users. No one cares if a commercial operator puts a boat over and heads out of the water. The problem is when one business’s use of parking cuts into availability for multiple ordinary boaters.

It’s all about keeping as much parking as possible open for recreational users. That’s why the ramp was built, and it’s why the commissioners’ decision should be based on giving the most people the opportunity to benefit from its existence.

Heartbeat goes on

By Stewart Dobson Editor

So, it’s finally come down to this: all my friends have cardiologists, so I want one too. I just want to keep up with the trends. You know, be part of the conversation, shared experiences and all that.

Early on, for instance, all my friends had boats, so I wanted one.

My neighbors got electric bikes, and now I have to have one.

By Stewart Dobson

EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson

MANAGING EDITOR ............................ Mallory Panuska

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR .......................... Lisa Capitelli

STAFF WRITERS ................Jack Chavez, Cindy Hoffman, ..........................................Hunter Hine, Remy Andersen

ACCOUNT MANAGERS .......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier

Kelly

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .............. Laura Blair

SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks

GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............ Kelly Brown, Jane Leibowitz

PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts

All my friends invested wisely, so I ... skip that one.

Now they all have medical specialists, which means I need some too so I can keep up when the discussion turns, as it inevitably does, to what’s not working the way it used to.

As for boats, I’ve had several over the years, going back to my first when I was a youngster and interrupted the normally sedate evening meal by casually mentioning that my maiden voyage was notable because of high speed “bow movement.”

For people who don’t know their nautical nomenclature, it’s pronounced “bow” as in “bow-wow,” which explains why I was misunderstood and why my father was excused from the table after asking, “Too much fruit, son?”

Don’t worry, it took me a while to get it too, although others did, hence his hasty departure from the table.

Anyway, it occurred to me later in life that

having a boat because all one’s friends did makes no sense. I mean there you are, paying insurance premiums, slip fees, trailer tag renewal costs, engine repairs, steering system repairs (speaking of movements, you lose steering on entering the inlet on a boiling incoming tide and ... I’ll just say it’s a moving experience).

It occurred to me not long thereafter that the best course of action was to sell my boat and use theirs. More fun, less expense is the way I continue to look at it, which is why the note on my neighbor’s back door says, “Saaaaaayyyy, about that electric bike...”

So far, however, that approach has not worked with cardiologists, who apparently do not believe in shared use, even though it would go a long way toward solving the supply and demand issue of medical specialists.

“Excuse me, doctor, but my friend is coming in for a stress test on Monday, could I ride shotgun on the treadmill with him? Medicare is paying for it anyway, so it’s not like it’s his money or anything. Oh, it’s your money? I get it.”

The truth is I don’t really need a cardiologist or a stress test because I work for a newspaper, where my stress levels are tested every day.

I mean, what’s guaranteed to generate more stress, walking at 3.5 mph on a 10-degree incline or being on deadline and hearing, “Are you busy? My email isn’t working ...?”

I can tell you, the latter will boost your heart rate to hummingbird levels. Maybe even more than being out boating when your bows are going off in all directions.

Something fishy about those wind feds

Editor,

Does anyone else find it interesting that the Federal Agencies charged with leasing our ocean to foreign companies seeking to construct offshore wind power plants is ladened with former employees of one of, if not the largest, lobbying firm for offshore wind developers, Latham & Watkins?

Mr. Tommy Beaudreau, the principal deputy assistant secretary for land and minerals management, Ms. Laura Daniel-Davis, who signs the Bureau of Ocean & Energy Management’s record of decisions, and most importantly, Liz Klein, the director of BOEM.

I find this particularly disturbing as I read the latest press release from BOEM announcing plans to lease another 356,550 acres of the Atlantic Ocean off of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. These lease areas flank our fishing canyons.

The Danish company Ørsted and the Italian company US Wind, (collectively, the developers) in their documents, under “Unavoidable Adverse Impacts of the Proposed Action” state in bullets: “Loss of employment or income due to disruption to commercial fishing, for-hire recreational fishing, or marine recreation business. Hindrances to subsistence fishing due to offshore construction and operation of the offshore wind facilities.”

Additionally, these OSW Power Plants will be “no fly zones” for boats during construction and as we are learning from Europe, during operations as well, which will increase a

Worcester looks to fill open teaching positions by Sept.

trip to the canyons by nothing less than 30 nautical miles round trip.

The three Wind Energy Areas, or WEAs, total about 356,550 acres. The first WEA (A-2) is 101,767 acres and is 26 nautical miles (nm) from Delaware Bay. The second WEA (B1) is 78,285 acres and is 23.5 nm offshore Ocean City. The third WEA (C) is 176,506 acres offshore and is about 35 nm offshore of the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia.

Areas E and F could put six species of Pterodroma Petrel in peril, per the Audubon Society.

Per the Fisheries Survival Fund: The cumulative impacts of offshore wind arrays on the local maritime ecosystem are far more pervasive than previously understood.

All of Areas A (scallop and surfclam, summer flounder and black seabass, B (dredge fishery, pot and trap, gill net and trawl), and C (surfclam, pt, and squid/butterfish/mackerel trawling) because of high fisheries interactions.

There will be a high economic fisheries exposure risk from wind development for small coastal communities.

With all of the information available regarding the devastating affects offshore wind electrical power plants have on the environment and coastal economies, does anyone else find it curious those who have spent years representing and profiting from offshore wind construction companies have now found their way into government agencies responsible for approving the projects?

Dianna Harris Ocean City

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) In the midst of the Worcester County public school system pushing hard to fill vacant teaching positions a month before schools are back in session, those in charge of recruiting are remaining optimistic.

“With a nationwide teacher shortage and decline in college students entering into teacher prep programs, Worcester County Public Schools has done a better job than most other districts in retaining and recruiting teachers,” Chief Operations and Human Relations Officer Dwayne Abt said in an email last week.

He also noted that the county’s schools turn over about 50 certified positions every year, on average. The

positions include teachers, assistant principals, principals and coordinators.

“We have additional movement within the district with transfers and promotions,” Abt said.

Some of the more recent job postings listed on the WCPS webpage include a sixth-grade math teacher at Snow Hill Middle School and a language arts teacher at Stephen Decatur Middle School. Positions for substitute teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, custodians, and nurses listed on the site are available yearround.

The first day of school for students this year is on Sept. 5. New teacher preparation will take place from Aug.

Crafters come from far and wide to show their handcrafted wares. Mark your calendars now so you won’t miss this special event. Something for everyone….jewelry, decorative items, stitchery items and more.

WCPS hopes to fill teacher vacancies by start of school

Continued from Page 63

14-24, with teacher preparation and in-service activities set from Aug. 2831.

“Our recruiting season never ends but we kick off-recruiting season in February and go through September or until all vacancies are filled,” said Abt.

He also said interviews were being lined up for the 10 unfilled teaching positions. He is hopeful to have all the positions filled by Sept. 1.

On June 6, the Worcester County commissioners passed the Board of Education’s budget on a 5-2 vote, with $100 million in funding to more or less match last year’s spending on a per-pupil basis, and $759,000 for the county’s required share of teacher pensions.

John F. Kennedy survived wild, wayward Navy mission in WWII

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

This week, 80 years ago, an important step along the path to the presidency of the United States was taken. The first step had been taken with the birth of John Fitzgerald Kennedy to Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy.

After his father pulled some strings, JFK was able to enter the United States Navy in September 1941. His father’s influence was needed because the Army had rejected him due to his chronic lower back problems, which would plague him his entire adult life.

He was serving as an ensign, with a desk job in the Office of Naval Intelligence, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. Once again, using his father’s influence, after completing the Naval Reserve Officer’s Training School in Chicago, he entered the Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Training Center in Melville, Rhode Island.

Upon completion of his training, he was assigned to Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron #14, based in Panama. On Feb. 23, 1943, he transferred to Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron #2 as a replacement offi-

Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron #2 was based at Tulagi Island in the Solomon Islands chain, in the South Pacific. Kennedy arrived at Tulagi on April 14 and took command of PT109 nine days later. On May 30, PT109 was ordered to the Russell Islands in preparation for the invasion of New Georgia, in the Solomon Islands.

Manufactured by Elko Motor Yachts, PT-109 was 80 feet long, with a hull consisting of two layers of oneinch mahogany planking, and powered by three 12-cylinder, 1,500 hp Packard gasoline engines. The boat weighed 40 tons. Its top speed was 41 knots, but it was rarely able to achieve that under wartime conditions.

Fully loaded, the boat displaced 56 tons. It was equipped with four 21inch torpedo tubes containing Mark 8 torpedoes. Each torpedo weighed 3,150 lbs. with a 386-pound warhead. PT-109 also carried two depth charges. However, by the time Kennedy took command, one of the racks for one of the depth charges had been damaged and it only had

Continued on Page 65

one.

The boat was also armed with a single 20 mm Oerlikon anti-aircraft gun and two open rotating turrets, each equipped with twin .50 caliber machine guns. The day before the boat’s most famous mission, its crew mounted a 37-mm antitank gun to the fore deck.

The Navy had received intelligence reports indicating that five enemy destroyers were going to make the run from Bougainville Island through Blackett Straight to Vila on the southern tip of Kolombangara Island, west of New Georgia, in the Solomons.

PT-109 and 14 other PT- boats were dispatched, on the evening of Aug. 1, 1943, to intercept them. The boats were ordered to return to base once they had expended their torpedoes. Those boats firing first were the ones with radar, so that once they fired their torpedoes and left, the other boats, such as PT- 109, were left without radar.

More important, they were not notified that the other boats had already engaged the enemy. Therefore, the Japanese, having been alerted by the first boats, were on the lookout. With no moon, or radar, the remaining American sailors were blind.

No one saw the 2300-ton Japanese destroyer Amagiri, commanded by Lt. Cdr. Kohei Hanami (who attended Kennedy’s inauguration), until it was too late. In the ensuing crash, two of PT-109’s crew — Andrew Jackson Kirksey and Harold W. Marney — were killed. The survivors decided to make for tiny — 100 yards in diameter — uninhabited, Plum Pudding Island 3.5 miles distant.

As Jimmy Dean tells it, in the song “PT-109”—

“And on the coast of Kolombangara, looking through his telescope, Australia’s [Coast watcher Sub-Lieutenant Arthur Reginald] Evans saw the battle, for the crew had little hope.

“Two were dead, some were wounded, all were clinging to the bow, fighting fire in a fighting water, trying to save their lives somehow. Smoke and fire upon the sea, everywhere they looked was the enemy.

The heathen Gods of old Japan, Yea, they thought they had the best of a mighty good man.

“[Machinist mate Patrick] McMahon the Irishman was burned so badly he couldn’t swim.

‘Leave me here, Go on,’ he said, ‘because if you don’t, we’ll all be dead.’ The PT Skipper couldn’t leave him, a man to die alone at sea, And with a strap between his teeth, he towed the Irishman through the sea.”

After towing, “... the Irishman through the sea,” for 3.5 miles, (which took four hours) to Plum Pudding Island, Kennedy swam another

2.5 miles to Olasana Island, which had food and water. He then swam back to Plum Pudding Island and swam back, with his crew, and “the Irishman,” to Olasana Island. That is a total of 8.5 miles, six of which were with McMahon.

In the meantime, Sub-Lieutenant Evans dispatched Biuka Gasa and Eroni Kumana — native islanders — in a dugout canoe in search of survivors. When the islanders finally connected with the Americans, six days later, Gasa suggested that a message be sent by coconut.

Kumana climbed a nearby coconut tree and retrieved one. Kennedy then carved the following message: NAURO ISL COMMANDER... NATIVE KNOWS POS’IT...

HE CAN PILOT... 11 ALIVE

NEED SMALL BOAT... KENNEDY

The two islanders then, at great risk, paddled 35 miles to the American base on Rendova Island. Then, as Jimmy Dean related,

“... Four more days and four more nights, a rescue boat [PT-157, commanded by Lt. William Liebenow] pulled into sight

“The PT-109 was gone but Kennedy and his crew lived on.”

The Navy was all set to court-martial the young lieutenant for losing his ship, when his father, once again, came to his rescue, and cranked up the Kennedy PR machine, touting JFK’s heroism in saving his crew, es-

pecially McMahon. Instead of a court-martial, Kennedy received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the highest non-combat decoration for heroism awarded by the Navy.

“Now who could guess or could possibly know that the same man named Kennedy was to be the leader of the nation, be the one to take command.

The PT-109 was gone but

Kennedy lived to fight again.”

Next: THE Death of Tzar Boris III 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

$1,445.

2a JFK and some of PT-109's crew

White Marlin Open celebrates 50th anniversary

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) In three days, likely hundreds of boats will head out to patrol waters off of Ocean City for tuna, mahi, wahoo and billfish – namely, the prized white marlin – for the 50th annual White Marlin Open from Aug. 7-11.

To mark the 50-year anniversary, organizers added a new winner-takeall calcutta for heaviest white marlin, which has an entry fee of $50,000, said Jim Motsko, founder and director of the Open.

Motsko hopes the tournament will accrue enough attendance to break a few records. His goals include a $10 million total payout to surpass the $9.2 million awarded in 2021 –which shattered the previous record set in 2020 of $6.8 million – and a new record for registered boats. There would have to be at least 450 boats entered, since in 2005 the Open reached its highest registration at 449.

Only one factor potentially stands in the way of hitting these landmarks, and it’s a variable totally outside of the organizers’ control, Motsko said. “Weather. We worry about weather ... Nothing else we can do about it, but it’s the one that affects us the most. If a hurricane is coming boats won’t show up,” Motsko said. “It’s ruled by the weather.”

Motsko knocked on wood at the mention of the weather.

Last year brought a week of bumpy seas, and many smaller boats abstained from entering. A total of 408 registered last year with around 3,500 contestants. It was down from 444 in 2021, which was the second highest turnout in tournament history.

On top of that, marlin fishing was slow for the 49th Open, which Motsko described last year as about onetenth of the norm.

“They (billfish) just weren’t here,” Motsko said in reference to last year. “When they’re not here you can’t catch them.”

That didn’t stop Jeremy Duffie from earning the tournament record and world record payout for a single fish. The Open awarded Duffie $4.5 million for his 77.5-pound roundscale spearfish, which the tournament groups with white marlin. The tournament minimum for white marlin is 70 pounds and 70 inches.

Blue marlin have no weight minimum, but must be at least 114 inches.

The total payout for 2022 was $8.6 million, and since the inaugural Open in 1974 the tournament has awarded over $95 million.

Motsko said that as final registration marches closer, anglers are shifting their target species from tuna to billfish in preparation. Many are looking for where to find the fish offshore, and honing their skills to land them in the boat, he said.

Leading up to the tournament, Motsko said marlin fishing has been “OK.”

As of Aug. 2, 155 boats had registered for the anniversary Open, but usually around 65 percent of boats return each year, and most wait until the final days to register as teams watch the weather forecast.

Final registration is Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Harbour Island Marina on 14th Street, bayside, in the Harbour Island community.

Teams who signed up before June 1 paid $1,300 to enter, but now the

cost is $1,600, and there are no limits to the amount of anglers who can be on a boat. With entry alone, participants are eligible to win $50,000 in guaranteed prize money.

Around 98 percent of teams sign up for at least one entry level calcutta, which are betting pools for different species, boat sizes and payouts. The more calcuttas entered, the greater possible return money. There are 30 calcuttas this year ranging in price from $100 to $50,000.

Motsko expressed concern last year that high boat-fuel prices could discourage boaters from spending more on calcuttas.

“It’s not the best it’s ever been on fuel prices, but it’s better than it was last year,” Motsko said on July 24.

The cost to enter every calcutta for boats under 40 feet long is $113,500, not including the base entry fee. Boats 40 feet and longer can enter 24 calcuttas at a total cost of $107,000.

Last year, tournament organizers removed the long-held shark category due to new federal regulations. They also added 30 extra minutes of

fishing time, allowing lines to go in at 8 a.m., which is earlier than previous years. It’s lines out at 3:30 p.m.

The 49th Open also had two new calcuttas, including the Level S heaviest swordfish category, and the daily billfish points calcutta.

Two calcuttas award boats with a point system for each released billfish, including the one for most billfish caught for each day that has a winner-take-all payout, and one for most caught overall, which pays 55, 30 and 15 percent to first, second and third place.

It doesn’t take a professional angler to catch the biggest marlin. Fishing experience and technology like sonar does a lot to increase the amount of fish caught, which in turn increases the chance of catching a big one. But, much of the hunt for the big winner is luck.

“Three or four years, we’ve had complete novices catch their first marlin and win the heaviest marlin,” Motsko said. “You can be a seasoned angler, you could be a first-time an-

PHOTO COURTESY WHITE MARLIN OPEN

The Billfisher crew was awarded a world record $4,536,926 for Jeremy Duffie’s (Bethesda, Maryland) 77.5-pound white marlin caught last year on the final day of the 49th annual White Marlin Open.

New $50K calcutta for 50th Open

Continued from Page 67

gler. To catch the heaviest really … makes no difference. If you go over the right fish and he happens to bite and you catch him.

“That’s what makes the White Marlin Open what it is, I think, is [that] anybody can catch the heaviest,” he added.

About 90 percent of billfish caught in the Open do not meet the size minimums required by the tournament, and are returned to the sea.

Last year, 155 white marlin were caught and 151 were released. Fiftyeight blue marlin were caught and released while only one was weighed in.

The tournament emphasizes conservation every year. Using J hooks, the survival rate for released billfish is around 50 percent because of guthooking, but with inline circle hooks, which are designed to hook the corner of a fish’s mouth, the survival rate is around 75-80 percent, Motsko said.

Teams are allowed to fish anywhere within 100 nautical miles of the Ocean City inlet sea buoy, but certain areas are favored among anglers. Most try offshore canyons, like Poor Man’s, Baltimore and Washington, where some tournament winners have been hooked.

Motsko said most boats come from Ocean City and the surrounding midAtlantic region, like New Jersey, Delaware and Virginia, although some travel from as far as North Carolina, Florida, Texas, Massachusetts and New York. Even some international teams from places like Australia have chartered local boats in years past.

Boats can leave from any inlet between Rudee Inlet in Virginia and Barnegat Inlet in New Jersey.

Weigh-ins will take place at Harbour Island Marina from 4-9:15 p.m. each day from Aug. 7-11. They are free and open to the public.

Live streaming for weigh-ins can be seen at www.whitemarlinopen.com, and daily updates will also be posted there, as well as on the tournament’s Facebook page.

Marlin Fest, which is run by Motsko’s daughters, will be held at the inlet parking lot and beach from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for the duration of the tournament.

The event features a big screen showing live weigh-ins, vendors, music and activities. From the festival, visitors can watch boats pass through the inlet on their way to the scales.

The first White Marlin Open was in 1974. It had 57 registered boats and $20,000 in prize money awarded.

WMO 2022 Recap:

The 49th annual White Marlin Open paid out a total of $8.6 million, included 444 participating boats and had around 3,500 anglers.

First place for heaviest white marlin went to Jeremy Duffie, of Bethesda and Ocean City, who pulled into the scales on the Billfisher at Harbour Island with the winning fish around 6:20 p.m. on the final day of the tournament.

The marlin, which was actually a roundscale spearfish, though the Open groups the species with white marlin, weighed 77.5 pounds and was 71.5 inches. It won the tournament’s biggest all-time payout at $4,536,926. It was also the world record for single-fish payout.

A large portion of the winnings came from the Level E winner-takeall calcutta, which cost $5,000 to enter. A total of 242 boats entered the calcutta. The pot payout was $1,076,900.

The team also entered the Level WM winner-take-all calcutta for white marlin, which cost $10,000 to enter and had 157 boats buy-in. Duffie and his team’s payout for this category was $1,397,300.

Billfisher’s entry into the Level P winner-take-all white marlin calcutta made up $1,637,600 of the team’s winnings. Ninety-two boats participated in the calcutta, which cost $20,000 to enter.

Keeley Megarity of Houston, Texas, took second place for heaviest white marlin while fishing on the CStudent. The fish weighed 71.5 pounds, and was brought to the scales on Thursday, holding first place for one day until getting dethroned by the Billfisher’s catch.

C-Student’s team earned $106,216 for the marlin.

Bill Britt, of Sandy Spring, Maryland, won heaviest blue marlin with a 511-pound fish, and earned

$1,208,419.

Most of the money came from the Level F winner-take-all calcutta for blue marlin, which had 225 boats registered and cost $2,000 to enter. It accounted for $400,500 of Cabana’s winnings.

Jason Hersh, of Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, landed his team, Southern C’s, first place for biggest tuna with his 247.5-pound big eye. Their payout was $1,278,197.

The Big Stick team came just behind Southern C’s with a 246.5pound big eye that won them a second-place prize of $152,405. It was caught by Anderson Bowen, of Suwanee, Georgia.

Third place went to Komotose after team angler Richard Hawse, of Pasadena, Maryland, caught a 242.5pound big eye. They won $437,918.

Frank Sinito, of Cleveland, Ohio, caught the 59.5-pound first-place dolphin fish and won the Irene team $31,297.

Second place in the dolphin division was a 29-pound fish caught by Vernon Merritt Jr. of Chincoteague, Va. It earned the 10-4 Joker team $104,447. They received a larger payout because of their entry into the small boat heaviest dolphin calcutta.

JEB angler Vince Piccini, of Lutherville, Maryland, earned third place in the division for his team and $28,297 with a 28-pound dolphin.

Chris Thompson, of Mt. Airy, Maryland, caught a 71-pound wahoo to take first place in the division with his team Jenny Poo. They received $24,566.

The WaterMarlin team came in second with a 54-pound wahoo caught by angler Hans Mulford, of Seaford, Delaware, and won $23,566.

Patrick Brown, of Miami, Florida, caught a 51.5-pound wahoo to reach third place with his team the Irish Twin. The Open awarded them $22,566.

No swordfish were boated last year, and no teams won in the new swordfish category.

The top three boats were Billfisher, Mama C and Lights Out, in that order.

Billfisher released four white marlin and two blue marlin, then boated their winning white marlin and one 65-pound tuna. They earned 708

WMO BY THE NUMBERS:

57: Number of boats that participated in the first White Marlin Open in 1974.

408: Number of boats that participated in the 49th annual WMO in 2022. (The record is 449 boat in 2005).

$15,000: Amount of money awarded to Vince Sorenson of New Jersey during the first WMO for his 68.5-pound white marlin.

$4,536,926: Amount the firstplace, 77.5-pound white marlin caught by Jeremy Duffie of Bethesda, Maryland, was worth in 2022. *New tournament record and world record payout for a single fish.

$8.6 million: Approximate prize money paid out to 2022 WMO winners.

$1,600: Cost of base entry fee. (This fee makes boats eligible for $50,000 in prize money).

$50,000: Entry cost of the new winner-take-all white marlin calcutta – $50,000 for 50th anniversary year.

$113,500: Amount (not including base entry fee) for boats under 40 feet (length overall) to enter all 29 added entry levels/calcuttas; $107,000 to enter into 24 added entry levels/calcuttas for boats 40 feet and larger. 99 pounds: Tournament record for a white marlin (1980).

151: Number of white marlins caught/released during the 2022 WMO. Four of them were boated. Fifty-eight blue marlins were released and one was weighed in.

points.

Mama C released two sailfish, three white marlin and two blue marlin, earning 700 points.

Lights Out released two white marlin and two blue marlin for 490 points.

All three boats were also the top three release boats, except Mama C came ahead of Billfisher, and Lights out remained in third.

The top three anglers were Bill Haugland on Lights Out, who had 490 points, Kelly Weber on Max Bet, who had 420 points and Victor Roof on Miss Maxine, who also had 420 points.

Motsko family runs Open together

Continued from Page 1

white marlin as the ‘White Marlin Capital of the World,’ and that’s pretty much how that started,” Motsko said.

To celebrate the anniversary, the tournament is starting an entry level calcutta that costs $50,000 to enter.

The open has held the “World’s Largest and Richest Billfish Tournament” status since around 1991, when the tournament registered 257 boats and topped an Australian tournament for registration, Motsko said.

“We cracked and we hit that threshold where all of a sudden people recognized us. We didn’t even know it,” Motsko said.

Depending on which variables are considered, the tournament has hit several peaks throughout its history.

So far, the record for most competitors is 449 registered boats, which was set in 2005, and the largest total payout tipped at $9.2 million in 2021. Last year brought the record biggest single-boat payout at $4.5 million, which went to Jeremy Duffie for his 77.5-pound roundscale spearfish (the tournament groups the species with white marlin), which he caught with family aboard the Billfisher. Duffie’s payout is the world record for a single fish.

“[The Open] wasn’t designed to be what it is right now. It’s just the way it occurred and grew over the years,” Motsko said.

For about six years, during summers in between semesters at University of Maryland, Motsko worked as a mate on charter boats at the Talbot Street Pier.

Motsko graduated from Maryland in 1968 and continued working for around two more years before getting his real estate license in November 1970, he said. His time on the boats fishing tuna, bluefish and marlin taught him how to target billfish, Motsko said.

On Motsko’s honeymoon with his late wife, Marianne, he said some-

thing to her along the lines of, “wouldn’t it be nice to be able to do something that you’d like and you can make a good living at it?” Motsko said. That was when Motsko started to dream of becoming a professional angler.

Problem was, there wasn’t yet a reliable way to earn a living at billfishing, which in itself was very expensive for anglers, Motsko said. Tournaments weren’t offering guaranteed prize money back then, not in any official capacity, anyway.

“The tournaments that were happening at that time, all the prize money was handled in the back room, hush hush, and people were literally betting against each other that way, and I felt intimidated coming out of college trying to wade into these rooms where people are talking money,” Motsko said.

Motsko took notice of the model in golf tournaments, where golfers were eligible for guaranteed prize money. He drew on the inspiration to begin the first White Marlin Open, he said.

“We took it out from the back room, made it legit,” Motsko said.

Motsko and the original tournament planners wanted to host the open at White Marlin Marina between Somerset and Wicomico Street, but it didn’t have a scale, he said.

So, they approached Boinis, now of Boca Raton, Florida, who owned the Ship Café Restaurant and Marina on the bayside at 14th Street (where Harbour Island now stands). Boinis agreed and began promoting the tournament, Motsko said. Weigh-ins have been at Harbour Island ever since.

Sasha Motsko, one of Motsko’s daughters, said she and her sister, Madelyne Rowan, started working the tournament nearly as soon as they could walk. Motsko family summer vacations were usually part of promotional tours up and down the

WHITE MARLIN OPEN CALCUTTAS:

Added Entry Skill Levels:

Levels A, B, C & D: 30/12/8

percent split - Heaviest White

Marlin/Blue Marlin

Cost: Level A: $300 Level B: $700

Level C $1,000 Level D: $2,000

Level E: Heaviest White Marlin

Winner Take All

Cost: $5,000

Level WM: Heaviest White Marlin

Winner Take All

Cost: $10,000

Level P: Heaviest White Marlin

Winner Take All

Cost: $20,000

***(NEW) AC - Anniversary:

Heaviest White Marlin Winner Take

WMO RECORDS TO BEAT:

East Coast, she said.

Now Motsko’s daughters help direct the tournament and Marlin Fest, an inlet celebration to go along with the tournament that began in 2020.

“It was always very much a family affair and still is. Today our children are very involved in the family business,” Sasha Motsko said.

Jim Motsko said that in terms of methods used to fish the tournament, not much has changed. Anglers continue to troll bait on, or just under, the surface.

What has changed is technology, with boaters upgrading from long range navigation systems known as LORAN and paper-printing fathometers to 360 degree sonar and satellite navigation systems. While it hasn’t necessarily resulted in catching larger fish, anglers have been able to catch more, Motsko said.

Still, some of the biggest billfish ever caught off Maryland have found their way to the Harbour Island Marina scales, including two “grander” blue marlin (1,000 pounds or more) caught in consecutive years.

The open’s biggest white marlin record belongs to Steve Bass, for a 99-pounder he caught in 1980 on the Top Hat.

Robert Farris, of Charlotte, North Carolina, caught the record biggest blue marlin in tournament history in 2009 aboard No Problem. The fish clocked in at 1,062 pounds and won him about $550,000.

In 2010, James Kontos, of Crested Butte, Colorado, reeled in a 1,010.5pound blue aboard Let It Ride, and received a $423,040 prize.

Not every tournament has had a clean ending. In 2016, none of the people who were on the boat that caught the heaviest white marlin could pass a polygraph test.

The case went to federal court in Baltimore and Motsko won, with the judge determining that the team had put their lines in too early. Since then people have been highly aware of the

White Marlin: Steve Bass, 99 pounds, 1980

Blue Marlin: Robert Farris, 1,062 pounds, 2009

Tuna: Jim Freitas, 326 pounds, big eye, 1992

Dolphin: Matt Wagner, 73.5 pounds, 2020

Wahoo: Kevin Wayson, 110.5 pounds, 1994

Shark: Jerry Fish, 931 pounds, tiger shark, 1995 (The White Marlin Open ended the shark category in 2022 due to new federal regulations)

tournament organizer’s use of the polygraph, Motsko said.

“Social media has made it into a huge event now, and … it wasn’t going to be that way. It wasn’t planned to be that way,” Motsko said. “That’s the way it worked out, and it just kept growing and growing and growing. I don’t know about social media per se, but the amount of publicity we’re getting now is a whole lot more than it was when we first started.”

As the tournament’s fame has grown, it has attracted more than a few celebrities. Basketball all-star Michael Jordan, country singer Roy Clark, MLB player Wade Boggs and chef Emeril Lagasse have all taken part.

“A lot of the people (celebrities) that fished didn’t want anybody to know. They just wanted to go fishing,” Motsko said.

Looking forward to the 50th anniversary, now just three days away, Motsko is hoping to set the record for highest boat participation and the biggest purse, with a goal of $10 million.

“And catch a lot of fish,” Motsko added. “That’s the most important thing. When you’re catching fish, everybody’s happy, but when you’re not catching fish, then everybody’s miserable, so I’d like to see a lot of fish show up and (get) caught.”

All

Cost: $50,000

Level F: Heaviest Blue Marlin

Winner Take All

Cost: $2,000

Levels T1 & T2: Tuna 65/25/10

percent split

Cost: T1: $500 T2: $1,000

Tuna Level T3 & T4: Heaviest Tuna

Winner Take All

Cost: T3: $1,500 T4: $3,000

Level R: Most Release Points by a boat awarded - 55/30/15 percent split

Cost: $1,000

Level M: Daily Meat Fish: 50/50

percent - Heaviest Dolphin

Daily/Heaviest Wahoo

Cost: $500

Daily Level DT: Daily Tuna Heaviest

Winner Take All

Cost: $1,500

Tuna Bonus: heaviest tuna entered in the calcutta wins

Cost: $100

Level BF: Big Fish - Heaviest White Marlin, Blue Marlin, Swordfish, Tuna, Dolphin or Wahoo - Winner Take All

Cost: $1,500

Level SBT: Small Boat Heaviest

Tuna Winner Take All (boats under 40 feet LOA)

Cost: $1,000

Level SBD: Small Boat Heaviest

Dolphin Winner Take All (boats

under 40 feet LOA)

Cost: $1,000

Level SBBF: Small Boat Big Fish –The heaviest qualifying white marlin, blue marlin, swordfish, tuna, dolphin or wahoo - winner take all (boats under 40 feet LOA)

Cost: $1,500

Level SBR: Small Boat ReleaseMost release points by a boatWinner Take All (boats under 40 feet LOA)

Cost: $1,000

Level SBW: Small Boat Heaviest White Marlin Winner Take All (boats under 40 feet LOA)

Cost: $1,000

Marlin Fest back again at inlet lot, beach for WMO

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Marlin Fest, a celebration held in conjunction with the 50th annual White Marlin Open, is returning again this year with vendors, activities and music, Aug. 711 in the inlet parking lot and surrounding beach.

Admission to the festival, which runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day, is free.

One of the hallmarks of Marlin Fest is the live streamed tournament weigh-ins that will be shown on a big screen, as well as the chance to see boats competing pass through the inlet as teams take their catches to Harbour Island Marina on 14th Street.

Sasha Motsko, co-director of the Open and Marlin Fest, said the festival quadrupled in attendance between 2021 and 2022. She is the daughter of Jim Motsko, founder and director of the Open.

Marlin Fest drew just over 23,000 total attendees last year, and organizers are expecting that number to grow, Motsko said.

“The beauty of Marlin Fest is that, while there are a lot of people that attend, it is not as crowded as Harbour Island, so there’s a little more room for people to spread out,” Motsko said in reference to attendance at the weigh-ins. Thousands of people flock to see big fish brought to the scales at Harbour Island from 4-9:15 p.m. each tournament day.

“It’s a great way to be a part of the White Marlin Open and not have to flick through the crowds of people up at Harbour Island,” she said.

Marlin Fest started in 2020, and for its first two years, was held at the Third Street baseball fields. Last year it was moved to the inlet as the ballpark area underwent renovations.

“My father had actually had an idea for years, he had wanted to set up a vendor village for people … so that they could come to the Third Street ballpark and watch the boats going by on their way to Harbour Island to weigh fish,” Motsko said.

When covid hit, organizers de-

cided it would be a great time to test the idea so that visitors could be spread out. They’ve held it ever since.

This year, there will be live musical entertainment at Marlin Fest each day from noon to 4 p.m. Scheduled to perform Monday through Friday respectively are: Opposite Directions, Other Brother Darryl, Rogue Citizen, Colossal Fossil Sauce, and BK from Radio Ocean City.

Rogue Citizen and Colossal Fossil Sauce are new to Marlin Fest, but all other acts are returning.

There will also be a cornhole tournament and beach tennis, and attendees can sign up on site to get involved, Motsko said. The Art League of Ocean City will also have painting sessions every day.

White Marlin Open and Marlin Fest merchandise will available as well.

WHITE MARLIN OPEN CALCUTTAS:

Continued from Page 69

Level SBDP: Small Boat Daily Points - Most billfish points by a boat daily - Winner Take All (boats under 40 feet LOA)

Cost: $1,000

Level S: Heaviest Swordfish Winner

Take All

Cost: $2,500

Captain: Captain of boat that catches heaviest white marlin –

winner take all

Cost: $100

Mate: Mate of boat that catches heaviest white marlin – winner take all

Cost: $100

Non-Billfish Doubler: The tournament will double the listed guaranteed prize money for all nonbillfish categories.

Cost: $200

“We wanted to make sure that it was inclusive to everybody that’s involved in the White Marlin Open. So not only did we have a lot of the general public show up to Marlin Fest, the same fans that show up at Harbour Island to watch the weigh-ins live, we had a lot of people [last year] that had never even heard of the White Marlin Open before that came,” Motsko said. “That was really exciting, and we had a lot of our participants on their lay days [come] when they weren’t fishing.”

Food and drink vendors at the festival include: The Snowball Stand Truck, The Street Kitchen, Mad Waffle, Pete’s PeteZa, Thirsty Jerky and Modern Graze.

Retail vendors include: Salty Dog & Sweet P’s Swag, Soul Surf Creations, Shore Boy Fishing, Parking Lot Pirates, Bob Marlin Gear, Traci’s

Treasures, Trolling Mate Offshore, Fishing for MD Foundation, Fine Line Gear, Vacasa, Pattern Ops, Wanderlust.srv, Hook Optics, East Coast IV, George Kalwa Fine Art, Brown Dog Marine, Old Town Wind Bells, SML Footwear, Radio Ocean City, Katherine Ruskey (local author), Allen’s Signature Cornhole, Shorebrooks LLC, Art League of OC, Beach Tennis Maryland, and SoCo Swings.

Sponsors include: the Ocean City Reef Foundation, Deep Eddy’s Vodka, Malibu Rum, Olmeca Altos Tequila, Evolution Craft Brewing, Happy Dad Seltzers, Bad Monkey, Novamar Insurance Group and Jameson Irish Whiskey.

All drink sponsors will have products served at the event, Motsko said. For more information, visit https://marlinfest.com, or on Facebook.

Daily Billfish Points: Daily cash award for the most billfish points accumulated by a boat each day.

Cost: $1,000

Level Pay Day: The total purse will be divided by five days. Each day’s purse will be split evenly among any white marlin, blue marlin and tuna in first, second and/or third place on the leaderboard at the end of the day. If there are no winners for

a particular day, the un-won prize money will be split evenly among the purses of the other days.

Cost: $1,500

**$113,500: Amount (not including base entry fee) for boats under 40 feet (length overall) to enter all 30 added entry levels/calcuttas; $107,000 to enter into 24 added entry levels/calcuttas for boats 40 feet and larger.

PHOTO COURTESY SASHA MOTSKO

Marlin Fest is coming back to the Ocean City inlet beach and parking lot to run along with the White Marlin Open from Aug. 7-11. The festival livestreams the weigh-ins from Harbor Island Marina. Pictured are visitors watching tournament boats pass through the inlet.

Dalkiewicz offers more information on surfboard fins

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Aug. 4, 2023) Ok, more information on surfboard fins. This might get to be a bit too much for some.

Admittedly when first started my thought was that things could be covered in one article or maybe two. This one is number four and there could maybe be more going forward but we will have to see.

At any rate, Simon Anderson’s three-fin “Thruster,” for better or worse, has pretty much become the standard.

This isn’t to say that any other fin set up is secondary because it has a lot to do with other factors, such as length and width of a board. Read on and there will be at least one example of what is being talked about.

Through the 1990s, Kelly Slater really made an impact in competitive surfing on three-fin surfboards.

But the boards he rode were very slight, as in quite narrow and thin. This tended to hurt the average surfer with the influence it had. It became more difficult for the more casual surfer.

In the ’80s, surfboards were more reasonable in their width and thickness and thus easier to ride for the everyday enthusiast. It’s easy for the average surfer to become influenced by what the best in the world ride but not always the best idea.

During all of this time longboards started to come back on the scene and in the mix.

The glide of these boards and the fun factor was obvious and though not every one worked out well for a lot of the surfing population, with many of these boards being single fins. It was sort of like a throwback, a resurgence of the ‘60s when every board was a longboard, except that this time the boards were more refined in general with a lot being learned during that approximate 20- to 30-year period.

One of these “learned” factors was the idea of the “two plus one” fin set up. This is two fins placed out toward the rail or sides of the board and forward of one single fin placed aft of the twins

toward the tail.

With removable fins via fin boxes or channels it creates a most versatile possibility for different fin combinations, be it size or placement. Thus a board can be tuned for various riders and/or wave conditions. One, two, or three fins can be used, though most times two smaller fins are placed forward and one larger fin is placed back toward the tail.

Granted this is getting a bit too complicated for most but the versatility is there for those that want to take advantage of it. I even think that this idea can be used in shorter boards, especially in the mid-size range though it can be valid in “short” boards as well.

As an example, a good friend of mine, Ted Cogswell, was able to change the way his newly acquired board performed by changing the center fin. It required some thought on his part but the result was satisfactory.

So there you have it. These days almost anything goes. After all, surfing is what it is to you. Yes, only one fin is necessary, especially with wide tail, extremely tail rockered, nose riders.

But there’s a lot more available.

Bigeye tuna weighing 228.5 pounds wins Big Fish Classic

By Lisa Capitelli Contributing Editor

(Aug. 4, 2023) While windy and rough fishing conditions offshore deterred some from participating in the 10th annual Huk Big Fish Classic last weekend, 69 boats were entered and $740,900 in prize money was awarded.

Originally, teams could choose to fish between two 32-hour slots: 7 a.m. Friday, July, 28 to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 29; or 7 a.m. Saturday to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 30. Sunday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 31, was added before the 2023 tournament began as the fishing conditions were expected to improve.

“It was really rough … but by Sunday evening it got better,” said Brian Roberts, co-director of the Classic.

Sixty-eight of the tournament’s 69 boats took advantage of the added slot to fish.

The Port-A-Bella crew brought the largest fish to the Talbot Street Pier scale in downtown Ocean City – a 228.5-pound bigeye tuna. The group also landed four yellowfin tuna weighing 64, 56.5, 49.5 and 38.5 pounds for a combined stringer weight of 437 pounds.

The team won a total of $224,205.

The Real One crew hooked a 171pound bigeye – the second largest fish of the tournament – and two yellowfin tuna weighing 55.5 and 49.5 pounds for a total of 276 pounds.

The group was awarded $170,450.

The Black Irish team weighed the third-heaviest fish of the Classic – a 130-pound swordfish.

The crew received $63,847.50.

“Fishing was a little slower than in years past,” Roberts said. “We had some obstacles, but everything worked out. Considering the forecast [prior to the tournament] it exceeded my expectations. It shows how much people like fishing this tournament.”

In addition, the tournament raised about $19,000 for the Ocean City Fire Department.

Several thousand dollars was also collected for three organizations:

• Diakonia in West Ocean City, an organization which helps individuals and families by providing shelter, food, clothing and program services.

• The Raymond A. Wood Foundation, which provides quality of life support for childhood brain tumor survivors and their families.

• The Ocean Research Project, which tracks sea level rise and temperature change.

Talbot Street Pier is the original spot where some of the first fish caught off the coast of Ocean City were weighed.

Nearly 100 years ago, the pier in downtown Ocean City was bustling with activity as anglers took their daily catches there. Organizers of the Big Fish Classic wanted to bring the action, and big fish, back to the pier.

For more information and full list of winners, visit www.bigfishclassic.com.

— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in

PHOTO COURTESY BIG FISH CLASSIC FACEBOOK

The Port-A-Bella crew brought the largest fish of the 10th annual Huk Big Fish Classic to the Talbot Street Pier scale in downtown Ocean City – a 228.5-pound bigeye tuna. The group also landed four yellowfin tuna weighing 64, 56.5, 49.5 and 38.5 pounds for a combined stringer weight of 437 pounds. The team won a total of $224,205.

It’s all about the build ... and the fishing at Duffie Boatworks

By Hunter Hine

Jeremy Duffie of Bethesda caught the 77.5-pound white marlin in the 49th annual White Marlin Open that won him and his teammates a world record payout of $4.5 million.

He boated the fish on the final day of the tournament aboard the 64-foot Billfisher, the first “big” boat ever designed and built by Jeremy’s brother, Jon, president and owner of Duffie Boatworks.

This was the second tournament winner reeled onto the Duffie family’s Billfisher, of which Jon is both captain and creator.

In 2021, Billy Gerlach, of Jupiter, Florida, broke the Maryland state record for blue marlin after he caught a 1,135-pound blue in the 30th annual MidAtlantic fishing tournament. It was on the Billfisher, and Jon Duffie was on board.

A mount of Gerlach’s blue marlin hangs inside, above the main entrance to Duffie Boatworks, which sits on Route 611 near the intersection with Old Bridge Road.

The building is divided into two tall workshops with folding garage doors. Duffie’s office is central to the building, and borders a wide-open workshop that overlooks each garage.

The South garage holds the Boatworks’ three current sport-fishing builds: an 80footer named “Reel Joy,” a 59-foot boat called “Boys Toy,” and a 66-foot vessel called “American Beauty” that's still in the “cold molding” process.

All are custom designed and built to the customer’s — and Duffie’s — specifications, and each one is built for competitive tournament sportfishing. While beauty is important,

DUFFIE BOATWORKS

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Pictured, clockwise from left, is Jon Duffie’s first big project, the 64-foot Billfisher, of which he is the captain. Duffie poses on the 80-foot boat, “Reel Joy,” in the Boatworks’ workshop. The in-progress interior of the 59-foot “Boys Toy.”

Duffie’s main goal is to build boats that are durable and easy to maintain.

“These boats need to be built in a way that you can use them every day, day in and day out, punish them, take them out in the ocean, because you never know,” Duffie said. “You can't control the weather. You can only control what's happening on board the boat.”

As Duffie tells it, his life always led him to being on and working on boats.

“I got into the boat-building business based off of my experiences growing up on the dock. Fishing has been the only job I've ever had,”

Duffie said.

Duffie grew up in Montgomery County, but his family had a house in Ocean City and spent much of their time fishing its waters on the family boat.

His father, Jonathan Duffie, taught him things such as boat maintenance and how to navigate with paper charts.

Jonathan Duffie is executive vice president and chairman of Duffie Companies, a real estate and construction company in the DMV, and his brother Jeremy is the third generation president.

Duffie said that after growing up in a construction family, building comes

naturally.

When he started working as a mate on Ocean City charter boats, Duffie would offer people help fixing their boats. Many of them started telling him he should do it for a living, Duffie said.

“We took care of the boats ourselves and did all of the work ourselves,” Duffie said. “When you grow up that way it becomes second nature, and then when I started charter fishing, and traveling, and tournament fishing other places, the boats break. (That’s) just what they do, and so you learn how to be self-reliant.”

Whenever the family was having a new fishing boat built, Duffie would

go to the boat shop and help. He learned the craft from other masters such as Ricky Scarborough, Paul Spencer, and Bayliss Boatworks, who are all in North Carolina.

“So, after being involved in those projects, I said, ‘You know what, if we ever do this again, I'm just going to do it myself. I want to build my own boat,’” Duffie said.

He started building a small boat in his garage, then around 2015, began constructing a 26-foot center console. During that build he designed the Billfisher.

Duffie eventually built a pole barn to begin construction of the 64footer, and as he did, people started asking if he would build boats for them.

While building the Billfisher, he and his family began designing the current Duffie Boatworks building, and the company made an official start in 2017.

“My family does everything as a unit, so we're all invested in this (the Boatworks) and this is something that we do together,” Duffie said. “We fish together, we’re in business together, so this is a testament to that. We do it as a team.”

So far, Duffie Boatworks has produced several smaller boats, the Billfisher, and a 70-footer named “Dem Boys.” The shop also does repairs, refurbishing and maintenance in the service yard. Duffie’s backlog of orders includes five boats that exceed 70 feet.

“We're still a neophyte boat building company. We're just getting off the ground. We finished two boats and they've turned out incredible. I think every one is going to keep getting better,” Duffie said.

Each boat takes about two-three

Pictured, clockwise from left, is the bow-side hull of the 80-foot, “Reel Joy’ inside the South workshop of Duffie Boatworks. The wood structure that will be used to cold-mold the hull of the 66-foot “American Beauty,” located in the same workshop. The top and stern of the “Reel Joy,” along with the two other current boat building projects seen from the back of the workshop.

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Duffie family to enter 50th WMO

years to build, and no two boats are exactly alike. Customers are involved in every part of the process from design through construction, but Duffie said he won’t compromise on certain aspects, including building method, boat bottoms and mechanicals.

“My favorite part of this is the creativity that goes into designing,” Duffie said.

To begin a project, Duffie and customers have a dialogue over their wants and needs, then whatever must fit into a boat dictates the size, Duffie said.

About 50 employees working in mechanics, plumbing, carpentry and painting construct almost every aspect of the boat from scratch, save for things like metal fabrication, tuna towers and fighting chairs, Duffie said.

“We're taking a pile of plywood and turning it into a yacht. At the end of the day these are yachts. They’re not just fishing boats,” Duffie said.

To build a boat, the Boatworks cold-molds wooden hulls, instead of fiberglass, then make stringers, chines and keels from Douglas fir and sheaths the structure in Bruynzeel Okoume plywood. Next they fiberglass it and apply different fairing

compounds and hydro-primers. After final prime, workers paint the boat.

With wood hulls, many boaters worry that water will cause rot, Duffie said. So, to combat the issue, the

Boatworks implements fiberglass or composite structures everywhere water is at risk of penetrating into the wood in the vessel.

They use composite materials for

the topsides of the boats to save weight, so the center of gravity is kept low at the hull.

“The engineering that's in one of these boats is incredible,” Duffie said. “I mean we really take it farther than most people.”

Designers also use a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) computer modeling program to see the boat’s running trim, resistance curves and speed estimates.

Duffie said he is involved at every level of design and construction and uses his practical boating experience as an asset in design.

“There's guys that know way more about the mechanical, the electrical, the plumbing, the carpentry, than I do, but I have the experience of working on a boat for a long time and running a boat, traveling on the boat, living onboard the boat, so what I feel … what I bring to the table is the boots-on-the-ground experience,” Duffie said.

As the 50th annual White Marlin Open approaches, Duffie said he and his family are again entering the tournament, with him at the helm and the rest of them fishing. He said they are hopeful and that much of catching a winning marlin is luck. Still, he prides himself on making sure that everything within his control is under control, especially boat maintenance and keeping equipment “tip-top.”

“Fishing for some guys — it's the most important thing,” Duffie said. “For me, I love the fishing aspect of it, but I also loved how the boats were put together, why they were put together that way. Who designed it. How it was built. How does it perform? To me, that was as important as the fishing.”

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Pictured, from left, are Tommy Driggers, Zack Baker, Mike Wilkinson and Trevor Mavioglu, who are all employees at Duffie Boatworks, pose near the garage-door entrance to the South workshop, between the cold-mold of the 66-foot “American Beauty,” left, and the 80-foot “Reel Joy,” right.

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