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OC cops ready with new laws to brake rally Special Event Zone rules will apply to all motorists By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Starting next Tuesday, Ocean City will be under Special Event Zone restrictions, meaning speed limits will be reduced, punishments for offenses will be increased and traffic enforcement will be heavy handed, all in an attempt to quell participants of this year’s expected pop-up car rally. Top speeds throughout the resort next week from Tuesday to Sunday, will be 30 mph, with anything above that punishable by a fine of up to $1,000. Earlier this year, the Maryland General Assembly approved an exhibition driving bill that greatly increased law enforcement’s power over motor vehicles in certain circumstances. Exhibition driving is defined as “the transportation of a passenger on (or in) an area of a motor vehicle that is not designed (or intended) for passenger transport such as the hood or roof.” Also included in the definition are excessive, abrupt acceleration or deceleration of a vehicle; skidding, squealing, burning or smoking of the tires; the swerving or swaying of the vehicle from side to side while skidding; excessive engine noises; grinding of the gears or the backfiring of the engine of the motor vehicle or any of the wheels of the vehicle losing contact with the ground. Violators could be fined up to $500, while the penalty for negligent driving, racing and racing participation as a timekeeper is up to $1,000. Violators of these acts can also be jailed for up to 60 days — a first for local police. The Ocean City Council voted last week to adopt an emergency ordinance that will require vehicles to be towed off of an impound lot if they are deemed unsafe or not street legal. See COPS Page 2
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IN MEMORIAM
Never forget — despite challenges presented by the novel coronavirus pandemic, members of the Red Knights Maryland Chapter 3 remained firm in their desire to commemorate last Friday the lives lost during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Rick Ketterman, left, holds a wreathe and leads Mike Fiazzo and Nick Lepore to the Ocean City Firefighter’s Memorial on the Boardwalk.
County to seek financial aid for residents facing eviction By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Worcester County will get a second chance at funding from the state to prevent evictions resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. The Worcester County Commissioners approved applying for $336,000 with an in-kind match of $29,549 during their meeting on Tuesday. The pandemic has caused millions of unemployment claims nationwide, which in turn caused many to struggle with housing payments. In response, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development is offering $16 million to counties in Maryland Eviction Preven-
tion Partnership grants to support local rental assistance programs. The state offered the same community block development grant in July, but Worcester did not apply, since county staff were not aware of the grant. Altogether, $2.2 million was distributed to eight Maryland counties, including Wicomico and Somerset counties, in that round. According to the partnership guidelines, recipients participants’ income may not exceed 80 percent of the area’s median figure. Recipients must also prove job loss or reduced work hours due to covid-19. According to county Senior Budget Accountant Kim Reynolds, Diakonia, See COUNTY Page 2
Boardwalk e-bike views will collide at council session By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean City Council may have a tricky decision to make on Monday about electric bicycles on the Boardwalk, as the bike committee and police commission will offer opposing recommendations. An ordinance that would amend the city’s traffic and vehicle code to allow class one electric bicycles on the Boardwalk was introduced last week by bike committee liaison Councilman Tony DeLuca, but failed to garner enough support. Classes two and three electric bicycles would have been banned on the See POLICE Page 3
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
Cops say they’re set for car rally
County applying for eviction aid
Continued from Page 1 To hurt the pockets of participants even further, city officials voted to double the resort’s towing fine from $325 to $600. Resort law enforcement will be working with 30 towing companies and has earmarked a lot large enough to accommodate an abundance of vehicles. Traffic will be a nightmare next week, because in addition to the reduced speeds, police plan to rearrange traffic patterns, shut down streets and add speed bumps to further deter pop-up rally participants. Allied law enforcement agencies will assist Ocean City police in record shattering numbers. “In my 13 years, this is probably, without question, the largest deployment of troopers to the town for this event,” Maryland State Police Lt. Early W. Starner said during an Ocean City Motor Task Force meeting. Another change this year will be police’s authority to enforce trespass violations. The Trespass Enforcement Authorization Program, or T.E.A.P., allows police to enforce the aforementioned violations after business hours without contacting a property owner or manager. Before this month, only 30 property owners or managers were participating
Continued from Page 1 an emergency shelter nonprofit, would be the subrecipient for the grant. “Diakonia Inc. has the appropriate mechanisms in place to utilize the funding since they currently provide rental assistance through other funding resources,” Reynolds said. “Worcester County Government does not have an inhouse department dedicated to such efforts, so it only makes sense to allocate the funding to an organization with many years of experience in assisting Worcester County residents with essential needs, such as emergency rental funding.” The money would provide 70 Worcester families with rental assistance for up to six months. The application is due Oct. 2. To further assist Marylanders, Gov. Larry Hogan announced the Assisted Housing Relief Program, which will help bring rental delinquencies current and provide relief for tenants by giving direct payments to eligible property management companies. The program aims to help rental properties in multifamily projects financed by the Department of Housing and Community Development’s Community Development Administration. It is funded through state and federal resources.
Starting next Tuesday through Sunday, Ocean City will be under a Special Event Zone, meaning speed limits will be reduced to 30 mph, heavier traffic penalties and strict law enforcement.
in the program. Since the beginning of September, about 150 businesses have signed up. Furthermore, police have connected with security personnel to create a web of communication throughout the resort. Nevertheless, participants seem unperturbed by these efforts. A Facebook page dedicated to the pop-up rally had 10,041 members as of Tuesday, with 283 new members within the last week. Whether all 10,000 will show up next week is to be determined, but locals may expect to see some car enthusiasts this Saturday, as a “prequel” event allegedly is to take place with participants, 340 as
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of Tuesday, meeting at the Buffalo Wild Wings in Salisbury. Posts indicate participants will come mainly from the northeast, but some are coming from as far west as Michigan. Participants expressed their enthusiasm for the pop-up rally, with some marketing merchandise, such as facemasks and T-shirts, while others are filming the event for an “after movie.” Next week will prove to be another hectic period for Ocean City, and police Chief Ross Buzzuro has one message to residents and guests. “If you … don’t have business in town, you don’t need to be in town,” Buzzuro said on Sept. 4.
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Police, committee peddling different e-bike viewpoints Continued from Page 1 Boardwalk. The proposed amendment was sent back to the aforementioned committees for further review. According to meeting minutes, the bike committee decided to reiterate its previous recommendation, arguing that class one bicycles do not have a throttle and are pedal assisted. “The bike is ideal for individuals who are rehabilitating an injury or perhaps have bad knees,” the minutes state. While class one bicycles can reach speeds of up to 20 mph, once it hits the maximum speed it no longer assists the rider with pedaling. Bicycles in classes two and three are equipped with a throttle — the former can operate sans pedaling and reach speeds of up to 20 mph, while the latter functions similarly to class one, but can go up to 28 mph before ceasing pedal assistance. During the meeting, however, Sgt. Allen Hawk and Greg DeGiovanni said enforcing the electric bicycle ruling would be challenging. Hawk appeared at Monday’s police commission to present a detailed report on the bicycles, and why the council should not approve the code amendment. Hawk serves as the assistant manager of the police department’s traffic safety unit, and trains seasonal and fulltime officers who ride bicycles. “In looking into this. I contacted several agencies comparable to us,” Hawk said. “Atlantic City and Wildwood, New Jersey, Rehoboth Beach, [Delaware], and Virginia Beach, [Virginia]. These are the jurisdictions right now that prohibit the use of electric bicycles.”
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Ocean City Today
Restrictions differ — Rehoboth Beach allows pedal-assisted bicycles, but Virginia Beach bans all motorized bicycles. Hawk also said the council had to consider multiple factors, such as congestion, safety, and level of operation proficiency. “We had a member of the engineering department do a headcount on the Boardwalk,” Hawk said. “August 25, 26 and 27, from 8-10 a.m., from Eighth Street to Ninth Street on the Boardwalk … 981 [bicyclists] were going north, 1,200 roughly were going southbound, with a total of over 2,200 people in those three days within that two-hour period.” That’s taking into consideration the decrease in population associated with the covid-19 pandemic, Hawk said, so city officials needed to recognize the likelihood that bike riders will dramatically increase once the pandemic subsides. In terms of safety, Hawk said the council would have to discuss whether to implement age and helmet restrictions — Marylanders age 16 or older are not required to wear helmets per state law. There also would be costs associated with an allowance, as additional personnel, education, signs and training would be needed. He added that this could open up the door to allowing other forms of motorized devices on the Boardwalk. “At this point in time I … wouldn’t allow any [class], one, two or three, on the Boardwalk,” Hawk said. Hawk will argue his case in front of the full mayor and City Council next Monday.
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Late update: Ocean City Council meetings will remain virtual for now.
City Council meetings to be in-person starting next Mon. By Josh Kim City Clerk Diana Chavis said proStaff Writer tocols would be practically identical (Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean City to those established in June. Attendees must do a temperature Council will return to in-person meetings next Monday, with more so- check and complete a health survey, cial distancing and virtual viewing masks must be worn and social distancing is a must. options. To further aid in social distancing, The council began hosting meetings virtually back in March, follow- Chavis said seats will be grouped into ing state and nationwide closures in pairs and spaced out to the appropriate six feet. response to covid-19. Councilman Matt James recomIn June, city officials moved to a hybrid in-person/virtual meeting for- mended installing Plexiglas between mat, with Councilman Dennis Dare council members, which Chavis said tuning in via Zoom. she and city staff would look into imHowever, technical difficulties plementing. e City ime, th ill be t s s e r Dare will made it difficult for Dare to particip continue to attend virtuached k’s meeting w avis ay really, but audio pate, as he could not hear his coleeto prevent od T w a Ch t y x t ananother i e n y EnnC k Disaid atnightmare, t a r i h e t e C l c e C e c Chavis she, City leagues and“vice versa. O i h y t As no re t . Cit a u n g d i o e f s u n r s e o c McGean and Planning -p l is council meetgineer Terry Two months ilater, Counc tually, not in ore time to issues.” m l r i and Community Development Direcings went back to an all-virtual apa d v c e i d d hel nee techn proach. said the city and resolvetor Bill Neville would attempt to eser Last week, chamb Councilman tablish a direct feed for Dare to Hallhowever, Tony DeLuca broached the topic of connect to, rather than connecting returning to in-person meetings and from Chavis’ computer. made a motion to do so. This should prevent the audio He eventually withdrew his mo- feedback, she said, and the trio would tion after believing the council was test this method before next Monday’s meeting. split in opinion. Members of the public who are vul“Our schools are closed, the Maryland Board of Public Works is still nerable to the virus, or want to be cauholding [its] sessions online, Balti- tious, can tune into meetings via the more City is holding all of [its] coun- city’s traditional live stream portal. Virtual attendees can submit their cil meetings and commission meetings online, sporting events are comments and questions to Chavis by taking place without any fans and email. “Everybody is really anxious to reCity Hall is closed with nobody comsume in-person meetings and we ing,” Dare said last week. Dare said in order for council ses- want to do that with the most safety sions to return to in-person, social … protocols in place and move fordistancing needed to be better imple- ward with business as usual — if mented, City Hall’s ventilation sys- that’s even possible in 2020,” Chavis tem needed to be revamped and said. To watch the meetings online visit mask protocols needed to be much http://oceancitymd.iqm2.com/Citistricter. On Tuesday, DeLuca introduced zens/Default.aspx and to comment or the idea once more and got the nec- ask a question email Chavis at DChavis@oceancitymd.gov essary votes.
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Ocean City Today
Md. first state to buy rapid covid-19 tests Technology can give results within 15 to 20 minutes, will identify clusters earlier By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Maryland will be the first state of an interstate compact to buy 250,000 rapid point-of-care antigen tests for covid-19, according to Gov. Larry Hogan during a press conference last Thursday. In mid-July an interstate compact was formed between Maryland, Arkansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Ohio, Utah and Virginia, as well as the Rockefeller Foundation, to address the issue of testing shortages and delays. “We decided that rather than have just the state of Maryland work on our own acquisition of these tests and competing with all the other states for access to these states, that together with the Rockefeller Foundation, we could put together a compact with other states,” Hogan said. These rapid antigen tests can produce on-site results within 15 to 20
minutes. The tests are being manufactured by Becton, Dickinson and Company located in Baltimore County. Dave Hickey, president of integrated diagnostics, said that it also collaborated with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the project. “Rapid point of care antigen testing will be in 70 percent of nursing homes throughout the country, and that includes 50 percent of nursing homes right here in the state of Maryland,” Hickey said. In addition to the nursing homes, the tests will also be sent to assisted living facilities and correctional and juvenile detention centers. “We’re also in discussion to send them to dormitories and campuses of our colleges and universities,” Hogan said. He added that this will help tackle isolated cases and clusters. Rajiv Shah, president of the Rockefeller Foundation, said that testing is the only way out of the pandemic. “Complete shutdowns of the U.S. economy here in Maryland or anywhere else in the nation are simply
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not viable or affordable to the people who suffer the most when that takes place - essential workers and working families,” Shah said. “And neither is it possible for America to tolerate the loss of lives in hospitals, nursing homes and in particular, in minority communities around the nation from a disease that is not being effectively managed.” He added that the rapid tests will take positive cases out of the line of transmission much more quickly, effectively and in a more comprehensive way than before. Although the U.S. is not yet doing 25 million covid19 tests a month, Shah hopes the
rapid tests will increase testing to 70 to 200 million a month. On Monday, Worcester County recorded a sevenday positivity rate of 6.39 percent, the highest in Maryland, according to the Maryland Department of Health. As of Wednesday, it dropped to 5.05 percent, while the state positivity rate was recorded at 3.44 percent. On Wednesday, Johns Hopkins University reported the state positivity rate at 6.4 percent. Its Covid-19 Testing Insights Initiative relies on data from the Covid Tracking Project, a volunteer tracking organization from The Atlantic. This differs from the health See RAPID Page 6
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Rapid antigen tests will be sent to elder care facilities Continued from Page 5 department positivity rate because Johns Hopkins eliminates duplicate tests. This week, 69 new cases confirmed in the county, according to the Worcester County Health Department. Last week, 64 new cases were confirmed. This brings the county’s total cases since March to 974. There have been 26 coronavirusrelated deaths in Worcester, with 18 of them at the Berlin Nursing Home. The facility has had 33 staff cases and 70 resident cases. Numerous attempts to reach the nursing home for comment since March have not been successful. As of Thursday, the state had 118,519 cases. In this area, 358 cases have now been reported in the Berlin and Ocean Pines 21811 zip code area, 321 cases were listed for the Ocean City 21842 zip code, 82 in the Snow Hill 21863 zip code and 148 in the Pocomoke City 21851 zip code. A zip code must have at least eight cases to be listed. A total of 808 people have been released from public monitoring. Worcester has conducted 17,725 coronavirus tests. As of Wednesday afternoon, there were two patients in Atlantic General Hospital who have coronavirus. Both are in the med/surg unit, according to Sarah Yonker, director of marketing. So far, hospital staff have cared for six patients who have come off a ventilator and are breathing on their own. Atlantic General has discharged 56 patients with coronavirus who are on the way to recovery. As of Thursday, next door Wicomico had 1,846 cases and Sussex County in Delaware has 6,578 cases as of Wednesday. The county health department has two free testing sites: Pocomoke City on Walnut Street and at the West Ocean City Park N’ Ride. the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street. The testing is for adults at least 18 years old. Those who want to get tested should bring ID. The Ocean City convention center
on 40th Street conducted free testing weeks during the second half of summer, but has not yet determined if there will be future testing dates. Testing is available for Worcester County residents only at the Pocomoke location on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The West Ocean City testing site is open Monday and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. To schedule an appointment in Pocomoke or West Ocean City, call 410-632-1100, ext. 1119. To treat patients, Atlantic General is asking for plasma donations from coronavirus survivors. This is for a Mayo Clinic study through the Blood Bank of Delmarva. The first patient transfusion took place on April 24. Donors must have tested positive for the virus and have been symptom-free for 28 days. Those who have been symptom-free for 14 days may also donate if they have tested negative. When a case is confirmed positive, the health department conducts contact tracing to inform individuals and businesses that may have come into contact with the positive case. If someone suspects they may have the virus, they should call their primary care provider or the health department. Do not show up unannounced to a medical facility. The Worcester County Health Department has a hotline Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to determine if a person should be tested. Call 410632-1100 and select option eight. For general information on the coronavirus call the health department 24/7 at 410-632-4321 or visit worcesterhealth.org. View updates from Atlantic General at atlanticgeneral.org/patients-visitors/covid-19updates/. To track Maryland cases, visit coronavirus.maryland.gov/. To report a restaurant or bar for not following safety guidelines, call environmental health at 410-3523234. To donate plasma, go to delmarvablood.org/cpdonor or call 1-888825-6638.
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
Hazard mitigation plan for county tabled once again By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Approving the hazard mitigation plan — a disaster planning exercise — was delayed again during the Worcester County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday. The plan establishes what the county will do to protect itChip Bertino self from or react to natural disasters. It also qualifies the county for disaster aid from the federal emergency management agency and the Maryland emergency management agency. Billy Birch The plan was first delayed on Tuesday, Aug. 18, as some commissioners had issues with specific language in the document, such as references to a 2008 study on sea level rise and the Paris climate agreement. They had further questions that went unanswered without the presence of the consultants who wrote the plan. At that time, Emergency Services Director Billy Birch said he did not know what the consequences of not
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approving the plan were, but that the county was covered because both emergency management agencies approved the plan conditional on commissioner acceptance. This time around, County Commissioner Chip Bertino asked to table the plan because he only received the draft a revised plan the afternoon before. When County Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom asked when the deadline for acceptance was, Birch said as soon as possible. “The complications that come into it is we are eligible for any emergency declarations, but anything having to do with a grant, we would be inhibited from doing that,” Birch said. Nordstrom replied that making sure the county is covered in the case of a natural disaster is the priority. Ed Wurkheiser, the lower Eastern Shore liason officer for MEMA, said there is still some protection even with the plan expiring. “Emergency protective actions would be covered through a grant,” Wurkehiser said. “That would be through public assistance.” He added that individual assistance is still covered as well. In a separate interview, Jaleesa Tate, a state hazard mitigation officer, said that without approving the plan, Worcester is ineligible for the hazard mitigation grant program, flood mitigation assistance and the building resilient infrastructure and communities program. These programs typically pay for disaster preparation, such as home elevation, project scoping and feasibility studies. “People also use the program a lot to get generators, so emergency backup power for things like shelters, critical facilities like a firehouse or emergency operation center,” Tate said. After a disaster strikes, Worcester would still be eligible for financial assistance to repair public buildings and individual homes. Bertino reiterated that the commissioners should have received the revised draft sooner. “I don’t think it’s fair that the commissioners get something at the 11th hour, almost a 200-page document to read through, especially when we had so many concerns and questions during the public hearing,” Bertino said. County Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic reminded him that the changes were listed in the commissioners meeting packet. The commissioners voted unanimously to move the public hearing for the hazard mitigation plan to Tuesday, Oct. 6.
Council president subject of letter to state prosecutor By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Resort resident Joseph Potter has written a letter to Maryland State Prosecutor Charlton Howard III, asking him to investigate Ocean City Council President Lloyd Martin in relation to the council’s closed-session pier franchise negotiations. Potter’s letter is based on a June Maryland Open Meetings Act Compliance Board opinion, which found the council had violated the act by conducting its pier franchise negotiations, with franchisee Charles “Buddy” Jenkins, sans public knowledge or input. One of the biggest takeaways for city officials and legal counsel had been that franchises, although contractual in nature, are not contracts, and therefore do not fall within the open meetings act’s exemptions. Potter also addresses the council’s lackluster meeting minutes and closing statements, the latter of which Martin is charged with organizing. Martin had been unaware of the letter until Ocean City Today contacted the city’s legal counsel for comment on Monday. “I can’t figure out why he [Potter] would do that,” Martin said about the letter. Martin said he and the council had not intentionally violated the act because they had been ignorant to the nuances of franchises versus contracts. “I didn’t do anything willingly or knowingly wrong,” he said. “We went along with what our legal counsel said was OK.” Martin said he and the council had no intention to fight the compliance board’s opinion. “We are moving forward with what the compliance board said … [and] changing our protocol to fit compliance,” he said. Whether Potter’s letter will amount to anything is unclear, as the compliance board’s opinion is just that — an opinion. Potter addresses the lack of legal recourse in his letter. “The act does not generally allow any charges against a person under the State of Maryland code,” he said. But, “[It] does not prevent charging under local legal requirements like the Ocean City Charter.” Potter said while he was not aware of such action ever being taken, “I believe that my seminal request for your investigation is based on sound legal theory.” Furthermore, whether Potter filed his letter to the right person is questionable, as well. “This is not a matter within the scope of the role of Office of the State Prosecutor,” city legal counsel Heather Stansbury told Ocean City Today.
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Ocean City Today
Police chief provides update on Aug. activity City ordinance violations lower than last year, but drug, weapon arrests up By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Officer calls for service were down, while citizen calls for service went up in August, according to Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro. Buzzuro said during Monday’s Ocean City Police Commission meeting that in comparison to last August,
officers initiated 26.7 percent fewer calls, from 8,662 to 6,348. Citizen calls for service were up by 11.6 percent, from 3,449 to 3,848. Excluding traffic stops, business checks and assist citizen calls, officer and citizen calls for service decreased by 3.3 percent and 1.4 Ross Buzzuro percent, respectively. City ordinance violations topped this year’s top 25 calls, as it did last year, but decreased from
1,866 in 2019 to 945. Following city ordinance violations were 911 hang-ups, 906 last year to 920 this year; assist citizen, 909 in 2019 to 744 in 2020; public health concerns, zero to 600; and disorderly calls, which increased from 434 to 537. Buzzuro reiterated that public health concerns were new this year because of covid-19. Another area of growth Buzzuro mentioned was domestic assault/dispute calls, which saw an almost 50 percent increase from 105 last year to 158 this past August.
As for arrests and citations, the former went down from 310 to 298, while the latter went up from 13 to 16. Drug arrests nearly doubled last month, going form 18 last August to 35. Other areas of growth included drug citations (marijuana), from 42 to 51, and an increase of weapon arrests, from 18 to 27. DUI arrests went down last month, from 42 last year to 32 this year. Smoking citations also decreased by 44 percent, from 34 last year to 19 this year.
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PAGE 10
Ocean City Today
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Police use new mapping software By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Ocean City public safety departments will be able to coordinate and plan for events and emergencies more effectively with a new decision-making software system by Rhodium. Retired police Lt. Glen McIntyre said during Monday’s Ocean City Police Commission meeting that incident management has been a huge issue for the city’s public safety de-
partments, as personnel have had to use printed maps. “That [printed maps] is very rudimentary,” McIntyre said. “It’s very difficult to work from — once you draw a line on there, it’s not like you can pick up the line and move it or take it off.” In addition to paper maps, spreadsheet and notes also became convoluted, as a new version had to be sent to all relevant parties each time a change was made.
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The Rhodium software would eliminate all of the extra work by allowing edits to be made digitally. Additionally, all edits and notes would be documented and listed chronologically for all users to see. This would make future preparation work a breeze because no one would have to dig through file cabinets and emails to find relevant information — everything would be in one location.
‘From … a financial standpoint, I think this was the big one. Any time we build an incident out, as we start to add pieces to the incident, it’s going to build out all of the ICS (Incident Command System) forms for us automatically.’ Glen McIntyre, Retired police Lt.
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“We’re not recreating the wheel every year … and it also gives us some longevity — if [Special Events Director] Frank Miller retired tomorrow, you wouldn’t have to worry about getting all of his files and giving them to somebody else to make heads or tails of.” The program would not only save time, but also would save money. “From … a financial standpoint, I think this was the big one. Any time we build an incident out, as we start to add pieces to the incident, it’s going to build out all of the ICS (Incident Command System) forms for us automatically,” McIntyre said. McIntyre said the program had been accounted for in last year’s budget and would last a year before new funding would be needed. While covid-19 and emergency management layers have been added, the program’s first test will be this year’s pop-up rally scheduled for next week. “We’re using the pop-up rally as our kick off [event],” McIntyre said. “We’re not going to be ready to use it from the standpoint of full production, but we’re using it to give us some ideas on things we need to start building up.” S u p p o rt Yo u r Lo c a l Re s t a u ra n t s !
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Ocean City Today
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OCFD’s new boat to aid with water and land rescue efforts By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean City Fire Department can do a better job of fighting fires and making rescues on land and sea, now that it has a 26-foot SeaArk boat with a 250 Yamaha outboard motor in its fleet. “The one we had had some design issues,” Battalion Chief David Peterson said of the department’s previDavid Peterson ous vessel. “We wanted something a little bigger to take care of what we needed.” Fire Marshal Ryan Whittington said the previous boat’s hull had been damaged, which further prompted the need for a new one. The Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company purchased the boat just before the summer began and it went into service in June. The Ocean City Fire Department frequently assists the Natural Resources Police (NRP), Ocean City Beach Patrol and U.S. Coast Guard in water rescues. “We have a water rescue team,” Peterson said. “We have 15 divers, 50 rescue swimmers and 15 or 16 boat operators for our fire boat one and
fire boat two.” The water rescue team’s mission ranges from assisting the Beach Patrol in surf rescues, search-and-recovery efforts, administering medical aid, transporting water victims and even waterfront house fires. “There’s specialized training [for the water rescue team],” Peterson said. “Surf rescue training — we do a recertification every year. To be a diver, there’s extensive training for that. We have open-water advanced rescue and we’re also all public safety divers and the majority of our divers are medics as well.” Training ranges from a few weeks to several months. “It probably takes a couple of months to be completely checked off on everything,” Peterson said. This year, Peterson said Jet Ski accidents dominated the water rescue team’s attention, as well as several significant boating accidents and surf rescues. “We are all dedicated to the water rescue team, we do a lot of training, but the most important thing is working with other agencies,” Peterson said. “I can’t stress that enough — NRP, Coast Guard — that way we’re all on the same page, we’re all there for the same reason.”
JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Ocean City Fire Department has a new 26-foot SeaArk boat with a 250 Yamaha outboard motor to aid in its rescue endeavors. Members of the department used the boat to conduct a mock rescue on Assateague Island on Tuesday morning.
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Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
CONTINUING SERIES
Replacement of resort entryways essential By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Every year, a quarter of a million people enter and leave the resort via two access points — the Route 50 Bridge and Route 90. Although he did not include the latter to his white paper, Councilman Dennis Dare said expanding Route 90 is crucial. “Maryland built half of an expressway in the ’70s, well it’s past time to build the other half,” Dare said. Dare said Route 90 had come to life during a great period of growth for Ocean City. The city had just expanded its borders to the Delaware state line, and zoning and development were progressing at great rates. However, the growth of the city quickly outpaced the two-way expressway. “… At the time, it only needed two lanes,” Dare said. “The need for capacity was met long ago for four lanes.” Route 90’s narrow span creates a slew of problems, with the worst being congestion. “When the Route 90 bridge is closed, that means all of the employees on the island and all of the resi-
dents who are employed off the island, everybody has to use Route 50,” Dare said. This congestion is not just an annoyance, but could prove fatal, Dare said. “Currently, somebody in midtown to north Ocean City, if they have a medical emergency, the ambulances are out Route 90, down Route 113 and at Atlantic General Hospital in a matter of minutes,” Dare said. “With Route 90 closed, they all have to go down to Route 50 and go out through there.” While major breakdowns of Route 90 do not occur often — the last being the Dennis Dare winter of 2009 — Dare said accidents have caused lane closures, causing major headaches for all involved. “The first reason [for expanding Route 90] is public safety,” Dare said. “It’s just dangerous. We’ve had spectacular head-on crashes that have claimed lives.” Evacuation is also a concern. “We have two lanes on Route 50 that are going to be congested and one lane on Route 90,” Dare said.
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“Trying to get a quarter of a million people … off here for an evacuation is horrible.” Additionally, if Route 90 is shut down and flooding occurs on Route 50, the only avenue left is through the Delaware state line. There are economic implications, as well, as a major shutdown of Route 90 during the summer could crush travel to the resort. “It’s not like it’s a quick fix,” Dare said. “You can’t just go to Home Depot and pick up a couple of bridge spans. It would be an economic disaster not just for the town, but also Worcester County and the State of Maryland.” The state has the capacity to begin designing an expansion sooner than later. “It is shovel-ready,” Dare said. “When they built the two lanes, they got the right of way for the four lanes … they could direct the money to design tomorrow and start in on it.” There have been financial roadblocks, as state money has been sucked up by construction on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, the Intercounty Connector and most recently the state has been eyeing Interstate 70 and Washington beltways. The state pays for roadway projects through gasoline tax. “The counties are fighting this [Interstate 70 and Washington beltway projects], so now might be the perfect time for Maryland to direct some of the revenue to a project that is shovel-ready,” Dare said. City officials have lobbied to the State Highway Administration to pick up the project. However, “In order to get on their list, if you will, it has to be endorsed by the Worcester County Commissioners. For years, the only thing Worcester County wanted was Route 113 dualized. Well, that’s coming into fruition now,” Dare said. On a surface level, the expansion of Route 90 seems to only benefit Ocean City, so of the seven commissioners, naturally only one is concerned with the effort, Dare said. In reality, the dualization of Route 90 affects everyone, as residents of Ocean Pines, West Ocean City and Berlin work in Ocean City, and congestion at the Route 50 bridge means congestion in that area as a whole. While the city waits on an endorsement, Route 50 gets pushed back further, which is why Dare said city officials, through the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC), needed to start acquiring property surrounding the entryway. “It takes [roughly] two years to go through that process [acquiring property] because some people are willing to sell and other aren’t,” Dare said. The Route 50 bridge is a solid
structure, Dare said, and is inspected every two years by the State Highway Administration. Yet, it’s almost 80 years old, and the combination of age, salt-water damage and weather has taken its toll. Around 10 years ago, the State Highway Administration conducted a study to extend its longevity, and ultimately chose a design that would be tall enough to allow for 80 to 90 percent of vessels to cross under it without raising the draw span. “It would greatly decrease the impact of the draw span on traffic, both on the water and on the roadway,” Dare said. The main issue, Dare said, was that the State Highway Administration cannot buy the property needed for the project until it’s funded. “We don’t know when that’s going to be, so in the interim somebody can invest a lot of money in one of these properties and when State Highway goes to buy it they have to pay the fair market value,” Dare said. That’s where the development corporation comes into play. The corporation could buy the properties, develop them into temporary revenue-generating structures, such as employee housing or paid parking, and then sell the property to the State Highway Administration. “The win-win on this is that the state gets the property at a value of the land and not new structures, and if we as a town do a good job in renovating the downtown the land value will go up and the OCDC will reap a profit from the land banking that they can reinvest in other projects,” Dare said Next week: Exploring summer employee housing and code enforcement.
OCPD cannot tell homeless people to leave facilities By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) While police can shoo away homeless people from bus shelters, when it comes to those gathered at transit facilities, there is little officers can do. “The homeless issue remains rather similar as it has over the last several years,” police Chief Ross Buzzuro said during Monday’s Ocean City Police Commission meeting. “About a dozen individuals are recognized as being homeless.” A persistent problem for the city is the attraction of homeless people to See BUS Page 13
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
While police can use state law to move homeless people away from bus shelters, officers cannot do so when it comes to those resting at public transit stations.
Bus shelters off limits, but transit facilities open range Continued from Page 12 bus shelters and transit facilities — particularly at the West Ocean City Park N’ Ride. City staff and officials assert that it has created a negative image of public transit and poses a safety concern for users. In an email to city officials and staff, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury offered some advice. She recommended charging violators with failure to leave a public building after being told to depart, per state law. “Of course, I recommend starting with a warning and voluntary compliance. We may also wish to post signs on the bus shelters.” However, Stansbury’s advice was relevant to bus shelters only, not transit facilities, which posed different legal issues. During Tuesday’s Ocean City Transportation Committee meeting, Mayor
Rick Meehan asked whether increasing lighting at facilities would deter homeless people from sleeping there. Public Works Director Hal Adkins said the facilities were already well lit, yet failed to deter anyone. “I think most of them would be more likely to sleep in a well lit area for their own personal protection than to sleep in a dark area,” Councilman Mark Paddack said. Local resources are available, and groups such as the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) has made strides in finding housing for the local homeless population. According to Lt. Dennis Eade, the group found 24 people permanent housing last year. While police present resources to homeless people, “For some there remains reluctance, for some there remains issues of mental illness and some just [don’t] want our assistance,” Buzzuro said.
JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
LESS COVERAGE The summer season has come to a close, meaning Ocean City Beach Patrol’s presence is much less. Operating with a smaller staff, the patrol’s last day of guarding is Sunday, Sept. 27.
PAGE 13
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Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
OCPD looking to extend take-home patrol car program By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean City Police Department is seeking to amend one of its general order to allow its Police Saturation Patrol Program operate year round. The program allows officers to take marked patrol vehicles home to increase police visibility in neighborhoods, provide a sense of security and deter crime. Currently, the program is offseason only, but an extension of the program has been in the works since last April, when the police department introduced the idea to the mayor and City Council. The following December, the police department requested to purchase four new patrol vehicles to replace four older models that would be used for the take-home program. The request ignited a debate among council members, although it ultimately got the green light, as it would cost roughly $250,000 — $37,212 per vehicle, $16,300 for upfitting, $3,200 for in-car radio installation and $3,500 for police laptops. The vehicles have since been purchased, and were included in budget amendment one of the fiscal year 2020 budget, using a combination of income and admissions tax, Budget Manager Jennie Knapp told Ocean City Today. On Monday, Police Chief Ross Buzzuro told members of the Ocean City Police Commission that the department was looking to change general order 500 S-2, which would allow for the timeline extension. “Housekeeping issues have been made, the reorganization of the policy has been done [and] this has been forwarded to the city solicitor’s office, reviewed by [Heather] Stansbury and she has approved it,” Buzzuro said. The commission voted to move the proposed amendments to the full mayor and council.
PHOTO COURTESY COLLEEN B. REILLY
WASHED ASHORE Ocean City Public Works crews perform the sad task of removing the remains of a bottlenose dolphin from the beach Saturday. It apparently succumbed from unknown causes elsewhere and washed ashore.
Jury selection moved to firehouse By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Worcester County Circuit Court will use the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Company building for jury selection because it provides for space for of covid-19 social distancing requirements, but the decision to effect that change came with some concerns. According to a memo from Weston Young, county government’s assistant chief administrative officer, jury selection can involve at least 60 people, which creates a challenge with social distancing. During the commissioners meeting on Tuesday, County Commis-
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sioner Chip Bertino asked about transportation between the courthouse and the firehouse and parking. “By the time they’re done, the parking facilities here are pretty much full,” Bertino said “Not only do we have jurors, but we also have county personnel, the prosecutors, that’s a concern.” He added that he was worried about the safety of prosecutors, who would travel to the firehouse with the defendants. Finally, Bertino said that if jurors are not selected, they are still paid for the day, so money would have to be transported from the courthouse to the firehouse.
“I’m just uncomfortable with this. We have facilities here at the court to do this and I think there are issues here that need to be resolved before we move forward with this,” Bertino said. County Commissioner Jim Bunting agreed with Bertino. “We have over 40 people in this room [commissioners chambers] right now, so I think we can certainly figure out a way of not having the problem of going back and forth,” Bunting said. The motion to move jury selection to the firehouse passed, however, with Bertino and Bunting in opposition.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
PAGE 15
GoFundMe page organized for Collins family after fire By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Coworkers of Destiny Collins organized a GoFundMe to support her family after a fire destroyed the family’s house on Circle Road in Berlin on Labor Day. Collins said the fire occurred when her father was grilling and went inside to use the restroom. “I went outside to go get my clothes because I took my grandmom and myself to laundromat, and as I was bringing our clothes in, the house was filled with white smoke,” she said. “So, I looked out my window, and I saw that the fire was coming from under the hood of the grill.” Collins instructed her father to unplug the gas tank to avoid an explosion. “He ran to go get the water hose, and I ran into the house to get a bucket, and I started trying to fill it up with water,” she added. But they were too late. The fire spread to the house. Collins, her two children, her younger brother, her father, her mother and her grandmother were living in the single-story home on Circle Road and are now homeless. The American Red Cross provided Collins’ mother with Visa cards. “We went to Walmart to go buy some clothes and stuff to last us for a couple of days,” Collins said. Her family first went to Microtel Inn & Suites, but relocated to La Quinta Hotel because it was too expensive. Fortunately, her relative worked there and was able to provide the family with a deal on rooms.
Collins said her family is most in need of clothes for her younger brother, parents and grandmother as well as basic necessities and house supplies. She added that she attended the “Beep and Greet” event at Buckingham Elementary School on Buckingham Road in Berlin and received school supplies for her oldest daughter. “When I went to get another iPad for my daughter because it got damaged in the fire, the school actually had donated some money to us and school supplies as well,” Collins said. In addition, Head Start provided supplies for her youngest daughter. To collect monetary donations for the family, Collins’ coworkers Abbey Gray and Jasmine Bateman organized a GoFundMe account on Sept. 9. “Words cannot express enough of how appreciative I am,” Collins said. Currently, Collins works three jobs: Bath and Body Works, as a hostess at Hammerheads On the Beach, on 10th Street and the Boardwalk, and at Mountainaire. On Monday, Collins’ boss at Hammerheads On the Beach organized an event to raise funds for the Collins family. All bar proceeds from 4-6 p.m. benefited them. To donate to the Collins family, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/helpdestiny039s-family-get-back-on-theirfeet?utm_source=customer&utm_cam p a i g n = p _ c p + s h a r e sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_more.
Council OK’s amendments to zoning code for first read By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean City Council on Tuesday voted to send three zoning code amendments to first reading. The first amendment will correct an error made in 2002 and re-establish building heights in the downtown mixed-use zoning district as 40 feet and/or no more than four stories. Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy explained that in 2002 an ordinance that had amended the old zoning ordinance had repealed but did not replace the building height language. This ordinance was curative, as former Ocean City Development Corporation President Blaine Smith has said multiple times, and would really only apply to properties south of Third Street. “It really is an administrative cor-
rection, not a substantive one that would affect how buildings were approved or will be approved,” Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said. The second amendment targets employee housing. Currently, the code allows downtown properties with pitched roofs, with no greater than a 9/12 pitch, and dormers to use 50 percent of an upper floor for employee housing. The amendment would allow an additional 25 percent to be used to house employees, which would aid Ocean City’s employee housing shortage. The final amendment would provide a full set of sign regulations that apply in the downtown area, as well as additional criteria to address signs that wrap around Boardwalk storefronts and wrap around the corner facing a side street.
PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE
A GoFundMe page has been organized to support the Collins family who are homeless after a fire destroyed their single-story home on Circle Road in Berlin.
PAGE 16
Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Covid-19 kills bus revenue, but cost cuts create balance
JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Bus ridership and revenues were down this July and August because of the novel coronavirus pandemic. Budget Manager Jennie Knapp said she was able to balance the loss revenue by cutting expenses.
By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Although the covid-19 pandemic decimated ridership on Ocean City’s buses — causing revenue to take an almost $1 million hit — a reduction in the number of drivers on the payroll offset the revenue reduction for a net loss of roughly $120,000. During the summer, 14 buses were deployed Sunday through Thursday, from 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., with an additional seven buses for Friday and Saturday — a roughly 65 percent decrease in deployment compared to last year. “How many drivers are we using on the bus system this year right now?” Mayor Rick Meehan asked at this week’s Ocean City Transportation Committee meeting. Transit Operations Manager Steve Bartlett said about 55 drivers were employed. In a normal year, this number would be around 130. Public Works Director Hal Adkins said with the pandemic, citizens and visitors were not using public transit, and that was reflected through ridership and revenue data. “July’s ridership was down 81 percent compared to 2019, revenue was down 76 percent compared to 2019,” Transit Administrative Manager Brian Connor said. “In August, ridership was down about 82 percent and
revenue down by 77 percent.” Councilman Tony DeLuca asked Budget Manager Jennie Knapp whether the decrease in drivers balanced out the decrease in revenue. “Yes, through August we’re running a deficit of about $120,000,” Knapp said. “I have to reduce revenue by almost $900,000, but I am also able to reduce expenses. I do want to point out that unemployment is up over last year.” The bus schedule will remain the same until the first week of October, with deployments slowly reduced. “Our plan at this point is to start our winter service on Oct. 19,” Bartlett said. “That’s two buses in the morning, two buses in the afternoon. That’s 40-minute service, seven days a week with no enhancement for the weekend, as we have done in the past.” Meehan asked if the winter schedule should start sooner, but Bartlett said he had to see how events this fall played out before reducing deployments. Nonetheless “I have the ability to adjust it whenever we feel it necessary and we’re just hauling air,” Bartlett. Adkins said as of right now, the Endless Summer Cruisin’ car event is still on schedule for Oct. 8-11, and that would be the last major fall event that could create need for public transit.
Two projects pass through Technical Review Committee By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Worcester County Technical Review Committee reviewed two projects during its meeting last Wednesday. The first was Salt Grass Point Farms Mini Storage, the proposed construction of seven buildings containing 75,919 square feet of mini storage and associated office, also associated with a two-lot subdivision. It will be located on the east side of Stephen Decatur Highway, 410 feet south of Snug Harbor Road in Berlin. The property has not been allocated any water or sewer equivalent dwelling units. The area is zoned C-2 General Commercial. After completing the Technical Review Committee process, the applicants may apply to the Worcester County Commissioners for equivalent dwelling unit allocation from the Mystic Harbour Sanitary Service Area. That step is necessary for final approval from the county. The office use would require one
unit each for water and sewer. The project now goes to the Worcester County Planning Commission for a recommendation. The second project, Salt Life Park, is a proposed expansion of a manufactured home park. It will be located south of Old Bridge Road, 435 feet east of Greenridge Lane Road in West Ocean City. The area is zoned R-4 residential. It will need 78 equivalent dwelling units of sewer capacity for the 78 proposed units. The project is not currently allocated enough water or sewer units for sanitary needs of construction. Like the above project, the applicants must complete the Technical Review Committee process before applying to the Worcester County Commissioners for equivalent dwelling units. The owner of the property has an amendment to add the portion of the property that is not located in the Mystic Harbour sewer planning area. It will go to the county planning commission for a recommendation.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Committee gives verbal OK to accept MTA grant terms By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Ocean City government will accept the terms of the Maryland Transit Administration for fiscal year 2021 grant awards. The transit administration’s terms for operating grant awards are as follows — for the rural area transportation grant, there would be $684,657 in federal money, $24,900 in state money and a $659,757 local match; for ADA, the federal government would Hal Adkins contribute nothing, the state would contribute $110,000 and the city would contribute $12,222. In total, this would amount to $1.5 million. “Essentially for ADA, they gave us exactly what we had in the budget,” Budget Manager Jennie Knapp said during Tuesday’s Ocean City Transportation Committee meeting. “For the operating grant they’re reducing the state grant [and] that’s basically about the same that we have gotten in the past as well.” Knapp said the city typically con-
tributes more than the $659,757, but the transit administration said any overmatch could not be submitted under the CARES Act for reimbursement. “What we’re hoping to do … after we’ve spent the $1.4 million [of rural area transportation funding] … anything that the transportation, bus and administration division spend over that $1.4 million we can then submit to CARES for reimbursement under that.” Adkins added that the city currently has in its general fund an operating subsidy of $1.167 million. As for capital grants, “The facility expansion … that is the last $2 million that we were hoping to get for the campus plan and should get us through that project,” Knapp said. “The local match that’s $500,000 is actually land value, so it’s not physical dollars that we’re putting into it.” One difference Knapp underlined was federal and local contributions for preventative maintenance funds, which deals with the bus parts and labor accounts under the bus division. “The federal portion increased,” Knapp said. “We had included $600,000 in our capital budget — $480,000 would have been federal,
JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The city will accept the Maryland Transit Administration’s grant terms for the fiscal year 2021 budget.
$60,000 state $60,000 would have been local.” The federal portion increased by $40,000, while the state match was eliminated completely. This increase of federal money meant the local match increased as well, but the implications were not necessarily negative. “… We would have to contribute $135,000,” Knapp said. “This is an expense we’re going to spend anyway, so I would like to go ahead and accept the $540,000 from the federal so we at least get that much.”
Knapp said the city might not spend all $675,000 of the preventative maintenance funds depending on the level of service, but if the city does, it would get the full federal match back. “You usually spend $675,000 or close to that in the parts line by itself,” Knapp said. “Then there’s also the vehicle waiver line, so we’re going to spend this money.” The terms would need to be signed by City Manager Doug Miller and sent to the Maryland Transit Administration by Friday.
Ocean Downs may receive casino district designation By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the possible consequences of approving the addition of a Casino Entertainment District in the zoning code during their meeting on Tuesday. The amendment would create the proposed district as a permitted use in the A-2 (Agricultural) district and establish regulations as an overlay district, which would allow the Ocean Downs Casino on Racetrack Road to exist independently. As it stands, the casino only exists as an accessory to the Ocean Downs racetrack. With an overlay district, the property would be allowed uses such as retail shops, hotels, theaters and exhibition space, which are all prohibited for the agriculturally zoned portion. These uses are allowed for the 7.7 acres of the casino property that is zoned C-2 Commercial. The rest of the property is zoned A-2. Ed Tudor, director of review and permitting, explained that when gambling was legalized in Maryland in 2008, the county decided to make the casino as an accessory use to the racetrack to avoid public hearings. He also noted that in 1997, the Board of Zoning Appeals approved an application to create a fairground at Ocean Downs. It allows a plethora of uses by special exception, some of
which include monster truck exhibitions, recreational vehicles, boat shows, art exhibitions, festivals, car rallies, classic rock shows, corporation picnics, haunted houses and other Halloween activities, carnivals, rodeos, horse shows and laser light shows. “When you look at everything that’s around the special exception, everything that’s allowed in the C-2, I don’t believe there’s anything in the current proposal for this casino overlay district that’s not already allowed somewhere else through the combination of these different other approvals,” Tudor said. When asked by Commissioner Jim Bunting, Tudor clarified that the overlay district would not apply to all A-2 zones, only legal casinos in A-2 zones. “I’m very concerned about the overlay district possibly being applied to other A-2 areas in the county eventually, the way things happen,” Bunting said. “I just don’t think this was the proper way to go through it.” Tudor also clarified for County Commissioner Chip Bertino that the special exception uses for the district would have to be approved by the state. Bertino then raised concerns about traffic on Route 589. “My concern is that we would have a situation where we would have inSee DISTRICT Page 19
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
PAGE 19
Ocean City Today
OPEN DAILY 11 AM
ELIZABETH BONIN/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A public hearing for a Casino Entertainment District, which would allow more uses for Ocean Downs Casino on Racetrack Road, will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 20 during the Worcester County Commissioners meeting in Snow Hill.
District would allow special uses for casino on Rt. 589 Continued from Page 18 creased traffic along 589 without the state moving forward with widening that route, as this body of commissioners and the commissioners before us have made as one of their top three asks of the state highway,” Bertino said. Tudor replied that any project along a state highway would have to be approved by the State Highway Administration. Bunting brought up the different types of facilities or activities that could be held with the overlay district, stating that the A-2 zone was created as a buffer for A-1 and other zones. “I’m a little concerned about the integrity of the A-2 district,” Bunting
said. County Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic said that he would reserve his comments for the public hearing, but illustrated one possibility with the casino overlay district. “They have a concert out there and you have 2,500 to 3,000 people leaving that casino area at the same time, pouring out on 589 in vehicles,” Mitrecic said. In a previous interview, Bobbi Sample, general manager of the casino, said the facility does not currently have any plans for special uses. The public hearing for the Casino Entertainment District will be during the commissioner’s meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 20.
Council approves request to rent equipment for election By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean City Council on Tuesday approved an equipment rental request that will help ensure this year’s municipal elections run as smoothly and as safely as possible. Ocean City Board of Supervisors of Elections Chairwoman Mary Adeline Bradford said a neighboring resort had been inundated by absentee ballots, more than 3,000, compared to just 300 or so in-person voters. This concerned the board, as absentee ballots are traditionally counted by hand. As of this week, the board has received 30 absentee ballot applications. Additionally, Bradford said this year would pose another challenge, as citizens may be hesitant to enter enclosed polling booths and touching the machines. To remedy both issues, the board requested electronic ballots, similar
to those used for the general election, which would be provided to absentee and in-person voters — 3,500 at $0.35 apiece. To tally these ballots, the board asked for permission to rent four electronic ballot scanners, which cost $700 each. According to the agenda summary, an absentee mailbox will be placed outside of the entrance of City Hall, as well. As for in-person voting, which takes place on Nov. 3 at the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street, a wall-mounted thermometer will be installed near the entrance to take citizens’ temperature. Masks are required and social distancing will be marked. Each voter will be given a pen, while hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, gloves and masks will be available throughout the convention center. Tables will be set up for voters to mark their electronic ballots. See ELECTRONIC Page 20
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Continued from Page 19 In total, the board would need $1,225 for the electronic ballots, $2,800 for the ballot scanners and $200 for the pens. “We realize that cost is a factor, but we feel this year it’s mitigated by covid-19,” Bradford said. The council approved the equipment rental request. Ocean City’s election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the convention center.
Bus service to the convention center will be free. Up for re-election this year are Mayor Rick Meehan and council members Dennis Dare, Tony DeLuca, John Gehrig and Mary Knight. As of this Wednesday, only DeLuca and resident Peter Buas have filed for candidacy. To print out an absentee ballot application visit https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/wp-content/uploads/AbsenteeBallot.pdf
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Worcester approves Mystic Harbour sewer expansion By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Worcester County Commissioners approved two related amendments during their meeting on Tuesday – one to add a property to the Mystic Harbour sewer planning area and the second to designate that area as S1 in the sewer planning category (eligible to connect) for two years. The Worcester County Planning Commission gave the amendments a favorable recommendation on Thursday, June 8. The 10-acre property is located on Old Bridge Road, west of Keyser Point Road and north of the Bob Mitchell boundary of the Mystic Harbour Sanitary Service Area in West Ocean City. The western portion of the area is already in the Mystic Harbour sewer planning area with the S-1 designation. Mark Odachowski, the applicant has a project in the area to expand a manufactured home park, Salt Life Park. The project recently received comments from the Technical Review Committee. “They have an accompaniment currently of some West Ocean City sewer EDUs and also Mystic Harbour water and sewer EDUs on the portion that is not in the service area,” said Environmental Programs Director Bob Mitchell. “This is truly in an overlay area, where two service areas are serving similar properties.” He added that county staff found that the expansion would be feasible from both an economic and engineering standpoint. Odachowski representative attor-
ney Hugh Cropper said the property has eight or nine West Ocean City equivalent dwelling units and that the portion of the property in Mystic Harbour, along with some other properties, have six excess units. Consultant Dane Bauer said the state has always done everything it can to make sure there are not overlapping service areas so that one project doesn’t have two different sources for water and sewer. “It leads to all kinds of problems,” Bauer said. “It increases the chances of interconnection and people doing plumbing work on the wrong systems. There’s administration issues as well. There’s different rules for different sewer areas.” Cropper reminded the commissioners that they were not requesting any new equivalent dwelling units at that time, and gave them a possible scenario of what could happen if they accept the amendment. “Mr. Odachowski also owns the Alamo (motel on Route 50) which has been allocated 45 Mystic EDUs which he has not put into use yet, so a possible scenario might be that those would get turned back in at some point and then he would request something less than that with this property,” Cropper said. He added that this would be a winwin because the West Ocean City units would be returned to the mix and could be given to another property to help develop the area. Cropper also confirmed with County Commissioner Chip Bertino that the equivalent dwelling units are not transferable — they would be returned to the county and then allocated again. Both amendments were unanimously approved by commissioners.
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City code republication goes into final phase of process By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Following Tuesday’s Ocean City Council work session, revisions to and republication of the city’s code will move into its final phase. City Clerk Diana Chavis said the city had paid, through the fiscal year 2020 budget, Municode Inc. to conduct a legal review of the city’s code. Municode Senior Code Attorney Roger Merriam, who reviewed the city’s code for its last publication in 1999, submitted his analysis in October last year. His research aimed to do three things: one, identify and eliminate conflicts, inconsistencies and obsolete provisions in connection with the state’s code; two, identify and eliminate redundant, obsolete or conflicting provisions; and three, identify and eliminate (or cure) potentially unconstitutional provisions. While some changes could be done editorially by the company, others would require ordinances. Following Merriam’s review, city staff looked at the code and did some housekeeping edits, Chavis said. “During that review, they saw other substantive changes that needed to be done and they brought ordinances to you this year,” Chavis said, including chapter 10, buildings and building regu-
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Ocean City Today
lations, chapter 34, fire prevention and protection, chapter 106, waterways and finally the towing ordinance. Chavis said other substantive changes remained, such as chapter 62, Boardwalk performing and vending, which would need to reflect and order made by U.S. District Judge Richard Bennett. “I did want to shed light on one in particular, the registration of voters,” Chavis said. “... The charter as it reads right now is very antiquated — it says that residents register with me, the city clerk, which has not been the case for decades.” Voters register with the Worcester County Board of Elections, which will be reflected in the republication. “All in all, the code is in really good shape … and over the last 20 years we were really good at submitting these ordinances and making sure that it’s up-todate as much as possible,” Chavis said, meaning the code would not need to be completely recodified. Nonetheless, work remained to be done and the effort would cost $22,000 — $13,500 for the republication, funded in the fiscal year 2021 budget, and $8,500 in legal fees budgeted and paid for in the fiscal year 2020 budget. The council voted to proceed with the effort, which Chavis said will take several months to complete.
BIKE COMMITTEE BRIEFS By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The following took place during the Ocean City Bike Committee meeting last Wednesday:
Seagull ride Engineering Manager Paul Mauser reminded the committee that the Seagull Century Bike Ride would be held virtually. The bike ride takes place from Oct. 3-10, and is an annual bike ride that begins and ends at Salisbury University. Riders can split up their ride into sections throughout the week, and post their progress online if desired. There are two routes available — the 100-mile Assateague Century route and the 63-mile Princess Anne Metric. The ride costs $35 per cyclist, which includes a T-shirt and gift package. Proceeds for the event benefits Salisbury University students, as well as the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of Wicomico County, the American Red Cross Delmarva Chapter, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore and local fire and EMS companies. Register for the event at https://seagullcentury.vpsg.net/registration.asp
Bike paths Mauser discussed research on the lack of off-road bike paths in Worcester County and the Eastern Shore in general. A railroad from Ocean City to Salisbury now serves as a power transmission line through farm fields, and the portion between Berlin and Ocean City should be considered for a future feasibility study.
Bike racks The 94th Street bike rack design was completed and sent to the Department of Public Works for installation. This area will get two bike racks because of high demand. The city has received several requests to install a rack at 140th Street, which will be the next location.
Bike route projects The private portion of the West Ocean City hiker/biker trail should be completed during the winter. The project will provide an improved link between Inlet Isle Lane and the ramp off Route 50 near the west abutment of the bridge. The State Highway Administration discussed extending the trail west Continued on Page 22
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Ocean City Today
Board of Education reviews comprehensive master plan By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Worcester County school officials presented an overview of the “Local Every Student Succeeds Act Consolidated Strategic Plan,” or the new “Master Plan,” to the county Board of Education at its meeting on Tuesday. According to school officials, the Every Student Succeeds Act is the country’s primary education law for Amy Gallagher public schools. The purpose of the act is to increase student achievement and to eliminate achievement gaps among students for all 24 school districts in Maryland. The law aims to ensure equity for students who get special education or other special services. “To give you a little background, in 2002, the Bridge to Excellence in Public Schools Act was passed by the Maryland General Assembly,” said Amy Gallagher, the coordinator of accountability, assessment and school counselors for the county school system. The “Bridge to Excellence” legislation increased state aid to public education and required each local school system to establish a comprehensive master plan to be updated yearly. When the Every Student Succeeds Act was reauthorized in 2015, the 24 school districts were provided more flexibility to be innovative while remaining accountable for student success, Gallagher said. “Last year in 2019 … the requirements of the structure of this plan that is submitted by Worcester County annually was consolidated significantly,” Gallagher said. Worcester County Public Schools submits a Local Every Student Suc-
ceeds Act Consolidated Strategic Plan for review annually by Oct. 15. This year, school districts are expected to present information about two components of the law— the gifted and talented plan and new teacher induction and mentoring. “However, all grants (Titles I, II, III, IV and the Fine Arts grant) are still required to have these reports done, so that’s in addition to the components of the [Local Every Student Succeeds Act Consolidated Strategic Plan],” said Coordinator of Instruction Tamara Mills. Mills said the school system is updating its identification process for gifted students. “Right now, in our county, only sixth to 12th graders are identified,” Mills said. “We should be identifying in third grade.” She added that fourth and fifth graders will be identified in November and December through the Cognitive Abilities Test, which is widely used across the state, and other factors. “In the state … we are required to identify essentially 10 percent, or a minimum of 10 percent, of each grade level, which is interesting,” Mills said. “Nationally, the research shows really only three to five percent is truly gifted. However, we have a lot of high-achieving students.” Mills said only two schools in the county system are struggling to meet that 10 percent. “We’re also going to do a book study with the elementary and middle school teachers, a group of them from each school,” she said. Carrie Sterrs, the coordinator of public relations and special programs for the school system, said those select educators will be working with “Teaching Gifted Kids in Today’s Classroom” by Susan Winebrenner. A $50,000 award from the state will cover the cost of the book and related professional learning as well as
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
BIKE COMMITTEE BRIEFS Continued from Page 21 from Route 589 to 611. A feasibility study has not been performed. The shared-used path — Philadelphia Avenue, North Division Street, South First Street — will have signs installed this fall by the State Highway Administration. The city will install some signs and pavement markings on St. Louis Avenue.
Lights on bikes Evening ridership was way down, most likely because of the absence of J-1 student employees. As a result, bike light distribution was down, as well, with 18 distributed in August 2020 versus 516 last August. Bicycle crashes are also down, from 5 this August compared to 32 in 2019. To date, there have been 19 pedestrian collisions with two fatal ones that occurred on 19th and 85th street.
council liaison and Glenn Irwin and Jana Potvin as representatives of the Ocean City Development Corporation and State Highway Administration, respectively.
Property easement DeLuca said he met with multiple business owners regarding property easements and received positive responses. The next step would be to develop an easement sketch and procure legal documents for execution. Mauser said before these steps, the propose bike route should be evaluated by a professional transportation consultant. The city is hoping for a Maryland Department of Transportation grant in October to be able to hire the consultant.
Street light
The committee reappointed its incumbent officers, with Mauser as chair, Sgt. Allen Hawk as vice president, Councilman Tony DeLuca as
Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville asked Public Works Director Hal Adkins what it might cost to do a pedestrian count around 144th Street, to see if it warranted a signal. Adkins will endeavor to provide an estimate, but the count would still have to wait until summer 2021, as the season has passed.
three years of the Cognitive Abilities Test. In addition, the comprehensive teacher induction program has been updated. “For many, many years, our teacher induction program has been a four-day program,” Mills said. “This year, partially because we felt it was the right thing to do but also partially because it was absolutely necessary with covid and this digital teaching environment this school year, we expanded the induction program from four days to nine days.” Teachers were engaged in what was described as intensive training and instructional technology. Gallagher and central office coor-
dinators provided professional learning and the human resources coordinators provided employee orientation information. Worcester County Public Schools will also offer afterschool professional learning opportunities twice a month with a Book Talk and a Microsoft Team for new teachers. The book they will discuss is “I Wish My Teacher Knew” by Kyle Schwartz. The draft submission for the Local Every Student Succeeds Act Consolidated Strategic Plan is due Oct. 15 and the technical review by the Maryland State Department of Education on Nov. 6. Then, the final submission is due on Nov. 16.
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Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
CHART COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Worcester County Board of Education has included a projected construction schedule for the Stephen Decatur Middle School addition in its capital improvement program for the 2022 fiscal year.
WCPS requests state, local funds By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The Worcester County Board of Education unanimously approved the 2022 fiscal year capital improvement program and authorization to forward the program to the state Interagency Commission on School Construction during its meeting on Tuesday. Each year, Worcester County Public Schools is required to submit a capital improvement program to the State of Maryland Interagency Commission on School Construction. The capital improvement program is a six-year plan that allows the State of Maryland Interagency Commission on School Construction to identify public school construction needs and establish a reasonable schedule for funding and implementation, according to school officials. For the 2022 fiscal year, the school board will include a funding request for a 24,820-square-foot addition on the south side of Stephen Decatur Middle School on Seahawk Road in Berlin. The project will add 12 general education classrooms, four science labs, four science preparation areas, two meeting rooms, one conference room as well as storage space. Worcester County Public Schools Facilities Planner Joe Price and Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert said the state will make decisions regarding funding approval later in the 2021 fiscal year. They anticipate seeking bids for the project next August depending on
state funding approval and local funding approval by the Worcester County Commissioners. Then, Price and Tolbert will seek the board’s and county commissioners’ approval of the bids. Vince Tolbert If all goes well, construction will begin in November 2021.
Other future project requests included in the capital improvement program are roof replacement projects at Snow Hill Middle/Cedar Chapel Special, Stephen Decatur Middle and Pocomoke Elementary Schools and a Buckingham Elementary replacement school project or addition project. A summary of previously approved projects and enrollment data are also incorporated into the plan.
Postcards mailed to public state wrong voting options (Sept. 18, 2020) The U.S. Postal Service notified state election officials last week that it was mailing postcards to the public regarding vote by mail options in the 2020 General Election. Maryland election officials, however, first learned of and saw the postcard on Sept. 11 after it had been mailed, and then found that portions of its message aren’t consistent with Maryland vote by mail guidelines. For instance, election officials told voters not to wait until 15 days before election day, Nov. 3, to request a mail-in ballot. Contrary to what the Postal Service advised, state officials said a voter’s request for a mail-in ballot in Maryland must be received by their local board of elections no later than Oct. 20. People who request a ballot by mail, should plan to mail their ballot applications by Oct. 15 to ensure that it will be
delivered by Oct. 20. There is no need to wait, state officials said. Additionally, no postage is required to return a ballot that a voter received by mail. Voters who choose to have the mailin ballot mailed to them should understand that it will come with a pre-paid postage return envelope. Those who choose to have their ballots emailed to them will need to print their ballots and pay the postage to return it. They may also choose to deposit the voted ballot in a ballot drop box in the county of their residence. The locations of the ballot drop-off boxes will be posted at elections.maryland.gov/2020 soon and will be included with mail-in ballot packets. Maryland voters are encouraged to verify accurate election information at elections.maryland.gov/2020.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
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MONTEGO BAY COMMUNITY CAINE WOODS COMMUNITY MOBILE HOME ONLY FOR SALE. GROUND NOT INCLUDED.Very well maintained mobile home for sale on leased lot. Home is being sold furnished as shown. Recent upgrades include new HVAC unit, dishwasher & washing machine, 2 roof coatings, exterior doors, toilet & floors in powder room, screens replaced on porch, lattice added to protect screens. Note: porch is currently winterized with plastic. Home also features insulated windows, berber carpeting & large storage shed. Conveniently located within walking distance to everything. Community features 2 inground swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini golf course, wildlife sanctuary with pond & blacktop walking/jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers. HOA dues are only $272.00/yr. Lot owners will give a 5 year lease @ $5400/yr. $55,000
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12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD
167 SUNSHINE LANE
Fully furnished 3BR/2BA, 1596 sq. ft. 4-level townhouse in N. OC.Within a short distance to OC's 10-mile beach, city busline, MD/DE state line, amusements, shopping & many restaurants/bars. Open floorplan, finished 1car garage, 2 decks-1 off the main level & 1 off the master BR, fully equipped updated kitchen w/raised paneled cabinets, granite countertops & tile floors, wood-burning fireplace, tile floors in baths, newer BA vanities, insulated windows & patio doors and stack washer & dryer. Complex w/large pool in courtyard atmosphere, exterior lighting & paved off-street parking. Community has 3 city parks featuring picnic pavilions, tot-lots, tennis, pickleball & racquetball. Additional community amenities include city streets & sidewalks, city water & sewer and city trash collection. $320,000
Montego Bay Realty
Call Michael “Montego Mike” Grimes
montegobayrealty@aol.com www.montegobayrealty.com
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD
800-745-5988 • 410-251-6821
NEW LISTING!
404 143RD STREET #3
Montego Bay Realty Montegomike@verizon.net www.montegobayrealty.com
OPEN HOUSES
SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 24 DAY/TIME
ADDRESS
BR/BA
STYLE
PRICE
AGENCY/AGENT
Friday 11-3, Sat-Sun 10-4 1200 St. Louis Ave., Island Time – OC
3BR/3.5BA
Townhomes
$399,900
Dan Clayland/Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Sat 10-1 & Sun 11-2
3BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$599,900
Power of 2/Hileman Real Estate
17 Westfield Crl., Ocean Pines
Presented free as a courtesy to Licensed REALTORS® who are regular Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. For all other REALTORS®, there is a weekly charge of $10 per listing.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
27 Classifieds now appear in Ocean City Today & the Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com and baysideoc.com.
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HIRING ALL POSITIONS!! Full time & Part time Stop by our location on 52nd street! or call 443-664-2825
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
RENTALS
COMMERCIAL
DANCE and MUSICAL THEATER TEACHERS WANTED (part time) New private studio located in Assateague area. Call 443-994-8561, jeanne@ jeanmariedancestudio.com
Now Hiring Front Desk Help. Full-time. Full benefits. Please call Club Ocean Villas II, 410-524-0880.
Seeking Year-Round & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555
1 Office/Retail Space & 1 Warehouse Unit available in West Ocean City. Call 443-497-4200
Med Tech. CPR, first aide certified. Must be able to pass background check. Drug free facility. Full time position 7pm-7am, and every other weekend. Email resume to truittsandy@yahoo.com or call 443-880-7341.
Golden Sands. 1BR, 1BA, Oceanfront. Second floor. $650/mo. plus utilities. Available October-May 2021. Call 703-998-7827.
SMALL OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT
Now Hiring Maintenance & Housekeeping Help. Fulltime. Full benefits. Please call Club Ocean Villas II, 410-524-0880.
Now Hiring! Landscaping, Hardscaping and General Maintenance Part-time. Flexible hours. Wage negotiable based on experience. Contact Lisa, 302-489-9229 or meckservicesanddesigns @gmail.com
FT Admin Assistant/Reception Monday-Friday Team Environment 410-213-1554
Hosts ($13), Cashiers ($13), Kitchen ($15), Expo ($15), Office, Boutique, Food Runners, Bar Hosts, Servers, Door Staff, Tour Guides & Full Time Year Round Welder Apply in person or online at seacrets.com
Hiring ALL Positions!! Full time & Part time To apply go to: www.mygcjob.com
GREAT OPPORTUNITIES!!!!! AUTOMOTIVE MANAGEMENT & COUNTER POSITIONS Now Hiring for enthusiastic, customer oriented individuals with exp. in the automotive industry. Plenty of room for advancement. We have several independently owned Tire & Service Centers, auto parts stores and used car dealerships. Locations in the Bethany Beach, Rehoboth & OC, Md. area. And we are still growing!! Exc. Pay & Benefits!!
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew
Call Matt - 302-344-9846.
for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $17.50/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
Groundskeeper. $15/hr. RV Park, Bishopville. Call 410-352-3140. MASON TENDER/ SCAFFOLD BUILDER. $24+/hour. Ocean City, MD. Contact Dave: 302-547-1575.
RENTALS RENTALS
9942 Elm Street, WOC (Behind Starbucks) Sleeps 4, $250 per week Manager onsite 410-213-1764
WEEKLY RENTALS AVAILABLE NOW
Classifieds Deadline is 5pm Monday
Pool Front Room ...$215/wk Efficiency..............$245/wk 2BR Apartment.....$350/wk 3BR Suite .............$400/wk Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave. 410-289-8581
INSIDE HELP & DRIVERS Includes Meal Plan, Uniform, Top Pay and Vehicle to use with a Good Driving g Record.
Apply within or call Joh hnny 443-880-2486 11019 Manklin Meadows Ln., Ocean Pines Bayside, 56th Street & Coas stal Hwy, Ocean City
Hiring experienced care givers with flexible availability, weekends required. Must have vehicle, pass drug & background checks. Call office Mon.-Fri., 9a-3p
410-208-4800
ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE RAMBLER MOTEL
WINTER RENTAL - 1BR Beachy, poolside apartment 47th Street. Available Oct 1. $795/mo. Utilities, cable TV & parking included. www.oceancity21.com. 443-506-2738
Ocean Pines & Ocean City y Locations
NOW HIRING!
Updated 2 BR/1 BA Apartment available for rent in beautiful historic downtown Berlin, MD. Walking distance to shops and restaurants. Rent is $1250/ mo. with first and last month’s rent due at signing along with a $1250 security deposit. No Smoking. No pets. Call (410) 641-2111 ask for Jessica.
At the south gate entrance to Ocean Pines on Nicholas Lane at the Business Center. From $300 to $700/month includes all utilities CAM and wifi. Furnished with desk and chair(s) Call Holtz Property Management
Saturday & Sunday, September 19th & 20th. 8am-3pm. 24 Harborview Drive, Ocean Pines.
BOATS/PWC BOATS/PWC ‘05 PONTOON 22’ CREST FAMILY FISH Lots of extras with new, deluxe trailer. $15,000. 443-355-6347
SERVICES
BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797 LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals
www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers
We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com
CLASSIFIEDS CALL 410-723-6397
410-641-0901 Work At The BEACH... Work With The BEST!!
Become a Better You in 2020!
Top wages and excellent benefits package available to successful candidates.
Employment Opportunities:
To Order Product Call Christine 443-880-8397 or email: snowhillavon@ comcast.net
Year Round, Full/Part Time: Bartender, Servers, Bussers, Hostess, Grill Cooks, Dishwasher, Housekeeping ($13/hour), Maintenance, Laundry, Security Guard, Line Cook
Excellent Benefits
To Become an Avon Representative Sign Up at www. ChristinesBeautyShop.com
Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel Attn: Human Resources Dept. 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Phone: 410-524-3535 Fax: 410-723-9109 EOE M/F/D/V
ssifieds la C r u o Y r e Ord
Online
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
BUSINESS SERVICES SERVICESMISCELLANEOUS Bulk advertising at its best: advertise in over 70 newspa- Increase your customer base MARYLAND STATEWIDE pers and reach millions of and get great results by placreaders with ONE call. ing your ads in the MDDC – CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Broaden your reach and get Classified Advertising netNETWORK results for pennies per reader. work! Call today 410-212Call Wanda at 410-212-0616 0616 Ask for Multi-Media AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS or email Specialist - Wanda & watch DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, wsmith@mddcpress.com. your results grow. RVs Lutheran Mission Society of MD. Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counsel- Maryland, Delaware and D.C.: 106 papers with a circulation of 2.3 million and readership of 4.9 million! ing Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. Deadline is Wednesday of the week prior to publication. 410-636-0123 for more information Call www.CompassionPlace.org
Advertise in MDDC
410-723-6397
www.oceancitytoday.com
Convenient, quick, no waiting, no calls ~ Days, nights and weekends
PAGE 28
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
BLINDS & SHADES
CLEANING SERVICES
Sir Butler Cleaning LLC
COSMETICS the company for women
“Cleaning Done Proper” Licensed and Insured
302.841.2770
• cosmetics • skin care • body care • fragrances • gifts • & more!
CHRISTINE BROWN independent sales representative
443-234-5262
order online: www.christinesbeautyshop.com
ELECTRICAL/CONSTRUCTION
emerGency service available
410-251-3153 residential & commercial service
additions • interior/exterior lighting Tanner: Owner/Operator lampRobert & light repair & serviceSince 1989 Wall outlets – microwaves • Generator installs
ELECTRICIAN
Raymond O’Brocki Jr. Master Electrician 443 691 0544 Call or Text Same Rate Day, Evening, Weekends
35 Years Experience
BERLIN • OCEAN PINES • OCEAN CITY
No Job Too Small! Free Estimates! Residential/Commercial/Emergencies! MD Lic #2268 Worcester Co Lic #M1337
HOME IMPROVEMENT
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Painting & Powerwashing Interior & Exterior Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured
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HOME IMPROVEMENT
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• Flooring & Tile • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & Delaware Beaches
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www.roofers www. ww roofer roof ro roofer offers rs.o .org .org g
410.204.2586 410 204 2586
TRIPLE
CROWN
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18412 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THOMAS FREDERICK SANDUSKY Notice is given that James Sandusky, 24 Westwood Drive, Mantua, NJ 08051, was on August 27, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Thomas Frederick Sandusky who died on August 2, 2020, 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 27th day of February, 2021. 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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. James Sandusky Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: September 03, 2020 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________ CHRISTOPHER F. DRUMMOND 119 LAWYERS ROW CENTREVILLE, MD 21617
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18411 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL JOSEPH BIRMINGHAM III Notice is given that Christina Auker, 12619 Whisper Trace Drive, Ocean City, MD 21842 and Michael Joseph Birmingham IV, 30831 Pepper Creek Road, Dagsboro, DE
PAGE 29
Ocean City Today / Public Notices 19939, were on August 27, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael Joseph Birmingham III who died on June 11, 2020, 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 27th day of February, 2021. 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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. Christina Auker Michael Joseph Birmingham IV 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: September 03, 2020 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18406 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RUTH JANE MATTHEWS Notice is given that Sharon Lynn Worth, 8143 Courthouse Road, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, was on August 25, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth Jane Matthews who died on July 11, 2020, 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, 2021. 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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. Sharon Lynn Worth Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: September 03, 2020 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________ JOHN K. PHOEBUS 517 WEST MAIN STREET P.O. BOX 70 CRISFIELD, MD 21817
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18415 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JEROME E. PATRICK FORESTELL AKA: JEROME EDWARD PATRICK FORESTELL JR. Notice is given that Marylou Frances Semones, 103 Fern Bluff Way, Cary, NC 27518, was on August 28, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jerome E. Patrick Forestell who died on June 20, 2020, 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, 2021. 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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. Marylou Frances Semones Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: September 03, 2020 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING ON BILL 20-7 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 20-7 (Creation of a Casino Entertainment District) was introduced by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Church, Elder, Mitrecic, Nordstrom and Purnell on August 18, 2020. A fair summary of the bill is as follows: §ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “Casino” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe a building or structure in which gaming tables, wagering devices or machines, or other games of chance are present and available for persons to wager. It does not include games of chance that are operated by a charitable organization licensed under County Law.) §ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “Gaming Facility” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe a “casino” as well as the associated amenities, such as but not limited to a restaurant, bar, hotel, retail establishment, or exhibition hall.) §ZS 1-202(b)(20). (Adds “Casino entertainment district” to the list of uses permitted in the A-2 Agricultural District.) §ZS 1-352. (Adds this entirely new section to the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to establish an overlay district for the “casino entertainment district” with the intent of encouraging comprehensive planned gaming facilities or casinos under a unified plan of development that allows for flexibility while also requiring harmonious design within the development and ensuring compatibility with and minimum impact upon existing and future development in the surrounding area; establishes requirements for the district, including: a minimum lot area of fifty acres; direct access to a major collector or arterial highway; provides a list of permitted uses; park-
PAGE 30
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
ing and pedestrian circulation requirements; open space and landscaping provisions; architectural design; height limitations; and establishes a review and approval process with specific standards and criteria to be evaluated by the Planning Commission.) A Public Hearing will be held on Bill 20-7 at the Commissioners' Meeting Room, Room 1101 - Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, on a rescheduled date of Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. 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 once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us . THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PROPOSED CHANGE IN ZONING SOUTHERLY SIDE OF NASSAWANGO ROAD WEST OF MD ROUTE 12 SEVENTH TAX DISTRICT WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Pursuant to Section 1-113 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, Rezoning Case No. 425 has been filed by Hugh Cropper, IV on behalf of Daniel Strickland Hope and Jana P. Hope, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 54.7 acres of land located on the southerly side of Nassawango Road, west of MD Route 12 in the Seventh Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from RP Resource Protection District to A-1 Agricultural District. The Planning Commission has given a favorable recommendation to the rezoning application. Pursuant to Sections 1-113 and 1114 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, the County Commissioners will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2020 AT 11:00 AM IN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM WORCETER COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER – ROOM 1101 ONE WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863 At said public hearing the County Commissioners will consider the re-
zoning application, the staff file on Rezoning Case No. 425 and the recommendation of the Planning Commission, any proposed restrictions on the rezoning, other appropriate restrictions, conditions or limitations as may be deemed by them to be appropriate to preserve, improve, or protect the general character and design of the lands and improvements being zoned or rezoned or of the surrounding or adjacent lands and improvements, and the advisability of reserving the power and authority to approve or disapprove the design of buildings, construction, landscaping or other improvements, alterations and changes made or to be made on the subject land or lands to assure conformity with the intent and purpose of applicable State laws and regulations and the County Zoning Ordinance. Maps of the petitioned area, the staff file on Rezoning Case No. 425 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are on file and available to view electronically by contacting the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. (except holidays), at (410) 632-1200 as well as www.co.worcester.md.us. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________ Peter S. Buas Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison, LLP 3509 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842 Office Phone: 410-289-3553 Office fax: 410-289-4157 Personal email: pbuas@whmsh.com Puryear's Hut LLC 59 Winter Street Reno, NV, 89519 Plaintiff v. James Shih, Trustee, The Shih Family Trust c/o James Shih, Trustee 10850 Nantucket Terrace Potomac, MD 20854 Worcester County, Maryland Treasurer's Office Government Center, Room 1105 1 W. Market St. Snow Hill, MD 21863 Unknown owner of property described as Item No. 82, Account No. 01022679, Property description 39.5 X 112.42 X 40 X Ill E SIDE 7 FOURTH ST POCOMOKE, Deed Reference: 06259/00359, Assessed to Shih Family Trust, James Shih Trustee, The Unknown Owner's heirs, devisees, and personal Representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right title and interest All persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property described as Item No. 82, Account No. 01022679, Property description 39.5 X 112.42 X 40 X 111 E SIDE 7
FOURTH ST POCOMOKE, Deed Reference: 06259/00359, Assessed to Shih Family Trust, James Shih Trustee. Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND Case No.: C-23-CV-20-000130
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the plaintiff in this proceeding: Item No. 82, Account No. 01022679, Property description 39.5 X 112.42 X 40 X 1ll E SIDE 7 FOURTH ST POCOMOKE, Deed Reference: 06259/00359, Assessed to Shih Family Trust, James Shih Trustee. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid. It is thereupon this 3rd of September, 2020, by the Circuit Court for Worcester, County, ORDERED, That.notice be given by the insertion of a copy ofthis order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for 3 successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 7th day of November, 2020, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances. Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________ Morgan Ali Fisher Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison, L.L.P. 3509 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21 842 410-289-3553 - phone 410-289-4157 - facsimile msher@whmsh.com 9IST STREET JOINT VENTURE, LLC c/o Princess Royale Resort 9100 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842 Plaintiff v. MARK CARNEY and AUDREY CARNEY, ET AL. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-20-000163
NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, this l0th day of September, 2020, by the Circuit Court for the COUNTY
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 OF WORCESTER, Maryland, and by the authority thereof, that the. sale made by Morgan A. Fisher, Trustee of the real property designated as described in these proceedings as the Princess Royale Resort & Condominium, located at 9100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842, designated as: Time Interval Week 37, Unit No. 421 Time Interval Week 17, Unit No. 421 Time Interval Week 45, Unit No. 421 Time Interval Week 14, Unit No. 421 Time Interval Week 52, Unit No. 421 Time Interval Week 17, Unit No. 101 and reported in the above-entitled cause, will finally be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 12th day of October , 2020; provided, a copy of this Order be inserted in the Ocean City Digest, a newspaper of general circulation published in Worcester County, Maryland, once in each of three successive weeks, before the 5th day of October, 2020. The Report of Sale states the amount of the Trustee's Sale to be One-Hundred Dollars ($100.00) per Time Share Interval. Susan R. Braniecki CLERK True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Demolition - 2816 Snow Hill Road, Girdletree MD 21829-2701 Worcester County, Maryland The County Commissioners of Worcester County Maryland are currently accepting bids for the demolition of a structure located at 2816 Snow Hill Road Girdletree MD. Bid specification packages and bid forms are available from the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street - Room 1103, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, obtained online at www.co.worcester.md.us or by calling the Commissioners’ Office at 410-632-1194 to request a package by mail. Any questions must be submitted in writing to the Department of Development Review and Permitting, Government Center, One West Market Street, Room 1201 by 1:00 PM EST on Wednesday September 23, 2020, 2020. Sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 p.m. EST, Monday September 28, 2020 in the Office of the County Commissioners, at the above address, at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Envelopes shall be marked “Bid for Demolition of 2816 Snow Hill Road, Girdletree, MD" in the lower left-hand corner. After opening, bids will be reviewed and a recommendation prepared for the County Commissioners for their consideration at a future meeting. In
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 awarding the bid, the Commissioners reserve the right to reject any and all bids, waive formalities, informalities and technicalities therein, and to take whatever bid they determine to be in the best interest of the County considering lowest or best bid, quality of goods and work, time of delivery or completion, responsibility of bidders being considered, previous experience of bidders with County contracts, or any other factors they deem appropriate. All inquiries shall be directed to Edward A. Tudor, Director, Development Review and Permitting at the above address or by email at etudor@co.worcester.md.us . Email correspondence is encouraged. OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________
The Town of Berlin Board of Supervisors of Elections will accept applications for Absentee Voting BEGINNING Friday, September 4, 2020. Applications will not be available before that date and must be returned by the deadline to be accepted. Applications must be RECEIVED in the Berlin Town Hall per the following schedule: By MAIL: No later than 5:00 PM, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2020 In PERSON: No later than 5:00 PM, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2020 For an application or more information please call 410-641-4314 or email mbohlen@berlinmd.gov. TOWN OF BERLIN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-8/20/2t _________________________________
Town of Berlin Notice of
MUNICIPAL ELECTION On October 6, 2020
Notice is hereby given to all eligible voters of the Town of Berlin that a Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 for the Office of Mayor and for Council Seats in Districts 2 and 3 and At-Large. Voters residing in Districts 1 and 2 will vote at the Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main Street, Berlin, Maryland, and voters residing in Districts 3 and 4 will vote at the Berlin Police Department, 129 Decatur Street, Berlin, Maryland. District 1 and District 4 voters will be able to vote for the Office of Mayor and for the At-Large Council seat, both of which will appear on the ballot at both voting locations. Both polling places will open at 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, and will remain open until 7:00 p.m. Absentee ballots will be accepted until the close of polls. For more information, please call 410641-4314 or email mbohlen@berlinmd.gov. TOWN OF BERLIN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________
Town of Berlin
ABSENTEE VOTING APPLICATION AVAILABILITY for 2020 Town of Berlin Elections
For the Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 for the offices of Mayor and of Council seats in Districts 2 and 3 and Atlarge:
PAGE 31
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: October 6, 2020 At 7:00 pm Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request for renewal of five years has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-544, Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the SC-1, Shopping Center, Zoning District, by reference to Section 110-514(22), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the LC-1, Local Commercial, Zoning District that the Mayor and City Council may approve a use not specifically named in these regulations, provided, however, that such use shall be in keeping with uses specifically permitted in the LC-1 district, to continue the operation of a water taxi business, ticketing and sales office and docking of water taxi boats at the head of the east end of the lagoon leading to Assawoman Bay. The site of the request is described as Lot 2 and Revised Lot 1,
Section 2 of the Caine Harbor Mile Plat, dated October 1978; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway and south side of Ocean City Square, and known locally as 11703 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: THRIVE ENGINEERING, LLC, ADAM DOUGLASS, DAVID BUTZ AND STEPHEN BUTZ, PRINCIPALS (FILE #20-12100001) No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing. Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PAM GREER BUCKLEY, CHAIRPERSON ESHAM, III, ATTORNEY OCD-9/17/2t _________________________________ IN THE MATTER OF: Spencer Thomas James Zukas FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: Jodie Vester Orr IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No.: C-23-FM-20-000270
NOTICE
(Adult) (DOM REL 61) The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he/she seeks to change his/her name from Spencer Thomas James Zukas to Jodie Vester Orr. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: My proposed name fits me better, so I want to be known by this name in all my personal and business dealings. Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or before the 10th day of October, 2020. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought. A copy of this notice must be published one time in a newspaper of
general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an objection. Susan R. Braniecki CLERK True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18394 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM MILTON BROWN Notice is given that Dayna Schiff, 30542 N. Magnolia Crossing, Selbyville, DE 19975, was on September 08, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Milton Brown who died on August 4, 2020, 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 8th day of March, 2021. 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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. Dayna Schiff Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street
OCEAN CITY TODAY
Legal Advertising 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net
PAGE 32
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: September 17, 2020 OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________
Town of Ocean City
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
BID SOLICITATION
NOTICE
Mayor & City Council Ocean City is seeking bids from qualified and experienced vendors for Refuse Trucks in conformity with the specifications detailed in the Bid Documents. Bid Documents for the Refuse Trucks may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Catrice Parsons, at cparsons@oceancitymd.gov or by calling 410-723-6647 during normal business hours, or via the Bid tab on the Town’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents. There will not be a pre-bid meeting for this Bid. The last day for questions is at noon on Wednesday, October 14, 2020. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Oc-
OF PROPOSED DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY Condominium Units 101 and 102 Newtowne Plaza Condominium Newtowne Square Subdivision Pocomoke, MD 21851 District 01, Acct # 045237 Worcester County, MD Deed Reference: 5719/448 NOTICE IS GIVEN, under Worcester County Code CG § 4403(c), that the County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland will hear public comments on a proposed Resolution at its regular meeting in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Worcester County Government Center in Snow Hill, Maryland on: October 6, 2020 at 10:45am. The County Commissioners propose to convey the property described above, including fixtures, furniture, and improvements for $675,000 plus the cost of inventory at the time of closing. OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________
Refuse Trucks
At Your
tober 26, 2020 and will be opened and read aloud at the Council Work Session held on Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. Bids are to be submitted to the Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Attn: City Manager’s Office, Room 230, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Late Bid Documents will not be accepted. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation. OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18424 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BOHDAN MACUK Notice is given that Teresa M. Tyndall, 1 Duxbury Road, Ocean Pines, MD 21811, was on September 08, 2020 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Bohdan Macuk who died on January 16, 2020, 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
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Teresa M. Tyndall Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: September 17, 2020 OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________
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Commentary
Ocean City Today Sept. 18, 2020
Page 33
Fire in the skies of a small world As they used to say of the sunrise, “Red in the morning, sailors take warning.” That adage, which goes back a couple of thousand years, used to mean that the weather was about to change, generally for the worse. That wasn’t necessarily wrong, either, as meteorologists went on to discover that red skies at sunrise could indicate the departure of a high-pressure area followed by the approach of a stormy low-pressure system. It also could mean high moisture content in the atmosphere, another sign of possible bad weather. The red morning skies lately, however, are indicators of something else. As early risers on the coast know, the morning sun’s dusky red appearance is being caused by smoke — smoke from the wildfires that continue to rage on the West Coast. Clearly, as millions of acres of forest land burn 2,802 miles away from this coastline, what happens in California (and Oregon and Washington) doesn’t stay in California. The smoke from this multitude of out-of-control blazes is rising up into the jet stream and has now, according to weather scientists, reached Europe. Scientists and politicians will argue over the conditions that led to these massive conflagrations — climate change and its higher temperatures and drought, and bad forest management are two strong suspects — but there are other issues as well that aren’t being addressed. As good as the firefighting crews and systems are in these western states, is this all we have? Are these local, rather than national problems? Is the complete destruction of large towns along a charred swath that stretches hundreds of miles just one of those things? Being so far away by car, fires there don’t raise alarms here. But it is apparent that the annual wildfire problem out west is getting worse, and that maybe it’s becoming more of a national issue. When you look out at the horizon in the morning, and see that dirty orange disc, you realize that it truly is a small world after all, and we need to start thinking about that.
Ocean City Today P.O. Box 3500, Ocean City, Md. 21843 Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.
EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS .................. Greg Ellison, Joshua Kim, ........................................Elizabeth Bonin, Ally Lanasa ASSISTANT PUBLISHER .......................... Elaine Brady ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTISTS ................ Kelly Brown, Kyle Phillips PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts Ocean City Today is published weekly by FLAG Publications, Inc. at 8200 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Md. 21842. Ocean City Today is available by subscription at $150 a year. Visit us on the Web at www.oceancitytoday.com. Copyright 2020
PUBLIC EYE
Delivering efficiency
It was probably nothing more than your normal, everyday government whoopsee of a mistake, but it is interesting that the Postal Service has sent us erroneous advice on how to vote by mail. The procedures seem right enough, except for the message’s line that tells us we can request our ballots five days after this state says we should. No wonder I’ve been waiting all this time for something I ordered. The Postal Service has switched to the By lunar calendar, because it has Stewart fewer days and, thus, a big Dobson payroll savings. That would also explain why I’ve been waiting several weeks for my Sea Urchin Extract Memory Booster Supplement to arrive: the Postal Service not only ran out of days to deliver, but management decided that mail dropped off on a day that no longer exists doesn’t have to be delivered. That makes perfect sense to me. I mean, if it costs $10 to deliver two letters, for instance, why not save $5 — and get an energy credit — by using one letter to light the coal stove in the sorting room and delivering the surviving piece only? That’s half the work at half the cost, plus savings on the heating bill. On the other hand, it could be that the administrative people figure if they hold my Sea Urchin Extract Memory Booster Supplement long enough, I’ll forget I even ordered it. They would be wrong, of course, since I still have the email receipt from Dr. Richard Lumplestiltskin, whose alert, “Amazing New
Memory Booster Shocks Medical World!” also guaranteed me free, fast delivery from his lab in Tibet. At least, I think it’s Tibet. I’m having a little trouble remembering at this point, because … What was I saying? Oh yeah, I was complaining about what they’re doing to my mail service, which, as far as I know, still brings in more revenue than, say, the Social Security Administration, which produces zip of its own. In fact, if I were president — and these days I can’t think of one reason why I shouldn’t be — I could save the country vaults of money by eliminating the Social Security Administration altogether and allowing us to write our own checks. I’m sure we can be trusted to do the right thing. Besides who said the post office had to make money? Does the Federal Aviation Administration show a profit? Personally, I think we ought to privatize Congress and allow it to sell shares, which would be a cleaner and more open way of paying these slackers than having members going around begging for handouts. Now, what was my point again? That’s it, the Postal Service, which said we could request our mail-in ballots as late as 15 days before election day. Unfortunately, that’s after the state elections board says people should send in their requests to be sure the office will receive them by Oct. 20, which is — ta-da! — 15 days before election day. I’m sure it’s an honest mistake. But in the meantime, unless I get my Sea Urchin Extract Miracle Ear … no, that’s not it … Sea Urchin Colon Health? No, ummm, Urchins …. Just forget it. I can’t remember.
www.oceancitytoday.com
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Ocean City Today
Letters to the editor Mayor, Council mishandle planning capital projects Editor, In January of 2018, the Mayor & City Council of Ocean City (M&CC) held a bond sale of $25.8 million. The bond sale was to finance the town’s portion of both the Campus Plan at 65th Street and the current expansion of the convention center, as well as to fully fund the new Public Works South Facility, designed to house the Boardwalk trams and beach cleaning equipment. In reference to the Campus Plan, Hal Adkins, Director of Public Works, wrote the following in a memo dated 8/24/16, which appeared in the Council agenda packet on 8/30/16: “It should be noted that it is our intent to have formal bids in hand by June/July 2017 thus allowing us to proceed to the Bond Market with ‘hard numbers’, not estimates.” Contrary to Hal’s sound advice, the M&CC proceeded to the bond market without hard numbers, only estimates. The bids for the Campus Plan were opened just a few days before the bond sale. What was estimated to cost a total of $25.4 million came in at $35.8 million, over 40 percent higher. Why would the M&CC go to the
bond market without hard numbers? In April of 2019, well over a year after our bond sale, the Maryland General Assembly authorized the sale of State bonds for their portion of the convention center expansion. It took another six months before the Maryland Board of Public Works authorized the Stadium Authority to issue bonds for the state’s portion of the expansion. It was nearly two years before the final bids were approved by the state to proceed with construction. The original estimate for the expansion was estimated to cost a total of $34 million. Following the two years delay, the cost had increased to $37.5 million, up over 10.2 percent. Why would the M&CC go to the bond market before they knew the state had finalized the approval of their portion? By the time the contract was awarded to build the Public Works South Facility, nine months after our bond sale, the cost increased from an estimated $3 million to $3.85 million, up over 28 percent. This does not even take into account that the M&CC paid $2 million for land acquisition to construct this facility, which was $220,000 more than the property’s appraised value. Again, why
Y L I DA
N 6:00 E P O to 0 0 : 0 1
would the M&CC go to the bond market without hard numbers? The combined result of opening bids at or well after our bond sale for these three capital projects revealed an overall increase of $14.7 million over original estimates. The M&CC continue to establish textbook cases of how not to plan, fund and build capital projects. Vincent dePaul Gisriel, Jr. Ocean City
Ocean City Council should return in-person meetings Editor, Savvy politicians know how to use the adage “never let a good crisis go to waste.” Ocean City Council Member Dennis Dare, who I believe is a savvy politician, recognizes that the covid-19 crisis is a way to make changes that he wants in how the council conducts its meetings. During a recent Council meeting a discussion took place about resuming in-person meetings between the council members and the public. Council member Dare did not believe the council should rush back to having in-person meetings. He went on to say that, “Unless it is under certain conditions, I will not be attending in person” and that “I have been told if I don’t feel safe, I don’t have to come.” He also said that the council should take measures that would make the meeting participants safe from not only covid-19 but also the seasonal flu and
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 the common cold. Mr. Dare wants the wearing of masks to continue even when covid-19 abates. He also suggested that the heating and ventilation system at City Hall needs to be upgraded to perform seven air changes every hour and be installed with air filters. He wants permanent “virus mitigation protocols” implemented including a redesign of the council’s meeting chambers. Of course, these changes would cost money but if we know one thing from Council member Dare’s history, he always finds it easy to spend taxpayers’ money. If Council member Dare feels unsafe with the in-person meetings of the council he has two options: one he can continue, with the other council members permission, to attend the meetings remotely or two he can resign his position. In my view, the council should have in-person meetings, with necessary precautions, so that the current issues, challenges and opportunities affecting Ocean City are given the maximum exposure between the council members and the public. Joseph Potter Ocean City
City needs to back up mask rule for Boardwalk Editor, As a full-time summer resident and an Ocean City homeowner since the Continued on Page 35
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
PAGE 35
Ocean City Today
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 34 mid-’70s, I was completely dismayed during a recent trip to the Boardwalk, which I normally stay away from like the plague. Despite signs all over the place that face coverings were required on the Boardwalk, I estimate that about a third of everyone there went without a mask of one kind or another. I don’t know whether the requirement has the force of law, but what good is it if there is no enforcement? If the city is not going to back up its own rules, then a lot of money was wasted in producing useless signs. Lew Sichelman Chesapeake Beach, Maryland
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
9/11 MEMORIAL The Red Knights, Maryland Chapter 3 hosted its annual memorial service last Friday to commemorate the lives lost during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Red Knights Treasurer John Tartufo, standing at podium, directed the event and introduced guest speakers.
E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net Mail: Ocean City Today, P.O. Box 3500 Ocean City, Md. 21843 Fax: 410-723-6511 All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material
Hogs and Heroes hold ‘Tour Around The Shore’ Proceeds from prize ride extravaganza will go toward fallen police officer families By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Piggybacking on the “unofficial” Bike Week in Ocean City, the charity-minded Hogs and Heroes Foundation is sponsoring a two-day, five-stop “Tour Around The Shore” prize ride extravaganza beginning today at 10 a.m. Hogs and Heroes Foundation Maryland Chapter 8 President Steve Hannon said the event is intended to raise funds for the Maryland C.O.P.S. program that aids surviving family members of fallen officers. “The whole program is to support Maryland Concerns of Police Survivors,” he said. “This is a continuation of our mission to raise money toward this great cause.” The gathering commences today,
Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bad Monkey in West Ocean City, located at 12902 Ocean Gateway. “That’s where our startup spot is going to be and everybody can come down,” he said. Two-, three- or four-wheel participants can register today until 3 p.m. at Bad Monkey. The cost is $10 and a stop map will be provided. Riders can make pit stops for prize tickets on Friday or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at partnering establishments, with the next spots including Higgins Crab House on 128th Street, The Original Greene Turtle on 116th Street and Bad Monkey’s Ocean City location on 58th Street. “You can pick up a free prize ticket at each one of these spots and you can do it over the two days,” he said. “You don’t have to do it all in one day.” Additionally, Hannon said at each spot participants can make “Blue Bucket” contributions to support law enforcement and can also purchase
additional prize tickets. Prize tickets cost $1 each or $5 for six and $10 for a dozen. The fifth stop brings the event full circle to Bad Monkey in West Ocean City, with a ticket drawing and after party kicking off at 4 p.m. on Saturday. Prize tickets must be turned in by 3 p.m. on Saturday. “On Saturday at the West OC Bad Money we’ll draw these raffle tickets to see who wins the group of prizes that we have from each one of these stops,” he said. Ticket holders do not need to be
present to win prizes. The closing bell for the Hogs and Heroes gathering will be Saturday at 6 p.m. at the Original Greene Turtle in Ocean City. “Saturday evening we’re going to convene back to the Greene Turtle again where everyone will have the opportunity to meet with some of the local police officers, shake their hands and thank them for their service,” he said. For more information about Hogs and Heroes, contact Hannon at seapro813@yahoo.com or call 410977-5938.
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PAGE 36
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
Believe in Tomorrow holds virtual 5K Sunday By Elizabeth Bonin Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) In step with numerous events this year, Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation will hold a virtual 5K fundraiser. On Sunday, Sept. 20 at 9 a.m., participants can walk, run, bike or even roller blade anywhere they like. Wayne Littleton, Ocean City respite Wayne Littleton house coordinator, said that registration is available up to the last minute. It costs $25 for adults, $15 for children under 12, $5 for dogs and $20 for those active in the military. He added that there will be a bestlooking dog contest as well. Believe in Tomorrow in Ocean City hosts families with children who are critically ill for a week of vacation. The organization has condos on 66th Street, 28th Street and in Fenwick. The nonprofit has had to cancel multiple events this year – the Beach Bash, Gala by the Sea and the 5K in Bethany Beach. The Beach Bash was rescheduled as a virtual drawing for $10,000, on Monday, Oct 12. The event, held annually at Seacrets in Ocean City, typically draws between 700 and 800 attendees, and raises at least $40,000. All the events were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. “Here at the Children’s House, we have no funding, so I constantly have to be raising money to run the place,” Littleton said. “We wanted to do something, so we thought the virtual 5K could be something that we could do safely.” To make the event virtual, participants are encouraged to post photos and videos of themselves or their group on Facebook and tag Believe in Tomorrow. Photos and videos will be shared on Believe in Tomorrow’s page up until about 1 p.m. Littleton said registration is going well so far, with some participants
from miles away. “We have a gentleman in Denver that’s going to participate,” Littleton said. “We have people in Florida, we have people up in Delaware [and] a lot of local people.” The virtual event will kick off at 8 a.m. with a video of the national anthem, followed by a mix of videos created by children who have stayed at the house and pictures of those participating in the race. There will be T-shirts for those registered, while they last. Littleton said any amount of funding will help, as the pandemic has been hard on everyone. The respite house still has to keep up with utilities, insurance and upkeep of the condos. “We’ve had no funding for the whole summer,” Littleton said. “We’ve just been living off what we raised last year. We’ve done a couple little online auctions.” Believe in Tomorrow could finally welcome families and children back the second week of June. Although the respite house typically sends families out for activities such as surf lessons and trips to Jolly Roger Amusement Park or Trimper’s Rides, most of those activities were unavailable or limited during pandemic restrictions. To prepare, Littleton said the staff installed new TVs in the condos. “We went in and put a ton of games in the units, whatever we could, because we knew people were going to spend more time here,” Littleton said. Another change Littleton mentioned is that the summer is usually booked with families, but this year, some groups opted out because of various concerns and staff had to reschedule. Looking forward to the virtual race, Littleton said that he was surprised it’s done well so far. “It shouldn’t surprise me because I know the community we live in is just good-hearted people,” Littleton said. The 5K is sponsored by Nations
Lending, All States Construction, Alesi Custom Builders & Renovators, Creative Concepts Home Furnishings, Tecta America, Mann Properties, Michael G. Mann Foundation, Park Place Jewelers, Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645, Northern Building Restoration, the Bobenko Family,
Larry and Julie Diamond, Alexandria, the Traffic Group, Bikers Without Borders, Ocean City/Berlin Rotary Club, Bank of Delmarva, Paws and Claws Pet Store and PetSmart. To register, visit believeintomorrow.rallybound.org/believe-in-tomorrow-5k.
Join Mayor Rick Meehan on Tuesday for bike ride event By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Bicyclists are encouraged to join Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan for the inaugural Mayor’s Bike Ride event on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m. “Ocean City will be joining the rest of the nation in celebrating the official 2020 Bike to Work Day,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “The Mayor’s Bike Mayor Meehan Ride is to encourage biking in Ocean City and to provide awareness on the town’s goal to become recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community.” At 10 a.m., participants, led by Meehan, will travel from the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum at the southern end of the Boardwalk, up to 27th Street and then back to the museum before heading to work. Masks are required during the ride, while helmets are optional for those 16 and older. The Ocean City Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee created the event in order to build up the city’s resume for the League of American
Check out this week’s
Bicyclists’ Bicycle Friendly Community certification. The program recognizes communities that have taken the steps to encourage bicycle riding, both for transportation and recreation. There are multiple award levels: diamond, platinum, gold, silver and bronze. Receiving an award opens up grant funding opportunities and can be a marketing opportunity. Ocean City had gunned for the bronze award, but received honorable mention last year. “I’m really, really disappointed that we didn’t get it [bronze award],” Councilman Tony DeLuca said recently. One area that had hurt Ocean City’s application was its lack of bike events, which is how the Mayor’s Bike Ride came to life. Originally scheduled for May 1, but postponed because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, the inaugural event will hopefully bolster the city’s next application and help it obtain the coveted bronze award. For more information, visit https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/bikeride-with-the-mayor/
p u e n i L t n e m n i a t r e Ent
In the pages of OCToday and Bayside Gazette
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WCPS Summer Academy condensed this year By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Worcester County Public Schools Coordinator of Instruction Tamara Mills provided the Board of Education an overview of how the 2020 Summer Academy was altered amid the coronavirus pandemic during the board meeting on Tuesday. All 14 public schools participated in a modified summer learning program for 19 days that addressed recovery of learning in reading, math, physical activity, and social-emotional development. Mills discussed how the academy
served as a trial-run for reopening Worcester County schools and the safety measures in place, including the enforcement of face coverings for all students Tamara Mills and teachers, practicing social distancing and daily symptom screenings. Schools identified at-risk students and brought them back to campus in small groups for face-to-face learning, while following safety protocols to minimize exposure to covid-19.
Dr. Annette Wallace, the chief operating and academic officer for grades nine through 12, said with 400 students enrolled for the five-week program, there were no exposures. “That’s something that we’re celebrating, and we’re very excited about,” Wallace said. According to Mills’ presentation, nearly 300 students attended the summer learning program on any given day. “Our pre-K through eighth went full day and our high school went half-day,” Mills said. She added that the central office also
held a ReStart program this year and Worcester Technical High School was able to have some career and technical education students complete assessments that were postponed from the spring. “It really was a recovery effort on everyone’s part,” Mills said. In addition to the summer learning program, Worcester County Public Schools piloted three programs. The Delmarva Horizons Summer STEM program is normally six to eight weeks and includes swimming instrucSee THREE Page 38
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Ocean City Today
Construction of Showell school nears completion
Three educational programs piloted at public schools
By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Educators returned to Showell Elementary on Showell School Road in Berlin for the first day of school on Sept. 8 as the replacement school is substantially complete. Facilities Planner Joe Price provided the Worcester County Board of Education a monthly construction update on the replacement school at the board meeting on Tuesday. Price said wood stage flooring, window blinds, vinyl composition tile and rubber flooring were installed in the last month. “Over the next 30 days, we’ll continue doing punch list corrections and building commissioning,” he said. As demonstrated on the site plan, final grading and placement of top soil, final paving of roadway and parking area, site stabilization and the site sign are in progress. Showell Elementary was the first school replacement project under the administration of Superintendent Lou Taylor. “I honestly want to tell you that there was very little to anything brought to my level about Showell School, so that meant that Joe Price was getting it done,” Taylor said. “I toured that building with Joe many times, and I also toured that property without Joe … I have nothing but great things to tell you all about this entire process. “Joe, thank you. Thank you for your hard work. Thank you for what you did. Thank you for leadership through this entire process. I’m forever professionally grateful,” he continued. The current contract with Oak Contracting is roughly $40 million. Payments up to Tuesday totaled $34,605,460.69. Worcester County Public Schools is considering a grand opening celebration at the new school in October, but details on that event are yet to be
Continued from Page 37 tion, but it was modified during the pandemic. This summer, 12 first graders at Pocomoke Elementary School participated in the program. Mills said Delmarva Horizons brings the school system supplemental funding and a STEM-based curriculum. “This year, they provided each student with a $200 value box of materials,” Mills said. The school system also worked with Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services for the Bucky Bear EL Back-toSchool Bootcamp at Buckingham Elementary School. “We did this for about four to eight [English-language learning] students in each grade at Buckingham toward the end of the summer to welcome their parents back,” Mills said. A parent education workshop was held, where school and community resources were provided. The third pilot program was Made Men at Pocomoke High School, which trains students to become Worcester County Public School teachers. “We have former Maryland Teacher of the Year Dr. Richard Warren partnering with Pocomoke High School to help these young men,” Mills said. The high school students will be engaged in dual enrollment of four education courses with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore
PHOTO COURTESY CARRIE STERRS
The Showell Elementary replacement school off Route 589 in Berlin is substantially complete as educators return to their classrooms while students engage in distance learning for a few weeks.
finalized. Price also provided a monthly construction update on the Stephen Decatur High School turf field and the resurfacing of the running track. In June 2018 and June 2019, the Worcester County Commissioners approved funding the replacement of the existing grass field at Stephen Decatur High School with a turf field similar to the athletic surface fields at Pocomoke High School and Snow Hill High School and to resurface the
existing running track. The construction began on May 20, 2019 and was substantially completed on September 2, 2019. FieldTurf USA Inc., the construction manager, returned to the school last month to complete the resurfacing of the high jump pad at the south end of the stadium. The current contract amount with FieldTurf USA is about $1.2 million. Payments up to Tuesday totaled $1, 041,548.24.
Showell Elementary third grade teachers Melissa Thompson, left, and Lindsay Kolankowski returned to campus on Sept. 8 at the replacement school on Showell School Road in Berlin while their students engage in distance learning until Sept. 28. PHOTO COURTESY CARRIE STERRS
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Community enjoys OC Chopsticks in West Ocean City By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Since launching food service earlier this month, OC Chopsticks Asian Bistro owner Jack Chen has experienced a groundswell of interest from patrons attracted to the ambiance and impressed by the cuisine. Longtime restaurateur Chen’s latest culinary venture, which is located in the Outlets Ocean City, held a ribbon-cutting celebration attended by an array of local dignitaries last Thursday. “Everybody had a taste of the food and got really happy,” he said. Chen said early feedback has been encouraging. “I put a lot of time and energy into the restaurant,” he said. The attention to detail is evident with numerous interior design elements and custom woodwork creating a warm ambiance. “I had a design team and put extensive work into the setup,” he said. “If I want to do something, I like to do it the perfect way.” Chen, who relocated to the U.S. from southern China at 19, has worked in the culinary arts for a quarter century. “I grew up near the ocean and that’s why I like seafood,” he said. Prior to running several Asianthemed eateries on the Eastern Shore, Chen worked behind the line. “I am a chef too,” he said. After stints in Baltimore, New York and Virginia, Chen established sushi restaurants in Salisbury and Cambridge. “We were really early, but now it’s getting popular,” he said. “Twenty years ago in Salisbury there was no such restaurants.” Regardless of past business ventures, since kicking off plans to open OC Chopsticks in late 2019, the subsequent onset of covid-19 delayed the process. “Our original plan was to open in the beginning of July,” he said. Despite construction delays after work got underway in March when coronavirus slowed life to a crawl, Chen proceeded as planned. “I know that we only have one way to go and it’s forward,” he said. “You never say lose and fight for it.” Based on the parade of consumers last Thursday the fortitude has proven sound. “After we opened the doors [Thursday] we were busy all day long,” he said. “I had no time to eat lunch or dinner.” Chen said the initial reviews from patrons have been overwhelmingly positive. “I can feel the welcome and support from the community,” he said. “People still like to see something
GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
OC Chopsticks Asian Bistro owner Jack Chen, third from right, is accompanied by a host of local officials and business people during a ribbon-cutting celebration last Thursday at his restaurant in the Outlets Ocean City in West Ocean City.
new.” Chen said while profitability is vitally important, the overall dining experience is the true test. “It’s not about the money,” he said. “When people say they want to come back, or even stay here, it makes me feel good.” Appreciating clientele desires in West Ocean City, Chen has strived to create a top-flight dining environment, even bringing a sushi chef on board with 15 years of experience in high-end establishments in New York
and on Long Island. “The taste is the most important,” he said. “I’d rather hire a good chef from New York. We might have to pay more, but that’s OK.” Although only able to operate at half-mast during the ongoing covid19 pandemic, OC Chopsticks can seat up to 100. Regardless of beginning with health-safety restrictions in place, Chen espouses confidence the new operation will blossom. “When the dawn is coming it’s
darkest,” he said. Weathering difficulties strengthens resolve, Chen said. “You have to work very hard to create a business,” he said. “Life is not always smooth and sometimes it’s rough, but I always believe we can get through challenges.” OC Chopsticks is open Sunday through Thursday from noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday hours are noon to 11 p.m. For more information, call 410801-1111 or visit occhopsticks.com.
REAL ESTATE REPORT
Housing market could be stronger By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The National Association of Realtors Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, released a video report that dissects the latest homes sales numbers, talks about what could make the market even stronger, and forecasts what’s ahead in housing. Even though the economy is not back to normal with double-digit unemployment rates due to covid-19, those buyers who have secure employment are trying to take advantage of the record-low interest rates. At the time of his report, Yun said there are 1.5 million homes on the market nationwide, representing
about a three-month supply. A normal, more balanced market condition would be closer to five to six months supply, supporting the continued trend of the current sellers market we are experiencing. In Maryland, the most up-to-date reported figures for July by Maryland Realtors Association chart reflects a 1.9-month supply statewide, and 2.5month supply for Worcester County and 2.3 for Wicomico counties specifically. Yun states that an additional buyer demand could come from the secondary impact of the pandemic for those
who are allowed to continue to work from home more frequently then before the pandemic. Many will want larger sized homes that can accommodate more office space, and possibly a continuation of more people migrating to the suburbs over the city where homes can be larger and less expensive. In closing, Yun wrapped up by saying he predicts greater home sales for the remainder of 2020 due to a combination of record low mortgage rates and increased demand from those who have work from home flexibility. – Lauren Bunting is a licensed Associate Broker with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s International Realty in Ocean City.
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BUSINESS BRIEFS
Agents ranked Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Ocean City offices recently had several agents ranking in August for the Baltimore Region. They are: Nancy Reither, second; Shawn Kotwica, 10th; Michele Pompa, 25th; Jamie Caine, 38th; Madeleine Forrester, 53rd; Whitney Jarvis, 58th; Anna Spann, 61st; Michael Nolen, 64th; Jenny Cropper-Rines, 67th; Cyndie Hollowell, 88th; Shelley Walter, 96th; and Dave Barnett, 97th.
Joins team EXIT Realty At The Beach in Ocean Pines announces the addition of Tanisha Taylor to its family of real estate professionals. Bernie Flax, broker/owner of EXIT Realty At The Beach is excited to welcome Taylor, who was born and raised on the Eastern Shore. She is dedicated to assisting clients with their buying and/or selling needs. With a strong, professional background in customer service, she thrives to make each client’s experience the best. When Taylor is not selling real estate, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters and her son, helping and motivating others with their personal financial goals, and crafting homemade candles. Taylor is licensed in Maryland. EXIT Realty At The Beach is located
at 11002 Manklin Meadows Ln #3, Ocean Pines, Maryland 21811. For more information, call 410-208EXIT (3948).
Expansion Becker Morgan Group announces the addition of engineering services in North Carolina. The expansion of engineering in North Carolina is a natural progression for the firm who already offers civil and structural engineering services in its Delaware and Maryland offices. By providing architectural, civil engineering, and structural engineering services, Becker Morgan Group is able to bring a holistic approach to each project, working in tandem with each discipline. For more information, visit www.beckermorgan.com.
New building President of Piney Island Construction Duane Maddy has opened his new building, Strawberry Fields, at 305 Washington Street in Berlin. This building consists of three residential apartments with two bedrooms and two bathrooms each and three 850-square-foot conditioned storage units. This is a newly completed building as of mid-September. Questions can be directed to Piney Island Construction, Inc. at 443-513-4614.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Berlin announces changes to 2020 holiday schedule By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) The covid-19 Grinch might not steal Christmas this year, but it has caused the cancellation of one of Berlin’s signature Christmas events — the annual parade, which draws throngs of spectators from the area. The pandemic, and the town’s efforts to curb its spread, also claimed Berlin’s popular New Year’s Eve Gee Williams celebration and ball drop, along with other events this fall and winter. Berlin officials announced its revised event schedule last Friday to the disappointment of residents throughout northern Worcester County. “Throughout this pandemic, we tried to take a very measured and reasonable response,” said Mayor Gee Williams. “We followed the governor’s guidelines throughout, and I think that this is just another example …When the conditions are like this, we just think it’s better to make a decision on everyone’s behalf.” Williams added that the reason for the cancellations of the Christmas parade and New Year’s Eve celebration is because it is impossible to enforce social distancing at those events. “Historically, for many years, the sidewalks have been absolutely packed with children and their parents,” he said. “That’s a few thousand people. There’s no way to social distance something like that … I feel strongly that it takes the parents off the hotspot by making this decision that’s in the best interest of the health of the community.” The town’s annual “Celebrate Oktoberfest in Berlin” will still take place on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. but the layout has been modified. “The tents and places to get beverages will be spread out,” the mayor said. According to a press release from the town, many of the downtown eateries will feature outdoor tents with traditional Oktoberfest fare. The event posting on Facebook states that Baked Dessert Café will offer pretzels, strudel and German chocolate cake, J&M Meat Market & Grille will serve Knockwurst, sausage
and sauerkraut, beer brats and pulled chicken barbecue sandwiches, The Buzz Meadery will sell local ciders and The Atlantic Hotel will have brats on a pretzel roll with homemade mustard and beer. Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, said the altered event will be similar to Peach Day. “The Peach Day went very well,” Williams said. “By following this plan, it allows for social distancing, which obviously is very important, and, of course, we’re asking everyone to wear a mask, except when they’re actually eating or drinking.” Music will be provided for the event by Ocean98 DJ Big Al Reno. Love Letters is currently offering pre-sale on its 22-ounce keepsake stein at a discounted price. For more information, visit LoveLettersOC.com. The Berlin Fall Sidewalk Sale will also be held on Oct. 17. The downtown roads will remain open, but there will be no parking on Main Street or any side streets. “The town of Berlin is not sponsoring or endorsing any events on Halloween in our community,” the mayor added. “This is not the year. We are asking residents —because many do not want trick-or-treaters at their door — that all residents in the town of Berlin simply turn off your porch light or your front door light on Halloween night, and that all trickor-treaters respect that.” For those who want to give out candy on Halloween against the town’s suggestion, Williams urged them to practice social distancing. As for the higher holidays, there will be no formal tree lighting ceremony this year, although the Berlin Christmas tree will be illuminated, and downtown shops will be open late on Friday, Nov. 27, from 5-8 p.m. Santa will also be offering carriage rides and local nonprofits, which have yet to be confirmed, will have food and hot chocolate. In addition, town officials are considering an alternative plan for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop on Main Street. A decision is expected next month. “In the greater scheme of things, it’s better to sacrifice a few fun events to the overall safety of the community,” Williams said.
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WPS fall sports teams ready for competition By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Sept. 18, 2020) With safety protocols in place, Worcester Preparatory School student-athletes stepped back on the field, court or course late last month for practice and are gearing up for competition. “The kids are doing a great job. Everyone’s doing what they’re supposed to,” said Worcester Prep Athletic Director Matt McGinnis. The theme for the season is respect, McGinnis said. Student-athletes should respect the current times we’re in, respect the process, respect each other and “we’ll get through this,” he added. “Everyone’s adjusting to what is the current norm,” he said. Team training sessions could begin as early as Aug. 17, but not all squads started that day. The training sessions were not mandatory, but participation was highly encouraged. Sessions lasted for 60 minutes and focused on physical conditioning and individual sports skills training. Worcester Prep students begin inperson instruction on Sept. 1 for students in grades 9-12, with everyone returning by Sept. 8. With students now back in school, normal team practices started right after Labor Day. McGinnis said these are more “traditional style practices.” “They’re happy and excited to have a bit of normalcy in their lives,” he said. “They get to hang out with their friends; it’s good socialization for everyone.” Even the officials are excited for the season, McGinnis, who is also the president of the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference, said. To keep athletes safe, a number of protocols have been set. They include limiting the number of people in the locker rooms, wearing masks inside the school and until participants get to their practice spots, no congregating, social distancing and cleaning and disinfecting equipment. There are marks on the fields and each player has his or her spot six feet apart to place their water bottle, bags and equipment. During water breaks, each player goes to their designated spot. “We’ve taken a lot of great steps to do everything right and keep everyone safe,” McGinnis said. Athletes do not have to wear masks during activity, but some do, he said. The main factor that made heads of schools and athletic directors comfortable to host a season was following the Maryland Department of Health’s guidelines of operating without fans. For at least the first competition for each team, no spectators will be permitted. “The focus is on the event for the student-athletes,” McGinnis said. “Athletic directors and heads of schools have been working together and are all on the same page to make the season happen, espe-
cially for the senior class.” After the first matches, McGinnis said the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference will reevaluate the situation. “It’s a challenge to monitor [fan] social distancing,” he said. “We’d rather be safe than sorry … [and] parents are staying open to this.” McGinnis said the conference is looking into broadcasting games via YouTube channels. Some schools’ fields are also viewable from their parking lots. Worcester Prep teams are playing half, or less than half, of the competitions they would during a regular season. The squads will only be competing against conference opponents. The Berlin private prep school would normally also compete against Maryland public school teams, but their fall and winter seasons were postponed during the first semester. Middle school teams began practice on Monday. They will also play only conference games. The Worcester Prep varsity golf team kicked off its season on Wednesday. The boys’ soccer, girls’ soccer and field hockey teams’ first games are Friday, Sept. 25. The first cross country meet is Oct. 1 and the volleyball team’s season opener is Oct. 2.
GOLF: The golf team has been practicing since Aug. 17. For one hour a day the players worked on their skills. The last few weeks the group has been on the course. “It’s going well. When we meet as a group the kids are wearing masks and social distancing,” said Coach Don McMullen. “It’s been good. We Don McMullen want to make sure everyone stays safe and healthy this season.” There are 16 players on the team, and eight of them are seniors. The group is also made up of one junior, three sophomores and four freshmen. “I’m excited about the year. Six or seven kids are shooting in the 40s, which I like seeing before the season begins,” McMullen said. “The kids are having fun and happy to be out playing. They’re glad to have something.” Worcester will play in six matches this season, followed by a conference championship. The first competition took place on Wednesday at GlenRiddle Golf Club in Berlin. Worcester came in first place, shooting a 174. The team was led by freshman Vanesska Hall, who scored a 42. Senior captain TJ Bescak and sophomore Griffin Jones both tallied 43s. Senior Mason Brown carded a 46. Sophomore Harrison Humes and senior captain Kaden Mault also played.
They shot 46 and 48, respectively. Gunston finished in second place with a 203, followed by Salisbury School (216) and Salisbury Christian (246). “Overall, the team played very well. I was very pleased,” McMullen said. “[A] 174 overall is good, [and] I know they’ll do better. It’s going to be a good year.” McMullen said the goal is to win the ESIAC championship. “We’re going to field a competitive team. That’s what we’re striving for,” he said. During the 2019 season, the team recorded 19 wins and five losses. The group finished runner-up in the ESIAC tournament.
BOYS’ SOCCER: The boys’ soccer team also started on Aug. 17. “So far, it’s going well. They look good,” said Coach Jon Adkins. “With only two seniors, we’re a young team. They’re getting better every day.” Adkins said the first few weeks of preseason were different – with Jon Adkins more drills set up and small group stations – but now practices are back to normal. “The first day they came out with positive attitudes. They’re ready to play,” Adkins said. “They’re a great group of kids. They all want to get better. They’re all buying in. I just can’t say enough about them.” Adkins has 26 players on his roster, a majority of them are underclassmen. “We have a big talented group of freshmen,” he said. The Mallards will play only five games this season, four of which are on their home field. The top two teams will battle for the ESIAC championship. “Last year we got off to a slow start … We want to start off great. This year we have to have our best foot forward from the jump,” Adkins said. “It’s a five-game playoff. That’s how we’re looking at it.” Adkins said the goal is to improve each day. “So many other schools are dying to play this season, so they know not to take it for granted,” he added. “We just want to play the best soccer we can every Friday. Hopefully, we’ll have a successful season and win another championship. I’m excited about the team and I’m excited about the season.”
The team’s first game is against Gunston Day School on Friday, Sept. 25 at 4 p.m. in Berlin. Worcester finished the 2019 season with eight wins, three ties and five losses. The Mallards captured the ESIAC title in a shoot-out.
GIRLS’ SOCCER: The girls’ soccer team returned to action on Aug. 24. “We had no interest meeting, I didn’t have a list, so I didn’t know what to expect,” said Coach Carol Hartnett. “The first day every girl I thought I would see there was there, and some additional girls.” Carol Hartnett Hartnett said preseason was pretty much the same as it typically is as far as training goes. There are 25 girls on the team this season. A bulk of the team is made up of juniors (15). Waverly Choy is the lone senior. Five freshmen have joined the squad. “It’s going really well. They’re excited to be on the field and at school – all smiling faces all over the field,” Hartnett said. “Sports are a tricky thing. Professional teams have not gotten it right, so if [Worcester Prep] was going to do it, we’d better darn well get it right. We have to be a model.” Hartnett said on the first day she had a conversion with her players about their comfort level and concerns. “Not everyone is at the same level,” she said. “If they have anxiety about the situation, I told them it’s OK, we’re all here to support each other.” The team has always been more than just about soccer. The girls build a bond with each other and become a family unit each season. Three of the team’s four game will be played in Berlin. The first match is slated for Friday, Sept. 25 at 4 p.m. against Gunston Day School. The Mallards finished the 2019 season with a 6-2-1 record. “We have less games, but it’s fine. They’re just happy to be out here,” Hartnett said. “It’s something they’ve been hoping for since March.” Hartnett said the goal is for the girls to be safe, healthy and to have a great year. Each players also has their own goals,
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Protocols in place to keep WP athletes safe which they post on the team board facing in. On the outside for all to see are words how they can be the best team member, such as sportsmanship, empathy and kindness. “I’m super excited about the season,” Hartnett said. “The girls will remember the experience not the end game, so whatever we can do to make it the best experience possible.”
FIELD HOCKEY: The field hockey team began training sessions on Aug. 25. “The first couple weeks we were mostly just doing individual drills and some conditioning,” said Coach Katie Oxenreider. “We limit scrimmaging and try to keep them out of gathering in big groups. We are Katie Oxenreider just having to adjust and look at things a little differently now.” Oxenreider has 10 players on her roster, two of whom are seniors. Game are played 11v11, but the team will play its four games 7v7 this season. “This gives us some options for the few games we have and allows subs,” she said. “The kids are happy and positive and just glad to be able to do a sport and
activity after school. The goal for our season is to grow and learn more about the sport.” The team’s first games is Friday, Sept. 25 at 4 p.m. against Gunston Day School in Centreville. “The girls all have a good attitude and are happy to be there,” Oxenreider said. “We are very young overall with only two seniors, so I’ll need them to step up and be leaders for the younger girls who may only have one or two years’ experience.” The Mallards went 3-11 last year.
CROSS COUNTRY: The cross country team got started on Aug. 31, led by new Head Coach Jenn Corron. She was an assistant to Keith Geiger last season. Corron is excited to take over the program. She is joined by Assistant Coach Cater Williams, a runner for Salisbury University. Four girls and 19 Jenn Corron boys are participating this season, seven of whom are seniors. Most of the runners competed last year. “So far it’s going great,” Corron said. “The kids are super positive. They’re excited to be out there running.” She was pleased to say the runners
came into preseason in good shape. Since cross country is not a contact sport, it is easy for the participants to social distance. The first meet is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 1 at 4 p.m. in Salisbury. “It will be good for the kids to get back into competing,” Corron said. “The goal is to create a cohesive team, support the underclassmen and build from there.” Both girls’ and boys’ cross country teams brought home Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference championships last year. Worcester will participate in four meets, followed by the ESIAC championship this season.
VOLLEYBALL: The volleyball team returned to the court on Aug. 24. “It’s going really great,” said Coach Cheryl Brown. “They’re all building each other up. There’s smiles and laughs. For their mental health, it’s been amazing. It’s been so nice to Cheryl Brown have all of them.” Twenty-three players showed up on the first day. Eighteen are still playing. “It a good amount for training pur-
poses and building for years to come,” Brown said. Normally there would be a varsity and JV team, but this year there is only one squad. Only 10 can suit up for games. There are nine seniors on the team – seven players and two managers. Mike Kelly returns as an assistant coach. Jim Jung from Towson University joins the coaching staff as an assistant. Brown said practices are more competitive this season. Stats are begin kept, the players are training in their ideal positions and the girls are lined up with who they play well with. “We want to make sure we’re pushing them to the limits, but we’re also only as strong as our weakest player,” she said. Since the team only has four games scheduled, Brown said there will be intra-squad scrimmages during practice, where scores and stats will be recorded. “We’re going to treat it like a game situation,” she said. The first match is Friday, Oct. 2 at 4 p.m. against Salisbury Christian in Berlin. “Our main objective, to make sure number one is a mental health avenue, that they have fun and something they can look forward to every day,” Brown said. “And for the seniors, to give them the best, most fun experience.” The Mallards finished the 2019 season with a 3-10 record.
NOW PLAYING
LAUREN GLICK BAND
Ocean Pines Yacht Club: Friday, Sept. 18, 6-9 p.m.
ON THE EDGE
Lenny’s Beach Bar and Grille: Friday & Saturday, Sept. 18-19, 5-10 p.m.
CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th St. & Baltimore Ave., Ocean City 410-289-7192 / www.captainstableoc.com Every Friday & Saturday: Phil Perdue on piano, 5-9 p.m. COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL In the Castle in the Sand Hotel 37th Street Oceanfront, Ocean City 410-289-6846 / www.castleinthesand.com Sept. 18: Darin Engh, noon to 4 p.m.; Monkee Paw, 5-9 p.m. Sept. 19: The Everafter, noon to 4 p.m.; The Rock-A-Holics, 5-9 p.m. Sept. 20: Shortcut Sunny, noon to 3 p.m.;
Natalie Davis Band, 4-8 p.m. Sept. 21: Bob Wilkinson & Joe Smooth, 4-8 p.m. Sept. 23: Joe Smooth & John Remy, 4-8 p.m. Sept. 24: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, 4-8 p.m. OCEAN CLUB NIGHTCLUB 101st Street, Ocean City In the Horizons Restaurant, in the Clarion Fontainebleau Hotel 410-524-3535 / www.clarionoc.com Sept. 18-19: On The Edge, 5-10 p.m. Lenny’s Beach Bar and Grille Sept. 18: DJ Dusty, 5-10 p.m. Sept. 19: Stephen Anthony, noon to 4 p.m.; DJ Dusty, 5-10 p.m.
OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumfords Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-641-7501 / www.opyachtclub.org Sept. 18: Lauren Glick Band, 6-9 p.m. Sept. 19: Sons of Pirates, 6-10 p.m. SEACRETS 49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Sept. 18: John McNutt Duo, 4-8 p.m.; Late Last Night Duo, 8-11:30 p.m. Sept. 19: Full Circle, 4-8 p.m.; High Five Swan Dive Duo, 8-11:30 p.m. Sept. 20: Full Circle, 4-8 p.m. Sept. 24: A Night With Go Go Gadget, 7 p.m. to midnight
STEPHEN ANTHONY
Lenny’s Beach Bar and Grille: Saturday, Sept. 19, noon to 4 p.m.
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Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
MPSSAA releases plan for return of sports Activities limited during first semester; modified seasons in second term
By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Sept. 18, 2020) Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association recently released a Roadmap for Return to Interscholastic Athletics and Extracurricular Activities Two-Semester Plan. The MPSSAA consulted with the Maryland State Department of Education, Maryland Department of Health and Public Schools Superintendents Association of Maryland on the hybrid plan, which focuses on “student engagement options in the first semester and modified competition seasons for all sports during the second semester.” It was developed to allow the 24 Maryland local school systems flexibility to maximize participation opportunities for the engagement of students during the first semester and sets a plan for sport competition in the second semester. Worcester County Public Schools and the other school systems each set up Return to Play committees. For Worcester, the committee was made up of the three high school athletic directors, two principals, one athletic supervisor, one male and one female coach from each school, one trainer and one assistant superintendent. The group came up with a plan for the first semester, which was submitted to Superintendent Lou Taylor. He approved it and it was then passed on to the MPSSAA. “We want to get players physically and mentally active and prepared to return to athletics,” said Dr. Dwayne Abt, assistant superintendent and chief safety and human relations officer. One of his duties is to also oversee athletics. The MPSSAA plan allows for out-of-
season participation in all sports. Local school systems can create any combination of virtual practices or in-person conditioning, skill-building sessions, sport-specific practices, intramurals, and intra-school/inter-school scrimmages. In addition, student engagement must be based on the level of community spread and any other factors as identified by the local health department, according to the two-semester plan. Worcester County Lou Taylor Public Schools posted its Athletics & Extracurricular Activity Plan for semester 1 on Facebook earlier this week. Currently, preseason conditioning workouts are available virtually for student-athletes in all sports. The plan is for students to slowly return to school for in-person learning beginning Monday, Sept. 28. According to Worcester County’s semester 1 plan, from Sept. 28 to Oct. 31, all spring sports are permitted to have virtual practices, in-person conditioning, skill-building sessions, sport-specific practices, intramurals, and pending approval by the superintendent, inter/intra-school scrimmages. Then from Nov. 2 to Dec. 9, fall sports teams can participate in those same activities. Winter sports teams will be permitted to take part in activities from Dec. 10 to Jan. 29. Semester 1 training sessions are open to all athletes. Coaches are not permitted to conduct tryouts. According to the MPSSAA, teams may not be established for the second semester during the first semester. “Team selection for the competition season will occur within the confines of the respective preseason as identified in the second semester plan,” the MPSSAA plan states.
“Part of the reengagement plan is that coaches can’t make cuts or form teams,” Abt said. “It’s for players interested in playing those sports.” The second semester runs from Feb. 1 to June 19. The MPSSAA has laid out modified sports seasons. Each sports season will have a 20-calendar day preseason and five weeks of competition. All sports will have the opportunity to play between 50 and 100 percent of their typical season allotment of competitions. Each sport will be evaluated by the MPSSAA on an individual basis to determine if there will be state tournaments or championships. The first up will be winter sports, with practices taking place Feb. 1-21. Feb. 22 to March 27 will be the competition season. The second season will be for fall sports. Practices are slated from March 15 to April 4. The competition season will run from April 5 to May 8. The third season will be for spring sports. Practices will be held from April 26 to May 16. The competition season will be from May 17 to June 19. Both Taylor and Abt are excited and looking forward to students returning to school for in-person learning and athletics. “We’re excited to get the kids back to school and back playing. We’re doing the
best we can under the circumstances,” Taylor said. “The goal is to get the kids moving in the right direction. Success is learned on the field as much as it is in the classroom.” Because of covid-19, the last day students were in school was March 13. Nearly all of the winter sports season was finished except for championship games, which were canceled. With Maryland school systems beginning to announce virtual learning to start the 2020-21 school year, MPSSAA announced on Aug. 3 that after consulting with the Maryland State Superintendent of Schools, the Maryland Department of Health and the Public School Superintendent Association of Maryland, it had decided to postpone the 2020-21 high school fall and winter competition seasons during the first semester. “The health and safety of student participants, coaches, athletic administrators, and officials is a primary concern for the return of interscholastic athletics,” the MPSSAA plan states. The full MPSSAA Roadmap for Return to Interscholastic Athletics and Extracurricular Activities Two-Semester Plan is available at https://www.mpssaa.org/assets/1/6/M PSSAA_Roadmap_TwoSemester_Plan_(2).pdf?6578.
Big Bucks Raffle and Drop Zone golf ball drop activities (Sept. 18, 2020) The organizers of the 2020 Robert E. Warfield Memorial Golf Tournament, Atlantic General Hospital’s Fall Golf Classic, have created two new ‘fun’raisers that are open to the public. The first is the Big Bucks Raffle for the chance to win $2,500. Tickets cost $50 and only 100 will be sold. Tickets can be purchased at www.agh.care/golf or by texting AGHRAFFLE to 41444. The second ‘fun’raiser is the Drop Zone golf ball drop. Purchase a golf ball that will be part of a payload dropped by helicopter over a target placed on the driving range at Ocean City Golf Club on Sept. 24 during the tournament. The ball closest to the target wins. Two divisions available – and two winners.
Five hundred white golf balls will be dropped. The cost is $10 per ball, or get five for $45. The person whose ball lands closest to the target will win $1,000. Five hundred yellow balls will also be dropped. The cost is $25 per ball or get five for $100. The owner of the ball that rests closeted to the target will win $2,500. Reserve a ball at www.agh.care/golf or text DROPZONE to 41444. Entrants for the Big Bucks Raffle and the Drop Zone golf ball drop need not be present to win. The Drop Zone event will be featured on Facebook Live on the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation’s Facebook page. All proceeds benefit the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. For more information, visit www.agh.care/golf.
Ocean City Today
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
PAGE 45
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Jalapeño poppers serve as perfect football season dish By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Football season is finally here! After months of intense therapy, I am finally able to take a positive outlook and understand that the beginning of a new season equates a fresh start. Who knows, maybe my team will even make it to the playoffs. What I am not ready for is a political stance before each game. Trust me, the daily news is saturated with political opinions and predictions. Can we just play ball, keep the subject light, and just have fun? That being said, football is notorious for its finger-licking food. Tailgate enthusiasts can’t wait to show off their culinary skills. Creamy crab dip, nachos smothered in an array of toppings, and seared sausages and peppers are just a few of the lip-smacking dishes that are served to hungry, frenzied fans. But if you are in the mood to try something new, how about giving jalapeño poppers a shot. The trinity of crispiness, cheesiness and spiciness is the foundation for a
mouthwatering dish. I’m starved, so let’s get started. First and foremost, I recommend wearing gloves. If you are like me, you will forget you have been handling jalapeños and accidentally wipe your eyes. Trust me, this is not pleasant feeling. Select large jalapeños that are unwaxed. The breading will adhere easier to jalapeños that are unwaxed and larger jalapeños are more pleasing to the eye. You have the option of serving jalapeño poppers whole or halved. Personally, I prefer the whole jalapeños for the simple fact that it makes a nicer presentation. The seeds and white membrane are what holds the heat. Generally, they are removed because of the increased level of heat. Also, the seeds are bitter and will interfere with your coveted filling. If you want to reduce the level of heat of the jalapeños even further – pickle them. The vinegar is a natural way to reduce the heat and also cuts down on the cooking time. This step is optional. Baking the jalapeños at 300 degrees for 10 minutes will soften them and facilitate the removal of the undesired cavity.
Cream cheese, pepper jack and sharp cheese are the standard filling. The options for additional ingredients are endless and depend on personal preference. Crispy bacon, flavorful scallions and colorful peppers are a just a sampling of what can be added to your poppers. Jalapeño poppers are traditionally breaded with bread crumbs or some type of batter. There are quite a number of breading variations and some go better with different types of stuffing than others. You can easily mix and match breading or batter styles with recipe variations. For example, you might find a particular flavored beer batter to be more appropriate with a recipe that calls for a crushed pretzel coating. If the coating does not stick properly, it is acceptable to double-dip.
After you have dredged your jalapeños, place them on a plate, cover in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. The cold filling will ensure it will not ooze out during the cooking process. Fry the poppers in unflavored oil, this way the essence of the jalapeño popper stands out. Also, after they are cooked, place on a cooling rack as opposed to a plate lined in paper towels. The paper towels absorb the oil and will hinder the crispiness of the finished product. If you love jalapeños and cheese, you must give jalapeño poppers a try. Sporting events are the perfect occasion for such a dish. A mug of cold, frosted beer or a glass of lovely vino are the perfect accompaniments for this spicy, yummy appetizer. See BACON Page 46
www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Island atmosphere. Soups, salads, Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood. Outdoor dining.
$-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Oceanfront dining in a casual atmosphere. Serving breakfast, Friday through Sunday 7-11 a.m. Featuring a breakfast buffet or special order from the regular menu. Enjoy our delicious 3 Course Dinner for $25 served every Friday and Saturday, 4-9 p.m. with the choice of appetizer, entree and dessert.
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 $$ | Kids’ Menu | Full Bar Enjoy a $5 cruise with meal. Celebrating 82 years of serving visitors and locals. Bayfront lunch and dinner. Offering historical favorites as well as fresh new creations. Seafood is our specialty but great landlubber choices are available. Enjoy Boat Bar Happy Hour, 3-6 p.m. Live local entertainment Thursday through Sunday. ■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside The Courtyard by Marriott 410-289-7192/7191, www. captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Breakfast served Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner served 7 days a week, 5-9 p.m. Featuring seafood, steaks and poultry. Early Bird served Monday through Friday, 5-6 p.m.; daily chef specials. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-524-3100, www.coinspub.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Causal dining atmosphere for families. Crab cakes, hand cut steaks, fresh seafood. Everything homemade. Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. and early bird 4-6 p.m. Daily specials. ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER S. Division Street and Boardwalk 410-289-3501; 3rd Street and Boardwalk 410-289-2599 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for S. Division Street and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for 3rd Street. Breakfast served daily at 3rd, 41st, 70th and WOC. Carryout available at all locations. Order online for 41st, 70th and WOC at www.TheDoughRoller.com. ■ FISH TALES BAR & GRILL 22nd Street, bayside 410-289-0990, www.ocfishtales.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the Bumper Tables. Waterfront restaurant with American pub eats and seafood, plus a dock bar and playground on the sand. Open 7 days a week. ■ PHILLIPS SEAFOOD, CRAB HOUSE 21st Street, Ocean City 410-289-7747, PhillipsSeafood.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Traditional dining and carry out. Hooper’s Island crab cakes, steamed blue crabs, ultimate seafood feast, fried chicken and more for dine in and carryout.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets ■ BJ’S ON THE WATER 75th Street, Ocean City 410-524-7575, www.bjsonthewater.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Bayside venue with deck seating. Serves pub grub and seafood. Take out only, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Open Thursday through Tuesday. ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER 41st Street and Coastal Highway 410-524-9254; 70th Street and Coastal Highway 410-524-7981 Hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday. See description under downtown location. ■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 56th Street, Ocean City 410-723-5600, www.johnnyspizzapub.com $ | Kids’ menu | Full Bar Featuring homemade pizzas, 18 gourmet pizzas, a variety of calzones, subs, burgers, sandwiches and jumbo wings with 20 different sauces. Open everyday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in, pickup, carryout and delivery. ■ PGN CRAB HOUSE 29th Street, Ocean City www.pgncrabhouse.com $$ | Beer & wine Known for their famous steamed crabs. Outdor dining. Casual seasonal seafood stop for steamed crabs, with all-you-can-eat specials. Also take outs available. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900,
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets ■ BLUE FISH JAPANESE & CHINESE RESTAURANT 94TH Street, Ocean City 410-524-3983, www.bluefishocmd.com $-$$ / Carry Out Only Enjoy authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine and sushi. Order online or by phone. Pick-up at drive through only. ■ BREAKERS PUB 10100 Coastal Hwy./Clarion 410-524-3535 $ | Full bar Open Daily, 4 p.m.-til. Happy Hour, Sunday through Friday, 4-7 p.m. 9 Hi-Def TVs. ■ HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT Inside the Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel at 101st Street, Ocean City 410-524-3535, www.clarionoc.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Oceanfront dining at its finest; featuring fresh seafood, beef, daily specials, children’s menu and a full-service bar. Winner of the Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence” for 15 years. Serving breakfast, 7 a.m.; lunch and lite fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and dinner, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. ■ LENNY’S BEACH BAR & GRILL Oceanfront at the Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel at 101st Street, Ocean City 410-524-3535, www.clarionoc.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Lunch, lite fare, seafood steamer specials, daily specials and tropical drinks served in our Beach Bar & Grill on the ocean. Happy hour Sunday through Friday, 4-7 p.m. with reduced drinks and food specials. Enjoy entertainment afternoons to evenings mid-May to mid-September. ■ REEF 118 118th Street, in the Carousel Oceanfront Hotel and Condos, Ocean City 410-524-1000, www.carouselhotel.com
WEST OCEAN CITY ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER West Ocean City, 12849 Ocean Gateway 410213-7655 Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. See description under downtown location. ■ SHRIMP BOAT 9724 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City 410-213-0448 $-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Beer & wine Orange Crush, frozen cocktails, steamed crabs and shrimp, full menu, appetizers, fresh seafood and more, Open everyday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dine-in - inside and outside, carryout and delivery.
OCEAN PINES ■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 11019 Manklin Meadows Lane, Ocean Pines 410-208-1212, www.johnnyspizzapub.com $ | Open everyday, noon to 8 p.m. for dining, pickup, carryout and delivery. Pizza and wings. ■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, www.OPyachtclub.com $$-$$$ | Full bar The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar With sweeping views of the 18th hole, the new Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items. Full bar. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, weather permitting.
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Ocean City Today
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
ON GUARD
Bacon, scallions, peppers, can be added to spicy snack
Beach Patrol will start to decrease with fall season
Continued from Page 45 Following is a basic jalapeño popper recipe. Additional ingredients can be added according to personal preference. Enjoy!
Basic Jalapeño Poppers Ingredients 8 large jalapeños 8 ounces whipped cream cheese, room temperature ½ cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded ½ cup sharp cheese, shredded 1 large egg 1 teaspoon cold water 2 cups flour 2 cups unseasoned panko breadcrumbs 1 cup cornmeal canola oil for frying kosher salt to taste 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Bake jalapeños on a baking sheet for 1o minutes. Remove jalapeños from the oven and place them on a plate to cool. 3. Using a sharp knife, cut a slit down the side of the pepper. Using your finger, remove the seeds. 4. Using a spoon or piping bag, stuff the pepper with the filling. Remove any excess filling with a paper towel.
5. Place stuffed peppers on a plate, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. 6. Place enough canola oil to cover two-thirds of the peppers in a large sauté pan. Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 375 degrees. 7. Set up your dredging station: one plate with 1 cup of flour, one small bowl that includes the egg mixed one teaspoon of water, and another plate that includes the remaining flour and panko breadcrumbs. 8. Dip the stuffed pepper in the flour mixture, followed by the egg mixture and the panko combination. If the breading does not completely cover the pepper, dip it again in the egg wash followed by the panko mixture for a complete covering. 9. Carefully place 4 jalapeños in the hot oil and fry until the edges of the peppers turn a golden-brown color, about 3 minutes. Turn the pepper and cook the other side until it also turns a goldenbrown color. Remove cooked peppers from the pan and place on a cooling rack. Salt to taste. 10. Repeat this process for the remaining 4 peppers. Serve immediately. Secret Ingredient – Fun. “Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.” – Michael Jordan
By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) I don’t think anyone will argue that the fall is a great time to be in Ocean City. Many people look forward to the fantastic beach weather, surfing and fishing. People even enjoy weathering out a tropical storm this time of the year, although the recent tropical activity and hurricanes are nothing to take lightly. With this change in season I often encounter people that think they can start taking their dogs on the beach. Some beach goers are even surprised that we still have lifeguards on duty. You might be interested to know that many beach visitors are under the impression that the Beach Patrol and all of the beach rules end after Labor Day. The reality is, for the past 48 years (Capt. Butch Arbin’s years with the patrol) and long before his time, the OCBP has never gone off duty following Labor Day. In fact, during the 70’s we guarded into November. The earliest the Beach Patrol has gone off duty for the season has been the Sunday of Sunfest weekend, which is usually the third weekend (Sunday) following Labor Day. Although Sunfest was canceled this year, the patrol will still end the regular guarding of the beach on Sunday, Sept. 27. During the period following Labor Day, as Ocean City Beach Patrol personnel return to other obligations we are in a reduced coverage mode, and the number of surf rescue technicians (lifeguards) available to staff the stands along the 10 miles of beach decreases. This results in a reduction in the total number of stands from 91 (less than 200 yards apart) in July to 25 stands (700 yards apart) following Labor Day. The Ocean City Beach Patrol is 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 beach front. As this redistribution occurs, the location and distance between stands changes, sometimes on a daily basis. 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. Thanks to Gov. Larry Hogan’s decision to have Maryland public schools start students after Labor Day we were been able to retain our teachers for an additional one or two weeks longer than a couple seasons ago. Unfortunately, due to action by the
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Assistant Crew Chief Luke Ramina on 93rd Street uses a piece of equipment issued to surf rescue technicians for fall guarding to aid in watching over a larger area. The next lifeguard to his north is at 100th Street.
legislature this past year, most schools systems in Maryland will have students returning prior to Labor Day in 2020 and teachers a week or more before that, although all Maryland school systems are beginning online. Additionally, many colleges required students to return earlier than originally planned due to testing and quarantine requirements for covid-19 and several are prohibiting on-campus students to leave once they arrive. Although it was not one of the objectives in Gov. Hogan’s plan for Maryland school systems, his decision made the beach in Ocean City safer, because, a majority of our leadership and most experienced surf rescue technicians are Maryland educators who began professional activities as much as three weeks before Labor Day. With the new plan in place, we were able to continue guarding your families later into August with more stands than in any previous season. Currently, we have additional returning surf rescue technicians to allow us to increase the total number of stands (and decrease the distance between stands) on weekends. The town has provided a travel stipend to help returning surf rescue technicians with the added cost of returning from distances over 110 miles away. Our main message this time of the year is to please swim in front of a lifeguard. This short walk is worth the lives of you and your family. Because of the dedication and commitment of our surf rescue technicians, we will continue to provide daily coverage between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. for all 10 miles of Ocean City beach until Sunday, Sept. 27. Although this coverage will be done with fewer personnel and less lifeguard towers (than during the summer), we See BEACH Page 47
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
WORLD WAR II
PAGE 47
ON GUARD
Germany forced by Britain to Beach Patrol will continue postpone Operation Sea Lion guarding to Sunday, Sept. 27 By Nick Wahoff, Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) In the spring of 1940, the storm clouds of war were hovering over Europe. After the German conquest of Poland, the previous fall, a “Phony War” was being waged as France and Britain stood by waiting for a Nazi attack. In April, German troops launched an invasion of Denmark and Norway, overrunning both countries in a matter of weeks. On May 10, German forces invaded Belgium, Holland and France. Five weeks later Paris fell, and on June 22, France surrendered to Germany. Britain now stood alone against Adolf Hitler – the master of continental Europe. The English Channel put a halt to Germany’s Blitzkrieg tactics that earlier easily defeated the allied armies on land. Adolf Hitler had great respect for the English Navy and was deeply concerned that any cross-channel invasion would inflict enormous casualties on the German military. “On land, I am a hero. At sea, I am a coward.” Hitler told his naval commander-in-chief. Prior to the invasion of France and the Low Countries, Grand Adm. Raeder (head of the German Navy) ordered that preliminary plans be drawn up examining, “... the possibility of troop landings in England should the future progress of the war make the problem arise.” The German Navy’s study set forth the following prerequisites before any invasion be attempted: —Destruction of the Royal Air Force (RAF). — Sealing off of Royal Navy forces from the landing and approach areas. — Protecting the landing fleet from British submarines. — Destruction of all Royal Navy units in the coastal zone. Later in the year, the German Army conducted its own study for an invasion of Britain. Using ports from the Low Countries, German troops would cross the North Sea and land on England’s eastern coast, between the Thames and Wash Rivers. The German Navy and Air Force both outlined the difficulty of such an undertaking in their contributions to the report. Following Germany’s relatively easy conquest of France and the Low Countries, and growing impatient with England’s indifference to his peace overtures, Adolf Hitler issued Directive No. 16 (Operation Sea Lion) on July 16, 1940 setting in motion preparations for an invasion. In his own words, Hitler stated that Directive 16 was necessary, “As England, in spite of her hopeless military situation, still shows no signs of willingness to come to terms, I have decided to prepare, and if necessary to carry out, a
landing operation against her. The aim of this operation is to eliminate the English Motherland as a base from which the war against Germany can be continued, and, if necessary, to occupy the country completely.” Using the earlier German Army and Navy studies as a guideline, Directive 16 set four pre-conditions before an invasion could occur: 1. The coastal zone between France and England must be dominated by German artillery. 2. The destruction of the Royal Air Force (RAF). 3. The Royal Navy must be tied-up in the Mediterranean and North Seas. British coastal units must be destroyed so as to not interfere with the seaborne invasion. 4. The English Channel must be cleared of British mines. German mines must be laid to protect the invasion routes. Achieving all of these goals would be a very daunting task for the combined arms of the German Navy and Air Force. The lack of specialized landing craft was a serious issue for the Germans. Two prototypes were being developed – one was a small boat that could carry 45 infantry, two light vehicles and 20 tons of cargo. Another much larger craft was being designed to carry tanks and heavy equipment, but neither would be available in sufficient quantities until well into 1941. With no other options, the German Navy collected close to 2,400 river barges from all over Europe and sent them to ports along the North Sea and English Channel. If the other German objectives were achieved, these barges would be the vessels that would have to carry the nearly 160,000 German soldiers to invade England. In the meantime, riverine commerce was severely damaged. The “Battle of Britain” began on Aug. 12, 1940 with a massive German bombing raid on airfields, radar stations and aircraft factories. In this raid, 22 Royal Air Force planes were destroyed and airfields and radar stations were badly damaged. Daily raids of British installations followed this initial attack. The attacks on the British airfields continued through Aug. 24. Despite inflicting heavier losses on the German Luftwaffe, The Royal Air Force lost nearly 25 percent of its pilots in the first two weeks. If German attacks against the RAF airfields continued, the British were well on their way to losing control of the air and the “Battle of Britain.” The entire battle changed on a chance occurrence – a lost German bomber, flying through the fog, emptied its bombs over what it thought was an open field in the English countryside. The bombs actually hit the capital of
Continued from Page 36 will supplement this coverage by increasing the number of Mobil Rescue Units patrolling the beach. These mobile units are first-aid, PPE and AED equipped with one surf rescue technician (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 quad (ATV) certified. Please walk to the nearest guard tower before going in the water. As far as the rules go (Town of Ocean City ordinances), most remain in effect until Sept. 30. The specific ordnance regarding dogs, states that dogs are not permitted on the beach or Boardwalk from May 1 to Sept. 30. The Ocean City Beach Patrol strictly enforces the “No Dog” ordinance, which also includes following the very strict “Service Animal” regulations under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) titles II and III. We implemented a before and after hours mobile patrol (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) two seasons ago, to be available for response should communications receive a 911 call for a swimmer in distress or someone needing assistance on the beach. However, we have also dealt with hundreds of people each week who ignore the 24-hour-a-day ban on dogs on the beach and claim they thought the dog rule was only during guarding hours, which is not the case. Other ordinances and laws such as public drinking, vehicles on beach and fires on beach (during the day), remain in effect throughout the year. Another difference in the beach during the fall season is surfing. Capt. Arbin will allow modified surfing along the entire beach, except where guards are posted. The Beach Patrol keeps the swimmers in front or near their stand and the 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 they are during the summer. Surfers must still utilize 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 floatation 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 is modified, the Beach Patrol still reserves the right to prohibit surfing in certain areas or under certain conditions. By enactment of section 106-94 (11) of the town code, the City Council allows the use of stand-up paddle boards beginning on the Monday following Labor Day, on any day that surfing is modified. There are specific requirements included in the ordinance and can be accessed on the town’s website. The use of skim boards and other watercraft (kite surfers, windsurfers, kayaks, etc) is still prohibited. As a reminder, surf rescue technicians will be on duty daily between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. To aide your surf rescue technician, the Beach Patrol suggests taking extra precautions and make sure to walk the short distance to the nearest lifeguard stand and check in with the surf rescue technician and always swim in their vicinity. The first priority of the Ocean City Beach Patrol continues to be public safety. We strongly encourage all beach 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.
London. In retaliation, the British launched a raid on Berlin causing only minor damage. Furious that the British could penetrate German air defenses and actually reach his capital, Hitler ordered the Luftwaffe to switch from bombing the airfields to attacking London. On Sept. 7, the London “Blitz” began with a huge German bombing raid of the English capital. For the next 57 nights, Germany would bomb London and other cities hoping to break the will of the British people. The German strategy shift of attacking cities instead of airfields gave much needed relief to the RAF. Unable to get
control of the English skies, Hitler indefinitely postponed Operation Sea Lion on Sept. 15. On June 22, 1941, Germany turned its attention to the east with a surprise attack on the Soviet Union. Britain no longer stood alone against the Nazi menace. In a speech before Parliament, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill remarked on the role of its pilots in saving England from a German invasion: “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” Next week: “100 Regiments’ Offensive”
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JOSH KIM/OCEAN CITY TODAY
SWEATER WEATHER Fall weather quickly took over the resort this week, with Tuesday’s forecast in the low 70s and cotton-like clouds providing more shade for those remaining in the resort.
Ocean Pines Pine’eer Club announces monthly crafter Carolyn Tosti is the Ocean Pines Pine'eer Craft Club’s crafter of the month for September.
(Sept. 18, 2020) The Ocean Pines Pine’eer Craft Club announces Carolyn Tosti as the crafter of the month for September. Tosti is a lifelong resident of Frankford, Delaware. She is very familiar with Ocean Pines, as her father was a plumber who worked on many of the new homes in the community when it was established. She learned to sew in high school home economics class. The first thing she made was an apron. By the end of the class, she had to make a suit to wear during her senior class trip. Her love for sewing has continued over the years. She and her mother bonded while creating items to sell together at craft shows. In addition, she enjoys making floral arrangements and has been a professional cake decorator since 1975. Tosti is skilled at making drapes, curtains and chair cushions, and she has crafted several pieces of clothing for her daughter. She has also upholstered sofas and
chairs, and even tackled the seats and interior door panels for her son’s 1957 Chevy. She was invited to join the Pine’eer Craft Club after taking part in the August 2019 Craft Show. Her items available in the Artisan Gift Shop include cellphone purses, kitchen hand-towels, beach bags, angels and holders for doggie waste bags. Recently, she created handbags with a reversible cover that come with extra, changeable covers to represent different seasons and holidays. Tosti’s creations, as well as many other handmade items, are available in the Ocean Pines Artisan Gift Shop in White Horse Park, next to the Farmer’s Market and across from the Administration Building on 239 Ocean Parkway. The shop is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/artisan-craft-shop.
Virtual safety boating course (Sept. 18, 2020) The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a virtual Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course, Tuesday through Thursday, Sept. 22-24 from 6-9 p.m. The Maryland Safe Boating Certificate is required for all boat operators born after July 1, 1972, and is awarded after successful completion of the course. The class includes piloting in local waters, tying nautical knots, foul weather tactics, legal issues, updated
Maryland regulations and common marine maintenance. The cost for the three-day course is $20. To register or for more information, call Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807, or email CGAUXOC@gmail.com. Checks should be made payable to: USGCAUX 12-05“ and mailed to: USCGAUX 12-05, P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Payment via PayPAL is also accepted. Other classes are scheduled for Oct. 20-22 and Nov. 17-19.
S U P P O R T YO U R LO C A L R E S TA U R A N T S ! RESTAURANTS C A R R Y O U T, D E L I V E R Y & C U R B S I D E P I C K U P W W W. O C E A N C I T Y T O D AY. C O M
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Virtual assemblies address bullying with local students (Sept. 18, 2020) Worcester Youth and Family, in partnership with celebrity bodyguard and ambassador for “Bodyguards Against Bullying,� Bubba Almony, have organized two virtual assemblies through Zoom to reach out to middle and high school students in Worcester County. The purpose of the assembly is to speak out against bullying as well as to motivate and inspire youth to succeed. It also serves as a pathway to reach kids who need a mentor through Worcester Connects, a mentor program through Worcester Youth and Family Counseling in Berlin. Almony, a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, started his career in security at the Dew Tour in Ocean City and has become a top protection agent for high profile events like New York Fashion Week to working security detail for the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. Almony is passionate about giving back to his community. He is the international ambassador for Bodyguards Against Bullying, which is a diverse group of brothers and sisters, united against bullies, abuse, harassment and persecution in all its forms. Crossword answers from page 52
The first assembly will be on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. where all middle school students are invited to participate. The second assembly will be for high school students on Thursday, Oct. 1 at 3 p.m. There will be a maximum of 100 students allowed during each Zoom conference, so early registration is recommended and registration is required to participate. Worcester Connects is actively recruiting mentors and seeking students who would benefit from a having a mentor. For additional information, contact Debbie Smullen at dsmullen@gowoyo.org or call 410641-4598.
GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
JUST LIKE THIS Tandem chocolate Labrador retrievers rock the water at the Mumford’s Landing Pool during Ocean Pines Doggie Swim fundraiser for the Worcester County Humane Society on Saturday.
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Lower Shore Land Trust River Rally (Sept. 18, 2020) Join Lower Shore Land Trust as it celebrate 30 years for the first-ever virtual 30 miles on the water and on the trails for River Rally 2020. Together, the group hopes to raise funds to conserve and restore wildlife habitat, protect working lands and build a resilient lower shore today and for the next generation. Register to participate in River Rally 2020 not only to support land conservation work, but to also explore some of the most pristine creeks and verdant trails on the shore.
Join as an individual or as a family and help Lower Shore Land Trust meet its goal to raise $10,000 to continue key conservation programs to benefit pollinators, coastal migratory birds and to maintain water quality. Registration is $30 per person or $45 for families. Participants can kayak, paddleboard, canoe, hike, bike, or a combination of all of the above. This event can be completed on a river, creek, bay, trail, or even biking the Viewtrail 100. Log miles anytime between Friday, Sept. 4 and Sunday,
Baltimore native accused of theft, assault and more
POLICE/COURTS
By Josh Kim Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2020) Baltimore resident Kevin Womack, Jr., 32, was arrested last Wednesday after he allegedly stole from a biblical sand sculpture’s donation bucket on the Boardwalk. Around midnight, police went to a downtown hotel and met with a complainant. She told police that she had been sitting on the front porch of the hotel when she saw a man, Womack, walk toward the sand sculpture on Second Street and the Boardwalk with a knife in his hand. Randy Hofman, the creator of the sand sculpture, has been creating biblical-themed sand art since 1981. In front of the sculptures are two jugs, one containing biblical stories and quotes, the other is a tip jar. The complainant told police that Womack stabbed the tip jar with a knife in order to create a hole large enough for his hand to go inside and grabbed a wad of money. She said he then walked toward several bystanders, placed his knife in his back pocket and then attempted to initiate a fight with one of the bystanders. After berating the person, he walked away with his juvenile son. Police found Womack running on the 100 block of Third Street with the knife and his son. He apparently threw the knife away and police arrested him and began a search of his body. Police found Womack in possession of $113.64, but did not find him in possession of any other items or weapons. Womack faces 17 charges, including two counts for theft, seven counts for reckless endangerment and seconddegree assault. A district court judge in Snow Hill found probable cause for all 17 charges last Thursday, and Womack is being held on a $5,000 bond. He will go to trial on Dec. 2.
Fight James A. Wright, 24, of Middletown, and Zackary A. Farri, 21, of La Plata, were arrested on Sunday after allegedly fighting each other in public. Police reported seeing a crowd surrounding two men pushing each other in front of a house around Sixth Street and Baltimore Avenue. Police reported seeing Wright tackle Farri to the ground and stand above the latter. On the ground, Farri reportedly punched Wright’s face, which Wright would mimic soon after. Police arrested the two and charged them with affray, disorderly conduct and second-degree assault.
Roommates Ocean City resident Bradley Sneeringer, 40, was arrested last Saturday after he allegedly attacked his roommate. Police met with the alleged victim early that morning. He told police that Sneeringer walked into their apartment and was intoxicated. Sneeringer apparently began to yell at his roommate and a friend. Police reported that Sneeringer was allegedly upset that the friend was over and “not paying rent.” Sneeringer then allegedly punched his roommate and then left. Police reported finding Sneeringer on Philadelphia Avenue toward Dorchester Street and interviewed him. Sneeringer confirmed he had been angry with the friend staying over, but denied assaulting his roommate. Police reported that Sneeringer had an active warrant and arrested and charged Sneeringer with seconddegree assault.
Gun replica Police arrested Devin A. Dyer, 26, of Parkville, after following him and finding him allegedly in possession of a fake gun last Friday. Early that morning, a patrol officer received information about a suspicious vehicle in the mid-town area.
Sept. 27. All ages, abilities and fitness levels are encouraged to participate. Registrants will receive a T-shirt and interactive map loaded with places to paddle, hike and bike. Participants can use one of the many apps available to track their miles or enter their experiences in a downloadable form. For more information about the event, to register, or to become a sponsor, visit www.lowershorelandtrust.org or find the organization on Facebook.
After encountering the vehicle, police suspected criminal activity had been taking place. Based on the presence of what appeared to be marijuana residue in the vehicle, the police conducted a search that produced no drugs but fo did uncover a handgun replica in the trunk.
Drug sale Rolson Jean-Jacques, 23, of Fruitland, Maryland, faces three charges after he allegedly attempted to sell fake drugs to police over the course of a week. Police first encountered JeanJacques on Sept. 4, near a Boardwalk food vendor. The officer reported talking to JeanJacques about drugs, and he allegedly asked the officer if he or she had any “gas” which is slang for marijuana. The officer told Jean-Jacques that he or she did not have any, but was looking to buy. Jean-Jacques allegedly told the officer to meet him at the back of the establishment to conduct a sale. The officer met with Jean-Jacques and purchased approximately two grams of marijuana, police reported. The following Monday, police made contact with Jean-Jacques and inquired about purchasing cocaine. Police reported that Jean-Jacques agreed to sell the officer one gram and to meet him at the same location. The two met and the exchange was made. Police reported meeting with JeanJacques once again last Thursday to buy more cocaine, and a sale was arranged for the next day at the same location. That day, two officers saw JeanJacques walk toward the meeting location and detained and arrested him. Police reported searching JeanJacques and found a bag of cocaine in his front pocket, as well as two empty packets that had contained painkillers. In an interview with police, JeanJacques allegedly told police the coContinued on Page 51
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, let yourself drift off into a creative mode this week. Explore any artistic endeavor and dream as big as your mind allows. Don’t limit this expressive outlet.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 This week you may be feeling especially loving and romantic, Taurus. Consider treating your special someone to a home-cooked meal or going for a stroll in the park.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, if things get a little confusing over the next couple of days, don’t feel the need to try to figure everything out. Take what you need to get your tasks done.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, it may seem like you are juggling a hundred things at once. Take a step back to exhale and recharge your batteries. This will prove a welcome break.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, when faced with too many choices, you may find it hard to make a decision. Instead, select two or more and sample which is best. Don’t let indecisiveness derail your plans.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Calming, relaxing activities are the best way to fill up your week, Virgo. Spend time taking long walks with friends or hanging out without much advance planning.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, one minute you feel one thing and another you’ve changed your mind. Sit down and think over the pros and cons of each direction before making a final decision.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, your social schedule fills up quickly this week. You may enjoy getting out of the house or the office, but remember to do it in a responsible and safe way.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 No one but you can start working toward your goals, Sagittarius. Stop dragging your feet and put a good plan into action in the next few days.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, whether you realize it or not, you have a great deal of freedom to do what you want. Be spontaneous and start pursuing some of your goals.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 People may not be receptive to your usual brand of humor this week, Aquarius. Do more listening than talking. Try to keep sarcasm to a minimum and lay low.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t be overly concerned with what others think about you, Pisces. Even if you’re feeling like a fish out of water, forge ahead with your unique ideas.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Judge sentences Berlin teen for second-degree murder (Sept. 18, 2020) Vershawn Hudson-Crawford, 17, of Berlin, who killed his acquaintance in 2019, was sentenced last Friday by Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley to serve 35 years in prison, with all but 22 years suspended. Hudson-Crawford pleaded guilty in January to second-degree murder in the death of 17-year-old Dehaven Nichols. Judge Shockley ordered Hudson-CrawVershawn ford to be evaluated for admission into the Hudson-Crawford youthful offender program within the Division of Correction. Upon release, Hudson-Crawford will be on supervised probation for five years, and was ordered to be evaluated for mental health and substance abuse treatment. On May 22, 2019, Hudson-Crawford and his mother drove to the Berlin Police Department, where he told investigators that two days earlier, he had been involved in a fight with his friend, Dehaven Nichols, and that Nichols had died as a result. Hudson-Crawford directed inves-
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tigators to a ditch on the east side of Route 113 near the Decatur Apartments in Berlin, where they located Nichols’ body. An autopsy determined that Nichols’ death was caused by a combination of multiple significant injuries, including blunt force trauma, strangulation and asphyxiation. The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, Berlin Police Department and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office all assisted with the investigation. State’s Attorney Kris Heiser said that the state made a lengthy argument at sentencing requesting the maximum penalty of 40 years, with all but 25 years suspended, and thanked Assistant State’s Attorney Karen Dean, who prosecuted the case. “This case presented a true tragedy which will continue to affect the youngest members of our community for years to come,” Heiser said. “The violent and needless killing of Dehaven Nichols, a 17-year-old with his whole life ahead of him, is cause for immense sadness, and we offer our sincere condolences to his family and to everyone suffering from his loss.”
For Sale 11324 LY Y YDIA ST BISHO PVILLE
This spacious 6 bedroom m, 3.5 bathroom colonial style home located in the e subdivision of Holiday Manorr,, in Bishopville, MD D is a great opportunity for those looking for a ren novation project. Sitting on roughly a 1/2 acre lot at the end of the cul-desac on Lydia Street, yourr buyer will enjoy quiet rural living with a spaciou us backyard. This home is conveniently located ju ust minutes from the Worcester Countyy boat ra amp, and also close proximity to Route 90 which will take you directly to the Ocean City beach hes. The main house was built in 1993, with an in-law addition put onto the East side of the hou use in 2000, which has a fully handicap accessible entrance and bathroom. Boasting large rea ar deck for entertaining guests and grilling during summer nights, and also a nice front deck with wheelchair ramp and private entrance to the addition. All outdoor sheds and playhouse convey with the property as well. Two tank septic system, two unit heating and cooling system, two o hot water heaters ( one for main house & one for in-law addition). Home is being sold as-is.
$359,900
3 WA WASHINGTON STREET BERLIN MD BERLIN,
10327 SHINGLLE LANDING RD VILLE, MD BISHOPV
6230 PUBLIC LANDING RD SNOW HILL, MD
12 VINE ST BERLLIN, MD
LOT 8 PROSPECT DRIVE BERLIN, MD
115 PROSPECT DRIVE BERLLIN, MD
POLICE/COURTS Continued from Page 50 caine had actually been pain medicine and he had planned to sell it to pay off traffic fines. Jean-Jacques was charged with distribution of a controlled dangerous substance and two counts of possession of fake drugs with intent to distribute.
Assault Repeat offender Walter L. Everett, 58, of Ocean City, faces two seconddegree assault charges after he allegedly punched two people last Friday. That evening, one of the alleged victims approached police and claimed Everett had attacked him earlier that afternoon. The alleged victim told police that he and a woman were sitting at the Caroline Street comfort station and he and Everett began to argue. Following the argument, the male went to sleep, but woke up to Everett punching him several times, he told police. The woman intervened and Everett allegedly punched her in the head several times, police reported. A witness corroborated their stories, but while police spoke with the woman Everett allegedly cornered the witness. Police reportedly ordered Everett to
back away. Everett was not arrested for the assaults immediately — instead he was arrested later that night for littering. Police reported that Everett is a familiar face, and has been arrested five times this year. A Snow Hill district court judge found probable cause for the charges on Monday, and set a $10,000 bond.
Trespass Police arrested Betty Murnahan, 40, of Mansfield, Ohio, after she allegedly trespassed at a downtown restaurant last Friday. Police reported going to the restaurant that evening and seeing a woman, Murnahan, running around the rooftop bar. When police approached the bar area, Murnahan allegedly began to scream at a security member and at one officer. After ignoring an order to be quiet, police arrested Murnahan, who allegedly resisted arrest. Murnahan had also allegedly hit the bathroom door, denting it, and peed on the deck floor. Police charged Murnahan with three counts of second-degree assault, two counts of malicious destruction of property, and one count of resisting arrest, obstructing arrest and violation of the noise ordinance.
T C A CALL TODAY!
DE 209 DORCHES STER STREET #B, OCEAN CITY Y,, MD
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3409 Coastall High Hi hway H Ocean City y,, MD 21842 1-800-348--2101 resortrealestateoc t .com
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OBITUARIES SHIRLEY NAPLES CONNER Salisbury Shirley Naples Conner, 95, passed away at her home in Salisbury, Maryland, on May 9, 2020. Born in Salisbury on June 4, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Joseph G. Naples, Jr. of Boston, Massachusetts, and Theresa Lack (Arnold) of Perry Shirley N. Conner Hawkin, Maryland. She is also preceded in death by her four younger siblings, Connie Vickers, Joseph G. Naples, III, Gloria Seelig and Victor Naples. She is survived by her son, Robert F. Conner, Jr., and her daughter, Barbara Conner, both of Ocean City, Maryland. In addition to her children, she is survived by granddaughters, Erin Conner Carrington and Natalie Waldych Blanton, and great-grandchildren, Lucy Carrington, Nora Blanton and John Blanton. Also, with fond memories of “Mom” and “Mom Mom” are Judy Davis, Dr. Bryce Blanton, Reggie Mariner, II, David Carrington as well as a lifetime friend, Robert Stevenson, of Seattle. Shirley’s sense of humor and strong faith kept her going well into the last years of her life. She loved music, dancing, the piano, skipbo, family gatherings, animals, sewing, golf, slot machines and Florida. In 1945 she met Robert F. Conner, Sr. on the Boardwalk, later married, and they made their home in his hometown, Ocean City. Through the years, Shirley owned and operated three beauty salons, a bike and Surrey shop and a rooming house turned bed and breakfast on 10th Street named Conner’s Inn, which had been in the family since 1943. She proudly ran it until 1998. Her stories of friendships, employees and antics were worth pulling up a chair for as well as being featured in a newspaper article in 1994. Shirley Clementine was especially fond of animals and banked on being greeted in Heaven by her beloved pets, a faithful bunch of dogs, cats and birds who one by one and sometimes, thanks to her children, pack by pack, brought comfort, joy and many good photo opts to a very appreciative young/old lady’s world. In 1998, Shirley moved back to her native Salisbury, her heart filled with Ocean City memories of the ballroom and square dance clubs, being a cub/brownie/girl scout leader and MYF sponsor at Atlantic Church, the Ocean City Golf Course, night watching from the end rocker on the front porch of the Inn, cooking breakfast for the guests, visits with old friends and countless times of hairdressing,
renting rooms, renting and losing bicycles among many other acts of bravery within the hospitality business. On the morning of May 9, shortly after mom had passed, Coastal Hospice nurse Debbie S. asked, “What was Shirley’s favorite piece to play?” It was the “Black Hawk Waltz.” The nurse sat down at the piano and without sheet music, played the Black Hawk Waltz for our mother. An angel in exam gloves and a mask. A complete surprise we will never forget. A private graveside service will be held at Parsons Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Shirley’s memory to: Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21802-1733.
vania; and grandchildren, Elias Jerman, Lydia Jerman, Edward Pavelick, Steven Pavelick, Rachael Pavelick, Joseph Pavelick and Chadd Miller. Also surviving are brothers, Francis Mazuk and his wife, Betty, of St. David, Pennsylvania, and Ronald Mazuk and his wife, Carol, of Ft. Meyers, Florida, as well as several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death was his grandson, Brett Miller, and his sister, Joan Lanagan. Mr. Mazuk was a graduate of Germantown High School and served in the United States Air Force from
1950 to 1954. Later, he settled in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, where he enjoyed taking care of his house, gardening, playing on bowling and tennis leagues, riding his motorcycle and raising his three daughters. He worked in sales for S.P.S. Technologies in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, for 30 years and enjoyed traveling to East Hartford, Connecticut, to work with his biggest client, Pratt & Whitney. He retired in 1998 when he and Pat moved to a waterfront home in Ocean Pines. He was a member of Holy Savior
CROSSWORD
EILEEN M. HYSON Ocean City Eileen M. Hyson, age 74, of Ocean City, died Sunday, Aug. 30, 2020, at Coastal Hospice At The Lake in Salisbury. Mrs. Hyson was born in Baltimore and was the daughter of the late Charles and Mildred (McCormick) Lycett. She was a homemaker, wife, mother Eileen Hyson and grandmother. She is survived by one daughter, Kim A. Bontrager (Todd) of Pasadena, Maryland; one sister, Darlene Gearhart of Dundalk, Maryland; two grandsons, Nick Bontrager and Tony Bontrager; one great-granddaughter, Ember Bontrager; one niece, Jennifer Sutton of Ocean City; and a great nephew, Jeremy White Jr. Services will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to: Worcester County Humane Society, P.O. Box 48, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com. ROBERT F. MAZUK Ocean Pines Robert F. (Bob) Mazuk, age 87, died peacefully on Friday, Sept. 4, 2020, at Catered Living in Ocean Pines, Maryland. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Francis and Mary Mazuk. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Patricia H. Robert Mazuk Mazuk who died in 2017. He is survived by his daughters, Robin Miller and her husband, Ronald, of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, Linda Pavelick and her husband, Edward, of Dresher, Pennsylvania, and Diane Jerman of Chalfont, Pennsyl-
Answers on page 49
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OBITUARIES Catholic Church, the American Legion Post #166 Sinepuxent Lodge, and the men’s tennis league in Ocean Pines, but mostly, he fished and enjoyed each day to the fullest. Cremation followed his death. A graveside service will be held on Friday, Sept. 25, 2020, at 1 p.m. at the Maryland Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery in Hurlock, Maryland. A donation in his memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. BARBARA E. EBERSBERGER Ocean Pines Sadness held sway on Friday, Aug. 28, 2020, when Barbara E. Ebersberger, age 81, of Ocean Pines, Maryland, formerly of Catonsville, Maryland, passed away at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, Maryland. Barbara was born in Brooklyn, New York, on Jan. 28, 1939, daughter of the B. Ebersberger late Salvatore and Doris (Jacobs) Musella. She served as a distinguished realtor in Howard and Baltimore Counties prior to her retirement. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two husbands, Edward Weitzel and John Ebersberger; her brother, Ralph; and a niece, Michalan. She is survived by her three siblings, Geraldine Airey, Martin Musella and Doreen Musella, and her sister-in-law, Beth Musella. Also, seven nieces and nephews, Timothy, Suzanne, Paul, Tressa, Anthony, Jennifer and William will miss her dearly. Barbara is also survived by her beloved and constant Yorkie companion, Lizzie. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, 2020, at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church, 30839 Mt. Joy Rd., Millsboro, Delaware 19966. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Barbara’s name to her favorite charity, Diakonia, Inc., 12747 Old Bridge Rd., Ocean City, Maryland 21842. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com DONNA LEE (NAGLEY) MORROW Selbyville Donna Lee (Nagley) Morrow, age 73, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020, at her home. Donna was born on June 23, 1947 in Martinsburg, West Virginia, and was a beloved wife, mother, sister and aunt. She was a longtime resident of Co-
lumbia, Maryland, and recently resided in Selbyville, Delaware. Donna was a 1965 graduate of Martinsburg High School (West Virginia), and a 1969 graduate of West Virginia University, where she met her loving husband, David. She received a master’s degree from Donna Morrow The Johns Hopkins University and worked in public health administration before serving as a homemaker and raising her daughters. Donna loved doing her crossword puzzles (in pen!), her steamed crabs in the summer, and could never say no to a good book or murder mystery. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Julia (Judy) and D. Howard Nagley. She is survived by her husband, David Morrow, and her daughters, Erin Morrow of Silver Spring, Maryland, and Kimberly Morrow of Denver, Colorado. Donna is also survived by her sister, Dianna Reed of Swanton, Vermont, and many nieces and nephews. The family hosted a memorial service at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville, Delaware, on Tuesday Sept. 15, 2020. It was officiated by Chaplain Major Richard Berry of the
Delaware Wing Civil Air Patrol. A graveside service took place at Rosedale Cemetery in Martinsburg, West Virginia, on Thursday Sept. 17, 2020. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Donna’s memory to the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) or The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (www.cbf.org). Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com. BERT RAYMOND Ocean Pines Bert Raymond, age 95, of Ocean Pines, Maryland, passed away peacefully at his home on Sept. 12, 2020. Bert was son to Julius and Rose Holzer of Massachusetts, and was preceded in death by wife of 65 years, Rona Raymond. He is survived by his son, Michael Raymond and wife, Colleen; Bert Raymond grandchildren, Michele Nadeau, Amanda Whalley and husband, Nik, and Moriah Raymond; along with five great-grandchildren, all of which he spent a very important role in raising. Bert was a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and very proudly served in World War II. He then spent most of his life on
Long Island where he built a career in the automobile industry and traveled the world with his wife. Upon retirement, he relocated to the Eastern Shore where he spent many years as a local socialite, participating as a member of the Berlin, Ocean City and Ocean Pines chamber of commerces, the Eastern Shore Stamp Club, many local veterans organizations, as well as serving time as treasurer of the Ocean Pines Library. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.burbagefuneralhome.com and donations can be made in honor of Bert Raymond to the Disabled American Veterans. Services will be privately held by the family.
OBITUARY NOTICES Obituary Notices are published free each week in the Ocean City Today. E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net Mail: Ocean City Today, P.O. Box 3500, Ocean City, Md. 21843 Fax: 410-723-6511 Obituary Notices are published as space allows. Every effort is made to publish all that are received.
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
Fri., Sept. 18 BERLIN BOOK OF THE MONTH (ADULT) Held at 1:00 PM and featuring “The Island of Sea Women” by Lisa See. If you are unable to attend this one there will be a discussion in October and November. Books are available at your local branch or on Libby. https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/ 6939546
FREE OUTDOOR MOVIES Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, 8:00 PM - 11:59 PM. Featuring “Facing the Giants.” Bring snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, lawn chairs/blankets. Sit in your own family pod. Movies are free, but donations welcomed. Check for updates at Facebook.com/ccaop.
GREEN MARKET Fridays through Nov. 27 - Trimper Rides under the Ferris Wheel, 600 S. Atlantic Ave., 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Local Farmers Market featuring fresh everything and more from our local farmers. The market is agriculture based only. There will be live music and weekly drawings. Sally Kneavel, Sally@Trimperrides.com, 410-289-8617, http://TrimperRides.com
Sat., Sept. 19 FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.
Sun., Sept. 20 ROCK AND RIDE ORIGINAL LIVE MUSIC Trimper Rides, 700 S. Atlantic Ave, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM every Sunday. Jessica Bauer, Jessica@Trimperrides.com, 410289-8617, http://TrimperRides.com
THE BERLIN FARMERS MARKET Sundays through Aug. 30 - Located on Pitts Street and Main Street, 9:00 AM - 1:00 pm. Special senior shopping time from 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM. www.berlinmainstreet.com
doc about America’s struggles with war, class, race and women’s rights. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event /6940192.
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY MEETING The meeting will be held via conference call, 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM. Dial 605-4725789, wait for voice command, then press 944874. TOPS is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and healthy lifestyle. Berlin group No. 169. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
Tues., Sept. 22 TWO TRUTHS AND A LIE (YOUTH) Meet up and use your reasoning skills to deduce which events are true and which one is a lie, 2:00 PM. Create two truths and a lie about yourself to share with the group. For ages 8-12 years. Registration required: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/ 6949249.
NEA BIG READ: TED TALK: WHAT FEAR CAN TEACH US (ADULT) Join the group for this viewing followed by a facilitated discussion with Elena, 2:00 PM. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/6934749.
NATIONAL VOTER REGISTRATION DAY (ADULT) Join Barbara Crain from the League of Women’s Voters to find out how to register to vote, voting options, mail-in/absentee ballots as an alternative to in-person polling and voter rights. Beginning at 5:30 PM. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/6980329.
VIRTUAL MARYLAND SAFE BOATING COURSE This is an interactive class offered by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, held Sept. 22, 23 and 24, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Everyone is welcome. Those attending and passing the test will receive a Maryland Boating Certificate which is NASBLA approved and valid in all states. Cost is $20. Checks should be made payable to USCGAUX 1205 and mailed to P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, MD 21811. Payment via PayPal is also accepted. Register: Barry Cohen, 410-9354807 or CGAUXOC@gmail.com.
Mon., Sept. 21
Wed., Sept. 23
DOC AND TALK (ADULT)
OCEAN CITY BLOOD DRIVE
View The People Speak on Hoopla, http://hoopladigitalcom, 2:00 PM, then join the group to discuss this captivating
Ocean City convention center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 9:00 AM - 2:15 PM. Appointment are encouraged. Sign up at
https://donate.bbd.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/6012. Face covering is required. Walk-ins will be accepted if social distance can be maintained.
THE WITTY FIBER FRIENDS Join via Zoom for a combined group and yards of fun while knitting, crocheting and embroidering, 10:00 AM. All levels are welcome Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/6940299.
‘BIRDS OF A FEATHER’ (YOUTH) Meet up on Zoom for a story and a craft based upon Susan L. Roth’s book, 4:00 PM. For ages 3-10 years. Registration is required: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/6 949350.
Thurs., Sept. 24 NEA BIG READ: CREATIVE WRITING WITH NANCY MITCHELL Offered via Zoom at 2:00 PM, these multicourse workshops focus on fear, survival and the human spirit. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event /6934342.
VIRTUAL ASSEMBLY WITH ANTI-BULLYING MESSAGE The purpose of the assembly is to speak out against bullying as well as to motivate and inspire kids to succeed. It also serves as a pathway to reach kids who need a mentor through Worcester Connects, a mentor program through Worcester Youth and Family Counseling in Berlin. The event, beginning at 3:00 PM, will feature Bubba Almony, celebrity bodyguard and Ambassador for Bodyguards Against Bullying. The event is for middle school students. Registration is required. Info: Debbie Smullen, dsmullen@gowoyo.org or 410-641-4598.
ONGOING EVENTS FLYING MACHINE STEM KITS (Youth) Pick a Flying Machine Kit up at any Worcester County Library branch. Watch the instructions video on the Worcester County Maryland Library Facebook Page from Sept. 2-30. See Zoom Meet Up on Sept. 17 for an interactive STEM Kit program, https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/6949195. For ages 7 years and older.
CONFERENCE CALL BINGO Held every third, fourth and fifth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. Call 410632-1277 (access code 0151394#)
50PLUS BOOK BUS Every Wednesday, the bus rotates between north and south Worcester County, with books, puzzles, auto tapes and Census 2020 help. Check Facebook.com/wor50plus for more details.
CURBSIDE BINGO Every first (400 Walnut St.) and second
(Stephen Decatur Park) Thursdays of each month. Info: 410-632-1277.
PROGRAM TO GO KITS Featuring crafts and STEM. A new kit each week in September. Pick up your kit at any branch of the Worcester County Library, while supplies last. For youth.
LIBRARY TO GO & PRINTING TO GO Hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Saturday, 9:30 AM 12:30 PM at all Worcester County branches. www.worcesterlibrary.org, askus@worcesterlibrary.org
LIBRARY BY APPOINTMENT Visitors to all Worcester County libraries will have to call to make an appointment and face coverings will be required. A screening form will also be mandatory. The risk of entering a public facility is your own. http://www.worcesterlibrary.org/article/library-appointment-ocean-pinesand-pocomoke-branches-beginning-mon day-july-27
DIAL-A-STORY Call 888-964-2686 to hear a children’s book read by a librarian. Updated every week on Wednesday.
FREE WELLNESS WORKSHOPS Free workshops dealing with hypertension, chronic pain self-management, chronic disease self-management, diabetes and fall prevention. If you would like to register for one of these workshops or you would like more information about bringing any of the workshops to your business or group, contact Jill at MAC, 410-742-0505, Ext. 159 or jak@macinc.org. A new workshop, titled “Building Better Caregivers” has been added. It’s a free, 6-week workshop for caregivers of those with TBI, PTSD, dementia and other conditions that affect memory.
KIWANIS 2021 LOTTERY RAFFLE The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City is selling tickets for their 2021 Lottery Raffle. All sales must be completed by Dec. 31 to be eligible. All Kiwanis members have tickets to sell and the club will also be selling tickets at the Ocean Pines Farmer’s Market on most Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For only $20 a ticket, the purchaser get 365 chances to win. Proceeds support local scholarships and youth programs. www.kiwanisofopoc.org, Facebook.com/Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines/Ocean City.
HARBOR DAY AT THE DOCKS VIRTUALLY Follow the Facebook page “Harbor Day at the Docks - West Ocean City, MD” for fun videos highlighting local watermen, children’s crafts and other activities to celebrate maritime culture. Allen Swiger, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520, aswiger@co.worcester.md.us. A full list of Worcester County Recreation and Parks programming can be viewed at www.worcesterrecandparks.org.
SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
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