9/8/2023 Ocean City Today

TRIBUTES TO 9/11

Remembrance Beams of Light and Parade of Brothers Motorcycle Ride to take place – Page 22

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES

Photos taken at roughly the same time on Labor Day and the day after on the beach looking toward the inlet should give residents and visitors an idea of just how abrupt the change can be from traditional summer to September. Hundreds of thousands of visitors flooded the resort over the weekend, with the trickle of home-bound tourists beginning on Monday. Even so, Monday was still a busy day in terms of crowd size, while Tuesday ... well, that’s just the way it is in a beach town.

Beach Patrol has grueling weekend

said part of the reason why the weekend was so busy for his crews was because there were a limited number of guards, as most have gone back to school for the fall season.

Northside becomes smoke-free

Council does away with designated smoking areas

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) While tourists packed the Ocean City beaches on a bustling Labor Day weekend, the lifeguards of the Ocean City Beach Patrol worked tirelessly to save a combined 382 people from the brutal surf conditions.

Their efforts on these days of abnormally strong riptides carried some patrol members to the point of exhaustion, including two lifeguards who, after performing multiple rescues, had to be treated by emergency medical services. Both returned to duty the following day.

Beach Patrol Capt. Butch Arbin

He also attributed the increased number of rescues on Labor Day weekend to the rough surf conditions, stating that the number of tourists who come to the beach have little impact on that statistic.

“During the tropical storm, people would look at the ocean and not want to go in because the water looked nasty, but once the storm passes, even though there are blue skies, no humidity, and beautiful weather, the rough wave conditions are still present in the ocean,” Arbin said of the lingering rip currents, the catalyst of the elevated number of rescues. “People will want to go in, but what they

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) There will be no more smoking at Northside Park, following the Ocean City Council’s decision Tuesday to remove designated smoking areas from the grounds.

The city code already prohibited smoking at any public park in town with the only exception being the smoking areas at Northside Park on 125th Street. Park visitors were permitted to smoke or vape within 15 feet of the signs marking the areas, but now there are no parks in town where smoking or vaping is allowed.

The ordinance empowering that change also replaces references to

See WEEKEND Page 7See SMOKING Page 6

HUNTER HINE/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

A member of the Beach Patrol looks for signs of trouble during his Labor Day shift.

FRESH SEAFOOD, CERTIFIED ANGUS BEEF STEAKS, UNLIMITED SIDES, & AWARD-WINNING RAW BAR

Packed Ocean City lineup of events to cause lot closure

(Sept. 8, 2023) The inlet parking lot in Ocean City will be closed for public parking from Sunday, Sept. 10 until Sunday, Oct. 8, to accommodate several upcoming events.

The inlet lot will be hosting several large events in September and October, an advisory from the Town of Ocean City said.

The first event will be OC BikeFest. While the event is scheduled to occur from Sept. 13-17, the promoters will start setting up the concert and vendor area on Sunday, Sept. 10.

During the event, OC BikeFest will have limited motorcycle-only parking in the inlet lot.

Parking spaces will be on a firstcome, first-serve basis. To learn more about this event, visit https://ocbikefest.com/.

As OC BikeFest begins to break down its event, the inlet lot will transition right into setting up for the Oceans Calling Festival.

In addition, the municipal parking lot at North Division Street will be closed from Wednesday, Sept. 20 until approximately Wednesday, Oct. 4 to accommodate the set-up and breakdown and will serve as part of the concert footprint area.

The Oceans Calling Festival will take place from Sept. 29 through Oct. 1. For more information, visit https://www.oceanscallingfestival.co m/

After the Oceans Calling Festival, the inlet parking lot will be used for

the Endless Summer Cruisin’ classic car rally on Oct. 5-8.

Vehicles participating in the Endless Summer Cruisin’ will be permitted to park in the inlet parking lot from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The promoter reminded participants that the inlet parking lot fills quickly on Friday and Saturday, therefore being in the parade does not guarantee parking in the inlet.

The lot will be available to the public after 5 p.m. each day during this event. The lot will resume normal operations after 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information, visit https://specialeventpro.com/endless-summer-cruisin

There are several alternatives for municipal and street parking during the inlet lot closure.

Anyone planning to attend one of these events or take a stroll on the Boardwalk should visit https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/oceancity-parking to learn more.

The city advisory also said the downtown area is expected to be congested over the next several weeks with multiple events taking place. Motorists should plan to leave early and stay a little later to avoid traffic congestion. Parking will be limited, especially during the Oceans Calling Festival.

The Ocean City bus service is a good alternative to trying to find parking in the busy downtown area.

Ocean City Today

Calendar..........................31

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Crossword Puzzle..............26

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Obituaries........................60

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Service Directory..............35

Sports..............................61

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OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) At the city council work session on Tuesday, members voted 6-0 (with councilman John Gehrig absent) to approve a slew of items, including a charity ride on the Boardwalk, a bid for construction at a city facility and numerous upcoming meeting agendas.

Private event permit

City council accepted a private event permit for the 2023 Bay to Beach Drive, a Boardwalk vehicle parade for the Miata Owners of Delmarva (MOOD) that will fundraise for a shelter that supports homeless and needy veterans.

The charity parade, which is set to run from 5-6 p.m. on Sept. 9, will travel the Boardwalk from 26th Street to N. Division Street. The drive will begin on the Chesapeake Bay side of the Eastern Shore.

Participants in the caravan plan to meet at the Ocean City convention center upon arrival in town, as long as parking is available there. Then, they will drive to and across the Boardwalk to wrap up the ride.

The beneficiary of the fundraising is the Home of the Brave, a nonprofit in Milford, Delaware, which provides transitional shelter and services to veterans facing difficulty returning to civilian life, according to the application for permit.

Donations will come from driver participants.

MOOD holds the event annually on the Saturday closest to 9/11.

Rich Leary, who will serve as the event manager, submitted the permit on behalf of MOOD.

“Many of our early members (of MOOD) were retired career military so our charity recipient choice came easily,” Leary wrote in the application.

Per the application, there can be no more than 75 cars in the parade, which will be escorted on the Boardwalk by Ocean City Police. Police will also assist the cars when entering and exiting the Boardwalk.

Trams will be suspended for the duration of the Boardwalk ride.

Construction bid awarded

City council voted to approve a bid from Stevenson Concrete Construction LLC, of Pasadena, Maryland to rehabilitate the floor of the Solid Waste Transfer Station located on bayside 65th Street.

The town budgeted the project at $900,000, and Stevenson Concrete was the lowest qualified bidder, offering to complete the job at the cost of $839,901.

The second lowest bid came D.W. Burt Concrete Construction Inc., of

Salisbury, at $854,384, and the highest bid was $964,880 from Hawkins Contracting Inc., also of Salisbury.

Sports complex task force

A Sports complex task force meeting is set to be held at the Ocean City convention center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 13.

At an Aug. 1 work session, city council members unanimously voted to approve 31 members of the task force who have strong local ties, connections and interests pertinent to building the complex somewhere in Worcester County.

At the meeting, members will review the project proposal’s history, hear a presentation from the Maryland Stadium Authority, review the economic impacts of the proposed facility based on a Crossroads Study and more.

The agenda includes a notice for a closed session that’s set to be held at the end of the meeting. The session’s purported purpose is to consider the acquisition of property for public use.

Budget amendment

The council voted unanimously to adopt a budget amendment for the Fiscal Year 2023 budget, which City solicitor Heather Stansbury said was presented to council members at the Aug. 1 work session.

Councilman John Gehrig was absent for the vote.

According to the agenda, the amendment recognizes revenue the city has received since a previous budget amendment, and makes an adjustment for the estimated revenue the town is expected to have at the end of the fiscal year.

The town is estimated to receive $3.7 million in additional revenue from sources such as the room tax, admissions tax and “interest on investments.”

There was also $2.1 million in additional estimated revenue from building permits, Medicaid reimbursement and grants and donations.

Transportation funds from the American Rescue Plan Act funding (ARPA) helped offset increases in vehicle fuel and maintenance costs for town buses as well as estimated revenues from Boardwalk tram fares. Tram revenue turned out to be less than expected, said Ocean City Budget Manager Jennie Knapp in a phone call.

Another $350,001 were transferred to the town’s Risk Management after there were increased estimates for worker’s compensation claims. Most of that money came from savings in other city department budgets, according to the agenda.

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SELBYVILLE, DE • $2,500,000

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MLS MDWO2008616

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Smoking banned at Northside Park

Continued from Page 1

“marijuana” with “cannabis” to align Ocean City’s code language with state legislation that recently legalized the substance.

It was the council’s second reading of the ordinance, which passed with a 4-2 vote. Councilmen Peter Buas and Tony DeLuca were the dissenting votes, and councilman John Gehrig was absent.

At an Aug 1. city council work session, members voted 6-1 to proceed with readings of the new ordinance after a presentation from Rec and Parks Department Director Susan Petito.

Petito told council members that many park-goers were not abiding by the designated smoking areas and that enforcing the smoking zones was becoming increasingly difficult.

Rec and Parks staff also decided that since the law legalizing cannabis possession and use prohibited cannabis smoking in public, there could be a new enforcement problem.

The staff determined that removing smoking areas altogether is more feasible.

Smoking areas were added to Northside Park in 2015 to accommodate smokers participating in softball tournaments there.

At the first reading of the ordinance on Aug. 22, the council voted 4-2 to pass the ordinance on to its second reading. Councilman Tony DeLuca voted against it along with councilman Peter Buas, who was the original dissenter. Councilman Will

Savage was absent. On Aug. 22, DeLuca worried that these smoking bans would not stop at parks and eventually lead to a blanket ban that might include the beach, which also has designated smoking spots.

Study of inlet can move forward with shoaling spotlight

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) A study of the Ocean City inlet that was conducted 25 years ago is being given a long overdue update, with a letter to that effect going to the US Army Corp of Engineers in Baltimore..

The 1998 Ocean City, Maryland Water Resources Study, Feasibility Report and Integrated Environmental Impact Statement was approved to be updated by the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday.

Bob Mitchell, the director of Environmental Programs, said that the intent for this updated study is to bring to light the continued shoaling issues present as well as other navigational and physical environmental changes made to the inlet area since the last study was conducted.

“Shoaling has gotten exponentially worse in the coastal bays since Hurricane Sandy hit in 2013,” Mitchell said. “It’s just gotten to a point where aggressive action is needed.”

The corps had notified the county’s Department of Environmental Programs back in March that it was not going to fund the inlet jetty improve-

See SHIP Page 7

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Ocean City Council agreed Tuesday to remove designated smoking areas in Northside Park on 125th Street because of enforcement difficulties.

Ship navigation, soil erosion part of issues study covers

Continued from Page 6

ment project. Mitchell said this study would serve as a more long-term solution moving forward.

“The currents are starting to shave off the northwestern part of the island, as well as sand being deposited in the inlet area,” said Mitchell, highlighting the effects of shoaling being brought to the area.

“Only one ship at a time can pass through Sunset Harbor and the West Ocean City commercial harbor, which isn’t good for navigation or traffic. So the canyon between the 11 and 12 buoys marking off the entrance to Sunset Harbor needs to be widened for safety and navigational purposes.”

These issues pose a problem to commercial fisherman, as bumping the boat on the bottom in any way could cause damage and ultimately put the fishermen out of commission, as they undertook expensive boat repairs.

Short-term solutions that the department considered included more aggressive dredging, removing mate-

Weekend hard on Beach Patrol

Continued from Page 1

rial from the shoals near the western inlet navigational buoys, direct sand placement on the northern part of Assateague Island, and occasionally relocating buoys so optimum navigation can be achieved.

The study itself aims to develop water resource projects for the coastal bays, and to lessen the adverse impact caused by past corps projects.

“A lot of it is trying to restore the sediment transportation system,” Mitchell said.

In approaching the study, Mitchell and the department intend to view the issues being brought to the inlet area holistically.

“There’s a lot of new information and a lot of new movement with the sediment transport that needs to be looked at,” Mitchell said.

The commissioners recommended that the department partner with the Department of Natural Resources, the Town of Ocean City, and the Federal Park Service, indicating that the Army Corps letter should be sent to every department.

don’t realize is the surge will make its way back out, pulling the swimmer with it. Once they’re in over their head, we’ve got a drowning situation.”

Arbin also said that besides the active surf rescues, the lifeguards had multiple ambulance calls for people who simply stood close to the shore break, where the waves would crash down on them and driving them down to the sand.

“We had a fly-out for potential neck back injury, also dislocated shoulders, several fractures of different long bones of the body, arms and legs,” Arbin said.

In order to ensure the safety of people who do plan to swim in the ocean, Arbin stressed that people swim only when lifeguards are on duty, and that they swim in front of a stand.

“If they’re not a good swimmer, then they should stay out of the ocean or not go past knee-deep,” Arbin said.

The OCBP also sent out phone alerts on Friday and Sunday, advising the public of the hazardous surf conditions.

“Our intent was for people’s phones to go off, for them to see the notifications and say that something is different here,” Arbin said. “The key is to change the behavior of those looking to swim in dangerous waters.”

As of this week, the OCBP is down to 16 stands, half the number that they had this summer.

“Everybody thinks we finish our season on Labor Day, which is not true,” Arbin said. “We’ll be guarding seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from now until the end of our season, which is Sept. 24.”

During this time, he said, most of the staff are gone as they’re typically worn out from the busy summer and also have obligations for school.

“We don’t like to see our numbers down,” Arbin said, “But we did have a couple lifeguards that came back for the Labor Day weekend.”

He also noted that a few lifeguards who were off-duty for that weekend still came in to help.

“They just did an incredible job yesterday and I can’t say enough about them,” Arbin said of the collective effort of everyone that pitched in to keep everyone safe from the hazardous surf.

At last week’s City Council meeting, Mayor Rick Meehan showed nothing but praise for the OCBP’s effort to keep the public safe under extreme conditions.

“We owe them a great deal of gratitude and support, and we should thank them every day for all they do all summer, but especially what they did this last weekend,” Meehan said.

‘Only one ship at a time can pass through Sunset Harbor and the West Ocean City commercial harbor…’

Bob Mitchell

Fire department shows community support at schools

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) welcomed students and teachers back to school for the 2023-2024 academic year this week, with a display of community support and safety awareness.

As the sun rose over Seaside Christian Academy, a private school in West Ocean City, and Ocean City Elementary School students and teachers were met by firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians from OCFD lined up outside the school entrances to greet the returning students.

Parents and bus drivers watched as students disembarked from buses and cars and waved back at the first responders who had come to welcome them.

The connection between the fire department and the schools is part of the department’s commitment to community engagement and safety education.

“We are thrilled to be here today, greeting our young scholars and dedicated educators as they embark on this exciting new school year,” said Fire Chief Richie Bowers, emphasizing the importance of this annual tradition. “It’s a reminder to the students that firefighters are their friends and allies in ensuring their safety. We encourage all families to check their smoke alarms regularly, as safety starts at home.”

The welcoming ceremony also featured the OCFD’s therapy dog Max, who is known for his calming presence and ability to offer comfort.

A fire department statement said its participation in the first day of school reflects the department’s dedication to fostering a safe and supportive learning environment for the community’s youth. Through initiatives like this, the statement continued, OCFD continues to build strong bonds with local schools and residents, emphasizing the importance of safety education and preparedness.

Correction

In a story about an Ocean City government budget amendment in the Sept. 1, 2023 edition, it was reported that a proposed budget amendment had already gone through a second and final reading on Aug. 21. This is incorrect. The budget amendment passed first reading Aug. 21 and was set for final approval at a City Council meeting Tuesday.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Ocean City Fire Department firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians visited Seaside Christian Academy and Ocean City Elementary School to welcome students and teachers back to school on Tuesday. The group is pictured at Ocean City Elementary.

New protocols for safety in county schools

WCPS personnel trained in procedures to respond and reunify families, students

(Sept. 8, 2023) As the school year begins, Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) has announced a new set of protocols to boost school safety efforts and create common language among the school system, emergency services partners, and the school system community.

The school system has adopted the Standard Response and Reunification Protocols created by the I Love U Guys Foundation (https://iloveuguys.org).

The foundation conducted a full day of training with all school system administration and emergency services partners during WCPS’s annual two-day Safety Summit in July.

Since that time, all staff within WCPS have been trained in the protocols and how they are applied to their specific classrooms and schools.

“School safety is a critical component to enable our students and staff to bring their best to school every day,” Chief Safety and Academic Officer Annette Wallace said. “It is our responsibility to ensure that everyone, including our families, are aware of what to expect and what to do in the event of a crisis. This is precisely why we have placed such an emphasis on training since this summer’s safety summit.”

This week, school system families

Free Ballet on the Beach Sept. 23 at Assateague Is.

(Sept. 8, 2023) Members of the pic are invited to attend a free, outdoor professional dance performance later this month at Assateague Island.

According to a news release, the Ballet on the Beach festival is a conduit to connect the community, environment, and performing arts. Cosponsored by Assateague State Park, the event is set from 5-6:30 p.m., with pre-performance activities at 4 p.m., on Saturday, Sept. 23.

The outdoor performance is free and open to the public and parking is $5 per vehicle. Attendees are encouraged to bring beach chairs or towels to watch “professional dance artists performing in a natural shoreline setting,” according to the release.

Other activities include environmental talks, a community dance class, art activities for children, and a post-performance Q&A.

For more information, visit balletonthebeach.org, or find Ballet on the Beach on Facebook or Instagram.

will receive information on the protocols, educating them in the five school safety statuses: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter. Each of the statuses is labeled by a specific icon and a directive for students and staff.

Schools will communicate with families any time the school enters into a school safety mode. This communication will also provide expectations for families, which in most cases is requesting families to wait for further instruction or notification that the school has returned to normal operations.

“By providing clear expectations on when and how schools will communicate with families in the event of a school safety status change, we reassure them that our schools are actively and appropriately responding

to whatever is occurring,” Coordinator of Public Relations and Special Programs Carrie Sterrs said. “At the same time, families are educated that in these instances, coming to the school is not always the best course of action, and waiting for that additional communication or instruction is the best way they can help in times of crisis.”

In addition to the new protocols, schools will continue to emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious or concerning behaviors within the schools.

Worcester County uses the Maryland Center for School Safety’s anonymous tipline (833-MD-B-SAFE or https://schoolsafety.maryland.gov/P ages/Tipline.aspx) to provide students, staff, and members of the com-

munity with the means to report a tip. Tipline access information is readily available on all school websites.

“Tips that come into the Safe Schools Maryland tipline are completely confidential,” Coordinator of School Safety Shawn Goddard said. “It’s so important that we can provide the means for anyone to report a tip. The earlier we know about potential threats to our school environments, the quicker we can appropriately address them, and as we all know, time is critical in any safety response.”

Additional information about the WCPS’ new School Safety protocols can be found on a newly established page on the school system’s website at https://www.worcester k12.org/page/school-safety-protocols.

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) It’s not uncommon for Ocean City residents and visitors to misidentify cannabis’s unregulated, hemp-based cousin as the real thing in shops around town.

The Ocean City Police Department, for instance, has received multiple complaints about THC-9 products being sold from local businesses that aren’t dispensaries, said Ashley Miller, deputy communications manager for the OCPD.

THC-9 is the active ingredient in regulated cannabis, which became legal for recreational possession and use for people 21-and-over statewide starting July 1. But what these local shops are selling is not THC-9, but a close cousin of that substance that is available for sale via a legal loophole.

Ocean City police have found that these stores are selling a THC variant, the chemical structure of which is different from the cannabis-produced product. These variations are classified and sold as THC-8 or THC-10, also known as delta-8 and delta-10.

Some shops actually do sell THC9 products too, but only when it comes in an unregulated form, which means it didn’t come from cannabis.

New laws governing cannabis cover THC-9 explicitly, and say little in regard to delta-8 and delta-10, which are hemp-derived chemicals that fall in a legal grey area and are considered unregulated.

Delta-8 and delta-10 still produce intoxicating effects, although it’s generally agreed upon that the high people get from consuming them is lesser than that of THC-9. That is, when it’s at the same dosage.

CBD is another active ingredient in cannabis that is also found in hemp. It’s FDA approved to be used for treating seizure disorders, according to the CDC, and is known to be used to ease chronic pain and anxiety. CBD is legal in Maryland and most other states.

Producers use a chemical process to convert hemp-sourced CBD into delta-8, delta-10, and other THC variations including THC-9 (or delta-9 THC), which is typically the highly regulated form only found in dispensaries.

At least one store in downtown Ocean City sells edible gummy worms from the brand Moon Buzz that contain delta-9 THC. However, the package’s back label states that the THC-9 that is used in the gum-

mies is derived from hemp, and is therefore not a controlled substance.

The top of the front label states “un-controlled substance.” At the bottom it says “Extremely high dosage” and that there are 100 milligrams of THC-9 in each gummy. The back label, however, says there are just 10 milligrams per gummy.

A section of warning statements says that the product isn’t FDA approved. Other symbols on the front of the package indicate “21+,” “Lab Tested,” and it even provides a stamp of kosher certification.

The store also sells gummies containing both delta-8 and delta-11, yet another variation of THC. It’s made by the same brand and bears a similar package and labeling, but instead of the upper-label saying “un-controlled substance” it says “Relax. Take a break.”

Delta-8 and delta-10 are isomers of THC-9, meaning they are com-

Stores around Ocean City are selling unregulated forms of THC that are technically legal. Pictured are two packages of edible THC gummies that were purchased in a store downtown.

posed of the same atoms but have a different arrangement of molecules, according to the December 2022 legislative report “Hemp-Derived NonDelta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Products,” from the Medical Cannabis Commission.

The Medical Cannabis Commission became the Maryland Cannabis Administration through the same law that legalized cannabis in the state.

The legal ambiguity of delta-8 and delta-10 goes back to the 2018 federal Farm Bill, a piece of legislation that legalized hemp, defining it as a cannabis plant containing less than 0.3 percent THC-9 per its dry weight, according to the 2022 report by the Maryland commission. It doesn’t address delta-8 or delta-10.

As long as a product’s THC-9 content stays below the standard, it can have increased levels of delta-8 and delta-10 and still be considered a hemp product.

While Maryland law has yet to fully regulate products containing delta-8 or delta-10, HB1078, a bill that passed the Maryland General Assembly in May 2022 and became effective in July 2022, says businesses cannot sell these products to anyone under 21-years-old.

HB1078 also mandated the Medical Cannabis Commission’s 2022 legislative report, as cited from above, which analyzed the substances and made recommendations for classification and regulation.

In the 2022 report, commission authors raised concerns that, without more oversight, the chemical process used to create delta-8 and delta-10 could leave hazardous byproducts in the product.

Also, authors noted that many products contained much higher levels of delta-8 and delta-10 than would be allowed for THC-9 products in regulated dispensaries, which at the time of the study were for medical use only.

“In fact, every edible product purchased as part of this study would not be allowed under the State’s existing medical cannabis laws,” authors wrote.

In their recommendations, authors of the 2022 commission’s report suggested that the Maryland Department of Agriculture regulate all hemp-based products, that the state implement product testing requirements, that there should be packaging and labeling standard minimums, and more.

Hemp-derived THC variants’ vague legal status

HB556, the bill that legalized recreational cannabis for adult use in Maryland, states that a person cannot sell delta-8, delta-10 or THC-9 products over a certain dosage unless they are licensed and abide by outlined manufacturing standards, lab testing standards, and packaging and labeling standards.

That “certain dosage” is 0.5 milligrams of the active ingredient per serving or 2.5 milligrams per package.

On June 20, the Ocean City Coun-

cil put into effect a nine-month moratorium across the town that blocked “the acceptance and processing” of applications, site plans and business licenses for businesses who grow, process or sell cannabis.

It’s stated intent is to give planning and zoning officials time to study the issue of opening new cannabis businesses in town.

The moratorium uses the word, “cannabis,” which is now legally defined as a cannabis plant containing more than 0.3 percent THC-9 based on dry weight.

Again, because of the 2018 Farm Bill, any product with a THC-9 percentage lower than that is still considered hemp no matter how much delta-8 or delta-10 it contains.

Two dispensaries that serve both medical and recreational cannabis already exist, which are Hi-Tide on Marjan Lane and Positive Energy on Jerry Mack Road. Both are in West Ocean City.

Many businesses across town, several of which are on the Boardwalk, continue to sell products containing delta-8, delta-10, hemp-derived

delta-9 THC and other THC variations.

“OCPD investigates all complaints involving businesses or individuals who are in violation of this resolution. If anyone has information of illegal sales of cannabis in the Town of Ocean City please contact the Ocean City Police Department,” Miller said. “We can be reached at 410-723-6610 or you may utilize our crime tip options. Anonymous tips may be left by calling 410-520-5136 or submitted via https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/crime-tips.”

Cannabis dispensaries, such as the Hi Tide Dispensary located off Stephen Decatur Highway in West Ocean City, were the subject of discussion regarding provisions to dispensary zoning, new dispensary distancing, and on-site consumption of cannabis.

Cannabis dispensary regulations approved

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) Multiple provisions related to cannabis consumption can move forward, following three separate unanimous votes from the Worcester County Commission-

ers on Tuesday.

These votes included one for zoning, one for distancing, and one for on-site consumption.

Jennifer Keener, the director of Developmental Review and Permitting, presented the proposed

cannabis regulations to the commissioners, as the county prepares for the arrival of additional cannabis license holders.

The state currently implements conversion licenses for existing medical cannabis license holders and are

also accepting new applications this fall.

Keener first recommended that the same zoning approach that was put in place in 2017 be applied to medical cannabis establishments.

See ZONING Page 16

Indecent exposure/whip

Carter Jay Derickson Jr., 57, of Ocean City, received 10 charges from the Ocean City police department, including indecent exposure, brandishing a deadly weapon with intent to injure and assault, according to a police report.

On Aug. 28, around 3 p.m., police responded to Ninth Street and Baltimore Avenue in reference to someone acting disorderly. Callers said that 30 people were trying to beat up an old man.

Police said the callers also told them a man exposed his penis to children and then swung a leather bullwhip at a group of adults.

When police arrived, they saw Derickson, who matched the description

of the suspect involved in the incident, and then saw him ride his bike through a red light.

According to the police report, police turned on their emergency lights and sirens, but Derickson continued to ride away from them. Eventually Derickson stopped and when police approached him they saw he had a leather whip in the pocket of his backpack.

A further search of the bag revealed a claw hammer and two knives, both of which were spring-assisted.

Victims of the incident told police that they had been with a large group of friends on a hotel balcony when they saw Derickson riding by on his bicycle.

An argument started between them

and Derickson, the victims said, and during the argument one of the victim’s friends made a comment about Derickson’s genitalia.

The victims alleged that Derickson then pulled down his shorts and exposed himself four times while there were children with them on the balcony.

One of the victims went downstairs to confront Derickson, which is when Derickson pulled out the whip and swung it at the man, victims said.

May car theft

The Ocean City District Court served a criminal summons to Samadhi Prince Goldson, 36, of Wilmington, Delaware, for a car theft police allege Goldson committed in May.

Goldson received five charges from the OCPD, including motor vehicle theft and malicious destruction of property, according to the charging documents.

On May 28, around 11 a.m., police responded to a hotel on Third Street in reference to a stolen car. While heading there, officers learned that Delaware State Police were in pursuit of the same car that was stolen, a 2014 red Ford Mustang.

When police arrived at the hotel, they met the victim, who said he parked the Mustang near Fourth Street around 3:30 a.m. that day. The car was still running but the doors were locked with the keys inside the car, the victim said.

The victim said when he returned

Continued on Page 18

Zoning, distancing of facilities highlighted

Continued from Page 14

The agricultural usage of growing the cannabis plant is permitted by right, as well as the industrial usage of the plant’s processing and the retail usage of the sale of the product at dispensaries. These establishments would undergo the same review process as similar non-cannabis facilities.

In regards to on-site cannabis consumption, the commissioners voted to prohibit the operation of on-site consumption establishments.

Keener stated in a memo that the law currently requires new dispensaries to be distanced 500 feet from a pre-existing primary or secondary school, a licensed childcare center or registered family childcare home, a

playground, recreation center, library or public park. The law also stated that new dispensaries be distanced 1,000 feet from another licensed dispensary. These would also not be applied to existing dispensaries.

The 500-foot distance was questioned by commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Madison Bunting, who proposed that this distance be

changed to 1,000 feet.

Mitrecic had also inquired about the distance between Hi Tide Dispensary and Ocean City Elementary School. Keener estimated that it was approximately half a mile.

The commissioners ultimately agreed to increase the distance stated in the law from 500 feet to 2,000 feet.

Small Town Throw Down in Berlin Saturday

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) Berlin residents and visitors will be polishing their cowboy boots and kickin’ up their heels for the annual Small Town Throw Down Country Music Concert from 1-6 p.m. on Saturday.

Baltimore’s Red Dirt Revolution will deliver a “nonstop-high energy

show of country music,” with classics such as “Folsom Prison Blues,” and “Friends in Low Places,” and their own originals, including “County Fair” and “A Place Like This.” They’ll knock out some rock songs too, like “I Want You to Want Me” and “Shook Me All Night Long.”

Maryland born, Texas bred Crystal Sands and her band will take the

stage with some original songs from her latest album, including “Straight Tequila,” “The One that Got Away,” and “Rock Like a Rollin’ Stone.”

DJ Jon Boesche will keep the beats going between sets, so the crowd will have an entire day of music in downtown Berlin.

The annual concert, produced by Fager’s Island and the Atlantic Hotel, will once again shut down Main Street to accommodate the crowds, which could be in the thousands based on past years’ attendance.

“John Fager [owner of Fager’s Island and the Atlantic Hotel] initially started this as a way to bring Nashville to Berlin. He went to Nashville and loved what he saw there. He puts it on each year to benefit all of Berlin,” Laura Stern, the manager of the Atlantic Hotel, said.

“We are bringing the fun Nashville vibe to Berlin. It’s a great way to kick off the fall and all the fall events we have.”

The Berlin Chamber of Commerce will be hosting The Street Kitchen,

Sessa’s Hot Dogs and Kona Ice as well as Jun & Juice, Clare’s Nutty Concoctions and Eastern Shore Kettle Korn.

The stage will be set opposite the Atlantic Hotel. Visitors have the option of using any of the free parking lots in town, including Stephen Decatur Park on Tripoli Street. Additional parking may be available for fee or donation at the Berlin Fire Company or Buckingham Presbyterian Church on South Main Street.

“We’re all very happy to enjoy Mr. Fager’s and the Atlantic Hotel’s support. We’re still looking for volunteers that may want to help operate the event, and Fiddlers’ Convention as well. We try our best to recognize and appreciate those who give their time so generously,” Ryan Nellans, the executive director of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, said. Street closures will start at 6:30 a.m. The event is free. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. No outside coolers or alcohol is permitted.

FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Red Dirt Revolution of Baltimore, will take to the stage again this Saturday for Berlin’s Small Town Throw Down.

FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Country music fans will flock to Berlin this Saturday for the Small Town Throw Down from 1-6 p.m. Musical guests include Red Dirt Revolution and Crystal Sands Band. The event is sponsored annually by the Atlantic Hotel and Fager’s Island.

‘Mean Girls Jr.’ auditions scheduled Sept. 8 in Pines

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Ocean Pines Children’s Theater will be casting next month the January production of Broadway musical, “Mean Girls Jr.”

According to a news release, auditions for the musical are scheduled from 5-6:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 8, at the Ocean Pines Community Center.

Due to the mature theme of the play, auditions for young people, male and female, will be limited to ages 12 and older.

For singing roles, those auditioning will need to select and perform at least 16 measures of a song from a

Broadway musical, with or without musical accompaniment. Those preparing to audition for an acting role, will need to visit facebook.com/opchildrenstheater to access, memorize and practice vocal delivery of a select monologue.

Those participating must be prepared to show proof of full covid vaccination.

For more information, contact opchildrenstheater@yahoo.com

“Mean Girls Jr.” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorized performance materials are also supplied the organization.

Ocean Pines golf tournament returns with shots and hops

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Ocean Pines Golf Club on Aug. 25 played host to the successful return of the Ernie Stiles Bavarian Hops Scramble.

After several years off because of the covid pandemic, the 16th scramble paid homage to the late Ernie Stiles, who founded the event in the early 2000s as a fundraiser for local charities.

During the tournament, 62 players teed off for a nine-hole experience accompanied by four refreshing hops beverages.

Karen Lill earned the coveted “hops hat” with her closest-to-the-pin shot of 8 feet, 4 inches on the seventh hole.

Golf member Bob Long said the tournament also had “a grand tee box party on the seventh that featured live music by the Bearded Men Soci-

ety.”

“There were shots and hors d’oeuvres, along with a noise that rivaled the 16th at the Phoenix Open – well, almost!,” Long said with a laugh.

“Following play, Judie Scotti and the Clubhouse Bar & Grille crew hosted a nice dinner that was well attended.”

Proceeds this year went to a $1,035 donation to Diakonia and a $1,000 donation to the Worcester County Humane Society. The tournament has raised more than $30,000 for local charities since its inception.

“Thank yous go to Don McMullen and Patty Curtin, who coordinated the event, and to the Bearded Men Society who donated their time and expertise to make the seventh-hole tee box party a grand event,” Long said.

Events educate and remember 9/11 attack

Remembrance Beams of Light and Red Knights ride honor firefighters’ lives lost

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Sept.8,2023) Ocean City will host a series of events to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, when Middle Eastern suicide pilots crashed aircraft in New York, Washington, D.C. and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Altogether, the coordinated assault caused 3,000 deaths, many of them among the first responders who answered the call for help.

The Ocean City Fire Department will be presenting the “Remembrance Beams of Light” at the Firefighter

Memorial in Ocean City, located at North Division St. and the Boardwalk. This year, two 5 billion-candle power twin beams will be filling the Ocean City night skyline beginning on Friday, Sept. 8, and burning through dawn on Tuesday, Sept. 12.

A lighting ceremony will be held on Friday at 8 p.m.

“This weekend of awareness gets people thinking about it. Standing on the Boardwalk, looking up into the heavens, is probably one of the most humbling experiences one can ever have,” Kevin Knolls, the organizer of the event and former chaplain for the Ocean City Fire Department.

Video tributes will be played nightly on a giant outdoor movie screen located on the beach at the memorial beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8 through Monday night, Sept. 11.

“This is a great opportunity to help people remember and reflect back 20-plus years. A whole generation was not around then. People can bring their families to the Boardwalk and introduce them to what happened,” Knolls said.

“Each night, we will have one of the area fire department towers flying Old Glory. Ocean City, Berlin, Ocean Pines and Roxanna fire departments will all take a night to fly the flag.

“This is not just an Ocean City Fire Department event, it is a fire department community tribute,” Knolls said.

Representatives from the fire department community will serve as ambassadors for the memorial and the weekend of remembrance and educational awareness activities. They will also serve as stewards, and assist by having “Boots” ready, to receive donations from all that would like to directly contribute and fund the 2024 Remembrance Beams Initiative.

On Monday, Sept. 11, representa-

tives of the Ocean City Fire Department will be paying tribute at the Firefighter Memorial during the six Sept. 11 time stamp announcements, beginning at 8:46 a.m.

The time stamp announcements mark the exact time when the planes hit the Twin Towers in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. and the crash of Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania as well as the times when the two towers collapsed.

At approximately 11:45 a.m. the Red Knights Motorcycle Club, Maryland Chapter 3, will host its 21st “Parade of Brothers” at the memorial. The service is scheduled for noon and will conclude with the “Striking of the Bell” line of duty, death ceremony.

“The Red Knights Chapter MD-3, along with the Ocean City Fire Department, are hosting this event to remember and honor all of those who lost their lives as a result of 9/11, especially the 343 firefighters lost in the

On behalf of the Berlin Police Department, we would like to thank everyone who participated in the Thirtieth Annual Golf Tournament on August 25th. All of the proceeds from this event go to the crime prevention fund, which supports activities that include sponsored holiday events, little league baseball teams and youth football, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, the Greater Berlin Minority Scholarships Fund, Worcester County Youth and Family Counseling Services, National Night Out, Coastal Hospice, and a host of other organizations in an effort to encourage community partnerships.

We would like to recognize all the organizations and businesses that were corporate sponsors, tee sponsors and those that donated door prizes. A special thanks goes out to Eagles Landing Golf Course for being a gracious host.

ABBA Bail Bonds

American Legion Post #166

Berlin FOP Lodge 136

Cheers - Beer, Wine & Spirits

Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc.

Delmar Police Department

Action Island

Adkins Company

Atlantic Hotel, Ayres

Jenkins, Gordy, Attorney

Bank of Ocean City

Berlin Auto Wash

Burbage Funeral Home

Coates, Coates & Coates, Attorney

Cullen Burke, Attorney

East & Main Fathom & Co.

The Globe

Goody Hill Groundworks

I.G. Burton

Assateague Greens

Atlantic Retreat

Beer Bellies

Berlin Chamber of Commerce

Buxy s Salty Dog

The Cap ns Slice Pizza

Carey Distributers

Cheers - Beer, Wine & Spirits

Decatur Diner

Eastern Shore Distributers

Fisher s Popcorn Ocean City

The Globe

Health Freedom Heart of Gold

Delmar V.F.W. 8276

Forgotten 50 Distilling

Hebron Savings Bank

Peter Ayres Wimbrow III, Attorney

Racetrack Auto and Marine

Sterling Tavern

TEE SPONSORS

Johns Auto Body

Lynda s Tax & Bookkeeping

Main Street Nails

Patty Jeans Boutique

Pittsville Ford

Pops Kitchen

Rayne s Reef

Sons of American Legion Post 237

Taylor Bank T.K. Construction

West O.C. Bottle Shop

CORPORATE SPONSORS QUALITY MEANS DOING IT JUST-RITE MARINE CONSTRUCTION

Williams, Moore, Shockley, Attorney

Your Store Market 410 Social

DONATORS

HI-Tide

Home Depot Berlin

Island Creamery

Mark Showell Interiors

Patrick Henry Ruddo s Golf Shop

Salon 16

Sisters Wine Bar

Sterling Tavern

Stuarts Antiques

Sunset Grille

Tractor Supply

World of Toys

VINYL BULKHEADS RIP-RAP PIERS • DOCKS

BOATLIFT PILING • DREDGING SKID STEER SERVICES Inside Storage for Small Boats & Pontoons

FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Motorcyclists ride down the Boardwalk on Sept. 11 last year near North Division Street as part of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club Maryland Chapter 3 tribute parade.

See NIGHTLY Page 23

Nightly events at Boardwalk honor sacrifices on 9/11

Continued from Page 22

collapse of buildings, from smoke inhalation and from additional devastating impacts that day,” said Mike Fiazzo, the organizer for the event.

Speakers for this event include Mayor Richard Meehan, Ocean City Fire Chief Richard Bowers, Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, Maryland State Sens. Johnny Mautz and Mary Beth Carozza and Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Chief Jay Jester.

Registration for the Parade of Brothers event will occur Sept. 11 at 9 a.m. on 27th Street. Motorcycles will be moved to the Boardwalk at 26th Street for staging. At 11:30 a.m. they will ride down the Boardwalk and participate in the memorial service at North Division and the Boardwalk at noon.

At 1 p.m. the bikers will be escorted over the Harry W. Kelly Memorial Bridge, Route 50, out of town for a ride to the Roxana Moose Lodge for lunch.

Events will continue into October with the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28 at 8 a.m. To register for the event, visit https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/oceanc

ity23. The registration fee is $30.

The National Fallen Firefighters 911 Memorial Stair Climb is a way to honor and remember the New York firefighters who lost their lives

on Sept. 11, 2001. Each participant pays tribute to a firefighter by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. The Stair Climbs fund the pro-

grams provided by the Fallen Fighters to support the families of local fallen firefighters and the New York Fire Department Counseling Services Unit.

Jesse’s Paddle set for Sept. 16 in Snow Hill

Annual event raises money for suicide prevention and mental health services

(Sept. 8, 2023) On Sept. 16, dozens of canoes, kayaks and paddleboards will leave the dock on the Pocomoke River in Snow Hill to raise funds in support of the Jesse Klump Memorial Fund for the 15th annual Jesse’s Paddle.

According to a news release, the event brings together “an extraordinary community of supporters to spread the word that suicide is preventable, and that there is no shame in seeking help for mental health issues.”

The paddlers will be collecting cards for Jesse’s Poker Paddle, returning to the dock with hopes of a winning hand. There are prizes for winning poker paddlers, as well as for top fundraisers.

Boats are provided at no cost by the Pocomoke River Canoe Company, and paddlers can bring their own boats.

A minimum donation of $35 is requested to participate in Jesse’s Poker Paddle. To reserve a boat, call the canoe shop at 410-632-3971.

The event will feature music, free hot dogs, chips and beverages for donors, ad well as a silent auction of local services and items. Registration begins at 4 p.m. at the Pocomoke

River Canoe Company, 2 River St., in Snow Hill, and poker paddle boats will be on the river by 5 p.m.

“Jesse’s Paddle is not only our most important fundraising event, but is a great evening for fun and fellowship,” Fund President Kim Klump said in the release. “It’s wonderful to see so many people on the river and hanging out at the dock who value the

work we have done to prevent suicide, and to help those who have lost loved ones to suicide.”

The 2023 Jesse’s Paddle website is at jessespaddle.org/paddle. One click from there (on the “Our Donor Page”), anyone who values mental health and hopes to save someone from suicide can donate.

Once at the crowdfunding page,

participants can donate to an existing fundraising team, to a general account, or create their own team. Team leaders reach out on social media to ask others to join in the effort.

Are you thinking about suicide? Worried about someone? The new National Suicide Prevention & Crisis Lifeline is 988.

PHOTO COURTESY KEVIN KNOLLS

Two 5 billion candle-power twin beams at the Firefighter Memorial in Ocean City for the ‘Remembrance Beams of Light’ events starting Sept. 8 at 8 p.m. to honor 9/11 victims. The event is hosted by the Ocean City Fire Department.

Annual wine festival returns to Ocean City

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) Wine fanatics will flock to Ocean City for the annual Wine on the Beach festival, held today and Saturday at the inlet, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Wine tastings will be offered from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wine on the Beach will feature wineries from all over Maryland, as well as regional cuisine, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. Microbrew and domestic beer will be available for purchase.

Tickets for the festival can be purchased on its Eventbrite page for $33.46, which includes a service charge.

Tickets should be bought in advance as they are limited. Tickets at the gate will be sold for $35, which are good for either day and will include a wine glass and samples with a valid photo ID.

Children attending the event must be accompanied by an adult. Admission for children ages 13-20 is $15, and ages 12 and under get in for free. Seniors 55 and older can get a $2 dis-

counted with a valid photo ID.

First held in 1996, Wine on the Beach was originated by Middleton Tavern in Annapolis and is run by Corporate Manager Chris Nokes. Approximately 4,000 people are expected to attend this year, depending on weather.

According to an email from the event’s information center, “the festival is regarded as a fun way to expe-

rience and support the Maryland winemakers’ industry, with vintage selections that aren’t in stock at retail outlets being available to taste and purchase at the festival.

“Wine on the Beach is proud to be the kickoff event for the ‘second season’ of Ocean City tourism. We find many of our perennial guests come with families, friends, coworkers, or a bridal party. The notion of sharing

a bottle or two with some cohorts while dancing on the beach is appealing, and brings our friends back year after year.”

The sponsor for the event this year is the Cricket Center, a child advocacy center in Worcester County.

For more information, visit winefest.com or the Wine on the Beach Facebook page, email info@winefest.com, or call 410-280-3306.

FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A vendor tent offers wine samplings to patrons during last year’s Wine on the Beach. This year’s event will return to the inlet and feature Maryland wineries, local cuisine and live music today and Saturday.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Get outside and enjoy as much fresh air and exercise as possible this week, Aries. A weekly outdoors excursion can recharge the batteries and provide some time to reflect.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, it’s not possible to have everyone like you all of the time. Emotionally it can be difficult to accept that not everyone agrees with your point of view. Be who you are.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Someone from your past might come back into your life, Gemini. Keep a lookout for someone who seems familiar, as it can be a way to reminisce for a bit.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, start conversations with all of the people you meet so you can learn about different backgrounds or cultures. You might learn something you didn’t know or try a new food.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, try to work the room when you are thrust into a social situation. You need to be a diplomat or politician if you want to be in good standing with as many people as possible. Put your best face forward.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

You know who you can trust, Virgo. Stay close to those people for the time being. Some difficulties with family members will arise and you may need to pick sides.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, after a whirlwind adventure, you may be glad to be back home. Vacations are nice and relaxing, but soon enough you may crave the familiarity of your own space.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you have a calm energy around you this week. You can rest assured that the people you are dealing with have everything handled. They take care of business.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

There is a great opportunity knocking at your door, Sagittarius, so why not seize it? New things can be scary, but you have to dive in right now.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Take stock of where you want to go in the future and start putting those plans together, Capricorn. You don’t have to figure everything out, but try to map out a rough outline.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

You can quickly see when someone is putting on an act, Aquarius. They may say one thing but mean another. This duplicity can be off-putting, but try to get along with others right now.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you are in no danger of not being popular right now, so continue to enjoy all of the invitations you receive. You also can be proactive and throw your own party for friends.

OCBP now in ‘fall guarding’ season

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) Although Labor Day marks the traditional end of the summer season and begins what the Ocean City Beach Patrol refers to as “fall guarding,” we all know that there will be a lot of beautiful sunny beach days ahead, well into the fall.

Even though it’s fall we still have safety messages. What we want you to understand is that fall guarding is different from guarding during the summer months and it comes with many unique challenges.

During this period, we are in a reduced coverage mode with fewer lifeguard towers and surf rescue technicians patrolling the beach.

This reduction in personnel is an annual occurrence with the start of college classes and the return of our education professionals to school systems throughout the U.S.

These teachers are some of our most experienced surf rescue technicians and mostly in supervisory roles on the beach.

However, now that Labor Day has passed, we have lost most of our educators during weekdays, although many will return to help cover our beaches on weekends.

The Town of Ocean City is committed to providing the safest beach possible until the end of each season and has provided several incentives, including a travel stipend to offset the cost of traveling back to Ocean City for our surf rescue technicians who have moved away, so they can provide additional coverage.

Additionally, tropical storm activity in the Atlantic is usually at its peak during this time and contributes to rougher surf, which has been an issue these past few weeks as tropical activity from Franklin, Idalia and Jose have entered the Mid-Atlantic basin.

This heavy surf causes an increase in the frequency and severity of rip currents, which account for 95 percent of surf rescues.

With fewer guards on the beach and stands that are farther apart, a guard may have to run four blocks or more (as far as 800 meters or ½ mile) to rescue a victim, whereas in the summer they need only run 50 meters.

To increase safety and coverage of

the beach, the Beach Patrol will rely more heavily on motorized support vehicles to patrol between stands (the town increased our ATV fleet to assist with coverage).

This enables them to provide back up if the need should arise, compared to the summer when the SRT in the stand on both sides of the rescue are responsible to back up the rescue and give support if needed.

Additionally, each SRT will be issued a hand-held radio as well as binoculars to assist with coverage of the area between stands (the use of semaphore at these distances becomes less effective).

Although we have less available personnel, the Beach Patrol remains committed to provide surf rescue technicians along the entire beach for all visitors and residents.

So rather than have unguarded areas, the number of available lifeguard towers are equally distributed along the beachfront, while nearby beaches in Delaware and Assateague are unguarded, have reduced hours and days or where the guarded area is reduced to just a few blocks.

As this redistribution occurs, the location and distance between stands

See BEACH Page 29

Walker’s recommendations for creating beautiful plates

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) There is nothing more disconcerting than following the path of conventionality.

Originality, perseverance and perfection are crucial and determine the degree of success.

This detailed process is a must for those who relish culinary advancement.

Food must not only tickle one’s fancy but also be visually enticing.

Clients spend enormous amounts of money on food photographers and food stylists to make their product look appealing; plating food is not only a big business but also an art.

Following are tips on how to create a beautiful plate.

Selecting the proper serving dish is imperative for creating a beautiful plate. One must think of themselves as an artist; the plate is your blank canvas and the food is your medium.

Choosing the right size plate is also important; you want to make sure it is big enough to allow your food to stand out, but small enough that your portions do not look too small.

The color of the plate is also significant.

White plates are popular because they create high contrast and provide a neutral background for your colorful creations. Black plates can also highlight your dishes and provide an even more dramatic finish.

Do not be afraid to leave one side of the plate empty. The empty space adds drama and actually highlights the individual ingredients.

The placing of ingredients requires specific attention; arbitrariness is not an

option.

Everything that goes on the plate has to have a reason.

For example, the placing of asparagus entails many details. Should they be stacked or fanned out, should they be placed next to the protein, or placed at an angle next to the starch? Should the asparagus be peeled from the head to the base of the stalk?

As you can see, there are many choices and it is these particulars that set you apart from other cooks.

If you are serving small foods or bitesized appetizers, always give guests odd quantities. Odd amounts produce more pictorial appeal and coincide with the shape of the plate.

If you are utilizing a round plate, think in terms of composing a triangle as opposed to a square.

Three focal points are much more interesting on a round plate than two or four focal points. Also, placing the food off-center can be very eye-catching.

Placing food to create flavor bites is an updated twist on traditional plating.

Essentially, you slide your fork to combine all the ingredients on the plate to form one bite. This particular style of plating allows one to show off their artistic skills.

Deconstructing a dish as opposed to serving it in its traditional form is another way to obtain stunning results. Any deconstructed dish should contain all the classic components found in the original, the difference is the presentation.

When creating a dish utilizing deconstructive techniques, the ingredients are essentially prepared individually, which is conducive for interpretation.

In other words, the diner should be able to relate the dish’s final flavor to the

See COMPARING Page 30

NOW PLAYING

Seacrets: Friday, Sept. 8, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

THE ANGLER RESTAURANT

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

Sept. 8: Lauren Glick, 5 p.m.

Sept. 9: CBD, 5 p.m.

Sept. 10: Aaron Howell, 5 p.m.

Sept. 13: Rogue Duo, 5 p.m.

Sept. 14: Sydney Smith, 5 p.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

Every 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

Sept. 8: DJ Nigel, 7-9 p.m.

Sept. 9: DJ Nigel, 7-9 p.m.

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

Sept. 14: 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

Sept. 8: Ray Holiday, 1-5 p.m.; Pistol Whipped, 7-11 p.m.

Sept. 9: Lime Green, 1-5 p.m.

Sept. 10: No Byscuyts, 1-5 p.m.; Groovejoose, 7-11 p.m.

Sept. 11: Dave Sherman, 1-5 p.m.

COCONUT’S BAR & GRILLE

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

Sept. 8: Darin Engh, noon to 4 p.m.; Mercury Agenda 5-9 p.m.

Sept. 9: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, noon to 4 p.m.; Royal Flush Band, 5-9 p.m.

Sept. 10: Darren O'Neill, noon to 3 p.m.; Rick & Regina, 4-8 p.m.

Sept. 11: Sean Loomis, noon to 3 p.m.; Remy & Lyons, 4-8 p.m.

Sept. 12: Keri Anthony, noon to 3 p.m.; Full Circle, 4-8 p.m.

Sept. 13: Josh Pryor Solo, noon to 3 p.m.; Bilenki Duo, 4-8 p.m.

Sept. 14: Aaron Howell Duo, noon to 3 p.m.; The Chest Pains, 4-8 p.m.

COINS

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

Every Saturday: “Jim Long” Get Off The Beach Party, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; No More Whiskey 8 p.m.

Sept. 13: Support Your Local Bartender Night w/DJ Wax, 9 p.m.

Sept. 14: Bike Rally Party w/DJ Alan Lee, 8 p.m.

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

19 Wicomico Street, Ocean City 443-373-2756

Sept. 8: Tyler Greene Friends, 9 p.m.

Sept. 9: No Brakes, 9 p.m.

HAMMERHEADS RAW BAR & GRILL

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

Sept. 8: Brendan Lane, 7-11 p.m.

Sept. 9: Chris Mooneyham, 1-5 p.m.; Steve Rexroth, 7-11 p.m.

Sept. 10: TBD, 1-5 p.m.

MACKY’S BAYSIDE BAR & GRILL

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

Sept. 8: Legendary Beach Bash, DJ, 10 p.m.

Sept. 9: Party Under the Palms DJ, 10 p.m.

Sept. 10: Trivia w/Brandon Speedbump Myers, 8 p.m.

Sept. 14: Ladies Night, DJ, 10 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Sept. 8: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 9: Rogue Citizens, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 10: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 11: Karaoke with Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 12: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 13: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 14: 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

Sept. 8: Full Circle, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.;

9 Mile Roots, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to

1 a.m.; Cherry Crush Band, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Sept. 9: DJ Connair on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; John

McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.;

9 Mile Roots, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to

1 a.m.; Coming Alive, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Sept. 10: DJ Connair on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Late Last Night, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to

2 a.m.

Sept. 11: Kono Nation, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sept. 12: The Benderz, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sept. 13: DJ Davie, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Triple Rail Turn, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Sept. 14: Scott Marshall and The Highway Souls, 5-9 p.m.; Triple Rail Turn, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Eclipse: The Ultimate Journey Tribute, 10 p.m. to midnight

WHISKER’S BAR & GRILL

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

Sept. 8: Dance with Beats by Followers, 8 p.m.

Sept. 11: Industrial Night, 8 p.m.

Sept. 12: Ladies Night, AND Karaoke w/DJ Wood, 8 p.m.

See

Open

CHERRY CRUSH BAND

33RD STREET & OCEANSIDE

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 Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. 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, 8 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.

■ HARRISON’S HARBOR WATCH RESTAURANT & RAW BAR

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, known for our 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. Call for banquet and largeparty 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, sand-

wiches 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 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 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. Currently 11 a.m. to close. New hours start Sept. 5: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday, 3 p.m. to midnight; Friday, 3 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to midnight.

■ 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.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ 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

Premier seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws. Fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Closed on Tuesday. Open Wednesday through Monday at 11 a.m.

■ 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.

Beach Patrol guards on duty until Sept. 24

Continued from Page 25

changes (sometimes daily). We will continue to provide coverage from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. along all 10 miles of Ocean City beach until Sunday, Sept. 24.

This coverage will be done with fewer personnel and lifeguard stands. However, we will supplement the coverage by increasing the number of mobile rescue units patrolling the beach.

These mobile units are first aid, PPE and AED equipped with one guard (rider) acting as the primary rescue swimmer while the other (driver) maintains radio communication and backup during an emergency. Both are qualified as surf rescue technicians, medical first responders and are mobile rescue unit (ATV) certified.

Surfing locations is another difference you may notice during the fall season.

OCBP Captain Butch Arbin will modify the ordinance that restricts surfing and allow surfing along the

entire beach, except where guards are posted.

The Beach Patrol keeps the swimmers in front or near their stand and surfers are encouraged to congregate away from the swimmers. This is a time of the year the surfers enjoy. They can surf while the patrol is on duty and not be confined to designated surfing beaches like during the summer.

Surfers must still use an ankle leash and remain 50 yards from the nearest swimmer.

Having surfers in the vicinity often proves valuable in saving lives. It is helpful to have the extra flotation devices in the water at this time of year when the coverage is spread over larger spans of beach.

It is not unusual for surfers to aid a distressed swimmer and keep them afloat until a surf rescue technician can reach them and take them safely back to shore.

Although surfing restrictions have been modified, the Beach Patrol still reserves the right to prohibit surfing

in certain areas or under certain conditions.

Another difference is the standup paddle board rule.

Beginning the Monday following Labor Day, Sept. 11, stand up paddle boards (SUPs) will be allowed, Monday through Friday during the day.

Stand up paddle boarders must follow all applicable Maryland state boating laws and enter and exit the water away from the areas where we are encouraging people to swim.

The use of skim boards and other watercraft (kite surfers, windsurfers, prone paddle boards, kayaks, etc) is still prohibited.

Even though fall guarding is different than guarding during July and mid-August, the priority of the Beach Patrol continues to be public safety.

To aid the SRT, the Beach Patrol suggests taking extra precautions and make sure to walk the short distance to the nearest lifeguard stand and check in with them about the daily ocean conditions and always swim in front of the SRT on duty.

We strongly encourage all Ocean City patrons to restrict any beach- or water-related activities to times and locations when and where Beach Patrol personnel are on duty, never swim alone, always stay with the limits of their swimming ability, and never rely on a flotation device in place of swimming ability.

Please remember that although we need your help in keeping everyone safe, if you see an unsafe situation call 911.

Never attempt to intervene in the ocean, which could result in you becoming an additional victim.

For additional information, call Beach Patrol Headquarters. Guard stand placement may relocate daily as conditions change.

To locate the closest stand to your beach go to the official Beach Patrol website (ococean.com/ocbp) and scroll down to the “Beach Conditions” table and click on the stands location link or call Beach Patrol Headquarters at 410-289-7556 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Comparing wild salmon versus farm-raised

Continued from Page 26

original recipe, although there may be no direct similarity with the presentation.

That being said, let us focus on classic pan seared salmon. Before we can discuss the plating, one must be confident in cooking salmon.

Details ensure perfection. There is a difference on how one cooks wild salmon as opposed to farm raised.

Wild salmon is leaner and cooks more quickly. It is much less forgiving of overcooking. Farm-raised salmon is generally higher in fat and can be cooked at a higher temperature before it becomes overcooked.

Butter is a great choice for cooking salmon, the rich salmon and butter are a perfect pairing. However, the butter will turn dark and burn. The addition of

canola oil solves this problem.

A nonstick pan is a popular choice for cooking salmon. But I am a fan of cast iron, and feel it is the better choice. The cast iron enhances the sear for a nice contrast in consistency.

When company is coming, the menu is always the first consideration. But once you have made that decision, focus on the art of plating. Have fun with it, use your imagination, and allow the artistic side of you to come through.

Do not let conventionalism be your guide. White or black plates are a stunning background. Allow sides to be chosen by personal preference and not tradition. Textures are imperative for a balanced dish.

Until next week, remember a chef is a cook and also an artist. Enjoy!

Pan Seared Salmon

Ingredients

4 skin-on salmon filers, about 1/3 pound each

2 tablespoons canola oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter kosher salt to taste

1. Rinse salmon in cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make sure the salmon is dry.

2. Coat an iron skillet with the canola oil and butter and set over medium-high heat.

3. When the oil starts to shimmer, place salmon skin-side down in the pan. When the edges of the salmon skin start to turn golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes, flip the salmon, and reduce heat to medium. Cook until the center is medium, about 4 minutes.

4. Using a fish spatula, transfer salmon to a plate.

Secret Ingredient – Improvement. “Where we cannot invent, we may at least improve.”

— Charles Caleb Colton

Safe Boating Course next week

(Sept. 8, 2023) The next course to learn safe boating practices in Maryland will take place from 6-9 p.m., Sept. 1214, at the Ocean Pines Library.

Offered by certified instructors from the Ocean City Coast Guard Auxiliary, the comprehensive classes cover all the required material for boating, as well as information on local waters and nautical navigation.

The Maryland Boating Safety Education Act requires that anyone born after July 1, 1972, to possess a Maryland Basic Boating Safety Certificate to operate a boat

in the state. Those who attend the class and pass the test will receive a Maryland Boating Certificate, which is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and valid in all states. A fee of $20 covers the cost of the course and materials. Checks should be made payable to USGCAUX 12-05 and mailed to USCGAUX 12-05, P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, MD. 21811. Payment through PayPAL is also accepted. For more information or to register, contact Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807, or e-mail CGAUXOC@gmail.com.

Fri., Sept. 8

‘REMEMBRANCE BEAMS OF LIGHT’ LIGHTING CEREMONY

Ocean City Firefighter’s Memorial, 1 S. Atlantic Ave., 8 p.m. This year the Twin Beams will be filling the Ocean City night skyline beginning Sept. 8 and burning through dawn on Sept. 12. Video tributes will be played nightly Sept. 8-11, at 7 p.m.

WINE ON THE BEACH

Ocean City Inlet, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. MD wineries, craft vendors, fine artists. Online reduced tickets: https://www.winefest.com. Tickets include one-day admission (either Friday or Saturday), commemorative wine glass and wine tastings.

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Join in for a short structured activity and then socialize and play with other homeschool families. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

COMMUNITY READ DISCUSSION: ‘THERE THERE’ BY TOMMY ORANGE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Pick up a copy of this year’s Maryland Humanities community read at the Ocean Pines Library. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIDAY MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. A comedy about four older women who journey to the Super Bowl to meet their favorite player. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. Cost is $14 for a one-crab-cake sandwich platter; $24, two-crab-cake-sandwich platter; or $10 for a crab cake sandwich. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Carry out or eat in.

SEPTEMBER FEATURED ARTISTS’ RECEPTION

Worcester County Arts Council, 6 Jefferson St., Berlin, 5-7 p.m. Meet and enjoy the artwork of the two featured artists, Geo McElroy and Ellie Scott, while enjoying complimentary refreshments. Artwork by 30 artists and members of the Co-Op will be offered for sale. 410-

641-0809

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, rhymes and finger plays. For children aged up to 2 years and their caregivers. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., Sept. 9

9-11 REMEMBRANCE BEAMS OF LIGHT AND VIDEO TRIBUTES

Ocean City Firefighter’s Memorial, 1 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City. Twin Beams will be filling the Ocean City night skyline beginning Sept. 8 and burning through dawn on Sept. 12. Video tributes will be played nightly Sept. 8-11, beginning at 7 p.m.

WINE ON THE BEACH

Ocean City Inlet, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. MD wineries, craft vendors, fine artists. Online reduced tickets: https://www.winefest.com. Tickets include one-day admission (either Friday or Saturday), commemorative wine glass and wine tastings.

TINKER TIME: STEM KITS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Drop in anytime. Use the library’s supplies and your imagination to explore STEM concepts with the self-guided kits. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9:30 a.m. The speaker will be Shannon Ehinger, owner of 353 Custom Tackle Store. Also, members report on pertinent fishing topics. All welcome. Jack Barnes, 410641-7662

‘PHILLIPS CANNERY: REMEMBERED’ EXHIBITION PHOTOS AND NARRATIVES

Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. “PHILLIPS CANNERY: Remembered” Exhibition Photos and Narratives curated by Patrick L. Henry, 410-641-0638.

GRIEFSHARE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12:30-2:30 p.m. A program for those who struggle after the loss of a love one, sponsored by Fathom Church. The program will run for 14 weeks. Carole, 301-509-2002

BERLIN SMALL TOWN THROW DOWN

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 1-6 p.m. Free country music concert featuring Red Dirt Revolution with special guest Crystal Sands. There will be an outdoor bar and a beer truck. Free shuttle from BIS, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Bring a chair.

THE CELEBRATION OF A NEW MINISTRY St. Paul’s by-the Sea Episcopal Church, 302 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 1 p.m. For The Reverend Jill Williams, PriestIn-Charge. Installation by The Right Reverend Santosh Marray. The Very Reverend David Michaud, preaching. Clergy: white stoles. Reception following.

TEEN MARIO PARTY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 1 p.m. Teens and their families are invited to compete in Mario games on the Nintendo Switch. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

EN GARDE!

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1 p.m. Dave Nemazie, international fencing competitor and coach at the Salisbury Fencing Club, will teach this class. The class will focus on Épée. Get a taste of the Olympic Sport of Fencing. 410-6410650

‘RESTORATIVE PRATICES’ AND EQUITY IN EDUCATION ON THE EASTERN SHORE

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 6-7 p.m. Learn how restorative practices can improve school climate by decreasing suspensions and increasing teacher retention, overall school safety and feelings of well-being. Joan Roache, 443944-6495

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., Sept. 10

9-11 REMEMBRANCE BEAMS OF LIGHT AND VIDEO TRIBUTES

Ocean City Firefighter’s Memorial, 1 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City. Twin Beams will be filling the Ocean City night skyline beginning Sept. 8 and burning through dawn on Sept. 12. Video tributes will be played nightly Sept. 8-11, beginning at 7 p.m.

OCEAN PINES PLAYERS MUSICAL PERFORMANCE

Windmill Creek Vineyard & Winery, 11206 Worcester Highway, Berlin, 12-3 p.m., OPP Singers (Patrick Leonard, Dorothy Leslie, Donna Pasqualino and Jim Ulman) will present standards and easy listening favorites. Admission is free. Bring a chair. https://oceanpinesplayers.org

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Sept. 11

9-11 REMEMBRANCE BEAMS OF LIGHT AND VIDEO TRIBUTES

Ocean City Firefighter’s Memorial, 1 S. Atlantic Ave. Twin Beams will be filling the Ocean City night skyline beginning Sept. 8 and burning through dawn on Sept. 12. Video tributes will be played nightly Sept. 8-11, beginning at 7 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 11 TRIBUTE CEREMONY AND PARADE OF BROTHERS

Ocean City Firefighter’s Memorial, 1 S. Atlantic Ave., 8:46 a.m. OCFD will be paying tribute during the Six, Sept. 11, Time Stamp Announcements, beginning at 8:46 a.m. The “Pardade of Brothers” will arrive at 11:45 a.m. The joint service begins at noon.

911 PARADE OF BROTHERS BOARDWALK MOTORCYCLE RIDE

Meet at 27th Street, Ocean City. Cost is $10 per motorcycle. Registration at 9 a.m. Ride begins at 11:30 a.m. Memorial Service at Caroline Street Stage at noon. Escorted ride ending at the Roxana Moose Lodge for lunch and brotherhood.

STORY TIME: ‘APPLES’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and a craft all about apples. For ages 2-5 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Using fun games and activities, the group will research, explore and learn all about the wonders of nature. Recommended for ages 6 years and older. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MAKER MONDAY - WILDFLOWER BUTTON ART

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1 p.m. Join in making wildflower art - out of buttons. All materials provided. Registration required: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. This group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIENDS OF THE BERLIN LIBRARY MEETING AND BOOK SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Join the autumn meeting of the Friends of the Berlin Library and bring a book to trade for another. Refreshments pro-

Continued on Page 32

CALENDAR

vided. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.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

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., Sept. 12

STORY TIME: TURTLES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: SHARKS

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m. Join in every second Tuesday of the month to see, touch and learn about local animals and enjoy stories, songs and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

DELMARVA DULCIMER PLAYERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. The Delmarva Dulcimer Players will perform singalongs, bluegrass and more, using Appalachian Mountain dulcimers, each with its own unique tone. All are welcome. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MONTHLY MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Catch a recent movie you might have missed in the theaters. Free admission. Details: 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Suite 104, Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Discussions and mutual support, along with education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Kay Kinnikin, 410-641-4765, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org

MARYLAND SAFE BOATING COURSE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6-9 p.m. Takes place Sept. 12-14. Cost is $20 for all three evenings. Register: Barry Cohen, 410-935-4807, CGAUXOC@gmail.com.

BOOK CLUB: ‘THE PARIS ARCHITECT’ BY CHARLES BELFOURE

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. Monthly book club. Stop by the Snow Hill branch to pick up a book, then join in for the discussion. Must be at least 21 years of age. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SONG CELEBRATION

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring a song you love and share it with other players and writers in a welcoming and encouraging space. Originals encouraged. Listeners welcome. Hosted by Mikel Campbell. 410-641-0650

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. 410-289-4725

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., Sept. 13

OC BIKEFEST & DELMARVA BIKE WEEK

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Events also held at the OC Inlet Parking Lot, Shorebirds Stadium and Rommel Harley-Davidson. Custom bike builders, concerts, stunt shows, vendors and more. Schedule and tickets: https://ocbikefest.com.

DELMARVA BIKE WEEK

Perdue Stadium, 6400 Hobbs Road, Salisbury, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Motorcycle demos, Indian demos/sales, thrill shows, live music, vendors, food and drinks and more. Admission and park are free at the Shorebirds Stadium. Schedule: https://delmarvabikeweek.com.

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Takes place via Zoom on the first and second Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568.

SENSORY STAY AND PLAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Learn through exploration, curiosity and creativity. Get ready to squish, build, splash, shake and scoop through several fun stations. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘THEY CALLED US ENEMY’ BY GEORGE TAKEI

Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Stop by the Snow hill 50 Plus center to pick up a book, then join in for the discussion and a craft. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

NATIVE WALK AND SCAVENGER HUNT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Meet at the Cypress Park pavilion for a hike on the Pocomoke Nature Trail. Identify and learn about local plants and participate on a nature scavenger hunt. Bring binoculars. All ages. 410-957-0878

DIABETES EDUCATION

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4-6 p.m. Discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Alyce Marzola, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org

D&D GAME NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5-7 p.m. D&D game for adults and teens. Registration required: 410-632-3495. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE SQUARE DANCE LESSONS

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7-8:30 p.m. Held Sept. 13, 20, 27 and Oct. 7. Singles and couples welcome. Barbara C. Roos, 908229-8799, barbcroos@gmail.com

OCEAN CITY LIONS CLUB MEETING

Ocean City Lions Club, 12534 Airport Road, Berlin. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and meeting at 7 p.m. Guests are welcome.

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 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., Sept. 14

OC BIKEFEST & DELMARVA BIKE WEEK

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Events also held at the OC Inlet Parking Lot, Shorebirds Stadium

and Rommel Harley-Davidson. Custom bike builders, concerts, stunt shows, vendors and more. Schedule and tickets: https://ocbikefest.com.

DELMARVA BIKE WEEK

Perdue Stadium, 6400 Hobbs Road, Salisbury, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Motorcycle demos, Indian demos/sales, thrill shows, live music, vendors, food and drinks and more. Admission and park are free at the Shorebirds Stadium. Schedule: https://delmarvabikeweek.com.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR THE 2023

ROBERT E. WARFIELD MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT

To be held Sept. 21, rain or shine at the Ocean City Golf Club. Benefiting Atlantic General Hospital. Team reservations online at www.agh.care/golf and must be received by Sept. 14.

STORY TIME ‘WHERE IS THE GREEN SHEEP?’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PUPPET STORY TIME!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Fun, interactive story time by a super special friend of the library. Stick around after for a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

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.

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 26

Beachwood Custom Builders

Now Hiring for Experienced Full-Time

Trim Carpenter

Valid Driver’s License a MUST

Vacation and Benefits

Contact Lauren@ beachwoodinc.com

Classifieds 410-723-6397

LOCAL INTERIOR REMODELING COMPANY

Will Pay $25 Per Hour to the Right Person with Carpentry & Drywall Skills.

Text 410-430-5027.

PT or FT Classifieds/Legals Manager

PT Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 9am-5pm.

Position can be full-time depending on capabilities.

Individual must be highly organized for front desk to handle reception, public notices, classifieds, and other various clerical duties. Good phone skills required. Must be detail oriented and have computer skills. For full time employment, we offer health insurance, dental insurance, and 401K. No nights or weekends.

Hiring immediately

Email resume to: cbrown@oceancitytoday.net

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

Ocean City Florist Now Hiring PT Floral Designer 2-3 days a week. Some Saturdays will be required. Experience necessary. Call 410-250-1636 or apply within.

Montego Bay Market is looking for year round Deli and Cashier for the end of the summer and the off season.

Please apply in person 12903 Coastal Hwy. HIRING

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

Now Hiring Director of Engineering

Must have Major mechanical experience. Plumbing and electrical experience. Must be a hands on candidate.

Major renovations scheduled for this off season.

Competitive salary and benefits.

Apply to: joann@ princessroyale.com

NOW HIRING

Year-Round Bartenders

Day Shifts and Night Shifts

Available

Johnny’s Pizza & Pub 443-880-2486

RENTALS

WINTER RENTAL Carousel.

2BR, 2BA $850/month plus electric. Starts Oct. 1April 30. 301-437-2799

2BR, 1BA, Small Condo, 5th Street, OCMD. 1 block to the Boards. No smoking/pets. $875/mo. Utilities & basic cable included. Oct. 5-Apr. 1. 410-952-5234

Ocean Pines, Year Round, 3BR, 2BA Rancher. Beautiful. Large screened porch. Lovely back yard. Good credit. No smoking. No pets. $1950 per month plus all utilities. 301-509-6515

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

Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

Winter Roommate w/possibility of year-round. 28th Street, Bayfront, OC. Available October 1st. $900 a month includes utilities. Text or Call 443-614-4523.

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DONATIONS

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VEHICLES

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NETWORK

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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

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NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF BILL 23-06 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 23-06 (Amendments to the County ordinance regulating activity at County landings) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Elder, Mitrecic and Purnell on August 15, 2023.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

A legislative bill for the purpose of amending the County ordinance regulating activity at County landings, including defining and allowing commercial users at County landings, requiring heavy equipment operators who use County landings to register with the County, and limiting parking by commercial users.

This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19853

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Fairfax County, VA appointed Donald R. Paquette, 6923 Spur Road, Springfield, VA 22153 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Dana M. Paquette who died on June 18, 2023 domiciled in Virginia, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Marie Bowie whose address is 13601 Sir Thomas Way #13, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

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.

Donald R. Paquette Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication:

August 24, 2023

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN SONNTAG Estate No. 19856 Notice is given that SONIA GRYZEWSKI whose address is 224 LAFAYETTE ROAD, AUDUBON, NJ 08106 was on AUGUST 15, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN SONNTAG who died on JULY 26, 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 15th day of FEBRUARY, 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

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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. RAYMOND H. BURROWS, III

KATHERINE E. WYATTBURROWS

14000 Coastal Highway Unit 204

Ocean City, MD 21842

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-23-000061

Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 14000 Coastal Highway, Unit 204, Ocean City, MD 21842, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 18th day of September, 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 11th day of September, 2023.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $545,000.00.

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-8/24/3t

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of SHARON L TAYLOR Estate No. 19874 Notice is given that KIMBERLY MUMFORD whose address is 106 QUILLIN DRIVE BERLIN, MD 21811 was on AUGUST 28, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SHARON L TAYLOR who died on AUGUST 11, 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 28th day of FEBRUARY, 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.

WORCESTER

BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 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 p.m. Case No. 23-51, on the lands of Avalon Hall, on the application of George E. Young, III, requesting a variance to reduce the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 50 feet (to encroach 50 feet) for a proposed 10’ x 290’ driveway through nontidal wetlands and the 100 foot buffer, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3-219 (c) (4) and NR 3-211 and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(l) located on Hickory Point Road about 985 feet east of 250 Hickory Point Road, Tax Map 90, Parcel 13, Lot B, Tax District 1, Worcester County, MD.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 23-67, on the lands of Beverly Glass, on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a special exception to allow a 6-foottall fence in a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), & ZS 1-305(k)(3) located at 9177 Old Ocean City Road, Tax Map 19, Parcel 49, Lot 2, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 23-55, on the lands of Janet & Daniel Trimper, IV Revocable Trust, on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer Management Area from 50 feet to 33.67 feet (to encroach 16.4 feet) and a variance to exceed the 30 percent allowable forest clearing to 46.4 percent associated with a construction of a single family dwelling, Pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3104 (c)(4), NR 3-111 and NR 3-107 (c)(4) and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m), located at 11031 Piney Island Drive, Tax Map 15, Parcel 90, Lot 19, Tax District 5, Worcester County, MD.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 23-60, on the lands of Martha’s Landing Resort, LLC, on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to .03 feet (to encroach 24.97 feet) for the proposed replacement of an existing building in the CM Commercial Marine District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1214(b)(1) and ZS 1-305, on the southeast corner of Sunset Avenue and Golf Course Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 447, Lot 78 (79 & 80), Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case No. 23-56, on the lands of Martha’s Landing Resort, LLC, on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a variance to the front yard setback off of Harbor Road from 50 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 25.91 feet (to en-

croach 24.08 feet) and a variance to the front yard setback off of Golf Course Road from 75 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 57 feet (to encroach 18 feet) for the proposed replacement of an existing building in the CM Commercial Marine District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-214(b)(1) and ZS 1305, on the northeast corner of Harbor Road and Golf Course Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 447, Lot 78 (86 & 87), Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 23-65, on the lands of Martha’s Landing Resort, LLC, on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 18.5 feet (to encroach 6.5 feet) and a variance to the minimum lot size from 5,000 square feet to 1,920 square feet for a proposed pavilion for aquaculture in the CM Commercial Marine District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1214(b)(4) and ZS 1-305, located on Harbor Road, approximately 291 feet east of Golf Course Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 372, Lot 96 (96 & 97), Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland

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Assoc., Inc.

PW 23-073 A request has been submitted to install 105’ +/- of replacement vinyl bulkheading (85’ canal front w/a 20’ return); construct a 6’ x 25’ parallel dock and install (1) one boatlift with associated pilings. Maximum channelward extension 13’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 316 S HERON GULL CT Parcel # 6069A-92 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Keith Coffin

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 23-074 A request has been submitted to construct a 3’ x 26’ parallel platform with a 3’ x 8’ walkway over rip-rap. To construct a 6’ x 20’ parallel platform with a 3’ x 10’ walkway over rip-rap, and to install (1) one boatlift with associated pilings maximum channelward extension of 14’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 314 S HERON GULL CT Parcel # 6069A-91 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Keith Coffin

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 23-075 A request has been submitted to remove existing pier and construct a new 6’ x 50’ pier, to install (2) PWC lifts, and (1) boat lift all with associated pilings. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 806 32ND ST Parcel # 4481 -23 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

submitted to remove existing parallel platform, pier and pilings and to install a new 6’ x 33’ parallel platform, a 6’ x 30’ perpendicular pier, (2) boatlifts with four associated pilings, maximum channelward extension 36’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 118 SEABREEZE DR Parcel # 1872A- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Charles Gray

APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc.

PW 23-080 A request has been submitted to install (5) 10” x 16’ piles against existing bulkhead and also install (5) 10” x 16’ batter piles. To install a new 5’ x 30’ perpendicular pier and one boat lift with (4) associated mooring piles; all maximum channelward extension of 35’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 13305

PEACH TREE RD Parcel # 8020A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: William L. Cummings

APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc.

OCD-8/31/2t

NOTICE

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

Thursday, September 14, 2023

At 2:00 p.m.

PW 23-068 (Carried over from August Meeting) 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 &

OWNER: Donna Bialozynski

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 23-076 A request has been submitted to install (1) one 10’ x 14’ floating PWC dock a maximum channelward extension of 20’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 772 94TH ST UNIT F Parcel # 9649 -F in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Mark & Meredith McCoy

APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC

PW 23-077 A request has been submitted to install two (2) 6.5’ x 13’ PWC floats a maximum channelward extension not to exceed past existing piling 20’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 4603 COASTAL HWY UNIT 302 Parcel # 7010 -302 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Santosh Viswanathan

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 23-078 A request has been submitted to install 75’ of engineered replacement vinyl bulkhead 18” channelward of existing bulkhead; construct a new 5’ x 40’ parallel platform, a new 5’ x 30’ perpendicular pier; and install (1) boatlift with 4 mooring piles. All construction a maximum channelward extension of 36’6” The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 194 BEACHCOMBER LN Parcel # 8020A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Daniel Hudak

the provisions of Section 110-94(1) requesting a special use exception to allow a private boat dock on a property that has no established principal use on the premises. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 59 of the Caine Harbor Mile Plat, further described as located on the east side of Shipwreck Road north of Jamestown Road, and locally known as 11614 Shipwreck Road in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: DEMETRIOS G. KAOURIS FOR CHRISTOPHER J FONTANA – (BZA 2650 #2309400007)

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, Attorney OCD-8/31/2t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19873

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NANCY JANE POWELL

legals@oceancitytoday.net

APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc.

PW 23-079 A request has been

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:

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

at 6:00 PM

RESCHEDULED FROM AUGUST 10, 2023 AGENDA - 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 15th Street 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 6:20 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to

Notice is given that Cheryl Holland, 8625 Circle Road, Berlin, MD 21811 and Charlotte Powell, 11428 Gum Point Road, Berlin, MD 21811, were on August 25, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nancy Jane Powell who died on August 15, 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 25th day of February, 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.

Cheryl Holland

Charlotte Powell

Personal Representatives

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:

August 31, 2023

OCD-8/31/3t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "D" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR

License: 7 Day, By: Thomas L. Vaughan, 12530 Whispering Woods Drive, Ocean City, MD 21842; Emily Vaughan, 12530 Whispering Woods Drive, Ocean City, MD 21842.

For: Norcon, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Anthony’s Liquors

3300 Coastal Highway

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Joncor, Inc.

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on:

September 20, 2023

@ 1:00 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-9/7/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a B/W/L 7 Day license and Request to Designate as Multiple License #3 for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR

License: 7 Day, By: Kevin Eugene Decker, 10308 Quarter Deck Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Francesco

Fidanza, 2230 Route 17M, Middletown, New York 10942.

For: Angler On The Bay, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Angler Restaurant 312 Talbot Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Angler Restaurant, Inc.

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on:

September 20, 2023

@ 1:15 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-9/7/2t

JAMES E CLUBB. JR., ESQ.

108 N. 8TH STREET

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842

LIGHTHOUSE POINT VILLAS

TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

Plaintiff vs. WINELDA P. BLUM, TRUSTEE et al.

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 09/07/2023

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

Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this August 30, 2023, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb. Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before October 2, 2023, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before September 25, 2023.

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals:

Timeshare Price

Wk 7, #1 $50.00

Wk 20, #1 $50.00

Wk 37, #1 $50.00

Wk 20, #3 $50.00

Wk 36. #3 $50.00

Wk 46. #8 $50.00

Wk 21 #10 $50.00

Wk 50 #10 $50.00

Susan Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Worcester County, MD OCD-9/7/3t

JAMES E CLUBB, JR., ESQ.

108 N. 8TH STREET

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842

COUNCIL OF UNIT OWNERS OF OCEAN TIME CONDOMINIUM, INC

et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO C-23-CV-23-000168

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 31st day of August, 2023, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before 2nd day of October, 2023, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 25th day of September, 2023.

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals:

Timeshare Price

Wk 51, #101 $50.00

Wk 40, #104 $50.00

Wk 16, #105 $50.00

Wk 28, #201 $3,200.00

Wk 15, #204 $50.00

Wk 44, #205 $50.00

Wk 18, #301 $50.00

Wk 39, #302 $50.00

Wk 1, #306 $50.00

Wk 2, #306 $50.00

Wk 39, #404 $50.00

Wk 8, #501 $50.00

Wk 20, #504 $50.00

Susan Braniecki, Clerk of Court

Worcester County Circuit Court

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/7/3t

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.

NATASHA N. CLARK

707 Ninth Street A/R/T/A 707 9th Street Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Defendant(s).

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-23-000007

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 29th day of August, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 707 Ninth Street A/R/T/A 707 9th Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 2nd day of October, 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 25th day of September, 2023.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $114,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy Test: Susan

R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court

AUTH:

OCD-9/7/3t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF

APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES BENTLEY ADCOCK

Estate No. 19865 Notice is given that JESSICA DAWN ADCOCK DZIEMBURSKI whose address is 1127 MEGG COURT JOPPA, MD 21085 was on AUGUST 28, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of JAMES BENTLEY ADCOCK who died on JULY 19, 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 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 claims 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-9/7/1t

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ.

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 19882

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills Court of Delaware County, PA appointed Katina C. Vignola, 54 E. Stewart Avenue, Lansdowne, PA 19050 as the Executrix of the Estate of Cort Vignola who died on May 30, 2023 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Peter S. Buas 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.

Katina C. Vignola

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:

September 07, 2023

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LEGAL NOTICE

Take notice that on August 31, 2023, Eastern Shore Natural Gas Company (Eastern Shore), 500 Energy Lane, Suite 200, Dover, Delaware, 19901, pursuant to Section 7(c) of the Natural Gas Act and the regulations of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, under Docket No. CP23-536-000, filed an application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity requesting authorization to construct, own, operate and maintain the Worcester Resiliency Upgrade, which consists of five 100,000 gallon low-profile horizontal storage tanks, pipeline looping, and upgrades to existing meter and regulator stations connected to Eastern Shore’s existing pipeline facilities in Sussex County, Delaware and Somerset County, Wicomico County, and Worcester County, Maryland. The proposed Project will enable Eastern Shore to provide critical natural gas service to customers during the peak winter heating season.

This filing is accessible on-line at http://www.ferc.gov, using the “eLibrary” link and the Worcester Resiliency Upgrade Docket Number. There is an “eSubscription” link on the web site that enables subscribers to receive email notification when a document is added to a subscribed docket(s). For assistance with any FERC Online service, please email FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or call (866) 208-3676 (toll free). Also available on the FERC website is a brochure prepared by the FERC entitled, “An Interstate Natural Gas Facility on My Land? What Do I Need to Know?” The brochure explains the certificate process at the FERC. The filing is also accessible at the Georgetown Public Library, Millsboro Public Library, Somerset County Library, Wicomico Public Library, and the Worcester County Library – Berlin Branch.

The Commission encourages electronic submission of protests and interventions in lieu of paper using the “eFiling” link at http://www.ferc.gov. Persons unable to file electronically should submit an original and 5 copies of the protest or intervention to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20426. A separate notice has been provided to affected landowners and government entities.

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NOTICE

To: Unknown Unknown

“You are hereby notified that a guardianship case has been filed in the circuit court for Baltimore County, case no. C-03-FM-23004347. All persons who believe themselves to be the parents of a Female child born on July 24, 2023 in Salisbury, MD to Mikhayla Rathel (DOB: January 10, 1995) and Unknown Unknown (DOB: Unknown) shall file a written response. A copy of the show cause order may be obtained from the clerk’s office at 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson Maryland 21285-6754 and 1-800-938-5802. If you do not file a written objection by October 14, 2023, you will have agreed to the permanent loss of your parental rights to this child.

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public input for Mayor and Council consideration as to whether or not it is in the public’s interest to determine that the property is no longer needed for public use and move forward with the abandonment, closure and property conveyance. Additional information can be obtained from the City Clerk’s office by calling 410289-8842.

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RUSSELL H. WHITE SR. Estate No. 19879 Notice is given that CHRIS DIGRISTINE whose address is 12418 KENT ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on AUGUST 30, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RUSSELL H. WHITE SR. who died on JULY 30, 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 29th day of FEBRUARY, 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

OCTOBER 2, 2023 AT 6:00 PM TOWN OF OCEAN CITY RE: PUBLIC PROPERTY - ALLEY CLOSURE AND CONVEYANCE

A Public Hearing is scheduled on Tuesday, October 2, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council, in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. The purpose of this public hearing is to consider the abandonment and closure of the 16’ wide alley known as Washington Lane between 13th and 14th Street. The hearing will allow

(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-9/7/3t

Continued challenges for buyers

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Mortgage Bankers Association released its monthly report on homebuyer affordability at the end of August.

The news release said July was challenging but mostly unchanged from June, with the national median payment applied for by purchase applicants remaining at $2,162.

The figures are pulled from the MBA’s Purchase Applications Payment Index (PAPI), which measures how new monthly mortgage payments vary across time – relative to income – using data from MBA’s Weekly Applications Survey (WAS).

“Prospective homebuyers continued to face challenging conditions in July, with elevated and volatile mortgage rates and low housing inventory

serving as a formidable one-two punch that suppressed mortgage applications and sales activity,” said Edward Seiler, MBA’s associate vice president, Housing Economics, and executive director, Research Institute for Housing America. “With mortgage rates currently above 7 percent and expected to remain above 6 percent by the end of the year, affordability will remain a hurdle for many households looking to buy a home.”

Median earnings were up 3.7 percent compared to one year ago, and while payments increased by 17.2 percent, the strong earnings growth means that the PAPI is up 13 percent on an annual basis.

For borrowers applying for lowerpayment mortgages (the 25th percentile), the national mortgage payment decreased to $1,451 in July from $1,459 in June.

Additional Key Findings of MBA's Purchase Applications Payment Index (PAPI) – July 2023

• The national median mortgage payment was $2,162 in July (unchanged from June). It is up $318 from one year ago, equal to a 17.2 percent increase.

• The national median mortgage payment for FHA loan applicants was $1,854 in July, up from $1,824 in June and up from $1,461 in July 2022.

• The national median mortgage payment for conventional loan applicants was $2,197, down from $2,205 in June and up from $1,892 in July 2022.

• The top five states with the highest PAPI were: Idaho (258.7), Nevada (258.1), Arizona (237.0), California (234.0) and Florida (224.1).

• The top five states with the lowest PAPI were: Connecticut (121.0), Louisiana (125.3), Alaska (128.4), West Virginia (131.2) and New York (136.9).

— Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City,Maryland.

Group recognized

Becker Morgan Group was recently recognized by the readers’ choice of Coastal Style Magazine's Best of 2023 Award for the top architecture firm in Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex counties.

“This recognition stands as a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of architecture,” President Ron Morgan said in a news release.

Becker Morgan Group has been bringing creative design solutions to clients since 1983 and is honored to be known as a responsive and clientcentered firm providing optimal design solutions.

The firm is organized into practice areas with dedicated staff, ensuring clients receive specialized design attention for their specific project type.

Farmers market to reflect season change

As autumn draws closer, produce offered in Ocean Pines will soon follow suit

(Sept. 8, 2023) Hints of the changing season are already peaking in at the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market, and with the transition the selections will gradually shift too.

Market Manager David Bean said in a news release that the last of the locally grown tomatoes and sweet corn will linger well into autumn, as sweet potatoes start to arrive, along with more varieties of apples than one can name.

“There’s nothing better than freshpressed local apple cider and the first sight of pumpkins,” Bean said. “Alongside those will be fall flowers, and greenery for the porch and garden. Mums, asters and pansies of every color will brighten the autumn marketplace, ready for shoppers to take home.”

Shoppers should also be on the lookout for decorative gourds and miniature pumpkins at the market.

“They’ll look terrific on your dining table or fireplace mantel,” Bean said. “They keep for months, so you can decorate now and keep them out

through Thanksgiving. You can even hollow out mini pumpkins and gourds to make fun, seasonal candle holders. When you’re done with using them for décor, put them outside for the wild critters to enjoy the seeds and pulp!”

David Joseph of D.J. David Greengrocer said in the release that his market display will soon be piled high with autumnal produce.

"This fall we’re selling broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, pumpkins and winter squashes of all sorts, along with leeks, greens, lettuces, beets, carrots, radishes and parsnips, all directly from our local growers gardens and farm fields,” Joseph sad.

Brandon Brady of Stag Run Farm said the market has just as many locally grown treasures in the fall and winter as it does during spring and summer.

“We always have to fight the expectation of customers that we will not have local produce after a frost has hit – that's a false assumption that requires continual shopper education,” Brady said. “There will be plenty to offer after Jack Frost has visited our family farm."

Along with fresh produce, Bean said the selection at the market's bak-eries will also start to reflect the season’s change, with warming spices and autumn orchard fruit flavors in abundance.

Apple dumplings are a favorite of the customers at Pies Etcetera. Owner Belinda White has family roots in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, where she learned to perfect her family's recipe. She suggests pre-ordering, as the dumplings always sell out fast.

Bean said shoppers can also find jams and jellies for their morning toast, eggs for fall baking, and a roast for Sunday dinner.

What’s more, Dize Seafood will have the last of the Maryland hardshell crab harvest, and freshly harvested Chesapeake oysters will return just in time for the upcoming holidays.

According to the Maryland Farmers Market Association, the state

boasts more than a dozen farmers markets that are open for business during the colder months, with the Ocean Pines market being one of the few open year-round on the Eastern shore.

“There are also not as many folks from out of town who are buying during the fall season, so it is a great time for the market businesses to reconnect with their local shoppers after a very busy summer,” Bean said.

Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays in White Horse Park, next to the Ocean Pines Administration Building and Police Department.

The market returns to off-season hours of 9 a.m. to noon, starting Saturday, Oct. 7.

For more information, visit oceanpines.org/web/pages/farmers-artisans-market.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY Rows of vegetables sit on a table at the Ocean Pines Framers & Artisans Market. The market is transitioning to fall offerings and hours in the coming weeks.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY Greens are on display at the Ocean Pines Framers & Artisans Market. The market is held each Saturday at

BALANCING PRIORITIES

A group of beach goers balanced their love of the beach with their love of football by bringing a full-size television down to the sand to watch

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the following during their meeting on Tuesday:

Pocomoke Library

The commissioners unanimously approved the continuation of a detailed design for the new Pocomoke Library.

The 12,500-square-foot property has a new construction cost total of $592.54 per square foot, which includes $274,500 for the old building’s demolition.

The service fee amounts to $468,301 and is inclusive of a detailed design, construction documentation, bidding support and construction admiration.

The Pocomoke Library is also applying for a matching grant through the Maryland State Library Capital Grant program. The Commissioners requested that an update of the project be provided when it is 50 percent complete.

Water meter repair

The commissioners unanimously approved the bulk purchase of Neptune water meter repair parts for the Water & Wastewater Division of Public Works.

The purchase was budgeted at $205,090, and the order would include 12 Neptune water meters and 830 replacement registers and radios from Neptune’s regional supplier, Core & Main.

These materials are sole source, as all the water meters and reading equipment are Neptune brand and

cannot be interchanged with any other brand. The bulk purchase will allow the division to have ample stock for new installs and repairs.

Election district changes

The commissioners unanimously agreed to schedule a public hearing to receive public comment on the proposed revisions to the County Commissioner Election Districts.

Redistricting software has been used to prepare five draft election district maps, which are ready to be made public on the county website.

This interactive software allows constituents to view each map individually or in a side-by-side comparison view of the current map and each respective draft.

They will also be able to search for their property address to see how the various drafts affect their placement in an election district.

Any public comments will be submitted for commissioner considera-

tion before a map draft can be finalized.

A bill will then be prepared that will describe the district boundaries in detail and adopt the map accordingly.

Trucks purchased

The commissioners unanimously approved a purchase order for three trucks and the search for two off-thelot small/mid-sized trucks.

Two of the trucks come from the Apple Ford dealership in Columbia, Maryland, with the quote for each coming in at $50,043.64.

The other comes from the Chesapeake Ford dealership in Baltimore, Maryland, with the quote amounting to $84,895.

The delivery is expected to be between six to nine months. Vehicle quotes were requested from Ford, Dodge and Chevy dealerships, with multiple Ford dealerships responding with quotes for only 3/4-ton series trucks or higher.

Volunteers

Cavaliers last Saturday. Sadly, their support did not help the Volunteers, who lost 49-13.

to outdoor pools, full mayearr--round & entertainment. mature gardens, brick paver uite. Updated bath & walk-in & shared BA. Large eat-in , double wall ovens. Open replace. Sunroom overlooks the woods. Rear open deck, ndry room. Side entrance to ommunity amenities: Nature ina, basketball courts, tennis skate park, 5 pools

CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY

the Tennessee

vs. the Virginia

Berlin moves to demo Tyson’s poultry plant

Town rejects development proposal for Heron Park, new concepts presented

By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) The town of Berlin is proceeding with plans to demolish all or part of the Tyson poultry plant building on Old Ocean City Boulevard after a vote by the council on Monday, Aug. 28 ended negotiations with Palmer Gillis of Coastal Ventures Properties for the development of the site.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said Town Administrator Mary Bohlen is coordinating with engineers from Davis Bowen and Friedel to develop the request for proposals from demolition contractors.

The biggest question is how much of the structure the town can safely demolish with the $500,000 grant.

“We have to develop a plan to make sure the building is demolished in a way that in the end, the structure is still safe,” Tyndall said.

He said that it’s more than likely that the town will demolish the back part of the building and keep the front part, which included offices and a cafeteria.

“It will take a little bit to have a clear plan to move forward. By ‘little bit,’ I don’t mean weeks. We are talking days,” Tyndall said.

During the Aug. 28 council meeting, there was talk of reaching out to the Department of Housing and Urban Development to get an extension for the grant, which expires June 2024.

“We are going to try to move as quickly as we can to operate within the [grant] timeframe,” he said.

At this point, the council is moving forward without a development plan for the Heron Park property.

During the Aug. 28 mayor and council work session, developer Jack Burbage presented his own plan for the Heron Park property in its entirety.

“I think the whole park should be planned out before we do anything,” Burbage said.

The council was still in an extended negotiating period with Coastal Ventures at the time Burbage presented his plan.

“I did have a phone call with Mr. Burbage and the town administrator was with me,” Tyndall said.

During the call, Tyndall said he told Burbage that the town was in an extended negotiating period with Gillis and he would not be negotiating with anyone else during that time.

Tyndall said that during the phone call, Burbage said he was not interested in acquiring the Heron Park property, but if he was, this is what he would propose.

Tyndall t0ld Burbage during the call that he was free to share his plan during the public comment period at the next meeting, which he did.

At the meeting, Burbage suggested turning the Tyson’s building into an office and commercial warehouse, with catering and mini-storage. He also suggested a pool, a village green, train depot, and a day care center.

Much of the development included 59 residential units including singlefamily homes and townhouses. The concept of housing was originally rejected by the town and stated in the draft contract between the town and Coastal Ventures, but during further public discussions and debate, both the council and residents seemed to warm to the idea of some sort of housing, more in line with apartments above businesses than singlefamily or townhomes.

“I would like to see what they want and am willing to offer a formal proposal,” Burbage said.

Burbage said his focus is to not compete with the downtown busi-

nesses and to provide affordable workforce housing for teachers, police and other workers.

“People could buy it for the same price they are paying in rent,” Burbage said.

Burbage thinks that the town can sell parcels 410 and 57 and 191 and make enough to be debt free while still having enough land to build a small amphitheater, skate park and keep the green space for a park.

Burbage thought the Coastal Ventures plan offered by Palmer Gillis was a good plan.

“If they want to sell it to Palmer, that is wonderful,” Burbage said. Gillis originally proposed to develop parcels 57, 410 and 191, but as negotiations and town officials cooled on the idea of selling the three parcels, Gillis agreed to develop just parcel 57, the Tysons Poultry Plant. The original draft contract limited the development of parcel 57 to restaurants, boutiques, gift shops and retail with parcel 410 and 191 limited to commercial and a retail garden center for 10 years. As residents and council members raised concerns about competition with Berlin shops and restaurants, Gillis suggested office and warehouse space with commercial catering as an option. These updated options were reflected in Burbage’s drawings.

Coastal Ventures requested that $200,000 from the sale price be restricted for the town to accelerate a Rails to Trails bikeway that would extend from the north side of Old Ocean City Blvd back to the entertainment venture and passive park area and to spark fundraising efforts for a townowned entertainment venue.

Over the past few months, with numerous opportunities for public comment, the town and the council members continued to change their opinions on what type of development should occur on parcel 57.

Concerns were raised that any development should not compete with the current businesses in downtown Berlin and for the town to come up with a strategy to get out from under the debt incurred when it bought the 68-acre tract in 2015. Currently, the town owes $2.3 million on the property.

‘We have to develop a plan to make sure the building is demolished in a way that in the end, the structure is still safe.’ Mayor Zack Tyndall

Racing horse receives deserved retirement

Stallion hailing from family of thoroughbreds caps off career with over 300 races

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) It’s the end of an era for a well-seasoned standardbred trotter.

Studio City finished up his final race at Ocean Downs Casino in Ocean Pines late last month, his position known in racing terms as “up the

field.” Although not winning, it was a glorious, celebrated occasion by everyone having close ties to the veteran racehorse.

The chestnut brown trotter is owned by Lisa Dennison and Greg Dypsky. Studio City comes from a third-generation racing family, being bred and raised at Winbak Farm in Chesapeake City, Maryland. He was born to mare Yagot Prestige and was sired by Conway Hall.

Studio City has raced in 311 races over the course of his campaign, trav-

elling all over the country in doing so, and earning a lifetime total of $386,040 in prize money.

Now 14 years old, Studio City is still kicking away, with no signs of slowing down.

Each year, only a few racing horses reach the age of 14 and are still healthy and able to compete. It is perhaps even more rare for a 14-year-old

to win at an age where retirement would seem to be the best option.

Even so, Jan Rooney, owner of Paws and Claws in West Ocean City and friend of Dennison and Dypsky, said Studio City did what seldom occurs in the horse racing industry, a term known as “retiring sound,” especially after a racing career that has spanned the last 14 years.

PHOTO COURTESY JAN ROONEY

Esteemed racehorse Studio City competed in his final race at Ocean Downs late last month, placing on the field. The stallion competed in 311 races over an illustrious career.

Board of Public Works funds key Eastern Shore projects

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Maryland Board of Public Works approved several key projects in Worcester County last Wednesday, including $250,000 in funding for Atlantic General Hospital to acquire new materials and equipment for minimally invasive surgery.

The current equipment – namely minimally invasive video towers and camera box – has reached the end of its life.

“Atlantic General is fully committed to meeting the diverse and expanding needs for health care on the Eastern Shore,” Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), said in a news release. “Minimally invasive surgery allows for less trauma to the body, fewer complications, and a shorter recovery time, which helps our farmers, our watermen, and everyone in between return to their lives.”

Carozza and Del. Charles Otto (R38A) requested the funding during the 2023 Legislative Session for the capital budget through a Legislative Bond Initiative. The initiatives are local projects that serve a public purpose and must be sponsored by state legislators.

“Every year, the requests coming in far exceed the amount of funding available, and we made a successful

case that this Atlantic General Hospital request at this time was a priority for our constituents,” Carozza said.

The Board of Public Works also approved a Legislative Bond Initiative requested by Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C) and supported by Carozza of $75,000 to improve the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department South Station.The department also received $200,000 in 2022 and a $1.35 million during Gov. Larry Hogan’s last year in office.

A $329,656 grant to Worcester County from the Rural Legacy Funds was also approved. The money will protect prime agriculture farmland in the Nassawango Creek and Pocomoke River watershed.

“This is some of the most productive agricultural land in the County, and this grant will help preserve our rural way of life,” Carozza said.

Another Worcester County grant is set to come before the Board of Public Works in the coming weeks. Diakonia, the only provider for homeless men, women, families and veterans on the Lower Shore, was granted a $75,000 Legislative Bond Initiative during the latest session to pay for the acquisition and planning of affordable housing. Carozza requested the funding.

PHOTO COURTESY FRANCOIS BURGER

of the wild Assateague ponies were seen cooling off by the shoreline recently in an attempt to

Estuaries recognized on boat tour

(Sept. 8, 2023) Join the staff of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program on a free boat cruise of the bays, Monday, Sept. 18, from 4-6 p.m. to kick off the weeklong celebration of National Estuaries Week, a week dedicated to hailing all the benefits an estuary provides.

The boat tour will take place on the Assateague Adventure and will be on a first come, first serve registration. There is seating and a bathroom on the boat.

The boat is docked at the Talbott Street Marina, located at 311 Talbott Street and the bay. Parking will be free for those on the boat tour.

The goal of National Estuaries Week is to show members of Congress, federal agencies and state and local governments the importance of America’s estuaries, and to also remind communities of the significance of protecting and restoring the watershed.

“The definition of an estuary is where rivers meet the sea, but there’s a lot more going on that just the river meeting up with the sea,” said Maryland Coastal Bays Director Kevin Smith. “It’s where salt water and

fresh water mingle and mix. It’s where nutrients are trapped and processed. It is where suspended sediments drop and deposit. In the spring, it’s where glass eels struggle to get upstream. It’s where some of our most diverse and unique plants and fish grow. Simply put, estuaries are one of the most dynamic, interesting and important places on this planet.”

Currently, 28 estuaries located along the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific coasts and Puerto Rico are designated as estuaries of national significance.

The Maryland Coastal Bays is one of these important estuaries and MCBP is a local National Estuary Program dedicated to protecting and restoring the water quality and ecological integrity of the watershed.

NEP is an Environmental Protection Agency place-based program.

Though the coastal bays are sometimes referred to as ‘the forgotten bays’ due to the size of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay watershed, these tiny bays are one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the state.

It supports numerous rare and threatened plant and animal species, forests and wetlands vital to migratory songbirds and waterfowl, as well as numerous important commercial and recreational fin and shellfish species.

For more information or to register for the boat cruise and MCBP, visit mdcoastalbays.org or email mcbp@mdcoastalbays.org, and for more information on National Estuaries Week, visit estuaries.org/get-involved/national-estuaries-week/

GUEST SPEAKER

Samantha Norwood Conners, author of “Assateague Island Activity and Coloring Book,” poses with Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Bob Wolfing with a copy of her book. Norwood was the speaker at the club’s meeting on Aug. 23.

Organization meeting for new OPA board members this Sat.

(Sept. 8, 2023) Materials for the Sept. 9 Ocean Pines Association Board Organization meeting are now available online for anyone who plans to attend.

According to a news release, the meeting will be held as an in-person and virtual hybrid, with seating available in the Clubhouse Meeting Room on 100 Clubhouse Drive. The meeting is scheduled to start at 9 a.m.

Valid property owner ID cards are required to attend board meetings. Cards may be obtained at the front counter of the Ocean Pines Administration Building on 239 Ocean Pkwy. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:25 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Property owners must bring a driver’s license for verification to obtain a card.

First-time cards are free, and replacement cards are $5. Property owner ID cards are the same as membership cards.

There is no deadline to get a card. For questions, call 410-641-7717 or

email info@oceanpines.org.

To join remotely, use the Microsoft Teams link: teams.microsoft.com/l/meetupjoin/19%3ameeting_YTI4Mjc5MGItNDNjMy00M2MzLTg0ZjMtYjlkZTQ 5MzBiYmY5%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22625a6 322-2b2f-40fa-94f8d7dd44d78153%22%2c%22Oid%22 %3a%225fa869f5-01ad-476a-9570540fe1ce4736%22%7d.

The link can also be found on the Ocean Pines website, under both the calendar and news sections.

If prompted, use the web browser plug-in only and not the full client.

To view the agenda and meeting packet, visit oceanpines.org/documents/10184/53744/9-9-23+Organization+Meeting+Agenda.pdf?t=16 93506987962.

Following the meeting, the video will be posted to the Association YouTube channel and links will be announced on the Ocean Pines website, oceanpines.org.

NEW PRIEST

The Rev. Suz Southern, the new assistant priest at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Berlin, stands for a photo in front of the church. Ordained in June, she is a recent graduate of The School of Theology at The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. Southern and her husband, Dave, are pleased to return home to the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She is joining the Rev. Carl Mosley for 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. services each Sunday.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

Casino revenue down for month of August

(Sept. 8, 2023) Maryland’s six casinos combined to generate $161,398,690 in revenue from slot machines and table games during August 2023, down $7,953,262 (-4.7 percent) compared to August 2022.

Casino gaming contributions to the state in August 2023 totaled $68,125,275, a decrease of $2,753,104 (- 3.9 percent) compared to August 2022.

Contributions to the Education Trust Fund in August 2023 were $49,130,230, a decrease of $2,365,932 (-4.6 percent) compared to August 2022.

Casino gaming revenues also support

the communities and jurisdictions where the casinos are located, Maryland’s horse racing industry, and small, minority- and women-owned businesses.

Maryland’s six privately owned casinos offer both slot machines and table games: MGM National Harbor in Prince George’s County; Live! Casino & Hotel in Anne Arundel County; Horseshoe Casino Baltimore in Baltimore City; Ocean Downs Casino in Worcester County; Hollywood Casino Perryville in Cecil County; and Rocky Gap Casino Resort in Allegany County.

The gaming revenue totals for August

2023 are as follows:

• MGM National Harbor (2,301 slot machines, 209 table games)

$68,378,878 in August 2023, a decrease of $3,431,583 (-4.8 percent) from August 2022

• Live! Casino & Hotel (3,853 slot machines, 179 table games)

$55,067,729 in August 2023, a decrease of $1,733,292 (-3.1 percent) from August 2022

• Horseshoe Casino (1,410 slot machines, 122 table games)

$15,407,090 in August 2023, a decrease of $1,831,786 (-10.6 percent) from

August 2022

• Ocean Downs Casino (866 slot machines, 19 table games)

$10,062,021 in August 2023, a decrease of $469,073 (-4.5 percent) from August 2022

• Hollywood Casino (671 slot machines, 19 table games)

$7,104,629 in August 2023, a decrease of $88,799 (-1.2 percent) from August 2022

• Rocky Gap Casino (621 slot machines, 16 table games)

$5,378,342 in August 2023, a decrease of $398,730 (-6.9 percent)

Worcester County Tobacco Retailers Care About Our Kids!

The Worcester County Health Department and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department work together to prevent the sale, distribution, and consumption of tobacco products by those under age 21. Out of the 145 tobacco retailers in Worcester County, 69 retailers were randomly visited between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, by local law enforcement for the purpose of attempting to buy tobacco products by an underage cadet. The following tobacco retailers had an employee who requested an ID and refused to sell tobacco to a person under the age of 21. Please join the Worcester County Health Department and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department in congratulating these establishments. Please stop in and say “Thank You” to:

Mitchell's Market 401 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City

OC Cool Topics 9 N Atlantic Ave., Ocean City

Wawa, Store 566 12001 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City

Sassy 300 South Boardwalk, Ocean City

KRSNA (Cigar World & Cigarettes)

10818 Ocean Gateway Unit D, Berlin

Wal Mart Stores 2514

2132 Old Snow Hill Rd., Pocomoke City

Food

7-Eleven,

9636 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Ocean City

Exxon- Rt 50 Wine Rack

Ocean Gtwy., Ocean City

Royal Farms, Store 107 12826 Ocean Gtwy., Ocean City

OC Food Market

S Baltimore Ave., Ocean City

Pitt

It is illegal for a retailer to sell any tobacco product—including cigarettes, cigars, and e-cigarettes—to anyone under 21. The federal minimum age of sale applies to all retail establishments and persons with no exceptions.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Last week, Worcester Preparatory School had a staggered start for each division, welcoming Upper School (9-12) students on Aug. 29, Middle School students (6-8) on Aug. 30, and Lower School (PK-5) on Aug. 31. Seventh graders Soren Poulson, left, and Emerson Bofinger are happy to see each other in the same homeroom on the first day of school.

Last week, Worcester Preparatory School had a staggered start for each division, welcoming Upper School (9-12) students on Aug. 29, Middle School students (6-8) on Aug. 30, and Lower School (PK-5) on Aug. 31. First grade teacher Cheryl Marshall takes a photo of her student Callie McCabe on the first day of Lower School.

Worcester County Public Schools’ Chief Safety and Academic Officer Annette Wallace greets children during the first day of school at Showell Elementary.

Anne Binkley, a music teacher at Ocean City Elementary, helps students off the bus during the first day of school on Tuesday.

Lou Taylor, superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools, visits with Michaela Hatlee’s class at Buckingham Elementary during the first day of school Tuesday.

Worcester Preparatory School sixth graders, from left, Haley Hanna, Aylin Kucuk and Alessia Ziman are eager to start the 2023-2024 school year.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

WELCOME BACK

Last week, Worcester Preparatory School had a staggered start for each division, welcoming Upper School (912) students on Aug. 29, Middle School students (6-8) on Aug. 30, and Lower School (PK-5) on Aug. 31. Camille Jenkins’ (fourth from left) fifth grade students were all smiles with Head of Lower School Dr. Sara Timmons on the first day of school.

ART SHOW FIRST PLACE

Dennis Young of New Castle, Delaware, won first place in the 2023 Artists Paint OC Plein Air Festival.

The Art League of Ocean City presented a total of $5,400 to the winners of the Artists Paint OC Plein Air Festival at the Wet Paint Awards Ceremony on Aug. 12.

SUBMITTED

FIRST DAY

OC FILM FESTIVAL

Ocean City Film Challenge firstplace winner Brian Hooks, left, poses with OC Film Festival creative director B.L. Strang-Moya, center, and Film Challenge Judge Tom Taylor of PAC 14 at the screenings of the film fest entries Aug. 19, at the Little Salisbury tennis courts next to the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street.

YOUNG ARTISTS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Brittany DiMare welcomes students to her classroom at Berlin Intermediate School during the first day of school on Tuesday.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY

(Left) Cassidy Jones, 9, from Bodkin Elementary in Lake Shore, Maryland, poses with her entry for the Kids Paint OC event held during the month of July in Ocean City. The entry received an honorable mention award for the event, which was held in conjunction with the Artists Paint OC Plein Air Festival. (Right) Drew Biro, 8, from the Nysmith School for the Gifted in Hernon, Virginia, also displays his entry, which won third place.

PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

Carozza participates in first Apprenticeship 2030 meeting

(Sept. 8, 2023) Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-District 38) participated in the first meeting of the Apprenticeship 2030 Commission on Tuesday.

Sen. Carozza was appointed to the commission by Senate President Bill Ferguson in July. Fellow Eastern Shore Delegation member, Del. Carl Anderton, was appointed by House Speaker Adrienne Jones.

“We will be bold in creating new pathways for work and careers,” Carozza said after the meeting.

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 support my ongoing work with local industry, students and community leaders interested in apprenticeships to meet the needs of employers while keeping our young talent right here on the Shore,” said Carozza who has worked on this general priority with shore employers, local technology high schools, Wor-Wic Community Col-

lege, and the Tri-County Council since she was first elected as a delegate in 2014.

Carozza noted workforce shortages in all the major industries, and that the work on the Apprenticeship Commission will be focused on the goals of expanding registered apprenticeships to 60,000 and having 45 percent of high school graduates complete the high school level of a registered apprenticeship by 2030.

During the commission’s virtual meeting, Sen. Carozza questioned the Maryland Department of Education Senior Director of Career and College Pathways.

“What has the interaction been with local employers to increase their interest to participate and increase the number of youth apprenticeships?” asked Carozza, who continues to advocate for more local flexibility for students and employers in building out apprenticeship programs across all industries.

The commission is due to report its findings and recommendations to the governor and the General Assembly by the end of this year.

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

ACCIDENTAL HAND-LINING

Pictured is an oyster toadfish, which Staff Writer Hunter Hine found hooked to an abandoned fishing line that was tangled in the rocks at Homer Gudelsky Park in West Ocean City on Sunday.

Mary Beth Carozza

Platform tennis tournament benefits Parkinson research

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Ocean Pines Platform Tennis Club is seeking sponsors for a new charity tournament set for Saturday, Sept. 23 in Ocean Pines.

According to a news release, tournament co-chairs Karen Kaplan and M. Petito said the event will benefit longtime member Dee Bohanan, who is battling Parkinson’s disease and receiving home hospice care.

Players from Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey have been invited, and the tournament promises to showcase an exhibition of high-level platform tennis, for a worthy cause.

Sponsorships of $500, $250, and $150 – and donations in any amount – will be gifted by the club to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkin-

YOUNG CRAFTERS

son’s Research, in honor of Bohanan.

Sponsor benefits include the company’s name on a banner with high profile exposure at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center.

“Daily foot traffic at the center often exceeds 300 players, and a business name on a banner will elevate their brand exposure and highlight their company’s goodwill in the community,” Kaplan said in the release. “And, it’s all for a great cause for our dear friend.”

For more information on sponsorships, contact Kaplan at 516-508-0313 for an application.

Additional donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation can be mailed to M. Petito, 4 Longpoint Court, Ocean Pines 21811.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Lily and Nicole Tsvetanov, of Ocean City, work on projects during the Art League of Ocean City’s free kids’ craft program on a recent Saturday. The art league offered programs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every summer Saturday at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Artist Zoe Kenzo of Frederick, left, shows off her project. The Art League of Ocean City’s free kids’ craft program wrapped up on Sept. 2. Miral Abduahmadeh also displays her artwork.

Planning comm. authority limited

In light of the many comments offered last week following the Ocean City Planning Commission’s approval of the KYMA hotel site plan, it appears that a good portion of the public doesn’t know how zoning works.

That’s understandable, given that local jurisdictions derive their authority to implement and enforce planning and zoning standards from state law, which isn’t going to make anyone’s summer reading list.

Nevertheless, it contains the “cans” and “cannots” of local planning commissions, the powers of which are mostly advisory, meaning they can interpret rules, but can’t change them.

In that regard, when a site plan comes before a planning commission, that body is required to keep its decision making within the boundaries of the zoning code as instituted by municipal or county government.

Although planning commissions routinely attempt to stretch their authority by suggesting changes in layout and design to applicants — and applicants often go along with those suggestions to keep the peace — it remains that a commission can’t reject a project simply because it — or the neighbors — don’t like it.

This is providing, of course, that the parcel on which the project proposes to build is already zoned for that use. Projects that require a rezoning are an entirely different matter.

Essentially, as in the KYMA case, a planning commission majority felt the project checked all the critical boxes and therefore felt it had no legal grounds to reject it. Their personal opinion of the hotel is not just immaterial, it has no place in a commission ruling that aims to stand up in court should proponents or opponents decide to appeal the decision.

Further, with regard to criticism concerning the evolving nature of Ocean City and its redevelopment, that’s not something the commission can control. That is strictly the bailiwick of the Ocean City Council, which writes the rules. Complaints, gripes and other observations on the nature of resort development should be directed to the council, not the commission.

Ocean City Today

EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson

MANAGING EDITOR ............................ Mallory Panuska

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR .......................... Lisa Capitelli

STAFF WRITERS ................Cindy Hoffman, Hunter Hine, ..............................................................Remy Andersen

ACCOUNT MANAGERS .......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier

Kelly

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER ...... Christine Brown

SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks

GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............ Kelly Brown, Jane Leibowitz

PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts

So long Jimmy Buffett

If Jimmy Buffett can die, what does that mean for the rest of us? People like him aren’t supposed to have an end, because that means having fun forever is not a realistic goal.

Not that his music depicted a realistic world — “A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean?” — but the fun part, that’s an accepted fact.

I knew Buffett, a little, as a member of his occasionally notorious Rec League Softball team, The Downvalley Doughboys, in early 1980s Aspen, Colorado.

“Sure. What do I have to do?”

“Like reggae music, drink a lot of beer, and understand that if you see two or more softballs coming straight at you at 80 mph, only one of them is real.”

“Sure, I can do that.”

I was issued our standard uniform — camo hats and T-shirts emblazoned with the Pillsbury Dough Boy for reasons unknown to me — and reported for duty.

By Stewart Dobson

We were a camouflageshirt-wearing motley bunch of famous, infamous and “who is that?” people, just slightly past our athletic primes, and whose dedication to the game was in some small part related to the four-cases of beer provided for each game by Corona, our team sponsor.

As for our team members, they included musicians (Jeff Hanna of the Dirt Band) classical music composers (George Tsontakis, Academy of Arts and Letters honoree) writers, (Hunter S. Thompson), retired football players (Ed Podolak, Kansas City Chiefs running back), drug dealers and drug informants (as it later turned out) roadies, ringers (Graig Nettles, New York Yankees) Buffett, of course, when he wasn’t on tour, slackers, straight shooters, and two or three people of no particular significance ... like me.

I did not join the team to befriend Buffett or any of the other notables, but just to have a good time and maybe play a little ball.

“Hey, you want to play softball this summer?” a team member asked me in 1982.

We always announced our arrival at the field by blaring Bob Marley music from the team manager’s van, the side doors of which opened to expose a pair of avalanche-inducing three-story boom box speakers, or so they appeared to me.

Also heralding our presence were the Doughettes, a raucous collection of partying women who would drive up to and sometimes onto the field in their vintage Mary Kay pink Cadillac convertible.

This being the ’80s, snow was not the only white powdery substance available at the time, as I learned on my second or third Doughboys game. I was sitting on the bench, waiting for my turn at bat when someone said to me, “Hey, you’re on deck. Come get your line.”

“What?”

“Yeah, coke, you want to get jacked before you go to the plate, right?” he said, holding out a folded slip of paper containing the notorious white powdery substance.

“WHAT?”

I mean here I am, not long out of Denton, Maryland where the only foreign substance I had seen going up someone’s nose was a Vicks inhaler after working all day in the chicken house.

“I get heart palpitations from three cups of coffee,” I quickly replied, figuring that would be the end of it.

“Maybe a joint, then?” my teammate offered hopefully.

Apparently, they didn’t call it the recreation league for nothing, and people had fun in whatever way seemed appropriate at the time, like when a totally stoned Hunter S. Thompson sat on the bench flicking pebbles at the umpire when he wasn’t looking.

Bap! One would bounce off the back of the ump’s head and he’d turn to confront our bench, only to see a dozen or so players examining their fingernails as if they suddenly revealed the secrets of the universe. Bap! Examine. Bap! Examine.

“One more time ...” he turned and threatened, causing us to return to other pursuits like actually watching the game.

The team’s greatest moment during my tenure was when we made the playoffs and, through some cosmic accident, beat a despised foe comprised of youthful, athletic stud-types who, amazingly enough, didn’t drink during their games.

Unfortunately, this miracle on the field victory led to an extended celebration at the Jerome Hotel bar that left us senseless and hangoverly dull for the next game just a handful of hours away.

It was an ugly affair, high or lowlighted by a line drive to the short outfielder, who didn’t catch it but did find it in the grass in time to throw the ball to the shortstop, who dropped it as the runner rounded second.

He eventually regained control and threw the ball as hard as he could to the cutoff man, who, as bad luck

would have it, was only about three feet away. It hit him square between the eyes and laid him out like a coldcut platter.

A better team would have had someone to rush up and play the carom of his forehead, but alas, we were preoccupied with trying to decide if hysterical laughter was an appropriate response.

But wait, you say, what does any of this nonsense have to do with Jimmy Buffett? Everything. He set the standard for our anything-goes-as-longas-it’s-fun playbook by giving us the team motto — and song in 1983 — “We are the people our parents warned us about.”

That was us, but not long thereafter, he and others realized that unless you aspired to set up housekeeping over a storm drain in the city, this approach would not carry you to great success.

Still, he remained a disciple of the big three of life: having fun, treating other people well, and maintaining a good sense of humor. He also became incredibly rich through his ability to recognize an opportunity:

During a post-game soiree at the Jerome Hotel Bar, a fan came up and offered $60 to anyone who would sell his Doughboys T-shirt.

We all refused out of pride. Then up walked Buffett, who said, “Hell, for sixty bucks you can have my shirt. I got boxes of them,” and peeled it off on the spot.

That’s how someone who had just one hit — “Margaritaville” — became a billionaire — by selling the idea of fun. More importantly, he showed the rest of us that having fun (in moderation) can be rewarding as well.

So thanks, Jimmy. I have been well rewarded.

Worcester County Fair set for Sept. 15-17 in Snow Hill

(Sept. 8, 2023) It’s almost Fair Time in Worcester County.

This year, the fair will be held Sept 15-17 at Byrd Park in Snow Hill.

Hour are 2-7 p.m., Friday, Set.15; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 16; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 17. A classic car show is also set from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Last year, the fair showcased more

than 1,700 indoor and livestock exhibits and paid out over $7,500 in premium money.

For more information, follow the Worcester County Fair on Facebook or visit worcestercountyfair.com.

To see the schedule, featured bands and performers for kids, click on the Tabloid icon on the website.

MEETING

PHOTO COURTESY ROB BROUSE SUNSET PADDLE

A paddle boarder heads into the sunset on Tuesday night after the long Labor Day weekend. The waterways were packed over the weekend, but were quieter by Tuesday.

Worcester County NAACP president Ivory Smith, left, sits with Mothers Against Drunk Driving presenters Tom McKnight and Amy Davis at a recent meeting of the groups at the Berlin 50 Plus Center. One mission of MADD is to recognize impaired driving as a violent crime and hold drunk and drugged drivers accountable.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

Restoration will give needed facelift to mural in Snow Hill Firefighter with familial ties given community recognition

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Legacy Mural, the image that greeted travelers heading into Snow Hill for over 30 years, is set for restoration over the next few weeks.

According to a news release, the local emblem will resume its rightful place in the heart of town through a collaborative partnership between the Town of Snow Hill and private property owners Dr. William and Christine Plack, and with funding from the Maryland State Art’s Council.

The Legacy Icon, a prior town logo, has become an important symbol in defining the quaint lifestyle experienced in Snow Hill, the release said.

The image captures the essence of Snow Hill by incorporating elements most strongly represented in and around the town. The lush tree scape along the water bank signifies Snow Hill’s geography, heritage and historic resilience as one of the first Royal Ports settled in America. Paying tribute to the town’s function as the Worcester County Seat, the Worcester County Circuit Court

building’s copula is a prominent feature in the image as well.

The image has become a focal point of the Downtown Shopping District. It acts as a welcome beacon to visitors and is a staple in the lives of the community members. Weddings, engagements, graduations, and other milestones are commemorated through pictures with the Legacy Mural as the backdrop.

The Legacy Mural was originally painted in the 1980s by Wally Makuchal Sr., based on the town’s logo designed by Selbyville Signs.

After Wally Makuchal Sr.’s death, his son Wally Makuchal Jr. took over maintenance of the mural, repainting it in the early 2000s. Wally Makuchal Jr. was scheduled to begin the reinstallation of the mural as soon as last Friday evening. It will take several weeks to complete.

The first phase in repainting the mural is establishing the outline, which will be done by projecting the large image on the wall during evening hours. Willow Street will be closed to traffic beginning at dusk during those time.

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) This week in our “Volunteer Spotlight” we recognize Life Member Harry M. “Mike” Todd.

Mike and his family have served the residents and visitors of Ocean City with unselfish dedication to the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company for three generations. Firefighter Todd is the son of Gold Badge member William “Bill” Todd and the father of current Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Assistant Chief Michael Todd.

When asked his reason for joining the volunteer fire company, Mike replied, “It is our family tradition to give back to our community.”

Mike grew up in Ocean City and worked for many years as a master plumber with his father at the OC Service Company in West Ocean City before retiring due to a neck injury.

Mike joined the OCVFC in 1980 after serving four years in the OCVFC Cadet Program. During his 23 years of active service with the volunteer fire company, Firefighter Todd served as lieutenant and later captain on Engine 709 as well as several years as an instructor for the cadet program. He has also served the volunteer fire company as the assistant chaplain.

Firefighter Todd recalls the most significant event of his fire service career as the tragic Sauté Café fire of July 16, 1983, resulting in the line of duty death of OCVFC firefighter Jeff Dieter. He cites his greatest accomplishment in the fire service as being involved with other firefighters in the

successful rescue of a male subject from a burning building on Judlee Avenue in the mid-1980s.

When asked what advice he would pass along to our young firefighters or those interested in joining the fire service, Todd replied: “Remember words from ‘The Fireman’s Prayer’ — by working together, lives and property will be saved. Always stay true to your dedication and service to the community.” (Writer’s note: The Fireman’s Prayer is recited by our membership before every OCVFC meeting).

We thank Firefighter Todd and his family for their years of service and commitment to the safety of our residents and visitors to our community. For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, visit www.ocvfc.com.

Kiwanis Club President Bob Wolfing, left, Worcester County G.O.L.D. Executive Director Nicholas Cranford, center, and the Kiwanis Club Liaison to G.O.L.D., Jim Spicknall, pose with a donation the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City presented recently to Worcester G.O.L.D.

Harry M. “Mike” Todd

Germans rescue Mussolini from mountaintop captivity

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) This week, 80 years ago, the Germans pulled off a spectacular rescue of the Duce di Italia, Benito Mussolini.

In the early morning of July 25, 1943, the inconceivable had occurred. The Gran Consiglio Del Fascismo voted to recommend that the King of Italy remove the Prime Minister — Mussolini — from office. In other words, after 21 years, Benito Mussolini was no longer the leader of Italy. This set in motion events that would lead to one of the most daring rescues in history, and the subsequent establishment of the “Repubblica di Salò.”

The Gran Consiglio Del Fascismo consisted of 28 men, many of whom had been hand-picked by Mussolini, including Count Dino Grandi, Marshal Emilio De Bono, an old Fascist comrade, who was with him from the beginning, and Mussolini’s son-inlaw, former Foreign Minister Count Galeazzo Ciano. On July 13, council members, led by Count Grandi, urged Il Duce to convene the council.

On July 19, as the Italian Duce was meeting with the German Führer in the small town of Feltre in Northern Italy near the Austrian border, news arrived that 500 American bombers were striking Rome in broad daylight. It was the first time that Rome had been bombed, and it resulted in 3,000 deaths and 11,000 injured.

With Il Duce was Gen. Vittorio Ambrosio, whom Mussolini had recently appointed to replace Marshal Ugo Cavallero as chief of Commando Supremo. Gen. Ambrosio, unsuccessfully, urged Il Duce to tell Hitler what everyone already knew —after almost a decade of war, which included the invasion of Ethiopia and the Spanish Civil War, Italy could no longer continue fighting.

Two days after the meeting of the two Axis leaders, Mussolini, on July 21, 1943, ordered Party Secretary Carlo Scorza to convene the Grand Council. The next day, Count Grandi, president of Chamber of Fasces and Corporations, met with Mussolini in the Palazzo Venezia, in an unsuccessful effort to convince him to resign.

At 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 24, 1943, in the Palazzo Venezia, Mussolini convened the Gran Consiglio Del Fascismo for the first time since Dec. 7, 1939. All wore their black Fascist uniforms. Count Grandi, who had opposed the war, and was aware that the king had decided to replace Mussolini, began attacking Mussolini’s leadership.

At midnight, Mussolini loyalist Carlo Scorza moved to adjourn till the next day. Count Grandi opposed it, shouting, “No! I am against the pro-

posal! We have started this business and we must finish it this very night!”

Finally, at 2 a.m., on the morning of July 25, a vote of no-confidence was taken. The vote was 19-7 against Il Duce di Italia. Even his son-in-law, Count Ciano, voted against him!

Later that morning, King Victor Emmanuel III summoned Mussolini to the Royal Palace. When the King informed Mussolini of his dismissal as prime minister, he said, “My dear Duce, it’s no good anymore. Italy has gone to bits. Army morale is at rock bottom. The soldiers don’t want to fight any more. You’re the most hated man in Italy!”

As Mussolini left the Royal Palace, he was approached by a captain of the Carabinieri, who told him, “His Majesty has charged me with the protection of your person.” With that, Il Duce di Italia was placed under arrest by Lt. Col. Giovanni Frignani and Capts. Raffaele Aversa and Paola Vigneri of the Carabinieri.

Marshal Pietro Badoglio was named prime minister. Frignani and Aversa were among those later executed by the Germans in the Ardeatine Caves, which is the subject of the movie “Massacre in Rome,” starring Richard Burton and Marcello Mastroianni.

Knowing that the Germans might attempt a rescue of Mussolini, his Italian captors moved him from secret location to secret location. The Italians were correct. The very day after Mussolini’s arrest, der Führer summoned SS Captain Otto Skorzeny and tasked him with rescuing, “Italy’s greatest son,” stating that his, “... old ally and dear friend ...” had to be rescued immediately. But before any rescue could be planned and implemented, the would-be rescuers had to determine the location of the Duce’s captivity. Skorzeny immediately went to Rome, ostensibly as an aide-de-camp to paratroop commander Gen. Kurt Student.

After weeks of snooping, a message was intercepted which said, “Security measures around Gran Sasso completed.” From this, the Germans deduced that Mussolini was being held at Albero-Rifugio Hotel, on the Campo Imperatore on the 6,000-foot-high Gran Sasso Mountain in the Abruzzi Mountains.

But the Germans had to hurry. On Sept. 3, 1943, Gen. Giuseppe Castellano secretly signed an armistice in Sicily. Supreme Allied Commander Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, unexpectedly, on Sept. 8, announced that Italy had secretly surrendered.

Now that Mussolini had been located, the Germans would have to devise a plan with some possibility of success to extricate the Duce from this high-altitude, remote location. The

planners finally decided on a glider operation.

On Sunday, Sept. 12, 1943, at around 2 p.m., 12 German gliders, carrying 108 Luftwaffe paratroopers and SS soldiers, arrived over their target where they thought there would be flat ground to land. There was none, so they crashed in front of the hotel. Skorzeny was the first out and ran toward the hotel.

The German rescuers had brought an Italian general, Fernando Soleti, to order the 100 Italian Caribinieri guarding the Duce to not oppose the rescue operation. Gen. Soleti emerged from one of the gliders yelling “Don’t

shoot!” in Italian, causing the Caribinieri to hesitate enough for the Germans to take command of the situation.

Skorzeny burst into the hotel and ran up the staircase. At the top of the staircase he threw open the door. Facing him stood Mussolini. After disarming the two Italian guards, Skorzeny introduced himself to the fallen dictator and said, “Duce, der Führer sent me! You’re free!” Mussolini hugged Skorzeny and said, “I knew my friend Adolph wouldn’t desert me.” So far, no one had been injured.

Continued on Page 60

Mussolini and rescuers

TOREY BERKLEY BISCHOFF

Ocean City

Torey Berkley Bischoff, aka “T,” our beloved son, brother and friend, suddenly passed away Sunday, Sept. 3, 2023 at his aunt Sheila’s home in Ocean City, Maryland.

He was the favorite son of Mark Bischoff and Theresa (Terri) Dooley Bischoff.

In addition to his parents, Torey is survived by his sister, Kristin Bischoff Jackson (Andy); niece, Emma and nephew, Ethan, of Snow Hill, Maryland.

Torey has always loved sports both as a spectator and a participant - especially watching Florida State football games.

T enjoyed visiting his friends scattered around the United States. His friends and family were extremely important to him.

He will always be remembered as a kind, thoughtful, loving individual. Torey had an amazing soul, selfless, always more concerned with others than himself.

Several of his friends have said that Torey was a loyal friend and they were blessed and lucky to have known him. He positively impacted many on their own journey and struggles with life’s harsh realities.

As you know, Torey attempted to overcome a lot in his “short” lifetime. Some hiccups proved more challenging than others, but he never gave up.

T’s family would like to thank his plethora of friends for their invaluable friendship. He treasured them throughout his far too quick life!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Torey to: https://atlanticclubocmd.org/oceancity-addiction-resources-donate/

A Celebration of Life will be held within the next few months.

Expressions of sympathy and memories of Torey may be shared for the family at www.boundsfuneralhome.com.

Frank and Lucille raised six children, Kathy (Mike) Gillespie, Frank III (Cecilia), Brenda (Tim) Burrell, Mark (Cheryl), Mike (Mary), and Lucy (Ray) Turnage.

He also is survived by many grandchildren, great-grands, great-great grands, and many nieces and nephews.

Frank always worked hard to support his family. His occupations ranged from making ice cream to driving a truck.

He retired as a Union truck driver in 1995. He enjoyed boating, working on cars, and family time.

Continued from Page 59

That was the easy part! The Germans had arrived in gliders, most of which were wrecked, and none of which had engines. In any event, there was really no place to land or take off. So, Skorzeny radioed Gen. Student, who sent his personal pilot, Capt. Heinrich Gerlach, in a Fieseler-Storch, which was a very light plane needing very little space from which to take off or land.

FRANK

EDWARD KOCH Selbyville

Frank Edward Koch, 91, passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside in Selbyville, Delaware, on Aug. 23, 2023.

He was born on April 19, 1932, in Baltimore, Maryland, and remained in Maryland until 2020 when he and his wife moved to Delaware with his daughter and son-in-law.

Frank served our country in the Army during the Korean Conflict from January 1953 to December 1954.

Frank is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 71 years, Lucille (Lintz) Koch, and his parents; Frank Koch Sr. and Helen (Reddish) Koch.

In his younger years as a father, he would build his children bicycles from new and old parts. He would take the family on Sunday drives in “The Country,” as he would say when we were growing up.

He was a quiet man who cherished his wife and loved his family. His life and beliefs were old-fashioned. He lived a very simple and happy life. We will miss him and treasure all our memories of him.

There will be a private service at the Glen Haven Cemetery in Glen Burnie at the discretion of the family.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

$1,445.

Within a short time, Capt. Gerlach landed his Storch on the uneven ground. But, as soon as he landed, he knew it would be almost impossible to take off with any kind of passenger. His problems were further compounded when the giant Skorzeny (6 feet, 7 inches) announced that he would be leaving with the Duce as well!

In order to make this work, Gerlach revved up the engine of the Storch, while it was being held by 12 sturdy men. At Gerlach’s signal, the men let go. The Fieseler-Storch taxied toward the edge of the plateau. At the last minute, the plane lifted off the ground, but it just as suddenly fell, one of its wheels having hit a rock, sending it toppling over the edge into the valley below.

Capt. Gerlach desperately tried to pull it out of its dive without success. Finally, at less than 100 feet from the ground, the Captain was able to right the plane. He neglected to tell his passengers that the engine had been damaged during takeoff and wasn’t functioning properly!

From there, it flew to an airfield near Rome, where Skorzeny and Il Duce transferred to a larger plane and flew to Vienna, where they received a hero’s welcome. Il Duce spent the night in the Hotel Imperial. After several nights in Vienna, Il Duce was flown to Berlin. Gerlach and Skorzeny were each awarded the Knight’s Cross.

On Sept. 15, 1943, the Italian Duce met the German Führer at the latter’s headquarters in East Prussia. Mussolini was a broken man, in very poor health, and simply wanted to retire. Hitler was shocked at his appearance.

But der Führer insisted on a comeback. So, a beaten Mussolini returned to Italy, and on Sept. 18, 1943, established an Italian government headquartered in the northern Italian town of Salò, on Lake Garda. The new government was informally known as the “Repubblica di Salò.” Today the town has a population of 10,000. On Nov. 25, 1943, it finally acquired a name — “Repubblica Sociale Italiana.” Only the Reich, and its European allies, recognized the RSI. Not even Franco’s Spain recognized it!

Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, 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.

Torey B. Bischoff

Frank E. Koch

Sports & Recreation

OPA announces Hitchens as new Aquatics manager

(Sept. 8, 2023) Ocean Pines Association announced a transition within the Aquatics department, as General Manager John Viola on Tuesday introduced Michelle Hitchens as the new Aquatics manager.

Hitchens grew up outside of Philadelphia and moved to the Delmarva area in 2004. Starting at a young age, she worked at an array of recreation and aquatic facilities.

Hitchens, the mother of four children, moved to the Berlin area and joined the Aquatics department for Ocean Pines 11 years ago.

With Ocean Pines, she has coordinated Aquatics exercise classes and programs, taught exercise classes and lessons, supervised instructors and employees of the department, and helped the department to run smoothly overall.

Hitchens said she is excited to move forward into the Aquatics manager position. She loves working for

the Ocean Pines Association and for the Aquatics department.

She plans to make the transition as smooth and comfortable as possible for the staff, and to make the department and facilities a joy for all to take part in.

OCMC, Cape May fishing club to compete in Challenge Cup

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) A decades-old fishoff between the Ocean City Marlin Club and the Cape May Marlin & Tuna Club is set to return to Ocean City from Sept. 14-16.

The 45th annual Charles Kratz & Scott Smith Challenge Cup is a billfish release tournament for full members of each club only.

The tournament is a battle for the prized Challenge Cup, which, once awarded to the winning club, gets engraved with the club’s name (similar to professional ice hockey’s Stanley Cup) and held at the club until the next year.

“It is competitive, but there’s a lot of camaraderie between the clubs historically. (It) goes way back. We get to see people, fish with people once a year. I mean, let’s face it, we all have the same agenda in this bill-fishing sport,” said Pat Svehla, former chairman of the tournament and now a participant angler in it.

These two clubs haven’t gone headto-head since 2019, when 22 boats showed out for the Cape May Club, and 19 participated for the OCMC.

Bahia Marina to host annual Flounder Pounder Sept. 10

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Flounder Pounder single-day fishing tournament is returning to Bahia Marina this Sunday.

$25, $50 and $100 to enter.

The $100 calcutta pays out winner-take-all to the entered boat with the heaviest flounder.

While the teams tied for releasepoints that year, OCMC won since they caught their last fish first.

The Challenge Cup began in 1978 after Charles Kratz, of the Ocean City Marlin Club in Ocean City, Maryland, and Scott Smith, of New Jersey’s Cape May Marlin & Tuna Club, came up with the idea while fishing offshore together.

For all of the 1980’s the tournament location alternated between Cape May and Ocean City year-toyear, Svehla said.

Around the early 1990’s, a few Challenge Cups were canceled due to weather and many anglers started losing interest, Svehla said.

Traveling to New Jersey every other year also didn’t help the case for Ocean City anglers, since most of the time billfish were lingering south of Ocean City around the Washington Canyon during September.

Around the mid-1990’s Svehla, late OCMC member Billy Ortlip and a few Cape May Club members brought the tournament back, deciding to hold it in Ocean City every year.

Svehla said that Sunset Marina in West Ocean City hosts the Cape May

“Basically, this is a hometown local tournament,” said Shawn Harman, owner of Bahia Marina and Fish Tales, located on 22nd Street, bayside.

Registration is at Bahia Marina from 8-9:30 a.m., which will be immediately followed by a captains meeting.

Registration costs $50 for a boat and a captain. The cost for each angler is $25, with a maximum of six per boat.

Participants can fish on their own boat or rent a vessel from the marina.

Typically, 30-35 boats are entered into the tournament depending on weather conditions, Harman said.

Participants are eligible for first-, second- and third-place cash prizes for heaviest flounder.

There are also four calcuttas for heaviest flounder, which cost $10,

club members and offers complimentary docking slips as long as the New Jersey anglers purchase fuel.

“They (Cape May club members) look at it as a vacation-type destination weekend,” Svehla said.

Registration for this year’s tourna-

The tournament begins with a “shotgun start,” where every boat leaves the marina at once, Harman said.

Anglers can fish from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and scales close at 5 p.m.

Once the scales close, organizers will calculate the payout for the winners and announce the prizes at the marina.

Harman said that flounder fishing has been pretty good this year, with more of the species seeming to be caught offshore.

The weekend forecast was calling for scattered thunderstorms as of earlier this week, but Harman said anglers are ready to face the elements.

“Flounder are wet, so it doesn’t matter,” Harman said of the potential rain.

The minimum catch-and-keep size for flounder in Maryland is 16 inches, with a maximum of four per day.

For more information, call Bahia Marina at 410-289-7438.

ment is Sept. 13 from 6-8 p.m. at the OCMC clubhouse on Golf Course Road in West Ocean City. There will be a captains meeting at 7:45 p.m., which can be attended in-person, also at the clubhouse, or online through a

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Bahia Marina is hosting the Flounder Pounder, a single-day flounder fishing tournament, on Sept. 10. Pictured is a flounder caught by Staff Writer Hunter Hine at Homer Gudelsky Park in July.

Michelle Hitchens

Challenge Cup last held in 2019

Continued from Page 61

link on the club’s Facebook page.

The Cape May club will have its own registration in New Jersey, Svehla said.

The boat entry fee is $400, which includes six anglers. Any additional angler cost $50 each, and boats can fish two of three days.

Both clubs can enter as many boats as they wish, and there doesn’t need to be an even number of boats for each team.

Typically, the Cape May club brings around 15-20 boats, while the Ocean City club often has 12-15 boats.

Only the top six boats from each club get scored. Whichever team has the highest average score of all six of their qualifying boats will determine the winning club.

Boats earn release points that vary depending on the billfish species.

White marlin, sailfish and spearfish are worth 75 points, while blue marlin and swordfish are worth 150 points.

Svehla said that, recently, most of the best billfish fishing has been farther north than usual.

“Closer to Cape May, frankly,” Svehla said.

However, he added, there is no telling where the fish could be, come tournament time. The billfish very well could start migrating south again in time for the Challenge Cup.

Besides the Challenge Cup, there are also five awards for individual boats.

There are two trophies for most points earned on the first day of fishing, one for a boat that’s part of the OCMC and one for a boat from the Cape May club.

Two trophies for highest points earned the second day will be allocated the same way.

Only one boat in the entire tournament can win the trophy for most overall points. If there is a tie, the trophy goes to the boat that caught their last fish first.

In addition to the trophies, there will be a winner-take-all entry level calcutta, the payout of which will go to the boat with the most release points. It costs $1,000 to enter.

On Sept. 14, the OCMC is hosting all tournament participants and their guests to an Italian Night from 6:309:30 p.m. at the clubhouse, another tournament tradition.

“Bottle of wine on the table and the checkered tablecloth, and what have you, … which, kind of gets everybody in a good mood on the first night of the tournament,” Svehla said.

On the final day of the tournament, everyone returns to the clubhouse for the awards banquet from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

There, organizers count up the scores and find out the winning team, trying to keep the verdict secret until it’s time to be announced.

When the time comes, one member of the winning club goes up to accept their prize, while a member of the losing club must engage in a humbling ritual that dates back to the very first tournament.

One losing member approaches the winner and bows down on knee in front of the winning member. In one hand, the angler representing the losing club holds out the Challenge Cup to the winner, and on their opposite forearm they drape a large white napkin or table cloth.

“It’s an interesting moment but, it’s something they started way back when and tried to maintain over the years,” Svehla said.

For more information, call the OCMC at 410-213-1613.

Offshore storms affect local surfing, some good, some bad

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Sept. 8, 2023) The Labor Day weekend produced quite a sizable swell.

This was due to storms “out-to-sea” by the names of Franklin and Idalia.

Idalia started in the Gulf of Mexico and caused a magnitude of damaged on the west side of Florida.

It crossed Florida and even affected states to the north from Georgia to the Carolinas before moving more to the east and into the Atlantic.

Still a storm, the ocean movement started to send swell lines to the north.

Southerly facing beaches get the most advantage from storms in general such as certain surf spots, locations in North Carolina, New York and Rhode Island.

In our area and many along the coast, most of the beaches are easterly facing. This becomes more of a disadvantage depending on the location of the storm “out-to-sea.”

At any rate, this Labor Day swell was cause for excitement on multiple levels.

The waves were at least head high and at times overhead. Generally, good for surfers, body boarders and even bodysurfers. Swimmers seemed to be more at a disadvantage.

The word regarding beach patrol and number of rescues, or “pulls” as the are known, was large, even into the two hundreds as I had heard.

To add to the situation the number of guards was greatly reduced.

Instead of a guard at every “street” they were “spaced” about every third or fourth street. This made the number of pulls at least a bit more difficult.

In regards to surfing, there was a fair amount of surfers in the water. This constituted a modification of typical restrictions.

Coincidentally, surfers in the water can become like lifeguards. Any board becomes a floatation device and obviously an aid or advantage to a swimmer in distress.

The wave conditions varied from good to not so good. It all depended on tide, swell angle, period, local winds, and sandbar locations, to mention a few.

Another possibility coinciding with this large swell might be the movement of sand and the creation of sandbars further out into the water. If this could happen it would be grand on any scale.

So there you have it, there it is. Perfect timing on a significant holiday weekend. It all seems to depend on nature and the weather.

Surfers in general are always alert and aware of weather conditions. It’s just part of the drill, obviously because it has so much to do with the waves and wave conditions.

Surfers and anyone riding a wave found a nice niche. With any luck, this situation might happen more often!

AGH Foundation hosts annual fall golf classic

Tournament held Sept. 21 to benefit facility in Berlin

(Sept. 8, 2023) Atlantic General Hospital Foundation’s 30th Robert E. Warfield Memorial Tournament is officially set for Sept. 21 at Ocean City Golf Club.

According to a news release, the event which has become an annual tradition, benefits Atlantic General Hospital. Last year, the tournament raised $124,000 for the expansion of health care services and programs for the community.

This year’s format will be a scramble with all golfers playing nine holes on each course, Newport Bay and Seaside. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. with a 10 a.m. shotgun start. The event will be held rain or shine.

Player entry fee includes golf cart and greens fees, lunch, snacks and

beverages on the course, and an awards reception with light fare and cocktails.

Deluxe giveaways, tournament awards and team photographs are also included. A variety of on-thecourse challenges with prizes with also be offered.

Team reservations can be submitted online at agh.care/golf and must be received by Sept. 14. Space is limited and earliest entries are accommodated first.

Non-golfers can join in the fun by buying tickets for the 50/50 raffle drawing that will take place at the end of the tournament.

The raffle ticket sales are open to the public and the winner does not need to be present. Raffle tickets can also be purchased online at agh.care/golf.

Tournament co-chairs are Steven

Sweigert and Max Hutsell, and The Carousel Group, the Legacy Sponsor for 24 consecutive years, were also thanked in the release.

Sponsorships for this year’s tournament are still available and include ad space in the event program, signage at the event, and press and social media up to and following the event.

The following sponsors have committed:

• Eagle Sponsors: AGH Auxiliary; Sina Companies, LLC.

• Birdie Sponsors: Deeley Insurance Group; M&T Bank; Park Place Jewelers.

• Greens Fees & Golf Carts Sponsor: The Warfield Family.

• Lunch Sponsors: Captain’s Galley Crab Cake Shack; Ocean 13.

• Bars & Beverages Sponsors: Coca-Cola Consolidated; George’s

Beverage Company; Hoop Tea.

• Awards Reception Sponsors: Chick-Fil-A WOC; Medical Staff of AGH; Shenanigan’s Irish Pub.

• Snack Sponsor: Thrasher’s French Fries.AF

• Hospitality Cart Sponsors: BRG; Ryan Homes Southern Delaware.

• Hole-In-One Sponsors: Haley Architecture, LLC; i.g. Burton; Park Place Jewelers; Snowden Lane Partners.

• Contest Sponsors: Allen + Shariff Corporation; NFP.

• Giveaways Sponsors: Mitchell & Hastings Financial Services; Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645.

For more information about the tournament, how to become a sponsor, register a team, or purchase raffle tickets, visit agh.care/golf, or contact Laura Powell at 410-641-9671 or lspowell@atlanticgeneral.org.

— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City